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Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Philip Wheeler celebrates after a sack during the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Philip Wheeler celebrates after a sack during the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)Rick Scuteri/Associated Press

Philip Wheeler Agrees to Contract with Cardinals After 2 Seasons with Falcons

Rob GoldbergJul 27, 2017

The Arizona Cardinals have added depth at linebacker by signing veteran Philip Wheeler, the team announced Thursday. 

Wheeler has played for four different organizations in his nine-year career, including the last two with the Atlanta Falcons. He appeared in all 16 games last season while totaling 27 tackles.

While he made four starts last season, he was mostly used on special teams when the Falcons defense was healthy. Per Pro Football Reference, he played eight defensive snaps in the Super Bowl loss to the New England Patriots compared to 11 on special teams.

Wheeler also appeared in Super Bowl XLIV as a member of the Indianapolis Colts.

Although Arizona brought back Karlos Dansby and drafted Haasan Reddick in the first round, the squad could use additional help after inconsistent play from the defense last season. There were plenty of bright spots, but the team finished 14th in points allowed last year, giving up 30 points or more on six different occasions.

The Cardinals will hope the latest addition will take them one step closer to returning to the postseason.

NFL Teams That Will Go Worst to First 📈