Georgia native and Georgia Bulldogs product Akeem Dent became the fourth 2011 rookie to sign with the Atlanta Falcons, D. Orlando Ledbetter reported Thursday afternoon. This leaves just Julio Jones and Jacquizz Rodgers left to sign. "Just" Julio Jones.
The NFL's new collective bargaining agreement has made for some quick rookie signings, as several first-rounders -- including A.J. Green -- are already inked. Under the new arrangement, rookies get their entire contracts guaranteed, though the deals themselves are smaller.
Dent is expected to take over a backup OLB spot behind Sean Weatherspoon or Stephen Nicholas. The Falcons also re-signed Mike Peterson for one year, ensuring Dent will have plenty of veteran leadership nearby. He'll be able to compete in training camp starting Friday.
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