Atlanta Falcons make key signings

FLOWERY BRANCH — Atlanta Falcons safety Kemal Ishmael, who was allowed to reach unrestricted free agency status, has re-signed with the team.

He’s agreed to a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Ishmael is a valuable hybrid safety and weakside linebacker.

Ishmael was one of two big signings on Tuesday.

The Falcons, in need of depth at the wide receiver position, signed veteran journeyman Andre Roberts to a one-year, $1.8 million contract, according to an ESPN report.

The Falcons lost wide receiver depth when Aldrick Robinson signed with San Francisco and Eric Weems signed with Tennessee. Also, Nick Williams has not been re-signed.

Roberts, who played at The Citadel, was a third-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2010. He played four seasons with the Cardinals, two with Washington and one with Detroit.

Over his career, Roberts has had 456 targets and 253 catches (43.1 percent) for 2,899 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Roberts is also a punt and kickoff returner. He had 20 punt returns for 246 yards and two touchdowns last season. He also had 33 kickoff returns for 747 yards (22.6).