There were rumors Circulating in Houston about the Texans back-up quarterback T.J. Yates being released, but they were not true. He was traded to the Atlanta Falcons. In return, the Texans received linebacker Akeem Dent. 

According to NFL.com, teams started calling the Texans when they heard that T.J. was going to be released. Matt Ryan didn't have anyone with experience backing him up for the Falcons, but now Yates provides both experience and talent to do the job.

Yates, who grew up in the Atlanta area, is thrilled to be moving back home.

"It was awesome news," Yates told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "It was great news for me and my wife. We get to go home and be around our families. Go to a great organization. Man, I couldn’t be more happier or more excited about going to the Falcons."

With Ryan Fitzpatrick named as the starting quarterback, and backup signal callers Case Keenum and Tom Savage trying to get snaps in, the Texans decided someone should go, and they chose T.J. Yates.

The Texans added depth to their front line in this trade. Dent only started 20 games in three seasons with the Falcons, but all of them were in the last two seasons. Although he has started in only those 20 games, he has appeared in 47 games total. His career tackle amount right now is 136. 

To make room for Yates, the Falcons released backup quarterback Dominique Davis, after the trade was finalized.

This trade is good for both teams. The Texans get more depth at linebacker, and the Falcons get experience at backup quarterback. 

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About the author
Stockton Mair
I have been RSLTID (Real Salt Lake Til I Die) ever since I knew about their existence. I follow their every move, and soccer is my life. I am super glad to be writing for VAVEL USA!