6 Football Players who Played for Lions and Falcons
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played on both the Lions and Falcons.
Matt Prater
Matt Prater is a placekicker who’s known for his strong leg and accuracy in clutch situations. He went undrafted in the 2006 NFL Draft but was later signed by the Detroit Lions, where he didn’t make the final roster.
Prater bounced around a bit early in his career but ultimately found a home with the Denver Broncos, where he spent the first half of his career. In 2013, he set the NFL record for the longest successful field goal, kicking a 64-yarder in a game against the Tennessee Titans.
In 2014, Prater was suspended for violating the league’s substance-abuse policy, and the Broncos released him. He was subsequently picked up by the Detroit Lions, where he solidified his reputation as one of the NFL’s best kickers.
Prater Key Stats
- Pro Bowl (Broncos, Lions)
T.J. Duckett
T.J. Duckett played his collegiate football at Michigan State University, where he established himself as a dominant force in the backfield. His performance with the Spartans led to him being selected in the first round, 18th overall, by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2002 NFL Draft.
During his tenure with the Falcons, Duckett became an integral part of their rushing attack, often pairing with other backs in a committee approach. His best season came in 2003 when he rushed for 779 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Following his time in Atlanta, Duckett played for the Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions, and Seattle Seahawks. His NFL career was marked by consistent production in short-yardage and red-zone situations.
Joey Harrington
Joey Harrington was drafted by the Detroit Lions as the 3rd overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft. He played for the Lions, Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints during his NFL career, which spanned from 2002 to 2007.
Harrington’s career as a starting quarterback was marked by struggles and unfulfilled expectations. Over his six-year career, he threw for 14,693 yards, 79 touchdowns, and 85 interceptions, completing 56.1% of his passes.
While he showed glimpses of promise, Harrington was unable to establish himself as a consistent starting quarterback in the league.
Harrington Key Stats
- 3000+ Yard Passing Season (Lions)
Dwight Freeney
Dwight Freeney had a highly successful career in the NFL, standing out as one of the most feared defensive ends of his time. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts with the 11th overall pick of the 2002 NFL Draft. Freeney spent the majority of his career with the Colts (2002 to 2012), and became a key figure in their defense.
Over the span of his illustrious career, he accumulated 125.5 sacks, 47 forced fumbles, and 350 tackles. Freeney was a force to be reckoned with on the field, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro nods. One of the highlights of his career was winning Super Bowl XLI with the Colts.
After leaving the Colts, Freeney had stints with several other teams including the San Diego Chargers, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions before retiring in 2017.
Freeney Key Stats
- 1st Team All-Pro (Colts)
- Pro Bowl (Colts)
- Super Bowl Champ (Colts)
Mohamed Sanu
Mohamed Sanu was selected in the third round, 83rd overall, by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2012 NFL Draft. He played as a wide receiver, making a name for himself with his versatility and ability to contribute in a variety of roles.
Sanu spent four seasons with the Bengals before signing with the Atlanta Falcons in 2016. During his time in Atlanta, he emerged as a key part of the offense, helping the Falcons reach Super Bowl LI in the 2016 season.
Over the course of his career, Sanu played with several other teams, including the Patriots and 49ers. His career stats include over 400 receptions, nearly 5,000 receiving yards, and 27 touchdown catches. In addition to playing receiver, Sanu also became known for his abilities as a passer, completing several trick-play passes for touchdowns.
David Richards
David Richards was selected in the 4th round, 99th overall, by the San Diego Chargers in the 1988 NFL Draft. Richards spent a total of 9 seasons in the league, playing for multiple teams including the Chargers, Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots.
During his career, Richards started 128 games including all 16 games in each of the 5 seasons he played in San Diego.
While not achieving any major individual awards, he contributed to the success of the offenses he was part of, particularly in the running game. His experience in the league, playing at both guard and tackle positions, allowed him to provide stability and versatility to the teams he played for.
