Jakeem Grant is making his way back to the NFL, showing the resilience and determination that fans love to see from players who don’t give up on their dreams. The Atlanta Falcons have welcomed Grant back onto their practice squad, reigniting his NFL journey after a stint in training camp was cut short by a hamstring injury. Over the summer, Grant reached an injury settlement with the Falcons, allowing him to return once he was back to full health.
For those who remember Grant from his standout days, he was a second-team All-Pro return specialist in 2021. Unfortunately, his career hit a couple of roadblocks with serious injuries, including a ruptured Achilles tendon in 2022 and a torn patellar tendon in 2023 during his time with the Cleveland Browns. These setbacks kept him off the field but not out of the game mentally.
Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the sixth round back in 2016, Grant was part of a draft class that included Laremy Tunsil, Xavien Howard, and Kenyan Drake – not a bad group to be associated with. Grant spent five eventful seasons in Miami before being traded to the Chicago Bears in 2021 for a future draft pick, which would later play a part in the deal to bring Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins.
In his time on the field, Grant has left a mark, appearing in 81 games and making eight starts. He has 100 receptions to his name, racking up 1,140 yards and scoring 17 touchdowns through the air, alongside an additional score on the ground.
His most productive season at wide receiver came in 2020 when he caught 36 passes for 373 yards and four touchdowns. But where Grant really shined was on special teams.
As a returner, he electrified fans, scoring five touchdowns – three from punt returns and two from kickoffs.
In other Dolphins alumni news: Punter Matt Haack, known for his role in the memorable “Mountaineer Shot” play, has been cut from the New York Giants practice squad. Meanwhile, offensive lineman Jack Driscoll, who joined the Dolphins in the offseason as a free agent, has been waived by the Philadelphia Eagles.
Grant’s return is one to watch. If he can regain his form, he could provide the Falcons with exactly the kind of dynamic playmaker they need on special teams. Fans are rooting for him not just to make a comeback, but to make an impact.
