Arizona Cardinals officially sign FB Derrick Coleman to one-year contract

Fullback Derrick Coleman has signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals, the team announced Thursday.

Running back Bronson Hill was released to free up a roster spot for Coleman, who played in 16 regular-season games, including seven starts, for the Atlanta Falcons last season. He primarily was used as a blocking back for Falcons running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman.

Derrick Coleman, who is the first legally-deaf offensive player in the NFL, had two carries for eight yards and two receptions for 20 yards in 2017. He also played in both postseason games but did not start either and had no carries or receptions.

The 27-year-old has 12 carries for 43 yards in his career to go along with 13 receptions for 111 yards and two touchdowns.

Coleman's playing time with Arizona may be limited, because new Cardinals offensive coordinator Mike McCoy has not used a fullback much in the past. Last year, when McCoy was the offensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, the Broncos used a fullback on only 15 percent of their offensive snaps.