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The Atlanta Falcons and defensive end Bruce Irvin agreed to terms on a one-year contract, the team announced Wednesday. Irvin, who was released by the Oakland Raiders last week, is expected to play for the Falcons (4-4) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET) against the host Cleveland Browns (2-6-1), according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
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The 31-year-old will be reunited with Atlanta head coach Dan Quinn, who spent two seasons as Irvin's defensive coordinator with the Seattle Seahawks in 2013-14.
"We know exactly how Bruce will fit into our team on the field, and just as importantly into our locker room," Quinn said of Irvin, who was born in Atlanta.
"This was a dream [come] true. The Patriots and Steelers offered more money, but being able to play for my city and my people, you just can't put a price on that," Irvin told ESPN.
Irvin recorded just six tackles, three sacks and one forced fumble in eight games this season for the Raiders. The 6-foot-3, 250-pound Irvin is expected to provide a jolt to a Falcons pass rush that has registered just 17 sacks this season -- tied for the fifth fewest in the league.
"He will add to our rotation along the defensive line, while adding to our pass rush," Quinn said. "He is familiar with our scheme and we are familiar with his strengths, so we are looking forward to getting him on the field as soon as possible."
Irvin recorded 18 sacks and 11 forced fumbles in two-plus seasons with the Raiders. He has 252 tackles, 40 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and three interceptions in 98 career contests with the Seahawks and Raiders.
