Falcons linebacker Philip Wheeler, who was signed on Oct. 20, has made an immediate impact.
With linebacker Justin Durant missing time because of injuries, Wheeler led the team in tackles with 10 against San Francisco and 11 against Minnesota.
Wheeler, a former Georgia Tech standout from Columbus, could play an important role in helping the Falcons slow Tampa Bay running back Doug Martin, who’s second in the NFL in rushing with 1,038 yards.