Lofton won't be a holdout

With less than a day before the Falcons kick off training camp on Saturday with an 8:30 am et practice, the Falcons were able to get one of their two remaining unsigned draft picks under contract when they signed linebacker Curtis Lofton to a four-year deal per the AJC.

Lofton is expected to be the team's starting middle linebacker, but his ability to compete for that role could have been impacted based on when he arrived to camp. First round pick Sam Baker remains the only unsigned rookie. All players on the teams' roster are expected to report today at Flowery Branch for camp.

More rookies could sign soon

According to the Sports Xchange team report, the Falcons are close to signing two more draft picks: second round linebacker Curtis Lofton and sixth round running back Thomas Brown. The Falcons already have signed four of their draft picks, more than other teams except the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.

The AJC reports that with two fellow third rounders signed, wide receiver Harry Douglas could also be close to signing as well.

The Falcons have eleven total draft picks.

Falcons draft Lofton

With their second round pick, the No. 37 overall pick, the Falcons selected linebacker Currtis Lofton out of Oklahoma.

Lofton played middle linebacker for the Sooners, and could potentially play the same for the Falcons. The team is looking to groom a replacement and heir apparent to Keith Brooking in the middle. But Lofton may also work early on at weakside linebacker, where Stephen Nicholas is expected to be the starter.

Lofton registered 157 tackles and 3 interceptions last season in 14 games.