The Oakland Raiders released Bruce Irvin over the weekend after they were unable to trade him prior to the deadline, and it did not take the veteran defensive lineman much time at all to find a new home.
And home is exactly what Irvin has found.
On Wednesday, Irvin agreed to a one-year deal with the Falcons. Since he was born and raised in Atlanta, the decision was an easy one. In fact, Irvin says he turned down more money from two other teams because he only wanted to play for the Falcons.
Bruce Irvin to me on joining the Falcons: “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 comes home to Atlanta. https://t.co/vEPn7bOEP0
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) November 7, 2018
Irvin recorded 18 sacks in two-plus seasons with the Raiders. He was a centerpiece of the ferocious Seahawks’ defense prior to that, and he has been a durable and productive player even on the wrong side of age 30.
Jon Gruden and the Raiders seem intent on tearing down their defense, and Irvin was a casualty of that plan. Given the way star pass-rusher Khalil Mack reacted when Irvin was waived, you can bet he is happy that his former teammate now gets to play for his hometown team.
