Several sources, including ESPN Falcons beat writer Vaughn Mcclure, have reported that the Falcons have placed Devin Hester on the short term IR with designation to return.
Falcons place Devin Hester (turf toe) on injured reserve with a designation to return.
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) October 6, 2015
Hester missed the first 4 weeks of the season with a turf toe injury. Hester had previously stated before the season that he wanted to make sure the injury was fully healed before he returned to the field. Last season, Hester proved to be more than just a special teams specialist. He provided numerous big plays as a receiver, and will likely add a whole new dimension to the Kyle Shanahan’s offense when he returns. With the Falcons off to a surprising 4-0 start, it is no surprise the Falcons opted to play it safe with Hester. The placement on injured reserve will keep Hester out of all Falcons practices for at least 6 weeks and he will not be able to return to the field until week 13 versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Falcons also made a few other roster moves on Tuesday.
Falcons also re-signed tight end Tony Moeaki and safety Charles Godfrey while releasing tight end Mickey Shuler.
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) October 6, 2015
Moeaki was signed by the Falcons this offseason and looked to have a good chance to make the team with the lack of talent at the tight end position. However, Moeaki failed to crack the 53-man roster. He last played for the Seattle Seahawks in 2014. Moeaki probably will not have a huge role in the pass game, but do not be surprised to see him out on the field if he is healthy. It is not like Jacob Tamme and Levin Toilolo have impressed thus far.
Godfrey was also signed this offseason by the Falcons, but failed to make the 53-man roster as well. The signing adds depth to one of the weaker positions for the Falcons, and starting safety Ricardo Allen is currently recovering from an MCL sprain. Godfrey spent 6 full seasons with the Panthers before playing for both the Panthers and the Falcons last season. He has 75 starts and 11 interceptions over his seven year career.