The Atlanta Falcons today announced that they have signed cornerback Kelvin Hayden and safety James Sanders.
Hayden, 6-0, 195 pounds, was originally selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round (60th overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft. He totaled 298 tackles (239 solo), nine interceptions, three defensive touchdowns, 37 passes defensed and four forced fumbles in six seasons with the Colts.
He was a member of Indianapolis' Super Bowl winning squad in 2006 and returned an interception 56 yards for a touchdown to give the Colts a 29-17 fourth quarter lead and seal their Super Bowl XLI win over the Chicago Bears. In 2010, Hayden posted 61 tackles (43 solo), second only to his career-high 83 tackles in 2007. He also notched two interceptions, returning both for touchdowns while playing in 11 games.
Sanders, 5-10, 210 pounds, was originally drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round (133rd overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft. He spent six seasons in New England, playing in 84 games with 49 starts totaling 300 tackles (217 solo), one sack, eight interceptions for 172 yards and two touchdowns, 19 passes defensed and 30 special teams tackles.
In 2010, Sanders recorded 58 tackles (42 solo) and set career highs with six passes defensed and three interceptions. He also earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors on 11/14/10 against the Pittsburgh Steelers when he intercepted a pass from QB Ben Roethlisberger and returned it 32 yards for a touchdown.
Follow Sanders on Twitter @JamesSanders36 and Hayden @KelvinHayden
