Atlanta Falcons have added a defensive back to their roster after two members of their secondary could not play in Week 13.

The Atlanta Falcons defense was exceptional against the Minnesota Vikings despite the loss. They limited the Vikings to 14 points. This was done without the presence of Falcons cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Brian Poole. Trufant will play on Thursday against the New Orleans Saints, but Poole is still listed as day-to-day with a back injury.

In preparation for Poole’s possible absence, Atlanta has signed cornerback Leon McFadden to its active roster. McFadden had a two-year stint with the Dallas Cowboys dating back to last season. His time was cut short in Dallas in August as he was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.

McFadden was a third round draft pick by the Cleveland Browns in 2013. Prior to his career with the Cowboys, he spent time with the Browns, Jets, 49ers, Cardinals, and Giants. He has a total of 33 tackles for his career.

The Falcons will need all the help they can get in the secondary as they will face another explosive Saints offense led by Drew Brees. New Orleans has seen significant contributions from wide receivers Ted Ginn Jr. and Michael Thomas.

Rookie New Orleans running back Alvin Kamara has also been sensational in 2017 as he has totaled 606 yards and seven touchdowns. Veteran Saints running back Mark Ingram has also been very efficient with 922 rushing yards and nine touchdowns.

McFadden will be dealt the task of having to perform well against a tough Saints team who has the second ranked offense in the NFL. The Falcons’ secondary may very well be the x-factor in deciding if their season and playoff hopes remain alive after Week 14.