Atlanta Falcons Re-Sign WR Frank Darby, Place TE Parker Hesse on IR

The Atlanta Falcons have re-signed fan-favorite receiver Frank Darby.

A familiar face has returned to the Atlanta Falcons' locker room.

The Falcons announced Tuesday that they've signed receiver Frank Darby to the practice after placing tight end Parker Hesse on the practice squad injured reserve.

Darby, a sixth-round pick in Falcons coach Arthur Smith and general manager Terry Fontenot's first draft class, was waived with an injury designation in the middle of August.

It was unfortunate timing for Darby, who was a clear winner throughout training camp after making several impressive catches. He was also an integral part of the Falcons' receivers room, with both wideout Mack Hollins and coach TJ Yates pointing out that Darby was the primary "juice man" for his teammates.

Frank Darby is back in Atlanta / Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Throughout his two years in Atlanta, Darby caught two passes for 29 yards across 15 regular season games while expanding his position versatility. Darby was "coming into his own" this spring, per Yates, and Smith expressed that he was "very pleased" with the camp the 25-year-old New Jersey native was putting together.

But most of all, the Falcons' staff legitimately enjoyed Darby's presence each day.

“He’s one of the guys people gravitate towards," Smith said. "You like being around guys like that. He’s just full of energy every day and it’s not fake, that’s who Frankie is."

With Atlanta losing its last two games by a combined score of 43-13, there was a clear need for energy - and Darby's return may just provide it.

Hesse's timeline to return isn't clear; he was elevated to the active roster in Week 1 but hasn't seen the field since.

The Falcons (2-2) will return to the field Sunday against the Houston Texans (2-2) inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. EST.