BREAKING: Falcons Re-Sign KhaDarel Hodge; 'Blessing to Have'

The Atlanta Falcons have re-signed receiver KhaDarel Hodge, a favorite of special teams coordinator Marquice Williams.

Atlanta Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot has placed an emphasis on keeping as much talent as possible, and he took another step in the right direction Tuesday.

Per release, the Falcons have re-signed receiver and gunner KhaDarel Hodge to a one-year contract.

The 27-year-old Hodge just completed his first season in Atlanta, logging 13 receptions for 202 yards and a touchdown on 20 targets. He ranked second on the Falcons yards per catch with 15.5 and fifth in receiving yards.

But Hodge's true value didn't come on offense; instead, he made his mark in the game's third phase, starring as a gunner on punt coverage and leading the Falcons in solo tackles on special teams with seven.

Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams has previously described gunners as the "most athletic, dynamic guys on punt team" - and is a noted fan of what Hodge brings to the table.

"Hodge has been a great addition to our team and our special teams unit," Williams said during the season. "He's made a name for himself as a special teams player. I've always admired his career from afar, and then it's a blessing to have him on our team. He (did) a great job and we're happy to have him."

Despite visiting the Houston Texans during the free agency period, Hodge opted to return to Atlanta - and now, Williams gets another year of happiness as the Falcons kept one of their top special teamers.

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