John

Wetzel

Released just 48 hours ago by Atlanta, Wetzel, 29 in July, re-joins the team on a one-year deal. He made two appearances for the Falcons last season and previously started 24 games with the Cardinals from 2016-18. He returns as a reserve if only for his experience at both the guard and tackle spots.

Wetzel played in two games for the Falcons in 2019. Previously he started 24 games with the Cardinals from 2016-2018. The soon to be 29-year-old lineman has experience at guard and tackle, giving him a heightened chance to catch on as a reserve.

Wetzel (6-foot-7, 315) was a two-year starter for the Eagles, playing left tackle as a junior before being kicked to the right side as a senior. A heavy-legged waist bender, Wetzel has very little athleticism and upside. He’s a right-tackle only, severely limiting Wetzel’s attractiveness as a potential Raiders backup.

Wetzel spent training camp with the Falcons. He played a swing role in Arizona last year, appearing in eight games (five starts). Wetzel adds some insurance with RG Chris Lindstrom (foot) going on IR.

Wetzel spent his last three seasons with the Cardinals, making 24 mostly below-par starts. He is just a depth addition.

The Cardinals are awaiting MRI results. Wetzel has been filling in for D.J. Humphries (knee). Humphries could possibly return for Week 4. If not, the Birds might be forced to shift a struggling Jared Veldheer back to the blindside.

Both players were exclusive rights free agents. A 2013 UDFA, Wetzel made the first appearances of his career last season. Up all 16 weeks, he made eight starts, including five at left tackle. He was not effective, but the 26-year-old (in July) is position versatile.