Atlanta Falcons Release Defensive Tackle Junior Aho
The Atlanta Falcons have released defensive tackle Junior Aho, ending his stint with the team after he signed a reserve/future contract in January 2025. Aho, a native of France, had previously been a member of the Falcons’ practice squad since October 2024.
Aho’s NFL Journey: From International Pathway to Free Agency
Junior Aho entered the NFL in 2023 as an undrafted free agent through the NFL’s International Player Pathway program, which gives international athletes an prospect to be selected by a franchise. Before joining the Falcons, Aho spent time with both the Minnesota Vikings and the Carolina Panthers. He played college football for the SMU Mustangs. To date he has only participated in pre-season games.
What’s next for the French Defensive Tackle?
Aho has been a free agent between each of his stints with various teams, however, this marks the first time his contract has been terminated. The defensive tackle will now look for new opportunities in the NFL or other professional football leagues.

What was the significance of Junior Aho being signed on a reserve/future contract with the Falcons?
Atlanta Falcons Release Defensive Tackle Junior Aho
The atlanta Falcons have released defensive tackle Junior Aho, ending his stint with the team after he signed a reserve/future contract in January 2025.Aho, a native of France, had previously been a member of the Falcons’ practice squad since October 2024.
Aho’s NFL Journey: From International Pathway to Free Agency
junior Aho entered the NFL in 2023 as an undrafted free agent through the NFL’s International Player Pathway program,wich gives international athletes an prospect to be selected by a franchise. Before joining the falcons, Aho spent time with both the Minnesota vikings and the Carolina Panthers. He played college football for the SMU Mustangs. To date he has only participated in pre-season games.
What’s next for the French Defensive Tackle?
Aho has been a free agent between each of his stints with various teams, however, this marks the first time his contract has been terminated. The defensive tackle will now look for new opportunities in the NFL or other professional football leagues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Junior Aho
- Q: What is a ”reserve/future contract?”
- A: This contract type allows teams to sign players to their roster for the upcoming season *before* the current season ends.It guarantees a spot on the team for the following year, provided the player makes the final roster. Aho’s release means he won’t be with the Falcons next season.
- Q: What is the NFL’s International Player Pathway program?
- A: It’s a program designed to give international athletes a chance to join the NFL.Players are assigned to NFL teams, often spending time on practice squads, to develop their skills. It’s a pathway for athletes from outside the U.S. to learn football.
- Q: What are Aho’s chances of playing in the NFL?
- A: The article shows that Aho has been signed several times, and played in preseason games. Unluckily,he has been released from the practice squad and regular season rosters,so his chances depend on his continued development and any opportunities he might find in another league.
- Q: Where did junior Aho play college football?
- A: He played college football for the SMU Mustangs.
- Q: What are Aho’s options now?
- A: Aho can sign with another NFL team, explore opportunities in other professional football leagues (like the Canadian Football League or European leagues), or potentially retire. His career trajectory is now in the hands of future opportunities and his development.
As Junior Aho seeks his next opportunity, keep an eye on his journey and the impact of the International Player Pathway program on the NFL.