Falcons re-sign kicker Bryant

Matthews, DiMarco and Williams also get new deals.

FLOWERY BRANCH — The Falcons re-signed four players Wednesday, highlighted by kicker Matt Bryant.

The new deal will keep Bryant from becoming an unrestricted free agent. General manager Thomas Dimitroff said last week the deal was close.

The Falcons are not overly concerned about Bryant’s age. He’s set to turn 40 in May.

“Matt has some age in his leg, but again, Matt is one of those guys who takes care of his body,” Dimitroff said. “He’s fine- tuned as far as his flexibility and his hydration, because that’s another part of it. I’m not concerned about it as far as what we are looking to do. I think he’s still got years left in him.”

The team also resigned defensive end Cliff Matthews, fullback Patrick DiMarco and wide receiver Nick Williams. Dimitroff said the Falcons have had discussions with the agents who represent linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, defensive tackle Corey Peters and wide receiver Eric Weems.

Bryant has been with the Falcons since 2009. He’s made 148 of 167 field-goal attempts (88.6 percent), including 18 of 24 from 50 yards or longer. He has become the second-leading scorer in franchise history, with 666 points. He’s 140 points shy of Morten Andersen’s club record of 806.

“There is no question that we’ve had a lot of discussions with Matt’s people and him,” Dimitroff said last week. “I think Matt is a heck of a football player and kicker. He’s done some really good things for us.”

Also Wednesday, the Falcons announced that tight end Bear Pascoe, who was signed to mainly serve as a blocker last season, will not return. He’ll become an unrestricted free agent. Pascoe played in all 16 games last season and made two starts. He caught two passes for 3 yards and a touchdown.