The Atlanta Falcons released three key veterans today, running back Michael Turner, defensive end John Abraham, and cornerback Dunta Robinson in an effort to clear cap space. It has been reported for over a week that Turner and his $6.9 million cap number would be released, but the Falcons surprised many by cutting ties with Abraham and Robinson.
Abraham, a 34-year-old pass rusher, has been a Falcon since 2006 and has recorded 68.5 sacks in those seven seasons. Last year Abraham had 10.5 sacks and 33 tackles, which is productive by any standard, and even more impressive from a player approaching his mid-thirties. His age played a role in the number of snaps he was on the field though, according to the Associated Press, and he had a reputation for being brittle.
Robinson, who joined the Falcons in 2010 after six seasons with the Houston Texans, was known as an enforcer of sorts in the Atlanta secondary. He routinely laid hard hits and recorded 160 tackles in three seasons with Atlanta, including 67 in 2012, which represents the second-highest total of his career. He had four interceptions in 47 games, and has 17 for his career. At age 30, Robinson will be considered a tier below the top-notch corners in the free agent pool such as Aqib Talib and Sean Smith, but he is still a quality defender.
The Falcons were 13-3 last season, and blew a 17-point lead at halftime in an NFC Championship loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Head coach Mike Smith said it was not easy to release leaders like Turner, Abraham and Robinson. ''As a football coach it is never easy to cut any player, especially veteran players who have been valuable members of the organization. The guys we released today have contributed to the success that we have had over the last five years, and we greatly appreciate their efforts.'' The moves saved the organizations $16 million.
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