Following widespread speculation this offseason, the Falcons announced Friday that they have released three key players: defensive end John Abraham, cornerback Dunta Robinson and running back Michael Turner.
“As a football coach it is never easy to cut any player, especially veteran players who have been valuable members of the organization,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said in a statement. “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.”
Turner, 31, led the team in rushing with 800 yards and 10 touchdowns. A two-time Pro Bowler, Tuner has rushed for 7,338 yards and 66 touchdowns in 134 career games with the Falcons (2008-12) and Chargers (2004-07).
Abraham, 34, led the Falcons with 10 sacks last season. He has 122 sacks in his career with the Falcons (2006-12) and Jets (2000-05).
Robinson, 30, started at cornerback and recorded 67 tackles, 1.5 sacks and eight passes defended last season. He signed a six-year, $57 million deal with the Falcons in 2010 after six seasons with the Texans but only played out half of that contract.
