Michael Turner has been a staple of the Atlanta Falcons running game for five years. Earning the nickname "The Burner" was fitting for the first four years where he crushed into defenses, delivering yards after contact. However, in 2012 the Burner slowed down. After bringing in running back Jacquizz Rodgers to help in the backfield, the Flacons are needing Turner less and less. ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that Atlanta is likely to release Michael Turner from the team when free agency begins.
The eight-year veteran was set to be owed $6.9 million this season as he is entering the final year of a six-year, $34.5 million contract he signed back in 2008. The move of releasing Turner will ultimately save the team a lot of money heading into the 2013 offseason.
The 31-year old rushed for just 800 yards on 222 carries with 10 touchdowns in all 16 games of the 2012 regular season. It was his lowest total rushing attempts and yards since 2009 where he was only able to play 11 games. The Falcons drafted Rodgers in 2011 to run tandem with Turner, but instead Rodgers emerged as a premier running back. When the team decided to start Rodgers the final two games of the season, Turner's fate with Atlanta seemed sealed.
Much can be said to have contributed to Turner's lower numbers in 2012. With the arrival of Dirk Koetter as the new offensive coordinator, Atlanta became more of a pass-first offense. Matt Ryan continues to improve, while Roddy White and Julio Jones have created a potent long-range passing game for the Falcons. They no longer need Turner to carry the ball 20-25 times a game for 1,300 yards on the season.
The Falcons ranked 29th overall in the league in rushing yards last season, but that does not mean they need to continue carrying the veterans large contract. The Falcons could look to another veteran like Steven Jackson to come in and sign him to a smaller contract. Late rounds of the NFL Draft have also proved fruitful for quality running backs. They do not need a star, just someone to place beside Rodgers.
Turner could still put together a few more quality seasons for another team. With so many running backs being released into the free agent market, he will have tough competition. 2013 NFL free agency signing period begins March 12. Atlanta will have to make a decision on Turner by then.
