The Falcons announced that they have released running back Michael Turner, corner back Dunta Robinson and defensive end John Abraham. With this cut, the Falcons release a combined 31 seasons of NFL experience between the three. It does not come as much of a surprise as the Falcons are under the heat to clear some cap space by the March 12 deadline and are looking to fill the remaining spaces on their roster with young talent.

In an interview with the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff, stated that in 2008 the Falcons were amongst the youngest teams in the league and this past year were one of the oldest. While we knew that a cut was looming for the Falcons organization, many were still surprised to see that John Abraham was a part of this cut. He has 122 career sacks which is the most among all active players. Perhaps it was his underwhelming 3.6 yards per carry this season that sealed his deal with the Falcons and sent him packing.

What is most jarring about this cut is that according to Friday’s NFL transaction report, the Falcons tied the release Michael Turner to a “failed physical”. Let’s just stop a second and call “malarkey” right here. They didn’t list a reason for what deemed the physical failed and that frankly does not surprise Turner fans as he has never missed a game in the last three seasons. He started every single game for Atlanta. Turner has graciously stated while it is difficult leaving Atlanta, he does want to continue his career elsewhere. We will await the results of his physical should he secure a roster spot on a new team.

With saying “goodbye” to theree of their over-thirty players (Abraham 34, Turner 31, Robinson, 30) they also opened up $15.9 million in cap space as they look to draft some young talent and look into the free agency pool once it opens.