We have a better idea now why the market for defensive end Ray Edwards was softer than expected in free agency.
Falcons coach Mike Smith revealed that Edwards underwent “minor” knee surgery during the lockout, and will miss the team’s preseason opener. Edwards hasn’t participated in any live hitting during training camp.
Edwards signed a five-year, $30 million contract, including $11 million guaranteed by the Falcons. That looked like a quality deal for Atlanta, but the injury explains why he didn’t make huge money.
We wonder if any other teams except the Falcons were even interested. Edwards wasn’t tied to other squads during the free agent period.