Falcons running back Michael Turner was cut by the Falcons today, but he took his release in stride.
Turner praised the Falcons on his way out, saying he was proud of his five years in Atlanta and grateful to the team and its fans.
“I want to thank the Atlanta Falcons for the opportunity to be a part of something great,” Turner wrote on Facebook. “We accomplished a lot during my time here and I will always cherish the memories and relationships I made. I want to thank Mr.Blank for all he’s done for me and my career. He’s a great owner and an even better philanthropist. This is a tough business but I understand its nature and respect the process.”
Turner is 31 years old and coming off a season in which he averaged just 3.6 yards a carry, by far the lowest of his career. But Turner said he believes he still has plenty he can offer to some NFL team.
“I’m excited to begin a new chapter of my career and truly believe I have a lot left in the tank,” Turner wrote. “I also want to take a moment and thank the Atlanta Falcons fans. You guys made it easy for me to come to work every day and give you everything I had. Even though it’s a tough day I’m excited for what the future holds. Thank you, again, to the Falcons organization. I wish you guys nothing but the best.”
Falcons fans will surely wish Turner nothing but the best as well. Even as they realize that cutting an expensive running back on the wrong side of 30 was the right move.