In February, there was a report that the Falcons were prepared to release safety Thomas DeCoud prior to his salary for the 2014 season becoming guaranteed on March 15.
They didn’t let things get down to the wire. The team announced Tuesday that DeCoud has been released after six seasons with the team.
DeCoud has started all but two games for the Falcons over the last five seasons and made the Pro Bowl after the 2012 season. Like most other players on the Atlanta defense, though, DeCoud’s play slipped during the 2013 season and his $4.2 million base salary made him an easy target for the axe. The move will save the Falcons $3 million under the cap.
DeCoud’s release continues a busy day for the Falcons. They have signed guard Jon Asamoah, defensive end Tyson Jackson and defensive tackle Paul Soliai while re-signing center Joe Hawley and releasing the retired Tony Gonzalez.