The Atlanta Falcons announced Tuesday that they have released cornerback Robert Alford.
“We thank Robert for all that he brought to the team during his six seasons in Atlanta,” said general manager Thomas Dimitroff. “He was a significate contributor to our defense and we have a great deal of respect for him. We wish Robert all the best going forward.”
Alford sent out a post on Twitter:
Thank you Atlanta for 6 incredible seasons. Sucks that it ended on this note. I enjoyed playing in this incredible city. Ima miss my dawgs but I’m excited for the next chapter. #TAT
— Robert Alford (@rockorocky)
February 5, 2019 The first to report the news was NFL Network analyst Mike Garafolo.
The #Falcons are releasing CB Robert Alford, sources say. The 2013 second-round pick had 10 INTs in 88 games in his six years in Atlanta. Was due $8.5m this upcoming season. Figure he gets another gig before the start of free agency.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo)
February 5, 2019 The move, while not surprising, makes sense from a financial standpoint. The team will take the dead money cap hit of $1.2 million in lieu of paying the cornerback $8.5 million in 2019.
The defensive backfield could get crowded in 2019 as Ricardo Allen and Keanu Neal are set to return from injuries, Damontae Kazee has emerged as a ball-hawking option and Desmond Trufant and Isiah Oliver seem to be ready to man the outside. Brian Poole will also battle for time at the nickel position.
