The abrupt decision of the Atlanta Falcons to release defensive end Ray Edwards has sparked speculation that something happened to prompt the decision.
Per a league source, it was simply a numbers game.
Edwards no longer was a starter. The source says that the Falcons opted to go with other players -- especially since younger players are more suited to playing special teams.
The Falcons will be on the hook for Edwards’ remaining base salary of $1.23 million if no one claims his contract on waivers. Given the importance of rushing the passer, it wouldn’t be a complete shock if someone does.