Ovie

Mughelli

Ewing cleared lanes for Heisman finalist Montee Ball at Wisconsin and will be the Falcons’ new starting lead blocker. Mughelli is owed a $3 million base salary at age 32, and missed most of last season with a torn right MCL.

Mughelli has been the Falcons’ lead blocker since 2007, but his release became inevitable after Atlanta used a fifth-round pick on Wisconsin FB Bradie Ewing. Coming off a torn MCL and one month shy of his 32nd birthday, Mughelli was due an untenable $3 million in 2012. Mughelli should latch on somewhere as camp competition for the veteran’s minimum.

Mughelli visited the Dolphins last week. Rams coach Jeff Fisher and OC Brian Schottenheimer both have an extensive history of utilizing the fullback in the running game, so it’s no surprise that Mughelli has their interest.

Not far removed from being one of the top lead blockers in the game, Mughelli apparently lost out to Brit Miller. Mughelli missed a large chunk of 2011 with a torn right MCL. He should be one of the first calls for any team looking for a fullback this season.

With only H-Back Charles Clay and over-sized runner Jerome Messam on the roster, the Dolphins lack a true lead blocker. Mughelli could fit the bill if he’s fully recovered from his torn MCL at age 32.

Mughelli visited the Rams in May after being released by Atlanta. A classic lead blocker, Mughelli’s signing further signals the Rams’ transition to a more run-oriented attack under Jeff Fisher. Placed on injured reserve with a torn MCL last October, Mughelli will compete with Brit Miller, who also ended 2011 on IR with a knee injury.

Mughelli took a helmet to his knee, bending it awkwardly. Replays suggest a severe injury, possibly of the season-ending variety. Jason Snelling will pick up snaps as a lead blocker, though the Falcons will likely sign a true fullback this week.

The extent of Mughelli’s injury is not yet known, but any time missed is a concern for Michael Turner. The lead-blocker was a Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro last season. The Falcons have a bye in Week 8 before taking on the lowly Colts on Nov. 6.