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The Atlanta Falcons selected Peria Jerry with the No. 24 pick of the 2009 draft. He played in 64 games over the past five years, failing to even come close to the standards we hold for a first-round pick. Now, as Jerry prepares for free agency, it looks like he will be looking for a new place to call home this offseason.
According to his agent, there's "nothing going on" between Jerry and the Falcons (reported by D. Orlando Ledbetter). With the team engaged in talks with several potential free agents, the lack of interaction with Jerry can only mean one thing ... HE'S (PROBABLY) FINALLY LEAVING.
Let's see how the team is reacting.
Here was the scene at Flowery Branch:
As D. Led points out, Jerry suffered a major knee injury in his first season. Maybe that hindered what could've been a stellar career, but there's no looking back now. Jerry is not worth re-signing. Fortunately the Falcons seem to agree. Best of luck to him wherever he goes.
Will Mike Johnson return?
More news out of Flowery Branch. Atlanta is in "active talks" with Mike Johnson, according to his agent. As you likely recall, Johnson was supposed to be the starting right tackle for the Falcons in 2013. He suffered a dislocated ankle and fractured fibula in practice prior to the season, making the second trip of his career to injured reserve.
He played sparingly in 2012, but the coaching staff thought highly enough of him to put him in the running for a starting role. It's hard to really assess Johnson to this point. However, he was impressive in college at Alabama, so we can only continue to cling to the hope that he'll prove the front office right. Roll Tide.
Assuming the Falcons and Johnson finish a deal, it won't be a costly one. A player with two major injuries in a short career won't hurt their cap space. It's good to see he'll likely remain in the mix on the offensive line.
So there's your free agency news for the morning. Do you agree with what the Falcons appear inclined to do with Jerry and Johnson?