Falcons release safety Zeke Motta

The Falcons today announced that they have released safety Zeke Motta. The Notre Dame alumnus was a seventh round draft choice (244th overall) by Atlanta in 2013.

The Falcons have waived safety Zeke Motta: http://t.co/28xXHWK9Za pic.twitter.com/Wo8xlfDsxu

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) April 2, 2015

Motta, 24, appeared in 10 games as a rookie, registering 16 tackles (nine solo) and one pass deflection. Unfortunately, his first professional campaign was cut short when he suffered a cervical fracture against Green Bay -- an injury that required neck surgery to fix. Given the severity of this procedure, he had to sit out all of 2014, as well.

With a big frame, sound tackling mechanics and noteworthy athleticism, Motta had some nice potential when he joined the Falcons organization. Hopefully he can return to full health and succeed elsewhere.