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The Falcons have released presumed starting center and fan favorite Joe Hawley.
Source: to make room for C Geno Gradkowski, the Falcons cut C Joe Hawley.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 7, 2015
The move comes on the heels of the team acquiring center Gino Gradkowski off waivers from Denver. The options for the team are currently to start James Stone or Mike Person or throw Gradkowski in as the starter. The thought, however, of throwing a brand new player in as the starting center and expecting them to call protections in a complex scheme is a bit troubling.
Hawley played in 57 games for the Falcons over the course of five seasons. He started 23 of those games. He'll be fondly remembered for his badass beard and his nickname, Joe Brawley, earned from fighting everyone on Hard Knocks. He'll be missed.
Weigh in on Hawley's release below.