Out with the old and in with the new

ATLANTA --- No matter how hard they tried to focus only on the future Monday, the Atlanta Falcons couldn't celebrate the additions of running back Michael Turner and three other free agents without paying due tribute to departed star Warrick Dunn.

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AP / File

The Falcons released running back Warrick Dunn on Monday after six seasons in Atlanta. Last year, the 11-year veteran became the 22nd player in NFL history to run for 10,000 yards.

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Associated Press

Erik Coleman, left, Von Hutchins, second from left, Ben Hartsock, second from right, and Michael Turner, right, stand for photos during a news conference announcing their signing with the Atlanta Falcons at owner Arthur Blank's Foundation Monday in Atlanta.

It was no surprise that the Falcons cut Dunn, 33, on Monday; the action was expected when Turner agreed to a six-year deal reportedly worth $34.5 million, with approximately $15 million guaranteed, on Sunday.

But even new executives and coaches who never worked with Dunn felt compelled to acknowledge the contributions of Dunn, one of the team's most popular players.

"It's definitely a tough business decision, but in business ... you have to put your emotions aside and do what is in the best interest of the club," general manager Thomas Dimitroff said.

The Falcons gain about $3 million in salary cap space.

Last season, Dunn became the 22nd back in NFL history to rush for more than 10,000 yards in a career.

Dunn had three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with the Falcons, helping the team lead the NFL in rushing from 2004-06. He ran for a career-high 1,416 yards in 2005, earning his third Pro Bowl appearance.

The Falcons decided to go younger at running back, signing Turner, 26, to share carries with 24-year-old Jerious Norwood.

"The legacy he leaves in Atlanta will be long-remembered and appreciated by his fellow players, fans and the community," Atlanta owner Arthur Blank said of Dunn.

Dunn spent six seasons in Atlanta, finishing as the third-leading rusher in franchise history with 5,979 yards.

New Falcons coach Mike Smith called Dunn "a class person."

"It's always tough to release a veteran player, especially someone who had the accolades Warrick does, not only on the field but off the field."

The Falcons continued their roster turnover when they signed Turner, safety Erik Coleman, cornerback Von Hutchins and tight end Ben Hartsock this weekend.

The Falcons had all four in Atlanta together and sold the players on the team and the city with a whirlwind weekend. Blank was brought in to close the deals.

"We spent all the time together and kind of gained a relationship with each other along with meeting with the coaches and Mr. Blank," Coleman said. "We thought it was a great atmosphere for us, and each one of us thinks we can turn this thing around."