Roddy White released by Atlanta Falcons

Long time wide receiver Roddy White has been released by the Atlanta Falcons.

It has been 11 wonderful years, but the relationship between Roddy White and the Atlanta Falcons is over, after the Falcons just stated that they will release their veteran receiver. White has been one of the best receivers in the league over the past decade, amassing a franchise record 10, 863 yards and 63 touchdowns.

Such ridiculous numbers only come from a special talent, and White is certainly that. His route running ability, sure handedness and speed made him a favorite in Atlanta, especially with quarterback Matt Ryan. The relationship between a quarterback and his number one receiver is one of the most important on the football field, and White and Ryan certainly had a great one that produced some wonderful moments.

However, with the emergence of Julio Jones and the aging of White, his role in the offense was diminishing by the year, and in 2015, White only caught 43 passes for 506 yards and the lone touchdown.  However, with the modern day NFL, the salary cap drives decisions, and ultimately, this is what led to White’s release. Falcons’ owner Arthur Bank stated:

"“Roddy is one of the greatest players to ever put on a Falcons uniform, and even more importantly he is a man of tremendous character. It is always a challenge to balance how we feel about a particular player with the implications of the salary cap, as well as the clear commitment we have to our fans and stakeholders to assemble a championship-caliber roster each and every year.”"

It is sad to see such a legend of the game and his franchise come to a parting of ways, but unfortunately, that is the way of the modern NFL.