Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Falcons named as likely Steven Jackson suitor



The Falcons figure to be in the market for a back, and there’s an indication they might be looking at swapping old for old.
According to Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Falcons are “one of the most likely suitors” for Steven Jackson if he gets away from the Rams.
The Falcons have a need at the position, as they’re expected to release Michael Turner.
And Jackson will become a free agent by voiding the final year of his contract, getting to the market for the first time in his career.
Turner, 31, gained just 800 yards last season, averaging 3.6 yards per carry. He did score 10 touchdowns, marking the fifth straight year he’s had double-digit scores for the Falcons.
Jackson, who turns 30 just before the start of training camp, had 1,042 rushing yards last year, averaging 4.1 per carry.
But Jackson also has more miles on his tires than Turner, with more than 750 more career rushing attempts. His numbers haven’t dropped off as precipitously as Turner’s have, but his rushing yards have decreased three years running.
The Falcons know they’re close, and know they need some backfield help (regardless their support for Jacquizz Rodgers), but going to Jackson instead of a younger back would be another bold move for a team that hasn’t shied away from them.

Source: PFT.com
Author: Darin Gantt
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