Ray Edwards cut by Atlanta Falcons in surprise move

Ray Edwards' disappointing run with the Atlanta Falcons has come to an abrupt end.

Fox Sports insider and NFL Network contributor Jay Glazer reported Monday that the Falcons released Edwards, their big free-agent signing in 2011. The team later confirmed the move.

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Edwards started in four of the Falcons' first nine games this season, managing just nine tackles and no sacks at defensive end. He was signed to a five-year, $30 million contract ($11 million guaranteed) in July 2011. He walks away from the Falcons with $11 million in his pocket.

The Falcons signed Edwards with the idea he could team with John Abraham to give Atlanta a powerful pass-rushing duo. Edwards compiled 16.5 sacks in his final two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, but he had just 3.5 sacks in his first season with the Falcons. His drop in production led to speculation that his Vikings numbers were inflated because of the presence of Jared Allen.

The Falcons first made a play for Charles Johnson, who elected to re-up with the Carolina Panthers. They settled on Edwards, a decision that turned out to be a rare miscalculation by general manager Thomas Dimitroff.

Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.