The Facts: Turner is headed for a reduced role next season, as the Falcons want to give more touches to Jacquizz Rodgers, particularly in the screen game. Not integrating Rodgers into the offense was one of former OC Mike Mularkey's failings.

Diehards Line:So wrote Journal-Constitution staffer Jeff Schultz, who went on to explain that because the Falcons don't have first- or fourth-round picks this year, they will have to plug more holes in free agency. That will mean salary-cap space. Turner is scheduled to make $5 million in salary next season, but has a cap hit of $7.5 million (factoring $2.5 million for his original signing bonus). He turns 30 years old next month. He has 1,189 carries in the past four seasons, which would wear down even a younger guy. Schultz went on to point out the NFL is now a pass-driven league now, and marquee RBs are not in great demand. Several teams, including New Orleans and Green Bay, now have gone the RBBC route. If the Falcons made the decision to part with Turner, Schultz believes that committee would include Rodgers, Jason Snelling (a free agent) and Antone Smith, unless another back is drafted or signed in free agency. ... The bottom line? The thought of saying goodbye to a 1,340-yard rusher may seem like a strange one, but it's a new league - and the Falcons need the money. It's certainly a situation worth watching.