BU54

Falcons court free-agent RB Turner
QB Redman signs new 2-year deal

By D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 02/29/08

With limited opportunities to play as LaDainian Tomlinson's backup during four seasons in San Diego, Michael Turner typically cashed in on his opportunities. The Falcons hope he cashes in on the chance they're providing him to become their starting tailback.

The Falcons spent Friday, the first day of free agency, wooing Turner, who is considered the top running back available. Tennessee free-agent tight end Ben Hartsock also met with the Falcons. Jacksonville offensive lineman Maurice Williams also was involved in contract talks with the team.

No deals were completed Friday. Typically, teams and players who open contract talks early in free agency, agree to terms within days, but not always.

That the Falcons are trying to sign Turner (228 carries, 1,257 yards, 6 career TDs) points to the expected release of veteran starter Warrick Dunn, the team's main ball carrier and goodwill ambassador for the past six seasons. If a deal is completed, Dunn likely will be cut immediately to clear nearly $3 million in cap space and to allow him to catch on with another team.

If Turner (5-foot-10, 237 pounds) is signed, the Falcons also likely would pass on Arkansas tailback Darren McFadden in the April 26-27 draft. Atlanta has the No. 3 overall pick and nine selections overall.

The Falcons signed quarterback Chris Redman to a two-year contract, with guarantees believed to be in the $2 million range. Redman's re-emergence in the NFL is one of the better comeback stories of late, as his four-year career with Baltimore was derailed by back and shoulder injuries, leaving him out of football for years.

The Falcons signed Redman last year when his former college coach — and then-Falcons' coach Bobby Petrino — offered him a chance to earn a roster spot. Redman started the final 41/2 games and not only played relatively well, he established confidence among his teammates while finding a groove (career-high 10 TD passes, 90.4 quarterback rating) the team hopes he will build on.

FULL STORY
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sp...urst_0301.html

__________________
Bears always have and always will need a quarterback!! But not a MLB.


10-7-07 Bears 27,Packers 20
12-23-07 Bears 35, Packers 7

Professor

If they sign Turner, there is no way they take mcfadden, that would be stupid. Turner wouldn't sign, I would have them put it in the contract that they wouldn't draft mcfadden

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BU54

Falcons sign prized RB Turner
Former Chargers rusher gets six-year deal

By STEVE WYCHE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Published on: 03/02/08

The Falcons signed Michael Turner, a free-agent running back from San Diego, to a six-year contract Sunday. In doing so, they landed the player it desperately sought to bolster their running game. Atlanta also signed Tennessee free-agent tight end Ben Hartsock to a four-year, $9 million contract with $2.25 guaranteed.

Link
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sp...rner_0303.html

__________________
Bears always have and always will need a quarterback!! But not a MLB.


10-7-07 Bears 27,Packers 20
12-23-07 Bears 35, Packers 7