Atlanta Falcons running back Jason Snelling to retire

Nov 10, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back

(44) is tackled by Seattle Seahawks defensive end

(51) on a run in the first half at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Falcons announced today that seven-year running back Jason Snelling would be retiring from the NFL:

"“I have decided to retire after seven years in the NFL to spend time with my family,” Snelling said. “I want to thank Mr. Blank, Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith for providing me the opportunity to play for the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons are a first class organization run by a first class owner and I am grateful that I got to spend my entire career in Atlanta.”Snelling was selected by the Falcons in the seventh round (244th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft out of the University of Virginia. He totaled 363 carries for 1,420 yards with eight touchdowns and a career average of 3.9 yards per carry. The versatile runner also added 168 receptions for 1,249 yards and nine touchdowns as a receiver out of the backfield. In 2013, Snelling ran for 164 yards on 44 carries with one touchdown in 14 games. He also added 29 catches for 216 yards and three touchdowns in the passing game."

Snelling served a limited role for the Falcons last year and scored a touchdown on 44 attempts. He totaled 164 yards for Atlanta and averaged 3.7 yards per rush. His best season with Atlanta was back in 2009, when he ran for 613 yards on 142 carries and got into the end zone four times.

With this announcement, the Falcons are left with four running backs on the roster: Steven Jackson, Jacquizz Rodgers, Antone Smith and Josh Vaughan.