Atlanta Falcons part ways with Harry Douglas
By Brad Rowland
It is a time of transition for the Atlanta Falcons, and after the official release of veteran running back Steven Jackson on Thursday, the organization wasn’t done making moves. On Friday, it was widely reported that the Falcons have parted ways with wide receiver Harry Douglas.
The #Falcons have released WR Harry Douglas, source says. Put that with the Jackson released yesterday, and that’s a lot of experience
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 27, 2015
Shortly after word trickled out, Douglas himself confirmed the news with this tweet.
Thanking @AtlantaFalcons for my 7 years in ATL & the opportunity to play in the city I grew up. First class organization. Much luv 2 fans
— Harry Douglas (@HDouglas83) February 27, 2015
Douglas, who is a local product from Jonesboro High School, has spent his entire career with the Falcons after being selected with a third-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft out of Louisville. In 2014, “HD” caught 51 passes for 556 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games, but his best season came in 2013, when he led an injury-plagued receiving corps with 85 catches for 1,067 yards.
This was almost certainly a salary cap decision for the Falcons, who will almost assuredly be investing in the wide receiver position through the draft and/or free agency. The Atlanta Falcons do not have a “ready made” replacement for Harry Douglas on the roster, but that is how it works sometimes.