Ricardo Allen shares classy goodbye to Atlanta
The Atlanta Falcons released veteran safety Ricardo Allen on Thursday in an effort to free up salary cap space for the new league year.
A fifth-round pick in 2014, Allen was a key member of the Falcons’ defense for the past six seasons — racking up 340 tackles (245 solo), 11 interceptions and 26 passes defended. Allen was an expected cap casualty due to the Falcons being $30 million over the projected 2021 cap.
Despite being released, the former Purdue standout doesn’t seem to be holding any ill will towards the organization. Allen released a classy goodbye message on his Instagram, thanking the city, franchise and team owner Arthur Blank. Check it out below, as shared by Fox reporter Justin Fielder.
Former #Falcons safety @Ricardo37Allen writes a thoughtful, positive message on Instagram after being released today — 7 years after being cut the first time, he points out.
Says he's most proud of helping teammates "become strong men and not just* football players" pic.twitter.com/KjyZk7WUST— Justin Felder (@Justin_FOX5) February 18, 2021
Atlanta also released defensive end Allen Bailey, and waived quarterback Kurt Benkert on Thursday.
