Clear out begins as team prepares cap room for Matt Ryan contract.
The Atlanta Falcons have released starting right tackle Tyson Clabo, as the team begins to create salary cap space for the contract Quarterback Matt Ryan will sign for next season.
Clabo was due to earn $4.5m in base salary for the 203 season, but the organisation obviously believed that they can find someone who can be just as productive at a lower price.
The early front runner for the starting role is backup Lamar Holmes. Holmes was a third round pick last year, and having spent a year with NFL coaching, the coaches obviously believe that he is ready to take the next step and become a starter on a Super Bowl chasing team.
The cuts were to happen soon for the Falcons, as they must accommodate the large salary that Ryan will command, by having to let go players at other positions.
This move is a great example of the salary cap working. Whilst Clabo is arguably a top ten right tackle in the NFL, he simply cannot be carried on the same wage budget as a Quarterback as good as Matt Ryan.
The 31-year old will not struggle to find a new team, as plenty of teams in need of offensive line rigidity will be clamouring for his services, including the Chargers, Rams and Saints.
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