Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett will be released by the Atlanta Falcons in a cap-related move, his agent confirmed to multiple outlets.

The Falcons would save up to $16.25 million in salary cap space by parting with Jarrett, a centerpiece of the Atlanta defense since he was drafted by the team in the fifth round of the 2015 draft.

Jarrett will turn 32 on the weekend of the 2025 NFL Draft and played in all 17 games in 2024 after missing the final nine games of the 2023 season due to a torn ACL.

General manager Terry Fontenot said at the NFL Scouting Combine last month that Jarrett wasn’t “untouchable” but also indicated the door would be open for his return if the Falcons released him. Fontenot was the team’s GM in 2022 when the Falcons signed him to a contract extension through 2026.

Jarrett started 137 regular-season games — and five playoff games — with Atlanta and recorded 496 tackles, 77 tackles for loss, 36.5 sacks, forced five fumbles and recovered three. He played in a total of 157 games, including postseason.

–Field Level Media