Flowery Branch — Falcons defensive back Von Hutchins, one of the team's top free-agent signings this offseason, is out for the season after having surgery Monday to repair a Lisfranc fracture on his foot.

Coach Mike Smith said Hutchins would be placed on injured reserve after the prognosis for his return was deemed to be four to six months.

Hutchins suffered the injury, in which breaks and dislocations were sustained in the front part of the foot, on the first day of training camp on Saturday when his foot was stepped on. The injury was initially diagnosed as a sprain but Hutchins saw a foot specialist in Charlotte, where it was determined surgery was needed.

Hutchins, signed to a four-year, $9 million contract after playing last season in Houston, was projected to be Atlanta's starting nickel back.

His loss opens the door for rookies Chevis Jackson and Wilrey Fontenot and veteran Antoine Harris to step in at nickel back. Atlanta also could bring in a veteran free agent later in the preseason.