Top free-agent target Michael Turner watched the Arena Football League season debut of the Georgia Force Saturday with Falcons owner Arthur Blank, coach Mike Smith and general manager Thomas Dimitroff. The steady backup to San Diego All-Pro tailback LaDainian Tomlinson is considered the best running back in free agency.

"This is his second day here, and we're looking forward to spending a lot of time with him," Blank said before the Force, which he also owns, kicked off against Dallas. "We're hoping to have him sign here with us, but we have to wait and see. "

Detroit and Houston are said to be interested in Turner, who is a bruising type of back that Smith and offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey desire.

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Free-agent running back Michael Turner was the Falcons' guest at Saturday's Georgia Force opener in Gwinnett.

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Incumbent Warrick Dunn is expected to be released if Turner is signed. Turner's acquisition would increase the likelihood that the Falcons will not select Arkansas tailback Darren McFadden with the No. 3 overall pick in the April 26-27 draft.

Turner spending a second day in Atlanta and being wooed by Blank, known among Falcons employees as "The Closer" for his ability to finalize deals with free-agent players, could be working in the Falcons' favor.

"Atlanta is a great city," Turner said. "I've visited here a couple times before, so I know my way around a little bit," Turner said. "The Falcons organization is treating me well. I'm enjoying my time here."

Asked about his chances of signing with the Falcons, Turner said, "I wouldn't put a percentage on it right now. There are a handful of teams, but it's still early in the process. Atlanta is definitely a serious contender. ... There are great people running the organization right now, and a great coaching staff," Turner said. "I think it's an opportunity, a time for change."