Flowery Branch — Former Falcons coach Bobby Petrino, who abruptly resigned Tuesday, wrote a four-sentence letter to players that was put in their lockers on Wednesday.

The letter read:

CURTIS COMPTON/AJC (ENLARGE)

Safety Lawyer Milloy took a maker to Bobby Petrino's letter and wrote 'Coward' over his name. Click on (Enlarge) for a larger image.

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"Atlanta Falcons players;

Out of my respect for you, I am letting you know, with a heavy heart, I resigned today as the Head Coach of the Atlanta Falcons. This decision was not easy but was made in the best interest of me and my family. While my desire would have been to finish out what has been a difficult season for us all, circumstances did not allow me to do so. I appreciate your hard work and wish the best.

Sincerely,

Bobby Petrino"

The letter was hand signed.

Falcons safety Lawyer Milloy used the letter to express his feelings. Milloy crossed out Petrino's name and wrote the word "coward" in its place.

Petrino notified president and general manager Rich McKay in person Tuesday that he was leaving. He then called owner Arthur Blank to inform him of his decision.

Petrino had a brief conversation with assistant coaches about his decision but did not speak to players about his decision; Tuesday was an off day for the team.