The Falcons signed Michael Turner, a free-agent running back from San Diego, to a six-year contract Sunday. In doing so, they landed the player it desperately sought to bolster their running game. Atlanta also signed Tennessee free-agent tight end Ben Hartsock to a four-year, $9 million contract with $2.25 guaranteed.

The Falcons have signed their five immediate targets since free-agency began Friday. Quarterback Chris Redman re-signed for two years and defensive backs Erik Coleman (N.Y. Jets) and Von Hutchins (Houston) signed four-year deals.

Turner, though, was the biggest catch. The 5-foot-10, 237-pounder was considered the best free-agent running back available. His age (26), experience (four years), bruising style and game-breaking speed fit what the new coaching staff desires.

"Given coach [Mike] Smith's and [offensive coordinator] Mike Mularkey's system, as far as being very strong up the middle, we believe that Michael Turner was the best fit to add that one-two punch with Jerious Norwood," first-time general manager Thomas Dimitroff said. "We felt this big back, at 230-pounds plus, would offer us the opportunity to pound it inside and be a very nice complement to Norwood."

Turner's acquisition signals the probable release of veteran tailback Warrick Dunn, one of the team's most popular, productive and reliable players over the past six seasons. With Dunn, 33, coming off a marginally productive 2007 season, the new coaches and management regime felt a younger, more physical back — Turner — was better suited for the rebuilding of this decimated team.

Once released, Dunn is expected to be wooed by playoff-caliber teams, including Tampa Bay, where he started his career, and Indianapolis, which is coached by his former coach, Tony Dungy. Houston and Denver could also be interested. Dunn's departure will create close to $3 million in room under the salary cap. The Falcons will use that money, in part, to pursue a free-agent offensive lineman, such as Jacksonville's Maurice Williams.

The tandem of Norwood and Turner gives the Falcons two big-play threats. Turner has averaged 5.5 yards per carry over his career. Norwood has averaged 6.2 in two seasons with Atlanta. They both return kickoffs.

The move to sign Turner comes with some risk. He has never been a primary ball carrier, serving as All-Pro tailback LaDainian Tomlinson's backup. He has 228 carries for 1,257 and six touchdowns in his career.

Dimitroff said adding a veteran running back was important because it could help with the development of a young quarterback and/or offensive linemen.

The Falcons have the No. 3 overall pick in the April draft and could select Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan or Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long. The Falcons also could tab LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey or USC defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis with their first pick. A quarterback is expected to be selected with one of their top three choices. Turner's acquisition all but eliminates Arkansas tailback Darren McFadden from draft consideration.

Hartsock, a reserve for most of his career, will take over for four-time Pro Bowler Alge Crumpler, who was released. Hartsock will be used primarily as a blocker. Second-year tight end Martrez Milner is planned to be used as the receiver/H-back tight end.

Besides the likelihood of playing more than he has in his five seasons with Indianapolis and Tennessee, Hartsock is on board because of the message preached by Falcons' officials over two days of recruitment.

"The theme all weekend was character counts," said Mike McCarthy, who represents Hartsock. "They want players and everyone else doing things the right way."