Falcons reserve running back Jason Snelling decided to call it quits after seven NFL seasons.
The team announced Snelling’s retirement Tuesday. Snelling, 30, could not be reached for comment, but said in a statement released by the team that he made the decision so he could spend more time with his family.
Snelling played in 96 games for the Falcons after the team selected him in the seventh round of the 2007 draft, out of Virginia. Snelling served as a primary backup to Michael Turner and Turner’s replacement in 2013, Steven Jackson.
Snelling, listed at 5-11 and 235 pounds, also played fullback. His ability to play both positions and the return of Bradie Ewing in 2013 influenced the Falcons to part ways with fullback Mike Cox.
“Jason was a good teammate and a joy to coach,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said in a statement. “He played a number of roles for our team during his time here and was always ready when his number was called. We want to thank Jason for his contributions to our team, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Winder police arrested Snelling on Nov. 15 and charged him with marijuana possession and several traffic violations; he decided not to play in the Falcons’ game at Tampa Bay on Nov. 17. Snelling’s case was granted a continuance until Friday.
Snelling finished his career with 1,420 rushing yards on 363 carries, with eight touchdowns, and 1,249 receiving yards on 168 catches, with nine touchdowns.
Peters re-signed: Defensive tackle Corey Peters won't hit the free-agent market after the Falcons signed him to a one-year contract Tuesday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Peters started 15 games for the Falcons in 2013 until he suffered a torn Achilles tendon that required surgery. He was eligible to become a free agent Monday, but chose to wait and test the market next offseason.
Peters, 25, has started 53 of 56 games for the Falcons in four seasons. The Falcons selected him in the third round of the 2010 draft out of Kentucky.
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