Photos: Sam Baker's career with Falcons

Atlanta Falcons

Sam Baker, a 2008 first-round draft pick by the Falcons, was released after six seasons.

Offensive linemanSam Baker, 30, who has played in just four games the past two seasons due to knee issues, was released by the Falcons six years after selecting him in the first round of the NFL Draft.

The Falcons drafted Sam Baker (left) with the 21st overall pick after taking quarterback Matt Ryan with the 3rd overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. The Falcons wheeled-and dealed, sending two second-round picks and a fourth round pick to the Washington Redskins to move to No. 21 overall.

In his 2008 rookie year, Sam Baker started five games for the Falcons.

In his rookie season, Sam Baker underwent a discectomy - a surgical removal of herniated disc material that presses on a nerve root or the spinal cord. He would undergo another surgical procedure on his back in following seasons.

Sam Baker's career has been marred by injuries and he has only competed in all 16 games in just two seasons (2010 and 2012).

In 2013, the Falcons re-signed Sam Baker (72) to a six-year deal worth $41.5 million, which included $18.25 million guaranteed.

In 2013, Sam Baker suffered a torn left patella tendon which sidelined him for the rest of the year.

The following year, Sam Baker missed the season with a torn patellar tendon.

Sam Baker, started 61 games in six seasons for the Falcons.

Sam Baker had been considered to move inside from tackle and compete for the team's left guard job this season.

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Offensive linemanSam Baker, 30, who has played in just four games the past two seasons due to knee issues, was released by the Falcons six years after selecting him in the first round of the NFL Draft.

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