Falcons Expected To Move On Without Steven Jackson Next Year

According to Vaughn McClure of ESPN, veteran RB Steven Jackson is likely running out of time with the Atlanta Falcons.

McClure admits that the decision to keep Jackson is ultimately up to new HC Dan Quinn, now that he has final say over the team’s 53-man roster.

Earlier in the week, new OC Kyle Shanahan stressed that he’s still in the process evaluating the team’s roster and added that he’s been a “huge fan” of Jackson over the course of his career.

“I’ve been here a week … the main things we’re doing right now is looking at our own personnel,” Shanahan said. “I don’t have a set opinion right now because I haven’t watched enough tape, but Steven’s a guy I’ve been a huge fan of over his career.”

Shanahan will be implement a zone-blocking scheme next year that may not be a fit for Jackson and his running style.

Jackson, 31, signed a three-year, $12 million contract that included $4 million guaranteed after finding limited interest as a free agent back in 2013.

He has one year remaining on the agreement, which includes a base salary of $3.75 million for the upcoming season.

According to OverTheCap.com, Jackson has a cap figure of $4,916,668 for next year. Atlanta could free up $3.75 million in available cap space if they were to release him.

In 2014, Jackson ran for 707 yards on 190 carries (3.7 YPC) to go along with six touchdowns and another 148 yards receiving. It’s worth mentioning that Pro Football Focus rated Jackson as the No. 8 running back out of 57 qualifying players last year.

We’ll have more regarding Jackson and his future with the Falcons as the news is available.