FLOWERY BRANCH, GA– The Atlanta Falcons today released wide receiver Troy Bergeron, placed linebacker Tony Gilbert on injured reserve and signed free agents, running back Verron Haynes and tight end Jason Rader.
Haynes, 5-9, 233 pounds, was originally signed by the Falcons as a free agent on April 29, 2009. In six games this season (one start), the six-year veteran has contributed with three receptions for 20 yards.
Rader, 6-4, 263 pounds, was released by the Falcons at the conclusion of training camp this season. He finished with one reception for 26 yards in five contests during the 2008 campaign. Rader has competed in 10 career games with two starts as a member of the Falcons (2008), New England Patriots (2007) and Miami Dolphins (2005-06).
Gilbert saw action in all 12 contests this season primarily on special teams and contributed with three special teams tackles and one forced fumble. He suffered a hamstring injury in a Week 13 meeting against Philadelphia.
Bergeron was signed by the Falcons on May 10, 2009 and earned a spot on Atlanta's practice squad following training camp. On three occasions this season, he was signed to the 53-man roster and competed in his first NFL contest against Philadelphia in Week 13.
