FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – The Falcons announced Thursday that they have released defensive end Brooks Reed.
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"Brooks has been a good player and very good teammate over the last four seasons," Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said. "We have a great appreciation for his drive and work ethic as he was a key piece in our defensive line rotation. I have a great deal of respect for him and wish him the best as he moves forward in his career."
Reed joined the Falcons in 2015, signing a five-year contract with the team in Dan Quinn's first year as head coach. During his four seasons in Atlanta, Reed played in 60 games with 34 starts; he recorded 101 tackles, 20 quarterback hits, 10 tackles for a loss and seven sacks.
Atlanta kicked off the 2017 season with a win after Reed sacked Chicago Bears quarterback Mike Glennon on a crucial fourth-and-goal play with eight seconds left. That year, Reed recorded 39 tackles, six tackles for a loss and four sacks – all high marks during his time with the Falcons.
In 2018, Reed played in all 16 games and made eight starts, recording 24 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble.
Reed's NFL career began when he was drafted in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. In his rookie season, Reed earned a career-high six sacks. He played four seasons in Houston, earning 169 tackles, 25 tackles for a loss and 14.5 sacks.
Reed thanked the Falcons organization, the city of Atlanta and his teammates in a post on Instagram.
