FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. --The Atlanta Falcons today re-signed restricted free agents running back Jerious Norwood and punter/kicker Michael Koenen. Tight end Jason Rader also announced his retirement.
Norwood, a 2006 third round draft pick by the Falcons, has totaled 373 rushes for 1,987 yards and seven touchdowns in his four seasons with the team. He has also contributed with 903 receiving yards, three receiving touchdowns and ranks third in franchise history with 2,987 kickoff return yards.
In 2007, Norwood became the third player in NFL history to have his first three career touchdown runs each go over 60-plus yards. His 78-yard touchdown run against Arizona in Week 4 of the 2006 season is the second longest in club annals behind Warrick Dunn's 90-yard touchdown rush the following week.
Koenen has spent six seasons in a Falcons uniform, serving as the team's punter and kickoff specialist. He has totaled 366 punts for a 42.3 average and 362 kickoffs with 83 touchbacks.
Last season, Koenen ranked tied for second in the NFL with 28 touchbacks. He also tied a club record with five kickoff touchbacks in a game on two occasions, both against the Carolina Panthers.
Rader competed in two NFL seasons and saw action in six games with one start in 2008 with the Falcons.
