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FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons placed offensive guard Jon Asamoah on injured reserve and reached an injury settlement with running back Antone Smith as they got down to the 53-man roster limit with a final round of cuts.
The moves were announced Saturday.
Asamoah didn't suit up for the final preseason game against Baltimore because of a hip injury. He already had lost his starting job in the Falcons' new zone-blocking scheme.
Smith was a big-play contributor for the Falcons in 2014, but he injured a hamstring in the preseason opener and had not practiced since.
Last season, Smith scored five touchdowns on just 36 touches — all of them covering at least 38 yards.
The Falcons waived three picks from the last three drafts: linebacker Stansly Maponga (fifth round in 2013), linebacker Tyler Starr (seventh round in 2014) and cornerback Akeem King (seventh round this year).
The team also waived linebacker Derek Akunne, offensive lineman Pierce Burton, offensive lineman Eric Lefeld, nose tackle Joey Mbu, and receiver Carlton Mitchell. Offensive lineman Adam Replogle, running back Jerome Smith, and tight end D.J. Tialavea were waived injured.
Fullback Collin Mooney and cornerback Travis Howard were placed on injured reserve. Tight end Tony Moeaki was released.
"These were very difficult decisions and I cannot thank all the guys enough for their effort during this process," coach Dan Quinn said. "I was impressed by the approach all offseason, camp and the preseason. I like the group we have put together after a very competitive camp, and I am looking forward to us hitting the field this week to prepare for Week 1."
The Falcons open Sept. 14, hosting Philadelphia in a Monday night game.
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