When the Atlanta Falcons acquired defensive end Ray Edwards from free agency for far cheaper than had been expected, it wasn't until training camp that we found out why. Edwards had had knee surgery during the NFL lockout, which likely limited his market value somewhat. But after a disappointing debut season, at least that's all out of the way. Or not!
During his Saturday morning NFL Combine presser, coach Mike Smith revealed Edwards has had another "procedure" this offseason. Smith said that there was a point in the season when Edwards' knee health became an issue, and that he expects his end back in full health. No word on whether it's the same knee, however.
With only 3.5 sacks in his first Atlanta season, Edwards will have to at least double his output to satisfy Falcons fans, who are also preparing for life without John Abraham.
Smith also talked about needing to improve fourth down efficiency on offense, praised Eric Weems and Curtis Lofton, referenced the need to limit Michael Turner's mileage, and presenting a more varied defensive front.
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