ATLANTA — Michael Turner, considered perhaps the top running back available in free agency, has agreed to a six-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons.

A four-year veteran who has been best known as LaDainian Tomlinson's backup in San Diego, Turner is expected to play a more important role with the Falcons. He is projected as the power complement to speed back Jerious Norwood.

The addition of Turner likely signals the end of Warrick Dunn's time as the team's starter.

Turner (5-10, 237) has 228 carries for 1,257 yards and six touchdowns in four seasons with San Diego. He also has three of the longest 11 carries in team history — 83, 74 and 73 yards.

He has averaged 5.5 yards per carry in his career.