ATLANTA — Warrick Dunn was released by the Atlanta Falcons today, one day after the club signed free agent Michael Turner.

Dunn, who ran for 720 yards and four touchdowns this past season, spent six years with the Falcons. The 11-year NFL veteran became expendable after the signing of Turner, who was the backup to San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinsion.

Dunn became the 22nd NFL player to top 10,000 career yards, and totals 10,179 yards on 2,484 carries — a 4.1 yard-per-carry average. He also has 463 receptions for 4,009 yards.

Yesterday, the Falcons signed Turner to a six-year deal worth a reported $34.5 million.

"Warrick has performed at an extremely high level for a very long time," new Falcons coach Mike Smith said. "Making moves like this one is never easy. Its tough. But we have to do what we feel is in the best long term interest of the Falcons. Everyone here in our organization wishes Warrick success in all of his future endeavors."