Falcons Release Michael Vick

ATLANTA - The Falcons released suspended quarterback, Michael Vick, Friday. The release closes the chapter on Vick's NFL career in Atlanta and opens the door for him to sign with any interested team.

Except for the approximately $6.5 million he will count against the Falcons' salary cap, the team has now officially cut ties with him.

Vick remains suspended by the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell has not committed to reinstating him or entertained any talk thereof until Vick completes his 23-month sentence for running a dog fighting ring.

Vick remains under home confinement, though he is now working a $10-an-hour construction job.

Falcons' owner Arthur Blank remains supportive, though everybody agrees since they couldn't find a trading partner for Vick, it was time to cut ties and move on.

In a statement, the Falcons said "Michael remains suspended by the NFL. However, in the event NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell decides to reinstate Michael, we feel his best opportunity to re-engage his football career would be at another club. Our entire organization sincerely hopes that Michael will continue to focus his efforts on making positive changes in his life, and we wish him well in that regard."

So far, there haven't been any rumors of interest in Vick expressed by NFL teams, but that is bound to change when and if he is re-instated.

Vick was drafted by the Falcons in 2001 and played six seasons with the team (2001-2006).