Carrying the Falcon Offense
A starting job was worth the wait for Michael Turner
Out from under LT's Shadow
Michael Turner entered the league with the San Diego Chargers after being selected in the fifth round of the 2004 draft. Firmly entrenched on the bench behind All-Pro running back LaDainian Tomlinson, Turner showed flashes of brilliance whenever he saw the field. Turner became a precious commodity and gained a lot of buzz around the NFL. Teams in need of a potential starting running back took a close look at him. After his final season with the Chargers in 2007, Turner became a free agent and the bidding began.
Main Man in Atlanta
The Falcons offered Turner a six-year contract this past offseason for a total of $34.5 million. In need of a turn-around after the Michael Vick scandal and abrupt departure of head coach Bobby Petrino, the Falcons looked to Turner. Along with rookie quarterback Matt Ryan, the Atlanta offense has been much more impressive than expected. Turner has been gashing opposing defenses and has finished three games with over 100 yards rushing. He has also rushed for six touchdowns, and above all else, has been someone for the rookie Ryan to rely on.
Preparing for the Role
While sitting behind Tomlinson on the depth chart in San Diego, Turner had the opportunity to learn from one of the best. Also, by not getting a bulk of the carries, Turner protected his body from the rigors of the running back position. He was able to see the field, make a big play, and avoid the 20 or so carries a game that most starting running backs get. The shelf life for NFL running backs is short, and Turner was able to extend his career a few years by not taking a beating. Now, at age 26, Turner has reached the prime of his career without the nagging injuries that plague other backs.
Looking Ahead
The Atlanta Falcons are a young team, and the offensive core of Turner, Ryan, and big play receiver Roddy White should be successful for a number of years. With a 3-2 start, the Falcons are keeping it close with the other teams in a competitive NFC South. Having already surpassed his career-high for rushing yards in a season, Turner will continue to carry the ball and prove that the Falcons are not the doormat of the NFC South anymore. As Matt Ryan progresses and new head coach Mike Smith gains experience, Turner could find himself in a great place for the next six years.
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