Atlanta Falcons Release Pro Bowl WR In Surprise Move

He’ll join Kirk Cousins in free agency.

One day after announcing their plans to release quarterback Kirk Cousins, the Atlanta Falcons have also cut ties with Pro Bowler KhaDarel Hodge.

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Per NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Falcons are releasing KhaDarel Hodge. The move comes one year after the 31-year-old wide receiver earned his first Pro Bowl selection as a special teams player.

According to OvertheCap.com, releasing Hodge will save the Falcons $2.64 million against the cap. Hodge had one season remaining on the two-year, $6 million extension he signed a year ago.

Hodge is the second notable Atlanta player to learn of his impending release this week. Falcons GM Ian Cunningham revealed on Monday that the Falcons would release Kirk Cousins. The veteran QB has two years remaining on his deal.

Other notable NFL players that will officially be released when the new league year begins include Miami Dolphins All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill and Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna.

KhaDarel Hodge Should Draw Considerable Interest In Free Agency

KhaDarel Hodge (Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images)
Though listed as a wide receiver, Hodge primarily plays on the special teams unit. He earned his 2024 Pro Bowl nod as a special teams player.

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Hodge has also played for the Los Angeles Rams, Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions. He had his best season as a wide receiver in 2023 (with Atlanta), catching 14 passes for 232 yards. For his career, Hodge has 67 receptions for 1,026 yards and two touchdowns.

Given his versatility and excllent special teams contributions, Hodge should have no problem garnering interest in free agency. It’s easy to overlook the special teams department, but finding players who can make a difference like Hodge is easier said than done.

The Falcons are starting afresh with a new regime in the president of football, Matt Ryan, head coach Kevin Stefanski, and Ian Cunningham. Tough decisions had to be made. That included the release of Hodge.