The Falcons released wide receiver/returner Devin Hester, who was coming off of foot and toe surgery, on Tuesday.
Hester missed most of last season with the foot and turf toe injury.
Hester, a three-time All-Pro, was originally drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round (57th overall) of the 2006 NFL draft. Hester has been one of the NFL's most dangerous returner. He holds the NFL record in return touchdowns (20) and punt return touchdowns (14).
Last season, Hester was placed on injured-reserve designated to return at the beginning of the season with a toe injury. He returned late in the season and had 269 total return yards over the last five games of the season.
The Falcons signed wide receiver Mohamed Sanu and drafted wide receiver Devin Fuller to add more depth to the receiving corps.
Fuller, running back Tevin Coleman and wide receiver Eric Weems will attempt to replace Hester as the main returner.
The Falcons currently have 87 players on the 90-man roster.
The team reports for training camp on Wednesday and will hold their first practice on Thursday.
