Stevan Ridley Released by Falcons: Latest Comments and Reaction

The Atlanta Falcons released running back Stevan Ridley on Wednesday after he appeared in only a single game for the organization.

D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported the roster move. Andrew Hirsh of the team's official website confirmed the release.

The Falcons signed Ridley in late October to provide depth while Tevin Coleman recovered from a hamstring injury. The veteran reserve was no longer needed with Coleman trending toward a return alongside Devonta Freeman and Terron Ward in the backfield rotation.

Ridley's only work with the team came in the Week 9 clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He tallied seven yards on three carries in the contest.

The 27-year-old LSU product spent much of the offseason on the Detroit Lions roster before getting released in late August. The Indianapolis Colts signed him a few days later, but he lasted only a week in Indy before being let go again.

Ridley enjoyed his most productive years with the New England Patriots, who drafted him in the third round of the 2011 draft. He scored 22 touchdowns across four seasons with the AFC East squad before suffering a torn ACL and MCL in 2014.

The Mississippi native has lacked the necessary first-step burst since returning from the major injury. His per-carry average has sunk below 2.5 yards since the start of last season, albeit with a small sample size.

In July, he discussed his health status with Justin Rogers of the Detroit News.

"My body feels good," Ridley said. "I've done the therapy, I've done the rehab. There's nothing to do now but come out here and play. I'm going to let my play speak for itself before I say I'm back."

As it turned out, his play suggested he's still a step slow. Although he's never been a back who relied solely on speed to make plays, even during his peak years with the Patriots, being unable to get past that first wave of defenders is a problem.

Ridley may get another opportunity elsewhere as an injury replacement during the stretch run of the regular season. His days as a bell-cow back capable of providing solid production across 15-plus touches a game are likely a thing of the past, though.