The Atlanta Falcons have announced they have released fullback Ovie Mughelli. As much as I didn’t want to admit it, I knew the drafting of Bradie Ewing in the fifth round of the 2012 NFL Draft was the writing on the wall for Mughelli.
Furthermore, Mughelli had a cap number of $3 million for this season after signing a six-year, $18 million deal in 2007 with then head coach Bobby Petrino at the helm. Any way you look at it, that number is way too high for a fullback. Add to the fact Mughelli suffered a torn MCL at Detroit last season, and the move ultimately makes sense.
Mughelli will undoubtedly be missed. He made the Pro Bowl in 2010 for opening up holes for running back Michael Turner. After he was placed or injured reserve last season, the Falcons’ running game went noticeably downhill.
In any case, let the Ewing era begin.
