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Even the best teams in the NFL have issues.

The Falcons, riding high with an 8-1 record, have released defensive end Ray Edwards. Jay Glazer of FOX first reported the move, and the team has announced the transaction.

Signed by the Falcons after the 2011 lockout to a five-year, $27.5 million salary, he has appeared in every game despite chronic knee problems last season. He has 3.5 total sacks during his 25 regular-season games, and none this year. He started four of nine games in 2012.

Edwards began his career as a fourth-round draft pick of the Vikings. He became an unrestricted free agent after spending five years in Minnesota.

Since the trade deadline has passed, Edwards will be subject to waivers. If no team claims his prorated $3 million base salary, he’ll become a free agent — and he’ll be entitled to collect the balance of salary as termination pay.