Falcons cut Michael Turner, Dunta Robinson, John Abraham

Robert Klemko, USA TODAY Sports | USATODAY

The Atlanta Falcons on Friday cut three veteran stars central to recent playoff success, including an appearance in last season's NFC Championship Game.

Running back Michael Turner, cornerback Dunta Robinson and defensive end John Abraham were released, the team announced.

Abraham was due $3.25 million in base salary in 2013, Turner's deal called for $5.5 million, and Robinson was set to earn an $8 million salary. The cost-cutting moves saved the Falcons an estimated $22.75 million in salary-cap space, considering roster bonuses due each player.

Robinson, 30, has been a starter since the team acquired him in 2010 after six seasons in Houston. Abraham, 34, is the NFL's active leader in sacks with 122. And Turner, 31, had gained at least 1,300 yards in three of four seasons in Atlanta before injuries limited him to 800 rushing yards and a career-low 3.6 yards per carry in 2012.

"As a football coach it is never easy to cut any player, especially veteran players who have been valuable members of the organization," Falcons coach Mike Smith said. "The guys we released today have contributed to the success that we have had over the last five years, and we greatly appreciate their efforts."

With the salary cap space, general manager Thomas Dimitroff intends to build a younger roster. Last year, the Falcons were one of the oldest teams in the league.

Turner, 31, was the first big free-agent signing under the Dimitroff-Smith regime in 2008. The bruising back rushed for 1,699 yards his first season and more than 1,300 yards two other years. But his playing time dipped dramatically in 2012 as the Falcons gave more carries to a totally different kind of back, Jacquizz Rodgers, who provided more speed and quickness.

Abraham has been the Falcons' only consistent pass rusher since being acquired from the New York Jets in 2006. At age 34, he led the team with 10 sacks but had to cut back on his snaps in a bid to stay healthy. He wasn't much of a factor in the playoffs after injuring his left ankle in the final regular-season game.

Over his Falcons career, Abraham had 68½ sacks. His departure means defensive end will be one of Dimitroff's top priorities in the free agency. Former New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora, a free agent, could be a possible replacement for Abraham. Free agent Dwight Freeney, released by the Indianapolis Colts, is another possibility.

Robinson, 30, signed with Atlanta in 2010 and became a steady figure in the secondary, known especially for his bruising hits. He had four interceptions over the past three seasons.

The Falcons were an NFC-leading 13-3 last year, their fifth consecutive winning season. Since 2008, they have made the playoffs four times and won two division titles.

Contributing: Associated Press