Falcons Cut CB Casey Hayward, But Could He Return?

The Atlanta Falcons are reshuffling the deck at the cornerback position after cutting veteran cornerback Casey Hayward.

The move didn't come as a surprise, especially after the Falcons traded for Detroit Lions former No. 3 overall pick Jeff Okudah, but Hayward could be back under a new deal with the Falcons according to The Athletic's Josh Kendall.

"NFL's transactions list lists "failed physical" under news of Hayward's release," Kendall tweeted. "It's possible he'll be back in Atlanta once healthy."

Hayward signed a two-year contract with Atlanta last offseason, marking a homecoming for the Perry, Ga., native, and expressed "joy" for the opportunity - but saw his year come to an early close after suffering a shoulder injury in Week 6.

A two-time All-Pro, Hayward had missed just two games in the previous eight years, only adding to the disappointment. He finished his lone season in Atlanta with 17 tackles, three passes defended and one interception while allowing 225 passing yards and a completion percentage of 61.3 percent.

Hayward is entering his 12th NFL season and likely would still enjoy playing for the Falcons, especially with a revamped defense close to home. But it's understandable that the Falcons might not want to pay him the $5 million he was owed this season. Perhaps at a cheaper contract, there's a chance Hayward's story in Atlanta may not be done.

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