In preparation for the upcoming NFL season, the Atlanta Falcons have started making moves to trim down their 90-man roster. The team announced on Sunday afternoon that they have decided to part ways with 13 players as they work towards the looming 53-player limit, which they must reach by Tuesday afternoon.

Among the players released by the Falcons are defensive end Bradlee Anae and tight end Jordan Thomas. Anae, who had previously played for the Cowboys and Jets, contributed with two tackles in 11 games during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Thomas, a former sixth-round pick by the Texans in 2018, has recorded 22 catches for 226 yards and five touchdowns throughout his career.

In addition to Anae and Thomas, the Falcons also waived wide receiver Josh Ali, guard Zack Bailey, defensive backs Lukas Denis and William Hooper, linebacker Storey Jackson, tackles Jared Jones-Smyth and John Leslie, linebacker Donavan Matin, quarterback John Paddock, tight end Austin Stogner, and defensive back Trey Laval.

The Falcons' decision to release these players comes as they carefully evaluate their roster and make strategic choices to shape their team for the upcoming season. With the 53-player limit fast approaching, tough decisions have to be made, and these releases represent the beginning of the process for the Falcons organization.

As the Falcons continue to refine their roster in the coming days, it remains to be seen who else will part ways with the team. The coaching staff and management will undoubtedly assess each player's performance, potential, and fit within the team's plans moving forward.

Fans and football enthusiasts alike will be eagerly awaiting the final roster decisions, as the Falcons aim to build a formidable squad for the upcoming NFL campaign. The team's progress and acquisitions during this crucial roster trimming phase will undoubtedly shape their prospects for the season ahead.