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Falcons RB Snelling announces retirement
Former seventh-round pick ends career after seven seasons
0305 Snelling
Atlanta Falcons fullback Jason Snelling (44) runs around New England Patriots defensive tackle Joe Vellano (72) during the second half of a game on Sept. 29 in Atlanta. Snelling announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday. - photo by John Bazemore

ATLANTA — Falcons running back Jason Snelling has retired, ending his seven-year career.

Snelling was a seventh-round pick from Virginia in 2007 and spent his full career with the Falcons. Most of his playing time came as a backup — both at fullback and running back. He also was a strong receiver.

The 30-year-old Snelling rushed for 1,420 yards with eight touchdowns and caught 168 passes for 1,249 yards and nine touchdowns.

Snelling, from Tom River, N.J., said in a statement released by the team on Tuesday that he is retiring to spend time with his family.

In 2013, Snelling had 44 carries for 164 yards with one touchdown and 29 catches for 216 yards and three touchdowns. He set his career high with 614 yards rushing in 2009.

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