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FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) Veteran receiver Robert Ferguson and quarterback D.J. Shockley, a local favorite, were among 13 players cut by the Atlanta Falcons.

The cuts leave rookie John Parker Wilson of Alabama as the No. 3 quarterback behind Matt Ryan and Chris Redman.

The Falcons also cut rookie defensive tackle Vance Walker, a seventh-round draft pick from Georgia Tech.

Shockley, from the University of Georgia, was the No. 3 quarterback last season. The Falcons also cut another former Georgia player, running back Thomas Brown.

Also cut were receivers Aaron Kelly and Troy Bergeron, offensive linemen Jose Valdez and Michael Butterworth, linebackers Jamie Winborn and Robert James, defensive end Maurice Lucas, cornerback William Middleton and tight end Jason Rader.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-05-09 1803CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list