Flowery Branch, GA -- (Sports Network) - The Atlanta Falcons have released veteran running back Warrick Dunn.

Dunn had spent the past six seasons with the Falcons after playing the first five years of his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He ranks third on Atlanta's all-time rushing list with 5,979 yards, trailing just Gerald Riggs (6,631) and William Andrews (5,986).

The move comes just a day after the Falcons agreed to terms with running back Michael Turner, who will become the featured back in the Atlanta offense after spending four seasons as the backup to San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson.

"In my mind, Warrick will always be part of the Falcons family," said Falcons owner and CEO Arthur Blank. "At times like this our hearts are heavy, but the nature of the game sometimes requires making these kinds of decisions, however difficult they are for all of us. I wish Warrick continued great success in his future endeavors."

Dunn helped the Falcons lead the league in rushing for three straight years from 2004-06. He reached the 1,000-yard plateau each season, including a career-best 1,416 yards on 280 carries in 2005. Last season he rushed for 720 yards and four touchdowns.

"Warrick has performed at an extremely high level for a very long time," said new Falcons head coach Mike Smith. "Making moves like this one is never easy. It's tough. But we have to do what we feel is in the best long-term interest of the Falcons."

Dunn's career rushing totals include 10,179 yards, a 4.1-yard average and 47 touchdowns. He has also registered 463 receptions for 4,009 yards and 15 scores.

"Warrick Dunn epitomizes all that is good about the National Football League and professional sports," said new Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff. "What he has done on the field is remarkable. What he has done off the field with his well-publicized 'Homes For the Holidays' program has changed and impacted lives. We wish him all the best as he moves forward in his NFL career."

Dunn is recognized as one of the top community leaders in the NFL and was honored as the 2004 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year for outstanding community service and on-field performance. His program helps single parents and dependants become first-time homeowners by making the down payments on new, fully-furnished homes. As of December 2007, his program has assisted 74 parents and 192 dependants.