Steven Jackson signs with Falcons
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Seeking to join a contender after deciding to test the free agent market, Steven Jackson has found one.
The eight-time 1,000-yard rusher reached agreement with the Atlanta Falcons on a three-year contract Thursday, as the defending NFC South champions nabbed the best available running back on this year's market.
Jackson comes to Atlanta after an outstanding nine-year tenure with the St. Louis Rams, during which he amassed 10,135 rushing yards and added another 3,324 on 407 receptions while making the Pro Bowl three times.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Though the steady veteran will turn 30 in July, he put together another productive season in 2012, reaching the 1,000-yard plateau for the eighth consecutive year (1,042) and averaging a solid 4.2 yards per carry along with 38 receptions.
Jackson opted out of the final year of his contract with the Rams last week with the hopes of landing with a team that had a better opportunity to reach the Super Bowl, as St. Louis hasn't made the playoffs since his rookie campaign of 2004. Atlanta, which went 13-3 and advanced to the NFC Championship last season, and Green Bay were reported to be near the top of his wish list.
The Falcons were in need of a power back as well after releasing leading rusher Michael Turner earlier this month.