Falcons uncertain why nose tackle left team complex

[Michael82]

Nose tackle Ellis Johnson left the Atlanta Falcons' complex before practice Thursday morning without an explanation. As of late Thursday afternoon, Falcons spokesman Aaron Salkin said no team officials knew of Johnson's whereabouts.

Coach Dan Reeves was upset that Johnson, who flew in from Indianapolis for player physicals Wednesday, left unexpectedly.

"I really don't have a comment other than if something is bothering him. I wish he'd come talk to me," Reeves said.

Johnson, a former standout at Florida and a first-round pick of the Colts in 1995, doesn't have an agent, choosing instead to represent himself. The 29-year-old told Reeves he wanted to retire the day after the Falcons lost 20-6 at Philadelphia in the NFC divisional playoffs Jan. 11.

But he reconsidered when the team offered to extend the three-year, $4.3 million contract he signed Sept. 1 through the 2005 season. Click for more

[The_Philster]

Johnson was vying for starting spot

ATLANTA -- Veteran defensive lineman Ellis Johnson, expected to vie for the starting nose tackle job this summer, left the Atlanta Falcons' mini-camp without explanation Thursday morning and may be considering retirement after eight seasons.

Johnson, 29, was excused from most of the Falcons' offseason conditioning program and from organized workouts, so he could spend time in Indianapolis with his family. He reported to the team's complex on Wednesday for a physical examination, had breakfast with teammates on Thursday morning, and then departed.

As of Thursday evening, club officials had not spoken to Johnson and were not certain where he was or what his plans are for the future. A source close to Johnson, however, told ESPN.com that the veteran defender is likely pondering retirement....

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[The_Philster]

Going back to Indiana

Day after going AWOL, Johnson mulling retirement
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) -- Atlanta Falcons nose tackle Ellis Johnson returned home to Indianapolis to be with his family to decide whether he wants to keep playing football.

Johnson, who shares his position with Ed Jasper, left the team complex after breakfast Thursday morning without telling anyone on the team.

"We do know Ellis has some things going through his mind," head coach Dan Reeves said. "There's a lot of dedication that goes into being a part of this team. You've got to want to pay the price and if you aren't ready for that, it's a tough decision....

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[The_Philster]

Report: Falcons' Johnson to retire

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Defensive tackle Ellis Johnson has decided to retire rather than return to play with the Atlanta Falcons.

The Indianapolis Star reported Tuesday that Johnson says he'd rather be with his family in Indianapolis than playing football in Atlanta.

Johnson didn't participate in the Falcons' offseason conditioning program or any of their voluntary camps. However, he apparently told the Falcons that he will report to training camp Friday after abruptly leaving a mandatory minicamp 12 days ago to return to his family....
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