Grady Jarrett has a message for Atlanta Falcons fans

The Atlanta Falcons began the 2025 NFL free agency period by releasing defensive lineman Grady Jarrett after 10 seasons. While the team was desperate for salary cap space, fans were shocked by Jarrett's release considering all he's done for the franchise over the last decade.

Nonetheless, the veteran defensive lineman landed a three-year, $43.5 million with the Chicago Bears just hours after being cut by the Falcons. Jarrett may have moved on, but he's still grateful for his time in Atlanta. The veteran defensive lineman thanked Falcons fans for their continued support in an Instagram post. Read Jarrett's message, as transcribed by team reporter Terrin Waack below:

"Yo, ATL, what's good? You know your boy wasn't leaving town without hollering at you, man," wrote Jarrett. "I just want to express my true gratitude for all the love you've shown me over these last 10 years. Being from Conyers, playing for the Atlanta Falcons was a dream, and that dream has come true. I couldn't have done without the love and support that you guys have given me over the years. Every time I stepped out on that field, I gave it my all. I hope you felt it. It was real. It was genuine."

The 31-year-old went on to discuss his future in Chicago but said he wants Falcons fans to continue to wear his No. 97 jersey with pride:

"As I continue to transition to this next thing for me, due to some unforeseen business decisions, we all know what we signed up for. Unfortunately, I didn't see it coming at this point. But with that being said, I am excited for my next chapter in Chi-Town. I'm going to go get these fans, my teammates, this organization, everything I've got. But I couldn't do it without telling you guys thank you, telling you that I love you, and I hope for your continued support. If you still got that 97 Jersey, wear it with pride. Look, love. It is what it is, man. 97 out."

Over 10 NFL seasons, Jarrett has racked up 496 tackles (267 solo), 36.5 sacks and five forced fumbles over 152 career games. The Bears have also signed former Falcons center Drew Dalman, and wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus in just the first week of free agency.

According to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Chicago is set to host former Falcons wide receiver Rondale Moore on a free agency visit Monday afternoon. Use our 2025 NFL free agency tracker to stay up to date with each Falcons signing.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Grady Jarrett says goodbye to fans

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