RB Turner signs with Falcons

Michael Turner, considered perhaps the top running back available in free agency, has agreed to a six-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons.

A four-year veteran who has been best known as LaDainian Tomlinson’s backup in San Diego, Turner is expected to play a more important role with the Falcons. He is projected as the power complement to speed back Jerious Norwood.

The addition of Turner likely signals the end of Warrick Dunn’s time as the team’s starter.

Turner (5-10, 237) has 228 carries for 1,257 yards and six touchdowns in four seasons with San Diego.

The Falcons also agreed to terms with free agent tight end Ben Hartsock, who is seen as a replacement for Alge Crumpler, who reportedly will sign with the Tennessee Titans.

Seahawks lose Bentley

The Seattle Seahawks essentially lost out on two free agents on Sunday – one of their own, and one from the outside.

Linebacker Kevin Bentley, a valuable reserve and special teams player for the Seahawks since 2005, has reportedly signed a contract with the Houston Texans. And former Atlanta Falcons tight end Alge Crumpler, whom the Seahawks hosted on a free-agent visit last week, has agreed to terms on a contract with the Tennessee Titans, according to numerous reports.

Bentley, 28, has played in 43 games but started only five since coming to Seattle as a free agent three years ago. He spent most of his Seahawks career backing up outside linebackers Leroy Hill and Julian Peterson while playing extensively on special teams.

Saints sign two

Bobby McCray, a free-agent defensive end who spent the past four seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, agreed to a five-year contract with the New Orleans Saints.

The Saints have also reached an agreement with Randall Gay, a cornerback who spent the past four seasons with the New England Patriots.