The Atlanta Falcons made several moves early in free agency Friday, including the signing of fullback Ovie Mughelli to a six-year deal worth $18 million. The deal includes a $5 million signing bonus, who has played with the Baltimore Ravens for the past four years.

Mughelli has only carried the ball 12 times for 50 yards in his career, but Falcons new head coach Bobby Petrino wanted a top-notch blocking fullback paving the way for Warrick Dunn and Jerious Norwood. By signing Mughelli, the team is saying goodbye to former fullback Justin Griffith.

"Ovie is one of the top blocking fullbacks in the National Football League," Petrino said. "Adding a player of his caliber to our team immediately makes us better."

The Falcons also released likebackers Ed Hartwell and Ike Reese. Hartwell was only able to play in 13 games over two seasons after being hampered by injuries. The Falcons signed him as a free agent from the Baltimore Ravens two years ago, but he tore his Achilles' tendon in his fifth game with Atlanta. Reese was typically utilized on special teams.