Michael Turner workload will be “monitored”

Falcons RBs coach Gerald Brown confirmed that RB Michael Turner's carry total is likely to slide in 2012.  "We discussed the possibility of making sure that we monitor his reps so that he can stay strong for us through the season and into December," Brown said.  Chalk this up as a reminder -- HC Mike Smith already said back in February that Turner will be on a "pitch count."  The 30-year-old has averaged a whopping 20.2 carries per game in 4 seasons in Atlanta.  And he showed serious signs of decline in the 2nd half of last year, averaging less than 3.7 yards per carry in 6 of his last 7 games (including the playoffs).  Look for 2nd-year RB Jacquizz Rodgers to take on an increased workload at the Falcons try to keep Turner fresh.  Of course, the 247-pound bowling ball is still the clear-cut goal line back and carries double-digit TD potential.