BREAKING: Falcons WR Jared Bernhardt Placed on Retirement List

Atlanta Falcons receiver Jared Bernhardt has been placed on the retirement list, bringing his inspiring NFL story to an early close - at least for now.

The fairy tale story has come to an early close.

From college lacrosse star and undrafted D-II quarterback to making the Atlanta Falcons' roster out of camp last year, receiver Jared Bernhardt overcame several obstacles to fulfill a lifelong dream.

But all good things end at some point - and Bernhardt decided that time was now, prior to the start of his second chance at OTAs.

The Falcons officially placed Bernhardt on the reserve/retired list Monday, serving as the corresponding move to the signing of receiver J.J. Arcega-Whiteside.

Bernhardt was perhaps the biggest breakout star of the 2022 preseason, catching five passes for 102 yards, including a game-winning touchdown reception against the Detroit Lions in the opener ... from now-Falcons starting quarterback Desmond Ridder.

This strong preseason parlayed Bernhardt onto Atlanta's active roster, where he stayed until being placed on injured reserve in Week 7. He had previously missed time due to a groin injury.

The 25-year-old Bernhardt saw time in two regular season games - Weeks 2 and 3 - and played nine total snaps, all on offense. He didn't record any statistics in those contests.

But ultimately, Bernhardt's stellar preseason and improbable run for a roster spot was a pleasant reminder of how special the NFL can be - even if this particular instance didn't come with a storybook ending.

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You can follow Daniel Flick on Twitter @DFlickDraft

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