Falcons part ways with former college lacrosse star

The Falcons have waived former college lacrosse star and receiver Jared Bernhardt from reserve/retired on Monday, according to Aaron Wilson.

Bernhardt is a former quarterback who led Ferris St. to a DII national title, passing for 1,322 yards, 11 touchdowns, five interceptions and rushing for 1,421 yards and 26 touchdowns. The Bulldogs went 14-0 and defeated Valdosta State, 58-17, in the title game.

However, his most impressive feats came on a different field. Bernhardt was a star option quarterback in high school but turned down several DI scholarships to play lacrosse at Maryland.

Considered by many to be one of the best players in program history, Bernhardt departed as the Terps’ career leader in both points and goals, was a member of the 2017 national championship team, was a two-time finalist for the Tewaaraton Award — given annually to college lacrosse’s best player, similar to the Heisman Trophy — and won the award after his 2021 campaign. He finished that season leading the nation in goals (71) and points (99) on his way to the NCAA Finals.

With the Falcons, he caught five passes for 102 yards, including a game-winning touchdown against the Lions in the preseason, eventually making the team in 2022.

He only played nine snaps in two regular-season games in 2022 but had no stats. The Falcons eventually placed Bernhardt on injured reserve with a groin injury in Week 7 of that season.

It’s a shame Jared Bernhardt didn’t work out in Atlanta because it would’ve been one hell of a story at the end of the day. Hopefully, he gets another crack at the NFL.