Falcons CB Hayden, LB Peterson go on IR, ending their seasons

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The Atlanta Falcons placed linebacker Mike Peterson and cornerback Kelvin Hayden on injured reserve Tuesday night, ending the season for both veteran players.

The team did not announce a specific injury for either player, but Hayden has missed time in recent weeks with a dislocated toe.

Peterson, a 13-year veteran in his third season with Atlanta, played four games, including Monday's 45-16 loss at New Orleans, in place of injured Stephen Nicholas.

Hayden played in eight games, but not since helping the Falcons beat Tennessee in Week 11. A second-round draft pick by Indianapolis in 2005, Hayden spent six years with the Colts. He had two interceptions and 22 solo tackles this season.

Peterson had 12 solo tackles and one interception.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press