Atlanta Falcons running back Jason Snelling has announced his retirement from the sport with immediate effect.

Snelling was chosen by the Falcons in the seventh round of the 2007 Draft, spending his entire seven-year NFL career with the team.

However, the 30-year-old has now decided to call it a day, citing family reasons as the main driver behind his abrupt retirement.

"I have decided to retire after seven years in the NFL to spend time with my family," Snelling said in a statement.

"I want to thank Mr Blank, Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith for providing me the opportunity to play for the Atlanta Falcons.

"The Falcons are a first class organization run by a first class owner and I am grateful that I got to spend my entire career in Atlanta."

Snelling had 363 carries for 1,420 yards and eight touchdowns as a running back for the Falcons, while he also recorded 168 catches for 1,249 yards and nine touchdowns as a receiver.