There is a lot of speculation floating out there about the future of cornerback Dunta Robinson with the Atlanta Falcons.

That situation should become clear soon enough. If the Falcons are going to part ways with Robinson, they need to do it before the fifth day of the league year. If Robinson still is on the roster that day, $3 million of his $8 million base salary becomes fully guaranteed.

Robinson currently is scheduled to count $9 million against the 2013 salary cap. But the Falcons could free up $6 million in cap space if they waive him before a portion of his base salary becomes guaranteed.

But it’s not a certainty the Falcons will part ways with Robinson. They may need him if they’re unable to re-sign Brent Grimes, who is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. Aside from Grimes and Robinson, the only impact players the Falcons have at cornerback are an aging Asante Samuel and backup Robert McClain.