Mark Bradley

By Matt

April 17, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

I was very skeptical of Ryan and thought we should take a QB in the later rounds. But now I think he is our best bet.

By SquillDog

April 17, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Drafting a quarterback with a high first round pick isn’t worth the risk. Of course quarterbacks drafted that high have worked out just well. The problem lies in the fact that if you do draft a QB bust that high, you set your team back four to five years. You make such an investment in him, that you can’t afford to cut ties any time short of that. Drafting a Brohm, Flacco, or Henne with a second pick is much in line with the risk/reward factor. Not to mention the fact that over half the starting QBs in the league were NOT drafted in the first round. And some of the ones that were (Alex Smith, Rex Grossman) are exactly dazzling.

Build from the inside out. Any quarterback behind that O-line is going to take a beating. Fix the line AND THEN find the QB.

By Richard

April 17, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Wrong MB.

If they take a QB at 3, he’s just going to get demolished behind that offensive line. Redman/Harrington didn’t completely stink when they actually had time to throw. The Falcons need to have Jake Long at the top of their wish list. Don’t forget that 3 of the Super Bowls were won by a QB taken in round 6 and 4 Superbowls in the 80’s were won by a QB taken in round 3.

If the Falcons really want to take a QB in round 1 what they can and should do is trade up. They can trade their 37th and 48th overall picks to the Vikings for pick #17 (check the points chart and you’ll see it works out evenly) and get Brian Brohm (spare me the Louisville/Petrino connection). Or they can take Henne/Flacco/Booty later on. Need for a QB only applies if there isn’t a better option available. The draft needs to be about the player you’d bet your life on becomming a good player. Dorsey, and the two Long’s fit that description better than Ryan.

I also believe Ryan will be a solid QB, but the Falcons would be wise to pass. They have a ton of picks and can maneuver around with trades better than anyone.

By Jay

April 17, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Shut up, Mark Bradley.

By Mike

April 17, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

I was too shying away from Matt Ryan. Not because of his ability but thinking that we might be able to get Dorsey. If we do take Ryan, I hope to god that we are able to protect him. Truth is it is very hard to win the superbowl without a good qb….is brohm good enough? I think so. Is ryan? yes to that too. Is what we have today good enough? Not likely.

By ChattanoogaDawg

April 17, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

The Falcons do NOT need to draft Matt Ryan! They need to work on the O Line/D Line first! They can pick up a quality guy like Joe Flacco in the second round. He is fully capable of coming in and taking over.

By Buddy

April 17, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Drafting Matt Ryan #1 would be totally stupid!!! If Dorsey is gone draft Mcfadden and have the best running backs in the NFC SOUTH!!! Also, this will increase ticket sells. Because we all know that not one falcons game will be shown this year on tv. They all will be BLACKED OUT!!! They can get a good QB in the 2nd or 3rd round.

By Kyle

April 17, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

Your right Mark. I know we need lineman on both sides of the ball and thats where you win games when all is said and done and we still have enough draft picks to start addressing that in later rounds but you don’t pass on a guy like Ryan.

By Left to Right

April 17, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

The problem is that Mr. Bradley’s assertions aside, Ryan has not been evaluated as being that much better than 2 or 3 other QB’s in the draft. Indeed, many NFL evaluators consider Brohm the more “pro-ready” choice. And given the Falcons stated offensive desire to have a power running game, Chad Henne, who played in a power running game offense in college, might actually be the best “fit” for what the Falcons are trying to do. Either Brohm or Henne should be available when the Falcons pick at the top of the second round.

I won’t be upset with the Falcons taking Ryan at #3 IF both Dorsey and Jake Long are gone (which increasing appears to be a possibility).

By Rutuger

April 17, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

I have to disagree here. We don’t need a quick fix, we need to construct a solid foundation, and I think that begins with the line (on both sides of the ball). Picking up Turner was a great move, and that should be our key offensive pickup of the year.

We now have to build up a nucleus of talent, and Dorsey looks like the perfect piece to begin with. Given our hideous run D of recent years, this would be an immediate boost.

Plus, we have entered an age where there is no need to spend a top pick on a QB. Successful QBs now be found second and later rounds, while first rounders often fail at the NFL level.

We can’t afford a gamble. Go with the most secure pick—Glenn Dorsey.

By MarkyMark

April 17, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Matt Ryan will be a 1stround bust. He played in the ACC, one of the weakest in the nation and still threw 17 ints.

By AUtiger

April 17, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

We do need a QB but taking one that high is too big of a risk. Plus this guy only had ONE decent season playing against subpar ACC talent.

We have too many holes to fill in the trenches and there are much safer picks in the draft.

I say the Falcons wait until for the 2009 or 2010 draft and take someone like Matthew Stafford or Tim Tebow.

By Mike

April 17, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Are you an idiot Bradley? Ryan in a year with absolutely any QB talent coming through at all would be a second round pick. Why the hell would the Falcons want to waste that much money on one of the most over-rated quarterbacks since RYan LEaf?

By Buddy

April 17, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

DRAFT MCFADDEN!!!! A GREAT RUNNING GAME IS A QB’s BEST FRIEND!!! TURNER AND MCFADDEN TOGETHER WOULD BE AWESOME!!!! THEY WILL BE A DEFENSIVE NIGHTMARE!!!!!

By chewyandrw

April 17, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

The Bradley Stamp of Approval??? That is like the Bill Clinton Medal for Fidelity or the Mike Hampton Award for Physical Conditioning. What a joke!!!

By Bias sport media need help

April 17, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

This guy is all hype the sports writer build these guys up every year! The speed of the game is much faster than these guy has every seen and they hit harder. All the sport writer are trying to sell there guy save your ink. Matt Ryan ain’t it. If he was all that beleive me the tuna would draft him.

They could draft all of this year QB’s in the 2nd and 3th round and save a ton of money. Glenn Dorsey is a game changer and the Bird nest will be glad they drafted him!

we need linemen real bad on both side of the ball. QB’s the sport writers will give you the same if not more hype next year whith that group watch and see!

By Dan

April 17, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

The game of football is won or lost on the line. We need serious upgrades on both sides. I would prefer to see Jake Long or Chris Long before Matt Ryan. Jamaal Anderson didn’t exactly excite anyone this year and the other guys are good but not great. I would rather take a chance on Chad Henne who has both talent and passion than waist a pick on another QB bust.

By Blank fan

April 17, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

But why draft a QB when we have REDMAN starting? He is the answer for the Falcons right? We all know that drafting an allstar Olineman is really going to be what puts fans in the seats.

I mean come on, think of all the Olineman that are household names in the NFL today…..oh wait, I cant think of any.

We need an Oline, but we also need a QB that can do more than handoff. We need Blank to work his magic, and put the spark in Atlanta Football teh same way he did on day 1. What was it that the players asked him to do first??? Put fans in the seats, I GUARANTEE names like Redman, and Long will not put fans in the seats.

By Ryder

April 17, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Good points everyone. What Bradley seems to forget is that Atlanta is not revolving their offense around the QB, just like Pittsburgh didn’t when they drafted Big Ben. He was simply a proficient guy who won when he didn’t have to throw more than 20 times a game, because Pittsburgh revolved around the run, which is exactly what Atlanta is going to do.

That said, it is imperative to build on both the offensive & defensive lines since they’re building their offense around Turner and Norwood. That’s why Atlanta is not looking for the gunslinger type QB that Ryan is going to be, since they aren’t tailoring the offense around him.

Henne is the best bet since he is used to playing in a pro-style offense like he was at Michigan. He knows how to let a RB take over the game and better yet there will be no pressure to bring him in from the get go.

I’m loving this Falcons’ regime, and I can’t wait for the draft!

By South GA Jaw Cracker

April 17, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

NOOOOO! Lineman only or I prefer we trade out of the spot.Vick is coming back in 09. Count on it. We do not need a QB and none of these excite me.

By Really?

April 17, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Admittedly, I haven’t convinced anyone to pay me for my opinion about football. That said, how is Matt Ryan the best “pure passer” you’ve ever seen? He had a TON of interceptions in the ACC, and about the only defense worthy of the name that he played against was VT’s. Lots of interceptions. Lots. It seems like everyone only fell in love with him after his final 2 minutes in the first VT game this season. It was hailed as his “Heisman moment”. I watched the WHOLE game, the rest of it was … politely … uninspiring. I’ve yet to see something that convinces me he is anything other than puff created by the football media who love his personality. How’s that working out for Brady Quinn? Flacco or Henne will be fine. The QBs coming out of college next year would be worth a high first round pick. This crop isn’t. Btw, nice work dodging the whole “Tom Brady” thing.

By Terrence

April 17, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

The Falcons have so many needs, I sincerely hope we can trade down. The Cowboys would love to have McFadden.

By jimmy

April 17, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

This is actually a pretty logical argument for taking Ryan in the first round. Nobody has mentioned the fact that the past 3 superbowl winners have been led by their first round picks at the qb position. It is a known fact that the falcons need a qb and they might have to take the risk by drafting ryan. With that said, I wouldn’t be upset if they got dorsey and then traded back into the 1st round to take Brohm.

By Someone Pinch Me

April 17, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

I think I need to be pinched. Matt Ryan is simply not even close to the best pure passer I have ever seen. Does anyone actually believe he is a better passer than Tom Brady or Peyton Manning? Seriously Bradley, what were you thinking? He wasn’t good at BC, he was just sporadically lucky. That is why in all his brilliance, the “Best” QB in the ACC couldn’t even get them to the conference championship game once.

By Roswell Ed

April 17, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

O Line

D Line

By Jim H.

April 17, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

I’m old enough to remember Bartkowski being demolished his first couple of seasons because of no blocking. After they finally established a decent offensive line Bart was a fine QB…..of course by then he had no cartilage in his knees and ended up playing the rest of his career as basically a cripple (severly shortening his career). They need to build the Offensive line first and then draft a QB. We gotta become competitive again before we even worry about whether or not we have an elite Super Bowl caliber QB.

By Lloyd

April 17, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Once again, you exhibit cluelessness.

By SportsTalk

April 17, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Wasn’t Joey Harrington drafted #3 overall? Enough said!

By CarolinaJacket

April 17, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Olinemen do not put fans in the stadium, wins do. Teams don’t win without good offensive (and defensive) lines. A history lesson: Randy Johnson was the top college qb of his day. He could throw the hell out of the ball. Unfortunately, he was drafted by the brand new Falcons, who had a terrible oline. I had season tickets and watched Johnson get blasted week after week, until he was a shadow of who he was when he was signed. I hope the Falcons don’t make this mistake again.

By Bias sport media need help

April 17, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

2009 He will be back in the ATL at QB. I hear ticket sell are really down this year. Draft good linemen this how you build a team. If our new Gm does this he will build a winner. Watch Ticket sell next year! I did not call his name!

By Gunshy

April 17, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

The Giants did not win becasue of Eli Manning. They won in spite of him. They won because they had fabulous line play on both sides of the ball. The Falcons can and should employ thye same formula.

By No Dawgs Here

April 17, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

QB?? What?? NO!! The Falcon’s O-Line is awful!! Why draft a QB that high just to have him injured?? Take Jake Long.. Improve the O-line. There will be good QB’s available in the 2nd round.

By jcarson

April 17, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

If Ryan is not much better than the other QBs, why does Scouts Inc. (a very reputable group) show Ryan with a 98 rating and only 88-90 range for the other guys. He is clearly the top guy. Is he a reach at #3? Possibly. But reaching for a QB happens all the time, because they are so important. I understand the argument with building the lines (obviously the Falcons brass understands this, too), but if I’m spending $50 million on a player, I would like him to at least play the most important position.

By Ex-Navy............

April 17, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Yea, draft him this year so that next year when Blank take MV back he can be #2.

By AH

April 17, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Draft Linemen this year and ignore the itch to get a QB. We can find a good one next year. If you draft one this year, especially high in the draft your stuck with him for at least 3 years due to the $ investment.

I think Tebow would be worth the wait.

By Paul

April 17, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

You;re insane drafting Ryan at 3.

With WHAT LINE?

The QB is only worth it when everything else around him is solid, you can’t throw if you don’t have time to throw it. FOr all the Ryan talk.. did you watch him in College? He had a heck of a good offensive line who simply held when they couldn’t block (see tech game footage)

The falcons need in this draft Versatile OL’s who can play tackle or Guard… and Big viscious motivated DT’s. I could care less about whether they get a QB or not in this draft class none of them are spectacular and Matt Ryan is closer to Alex Smith than he is Tom Brady… not to mention Brady’s line is a billion times better than ours… because you know…. they’ve actually tried to bolster it. We use scrubs… Thanks Alex Gibbs.

By Paddy

April 17, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

O- line or D-line, and then march on. So Ga Jaw Cracker, you are almost right, Vick is coming back to the NFL but will NEVER be a Falcon again. I am sad to say, those days are over.

By Paul

April 17, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Big Andre Bruce Fan too Mark?

Seriously. Forget the QB. Fake it till you make it.

Get me Dorsey and Red Bryant inside and I’ll show you a defense that can finally stop the run.

WHile you’re at it Lets see if we can’t get ANdre Caldwell down the line somewhere for the slot.

I’d rather get Josh Johnson in the 4th than Matt Ryan at 3. Too much money for an average QB.

By jcarson

April 17, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Jake Long would probably be our best pick but he will go to either Dolphins or Rams….that is 100% guaranteed. Dorsey may also be gone. Then, what do you do? It would almost have to be Ryan if you can’t trade down.

By exNFLplayer

April 17, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Take the lineman. Either one, either side of the ball. Without that foundation no QB can ever compensate. As for a future QB…given the choice, take Matthew Stafford over Tebow. Stafford has all the NFL tools. There is a huge difference between Stafford and Tebow when it comes to NFL talent.

By Jim

April 17, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

I also think Ryan will be a good pro, but taking a QB that early is too much of a gamble for this organization to take. A lot of people are eluding to Vick coming back. Well what was the biggest problem when Vick was here (OFFENSIVE LINE HAS STUNK). That is why we couldn’t win and if we don’t sure up the front then we won’t win. It’s an easy pick if Jake Long is there. Well if he is not then take Dorsey or trade out and stock up more picks. Lord knows we need some players

By Steve

April 17, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

How did Dorsey become the “safe” pick? Really, a very talented player who takes plays off and has a nasty injury history is safe? If you’re looking safe, take a solid runstopping DE like Chris Long. Or if you want DT, take Sedrick Ellis. The upside may be limited, but if you want to limit risks, those are the guys.

If you’re taking a chance, may as well go for a player with better superstar potential than Dorsey like Ryan or Gholston.

By Jim

April 17, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

I also think Ryan will be a good pro, but taking a QB that early is too much of a gamble for this organization to take. A lot of people are eluding to Vick coming back. Well what was the biggest problem when Vick was here (OFFENSIVE LINE HAS STUNK). That is why we couldn’t win and if we don’t sure up the front then we won’t win. It’s an easy pick if Jake Long is there. Well if he is not then take Dorsey or trade out and stock up more picks. Lord knows we need some players. Trade down. Take Leodis McKelvin and pick up another 2nd round pick. Then we could rename the 2nd round the ATL round

By SICKO

April 17, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

If this guy thinks Matty Ryan is the purest passer ever to play in the NCAA he’s crazy. He’s never ever played the game before and that is obvious by his statement. The QB’s in this class and last years aren’t worth writting about.

By South GA Jaw Cracker

April 17, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Paddy, How do explain the contact between Blank, one of his player personnel guys and Vick? They are working this out.

I am no Vick fan but I would like to see him play behind a solid O line and see what he could do with some receivers and a good offensive scheme.

By 51-7 DAWGS

April 17, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Crazy!

17 INTs in the weak ACC.

By Jonny

April 17, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

O-Line, O-Line, O-Line, and use an FB heavy offense to play some smash mouth in the first half. Develop a young QB that is a late draft pick to learn under a cheap veteran QB.

And develop an O-Line with a heavy running presence. Develop a strong 4-3 defense by drafting some feisty LB’s and big DE’s.

Drafting a QB or RB means nothing without an O-Line or a D to keep the other offense at bay. It’s a team sport and the QB or RB are generally only as good as the O-Line.

By toshie

April 17, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness Mark Bradley is not the GM or Coach. We can get a QB later in the draft. As most of us are saying we need OL and DL. That is a clear fact.

By Grant

April 17, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

I’m sure this has been voiced already, but because of the financial obligations owed to the first several picks in the draft, these picks are in reality more curse. Instead of drafting anyone with the third pick in this month’s draft, the Falcons should instead trade the pick for a late first round and another second round pick. Look at two teams, for example, that have consisently traded down to get more picks: New England and Dallas.

By Yurtle_the_turtle

April 17, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Let’s see about this:

MB, you mention that Dimitroff is a clever GM AND that he would probably select Dorsey. Well, if a clever GM would select Dorsey at 3, what does that make your selection of Ryan at 3?

Secondly, to all those endorsing McFadden at 3, get real. There is in the NFL a little thing called the salary cap and we just signed a RB (Turner) to a lot of money. You cannot tie up too much of your salary cap to one position, especially with Norwood still under contract.

Thirdly, we do need O-line and D-line help. Ryan would get beat up too much if we selected him. We need to solidify the lines and build around them.

Questions, however (and this doesn’t change my thinking, but I still wonder)… if selecting a QB bust at 3 hurts you for 4 years, why doesn’t any bust at 3 hurt you for 4 years? You still have to pay that person and he takes up a roster place. Everyone says a bust a QB hurts you, but isn’t that true of any position? The other arguement is that you can find a QB in another round, but can’t you say that for every position?? I mean there were tremendous bargains for WR, RB, DB, O-line, and D-line in every draft, aren’t there???

Just thinking….

By GM R

April 17, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

If the Falcons don’t take Ryan it will be the same as the Hawks passing on Paul - much wailing and gnashing of teeth for years to come. I agree - this guy is the best college passer I have seen, including Manning. Anyone who saw his demolition of Tech would be inclined to agree.

By Lynne

April 17, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Its really funny to see these sports pundits trying to bamboozle the Falcons with Ryan. Isn’t it amazing how the Falcons so desperately need a “franchise QB” with the #3 pick….but who is the Dolphins franchise QB?? If a player is good enough for #3, wouldn’t that player be good enough at #1?? Oh…I guess they know Parcells not falling for this BS. Being the projected best QB in the draft, doesn’t translate to a must in the top 10….it just means the best QB of an okay class of QBs - but suddenly, the only team in the league that NEEDS a QB is the Falcons?? Seriously, doesn’t anybody wonder why the media doesn’t think the Dolphins need a “top” QB? Why just Atlanta?

By RLJ

April 17, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

If the Long boys are gone at 3 trade down for a couple of second round or a second and couple 3ed rounders address the line both sides of the ball get a QB next year maybe he will have chance of staying on his feet long enough to see a play completed!

By the truth

April 17, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Long,Henne, either way you are getting a MICHIGAN MAN. SOLID!

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Not only is it idiotic to waste your #3 pick on a QB when you have holes at every position except RB and you haven’t drafted a first-round lineman in 14 years, but Matt Ryan isn’t worth the #3 pick anyway. As is the case in every draft, some team is gonna reach for a QB about 30 picks higher than he should go because QB is considered the “most important position” — see David Carr, Joey Harrington, Byron Leftwich, Alex Smith, etc. Matt Ryan is that QB this year. Hopefully the Falcons are not that team.

The best QB in this year’s draft is Brian Brohm, and he will most likely be available in round 2.

Draft Jake Long.

By Carpetbagger

April 17, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Give Ryan a CHANCE! In the NFL you’ve got to have the QB. The “Falcan’ts” sure don’t have one in their present roster that can lead them to the next step forward.

By DawgNLville

April 17, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

It must be cooling off in Hades….cuz I’m agreeing with Roswell Ed….but not you MB.

Falcons can get a QB who knows how to throw (and more importantly hand the ball off) in the 2nd.

Get Jake Long at 3. If he’s not available for some reason. Then take Dorsey.

DnL

By Roymus

April 17, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

The Falcons are going with Ryan. Book it, Dano. In addition to being a fine college QB with great athletic skills, size, and a phenomenal arm, he’s a polished and articulate person who’s a proven leader…above all, that is what the Falcons were lacking with Vick. At QB, skills are not enough, this has been proven time and time again. The QB is the face of the entire team, and ours has been pretty red the past few years (our fans have been red too, but that’s another problem). Blank has already met with Ryan and came away impressed in all the ways that matter to an owner who has been burned over and over again by our last “franchise” QB. Plus, Ryan actually WANTS to play here (go figure)! Welcome, Matt!

One other note for you football “purists”: drafting one outstanding OL or DL is not going to be a magic fix. The draft is only one tool in repairing the OL and DL…free agency, trades, and coaching are as or more important. I feel pretty good about Mike Smith’s ability to rebuild the line with the raw material he has or can acquire. Drafting the right QB will have far more impact on our sad organization than any single OL or DL can…and it’ll put butts in seats. You draft a lineman in the first round if you already have a competent starting QB and team leader on your team…which we clearly don’t. Nuff said.

By Jimmy

April 17, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

Don’t do it Falcons!

By Thomas

April 17, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

If Brad thinks its a good idea, you know it is a bad one. Brad is the worst prognosticator, the worst judge of talent, and the biggest badn wagoneer out there. Stick with building a foundation, ie o-line, d-line. Running backs and QBs always look better the better the o-line and d-line. Vicks first couple of years were a fluke (ie, good production from a QB with a bad line). Once the NFL figured out his game, he NEEDED a line to do the stuff he had in the past. Oh,yeah, and I forgot, Vick also got hurt becasue the line was so poor.

Build the lines, get the receivers and running back, then get your QB.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

We have 11 picks… I would not mind if every one of them was used on an offensive or defensive lineman.

The QB position individually is not more important than the lines collectively.

By johnny touchdown

April 17, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

DO NOT DRAFT MATT RYAN, NO MATTER WHAT

By Kristin

April 17, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Mark,

You mention the success of Peyton Manning, Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger and state what physical attributes they have in common: size, strength, etc. But the key to their success is the fact that they have outstanding offensive linemen. If the Falcons want the quintessential pocket passer, they have to have an offensive line that can pass block. It’s that simple.

By Tarheel

April 17, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

If Dmitroff learned anything at New England—Henne is in the Falcon future.

By yodaddy

April 17, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

I don’t think drafting a QB this year is the answer to the qb spot on this team. Face it we might break 500 this year with a good running game. Draft lineman and wait for a qb. Don’t settle for a sub par qb and pay him top dollar. Take the best talent available for O line D line and CB, Let’s establish a force at the line of scrimmage and the rest will come.

By Shamus Thacker

April 17, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Only an IDIOT would draft Ryan and put his knees behind our offensive line.

Gotta be Dorsey!

By Price

April 17, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

I actually will pitch a fit if we don’t pick Matt Ryan (if he was available). WE NEED A QB. Last year, Harrington, Redman, and every other QB we put in could not do anything in the pocket. Why not get a great QB who knows how play the game and is good at it. But, if Ryan is available, I won’t be surprised if the Falcons take someone else because the Falcons have a reputation of drafting people who don’t make a difference in the game to uphold.

By Dream On

April 17, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

LOL! @ Vick coming back. Can you people not see what this new management team is doing? They are taking out the trash and bringing in new resposible and respectable players! Do you think they want a trouble maker like Vick back? If you do you are just in a biased dream LOL! Linemen Linemen Please draft Linemen and no one from Va. Tech!!!

By Jason

April 17, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

We should take a serious look at Joe Flacco.

By yodaddy

April 17, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

I could care less about having a big name on the team just to sell tickets. Give me a TEAM that produces good numbers week in and week out. If you do that then trust me tickets will sell.

By Rank Smif

April 17, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Doesn’t matter who the buzzards pick. Franchise is an NFL laughingstock and always has been. Probably always will be. Just learn to love being a sad sack, like the Chicago Cubs.

By joey harrington

April 17, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

draft Jake Long!

By GW

April 17, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Ryan hasn’t won many big games plus he’s not very mobile and interception prone. He’s gonna be a bust. The falcons plan on running the ball and stopping the run so it wouldn’t make sense to waste a third round pick on a slow interception prone quarterback. They need to spend that pick on either a defensive or offensive lineman.

By Mike

April 17, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan is not Peyton Manning, he’s not Mike Vick, he’s not even Roethlisberger. The guy is too risky at that spot when there are so many quarterbacks with similar skillsets in this draft. Henne, Brohm, Flacco, maybe even Woodson, would be much safer picks in the 2nd than Ryan would be in the 1st. Take Dorsey with the pick, or trade down and get some more lower round selections. This team has to be rebuilt from the ground up, Ryan is not the answer.

By yodaddy

April 17, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Price, How can you hold any of last years QB’s responsible for last years disaster. Football starts at the line of scrimmage. No qb would stand a chance behind this line. For as long as I can remember the fans have been hollering for an O line. Well the time is now. Dont even wast a 2nd round pick on a qb this year.

By Alfred Brown

April 17, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

The falcons do not need to waste a #1 draft pick on a quarterback who can’t help them improve the next 2 years. We need to build an offensive line that can pass protect, a defensive line that can rush the passer and stop the run. As a 29 year season ticket holder, I hope they understand that in the NFL teams that win consistently have built an line first and found and developed a quarterback second.

By loumar

April 17, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

The only reason to take Ryan is if Jake Long or Dorsey are already gone!

By alchemist

April 17, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

The question is risk/return and the amoung of money it takes at #3. You have to take the QB. If he is great you have the ability to win for a long time. It any of the linemen are great then so what. Especially since none are true left tackles. A great tackle is not going to win for you if you have Joey Harrington et al at QB. The gap between good Qbs and the rest is huge and noticable. The gap for linemen is less so on both sides of the ball. For the guaranteed money you have to pay, you must role the dice on the QB.

By marko

April 17, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Do Ryan a favor and let him fall to the Ravens. they’re a pretty good team that’s really only a quarterback short of being a contender. the Falons can do the same when they’ve built a supporting cast. I don’t even care whether or not they even draft a quarterback this year. Georgia has a pretty decent kid coming out next year. At least we would’nt have to listen all the incessant whining from the Bulldog fans.

By Cincy Falcon

April 17, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Mark,

I applaud your blog, not for it’s content but rather for the effect that was intended. Indeed I think the Falcons need to draft a lineman wouldn’t stir much debate at all. I don’t believe you would like to see the Falcon burn the #3 pick on a player who would be years away from having an impact on this team (if ever) any more than I and would be just as shocked. Arthur Blank has finally realized that individual players no matter how gifted can not make a team win consistently. No, football is a team sport, and its success starts with its ability to control both sides of the ball. He now has the right people calling the shots, we the fans will just have to be patient while this team is transformed.

Go Falcons!

By David

April 17, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

All you guys complaining about how Ryan would get pummeled aren’t taking into account that he won’t be playing at all this year. It takes a couple of years to develop a QB. Take Ryan and leave him on the bench. Use the rest of the picks to shore up the lines. The Falcons aren’t going to draft Jake Long because he’s not going to be around at #3. He’s either going to Miami or St. Louis. He’s not an option. So, it essentially comes down to Dorsey or Ryan. I’d go with Ryan.

By yodaddy

April 17, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Thank you Alfred Brown! You build a line FIRST. You dont just settle for a weak qb just because he is the best in a weak draft class. Get the linemen this year in a strong class for line men and let them develop. Then take a great qb next year in what will be a strong class for QB’s.

By Toby Cash

April 17, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Man you should stick to writing for the AJC Sports Dept. Your opinion was read and I hope the Falcons do not adhere to it. If they draft Ryan now, he will just get beat up before reinforcements arrive in future drafts.

By Jason

April 17, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Mark my words. When all is said and done, Chad Henne will be the best QB in this years draft.

By Bob H

April 17, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Ryan’s no more a sure thing than Brohm et al. Falcons should take Jake Long or Dorsey if available, and if not, take McFadden and then dangle him for more lower draft picks since other teams not willing to trade up ahead of time. They could get multiple players and/or draft picks, still pick up one of the (very slightly) lower tier QB’s lower in draft and avoid the huge financial obligation that goes with 3rd pick signing.

By TT44

April 17, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

WAIITTTTT! THis year build the supporting cast! And probably next year; there is the QB in Athens GA who looks like the next John Elway! Who just may be in the draft! (of course that is after National Championship!)

By yodaddy

April 17, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

alchemist your nuts. There is a huge difference in a great lineman and a not so great lineman. There is also a huge difference in a qb behind a great line and a not so great line. Do you think bret farve would have ever lasted as long in the league as he did behind an Ok line. I sure dont think so.

By Coach Hinz

April 17, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

We are not taking Ryan with the #3 pick. Like DeNiro said, ”eh, forget about it.” The O line is a team’s foundation. It is just like building a house. If you do not have a solid foundation you can’t build all of the other parts. No solid foundation = No solid offense! You can’t put the roof on first! Mr. Bradley, have you ever played football?

By Will

April 17, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

The Falcons have SO MANY needs that almost anyone they pick would help somewhere. In this case, I’d take Ryan. While he is not perfect, he seems to be the best of the QB’s available—-this year. The QB crop coming out of school NEXT YEAR doesn’t appear to be very good. If Ryan needs to hold the clipboard during games and not play for a year or two, so be it. Waiting until next year to draft a QB is a bit dicey since there is NO certainty that a good one will be available in the 2009 draft.

By Phil

April 17, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons signing Michael Turner was a mistake knowing that McFadden would most likely be availabe at Number 3. How can you pass up a running back like McFadden? Ask Minnesota how drafting Adrian Peterson worked out. You just cannot pass up talent like that.

As for Ryan, I would probably pass on him and go with Dorsey or one of the Longs like many people have suggested. We can get a solid QB in the 2nd round. Tom Brady turned out pretty good and he went in the 6th round.

By Ryder

April 17, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

It just keeps getting easier and easier for the Falcons doesn’t it? Steve McNair just retired from the Baltimore Ravens today.

What does that mean for the Falcons? PLENTY! Baltimore obviously needs a QB now and they have their sights set on Matt Ryan. Atlanta should trade down and let B-More get him. Obtain the 8th pick and an additional second round pick. This way Atlanta can get a lineman with a less expensive contract and trade two of their other picks to get back into the first round and get another lineman (offensive or defensive).

That way Atlanta still has two second round picks to build up depth. They will still have their QB and line for the future!

By jcarson

April 17, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Everyone quit saying they should draft Jake Long. Miami and St. Louis both love him….he will 100% be gone when we pick. No other O-lineman is worthy of the pick, so it comes down to Ryan or Dorsey (who could also be gone). Both are gambles for different reason….I say gamble on the most important position….QB.

By alchemist

April 17, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

100% guaranteed lock….with the 3rd pick of the 2008 NFL draft the Falcons pick…..the wrong guy!

By PTC DAWG

April 17, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Ryan couldn’t carry Stafford’s jock..as to drafting Tebow, the Falcons aren’t looking for a big slow fullback.

By Wink from Lithonia

April 17, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Drafting Matt Ryan would not solve the problem for this troubled franchise. He may eventually have a stellar career. However, for once we have people in place who SOUND like they know what they are doing and are implementing a system we can all identify as our team’s foundation.

We need to build the O & D lines, period. The reason MV7 has the record for the most yards gain by a quarterback is because, he was capable of running and usually ran because he had too. Thus, our team lead the league in rushing. As you noticed, we did not lead the league in rushing last year. Also, I might add MV7 got sacked quite a bit when he stood behind the line and look to pass the ball. So we all complained about his passing percentage. The line sucked. We were also unable to stop anybody who decided to run the ball on us. After Kearney left for Seattle, we had no pass rush. Out No. 1 pick was shut out for the season on sacks. That results from poor draft preparation. I should add the defensive tackle, who Petrion coached, was over looked in the draft and he had 2-3 sacks on us when we played Houston.

That said we need to get deep on the offensive line as our proposed IDENTITY for this season is smashmouth football, pounding the ball. I think we are set at quarterback, with 3 guys capable of turning and handing the ball off, to Turner, Norwood, Snelling, Mulkelvy. We have signed a blocking tightend and brought in some offensive linemen. My guess is they will open the draft with D line (Dorsey) or O Line (hopefully Jake Long).

If we don’t get a quarterback to develope then it should be a priority next year along with more line help. We Are Building a Foundation - see New England, plug them in and go. Also, in New England they usually sign 4 year contracts or they let them walk..check it out!!
Guys, for once we have the right management saying the right things (unlike Billy Knightmare for the Hawks), we have draft picks (again, unlike the Hawks this coming draft), and we have money (Arthur wants to spend as opposed the Braves now operating on the cheap). Matt Ryan should not be our No. 1 pick, even Brady came in late rounds, same with Terry Bradshaw in his day…let’s pass on Ryan!

By alchemist

April 17, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

ok yodaddy, tell me where the Packers picked the linemen that protected Farve the last time they were in the Superbowl. forget the fact that the Falcons were too stupid to keep Farve and gave him away to the Packers…I believe they got Tony Smith in return….great deal!

By richbrave

April 17, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

MARC BRADLEY:

Yes, q-back IS the most important position on a football field. The rules have been altered to see that is correct.

The majority of professional accounts I have read suggest that RYAN is not what you claim. That is, he is a top-flight franchise back. Of course there’s so much hype out there most prognosticators may be wrong and you may be right. Michael Vick comes to mind. You mentioned numerous others. If the Falcons take your lead we’ll see in three years if you’re right. Willing to stake your job on the outcome?

I would trade down IF possible and get more high round picks in a deep draft class. Taking OL and DL for starters. Then defensive LB, TE, DB, WR. The strength of any club is the OLine and DLine. The Q-back is what gets you where you’re going. You’ll never get there by overlooking the men up front.

If you can’t get extra picks by trading down then you’ve got to consider the Q-Back first because you may not get another opportunity at the golden arm. But there are many, many overlooked Q-backs not in the hype-light. Joe Montana comes immediately to mind. 3rd rounder. Ken Anderson - Augustana College, Doug Williams, Division II. So it should be a certainty that Ryan’s the man before backing him with the future success of the franchise. I’m not as certain as you are. But you write the column, I don’t. Good luck.

By TokenGringo

April 17, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

McFadden is too small, can only run outside, and doesn’t keep his feet moving on contact. He’s no Adrian Peterson.

By "D" in Houston

April 17, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

You gotta be kidding Senior Bradley? Why get a QB before you get an “O” line? Sounds like David Carr and the Texans….A good QB out of college who got bombshelled and never recoverd…gimme a break. Get Dorsey or the O-line Long and be done with it….

By Not too bad but not worth a #3

April 17, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

“best pure passer I’ve ever seen as a collegian”. Don’t know about that. There is a long list I’d have to consider… Elway, Manning (either one), Ty Detmer, Brees, Wuerffel, McNair….heck even Zeier.

But comparing carrer college stats with Peyton Manning (best pure passer I’ve ever seen regardless of level) Ryan doesn’t look as bad as I would have suspected.

Get Jake Long anyway!!

P. Manning: Att. Cmp. Pct. Yards Int. TD
144 89 61.8 1,141 6 11
380 244 64.2 2,954 4 22
380 243 63.9 3,287 12 20
477 287 60.2 3,819 11 36
1,381 863 62.5 11,201 33 89

Ryan: Att. Cmp. Pct. Yards Int. TD 71 35 49.3 350 3 2 195 121 62.1 1,514 5 8 427 263 61.6 2,942 10 15 654 388 59.3 4,501 19 31 1,347 807 59.9 9,307 37 56

By Chuck

April 17, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Take either Long this year, but not Dorsey. Then take Tebo next year.

By Mark Bradley

April 17, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Terry Bradshaw went No. 1 overall in the 1970 draft. He won four Super Bowls. John Elway was No. 1 in the 1983 draft, and he won two. Jim Plunkett was No. 1 in 1971, and he won two (although not for the team that drafted him). Troy Aikman went No. 1 overall in 1989, and he won three. Joe Montana and Tom Brady are great examples of latter-round quarterback successes, but there are powerful examples to the contrary.

As with most things in life, we need to proceed on a case-by-case basis. I think Matt Ryan will be good enough to win big in the NFL, and for me that would more than justify taking him at No. 3 overall. And for those saying, “Analysts don’t have him ranked that high” … well, it depends on the analyst. Mel Kiper Jr. ranks him the third-best player available. Scouts Inc. has him No. 5 overall (with Brian Brohm, the second-highest-rated quarterback, at No. 27).

By isproab

April 17, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

I’m all for it. Matt Ryan is the best QB on the board and QB is the biggest need for Atlanta. Neither Ryan nor any other rookie QB would start in 2008. So the offensive line prospects we draft and bring in will have a year or so to get use to the game before Ryan gets to take over.

For the record, I don’t like Jake Long at Left Tackle. So he only allowed 1 or 2 sacks his entire career, that does not mean he will be an all pro in the NFL. Its not that cut and dry. I didn’t think he was overly athletic as a Junior and despited losing some weight, he still is not the type of athlete you want at left tackle.

I like Dorsey at DT but he has the same 50-50 chance of being a successful NFL player as does Matt Ryan or Jake Long. It amazes me how many people think Jake Long and Glenn Dorsey will be all-pro’s but Matt Ryan is overrate. The Falcons will address the O-line, drafting Matt Ryan will not stop that from happening.

By Token Gringo

April 17, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Yeah, 3 year wait my uknowhat!!! Like the fans are going to sit through 2-6 and not be screaming for Ryan to play now. This kid doesn’t have 3 years to learn. Rookies are getting tossed onto the battlefield sooner rather than later.
Why spend the money? Nobody really wants to trade up to #3 because there isn’t a player worth the money. I wouldn’t take Ryan if Dorsey and Long were gone, and I like Ryan as a QB. I’d just take the best OT available since that has been the teams biggest need. But with Blaylock moving to RT, that means we’re going with the QB.

By Karl

April 17, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

I originally wanted to draft Jake Long with the first pick and then Chad Henne in the second round since he two have been together for four years and who better to protect the backside of your future QB then the guy who has been doing it for years. Now that looks like a pipe dream as Long looks to be going to the Dolphins number one overall. So I would keep my eye on a lineman this time however it would be a defensive one. Take Dorsey or Ellis and build from the inside out. If the Falcons don’t want a DT then trade down and pick either Clady from Boise State, Otah from Pitt or Williams from Vandy and get even more draft picks.

By Token Gringo

April 17, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

The only problem with Ellis is he’s a little light at 285. We need BIG NASTY guys in the trenches.

By gspot

April 17, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Big Ben: Solid offensive line, great power running back. Peyton: Great offensive line, very good running back. Giants: Great offensive line, big, bruising running back and a quicker back. Falcons: Unknown quantity at RB and POOR offensive line. Bad comparison, Mark.

By MrKnowGood

April 17, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!

We’ve needed a real Offensive line since Jim Mora became head coach.

We drafted receivers (failed)

We acquired free agents (failed)

We changed coaches more than underwear (BIG FAILURE, HUGE FAILURE)

We blamed Michael Vick, Joey Harrington, and Byron Leftwhich.

But only after a disastrous 4-12 season does the obvious become obvious to our idiot AJC columnists — WE NEED AN OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!

The AJC blamed Michael Vick for mediocre seasons, but it never stated the obvious —- WE NEED AN OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!OFFENSIVE LINE!!!!!

By Jay W

April 17, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

You build a championship team in the trenches. Once that is established you then create a dominate defense. Offense is the last thing. I seem to remember the Bucs (whom I hate) and the Ravens winning Super Bowls by a wide margin with terrible offenses. Long passes and great runs may put fans in the seats but winning championships keeps them there!

By LA Dawg

April 17, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Yet another dumb point from Mark Bradley. Aikman, Plunkett, Elway and P. Manning were all clear cut number ones. How about a review of QB’s who were drafted between 3 and 10? That’s where the Harrington’s, Akili Smiths et al fall. Miami needs a QB yet they don’t even consider Ryan but you can bet if he were anywhere close to Aikman et al he’d be their pick. The trade with Baltimore could be a very real possibility - then take Ryan Clady and trade back into the first round and take Brohm and you still have your two 2nd round picks.

By JT

April 17, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Buddy,

Mcfadden????

By Coach Hinz

April 17, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Yo Mark, Thanks for the draft history lesson; it’s amazing what you can do with Google! In the case of the 2008-2009 Atlanta Falcons, the primary needs are…………..never mind, no need to be redundant. Next Topic!

By Wesley Wallace

April 17, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

If I didn’t know any better, I’d say Mark Bradley is Rankin Smith’s love child. Bradley’s premis for drafting players is not based on knowledge of the game or athletic talent. What an idiot.

By Bait N Switch Bradley

April 17, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

THE VERY FIRST THING that should be addressed is how everyone bit on Mr. Bradley attempt at making himself look good. Pay attention.

He starts by saying Dimitrioff (who is good) will likely take an O-line guy, BUT Mr. Bradley thinks they should take Matt Ryan.

This is where I’m truly amazed. If anyone, I mean anyone has watched any of draft analysis chats on ESPN for the last two weeks, every experts will overwhelmingly say the Falcons are picking Matt Ryan. Mr. Bradley, nice try, but come up a fresh option or idea, not just repeat ESPN.

I would following Mr. Bradley and say what the Falcons should do is, pick a sure, marketing STAR that will sell tickets - MCFADDEN! You still would have the option of trading him mid-draft to Dallas who wants him badly in exchange for more draft picks and Marion Barber. Heck Matt Ryan or another major QB might fall into the Falcons second pick.

P.S. You know Mr. Blank is going to be bringing back #7 if in 1-2 years if they don’t start winning.

Sportsbook has the Falcons as the biggest longshot in the entire league to make it to the SuperBowl.

By jay

April 17, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

thank gawd bradley’s not the g.m.

please don’t draft a qb with the first pick. trade it for a first and second if both longs are gone. or hell, draft dorsey.

By Bubby from Buckhead

April 17, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Mark you really haven’t stated a valid reason to take Matt Ryan

What will you say when we have Ryan Leaf Jr?

By Bait N Switch Bradley

April 17, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

One thing I forgot to mention is if they did have McFadden and Turner, the Falcons would have an amazing bargaining chip to trade one of the two for lots more draft picks and/or or QB and/or O-line guys.

No question, the best player in this draft overall is Jake Long, he’s a beast and very rare.

By bubba

April 17, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Carolina is talking about him…by trading up.

By Bait N Switch Bradley

April 17, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

One thing I forgot to mention is if they did have McFadden and Turner, the Falcons would have an amazing bargaining chip to trade one of the two for lots more draft picks and/or or QB and/or O-line guys.

No question, the best player in this draft overall is Jake Long, he’s a beast and very rare.

By diego

April 17, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

I don’t like doing this but… you’re an idiot and I hope you think this, just so someone reads your column. Matt Ryan is a horrible top 5 pick.

Falcons best bet is getting Jake Long or maybe Dorsey. If the Falcons don’t get Long then in the 2nd round they should get some O-line help and a quarterback.

I’m a Saints fan and I have more sense than you for the Falcons.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

If Jake Long is not available they should trade down. I’ll say it again — the only position this team is settled at is running back, with Turner, Norwood and Mughelli. The more picks we have the better off we’ll be. Would I trade a shot at Matt Ryan, who probably will be a good but not great QB in the NFL, for a shot at the #8 pick and maybe another pick or two? Absolutely I would. No question about it.

You also gotta consider the fact that Brian Brohm was universally considered to be better to start this season, and the tide only turned in Ryan’s favor because Ryan got to play in the same scheme behind a great offensive line while Brohm had to adjust to a new scheme behind a questionable offensive line. Nobody, including Mel Kiper, thought that Ryan was better than Brohm before this season started. I’m the kind of guy who judges a player based on his whole body of work, not just one season, and Brohm has been more impressive over the course of his career if you ask me. To be honest I think he’s the only QB from this draft who has a chance to be great, and he’s gonna be available when the Falcons pick in Round 2.

And finally, if I’m Dimitroff and I’m picking a QB, I want to pick a guy who is gonna be better than the current best QB on the roster, the one sitting in Leavenworth Correctional Facility. I don’t think Matt Ryan is gonna be that guy. From a strictly on-the-field point of view, I’d rather wait for 2 years to have a fully developed Vick than 3 years to have a fully developed Ryan. If there was a guy in this draft who was guaranteed to be great, I’d be fine with picking him.

By Bait N Switch Bradley

April 17, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

If another idiot posts “take Jake Long” you don’t anything about sports. There is no question Jake Long is going #1. Only way Falcons could get Jake Long is to trade up. You mine as well be asking to draft Joe Montana. Idiots!

By Raider4Life

April 17, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

No on ryan. take dorsey if he is on the board. If not trade out or take Little howie or vernan and make him a outside linebacker.

By Scott

April 17, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

If the Falcons draft Glenn Dorsey, hopefully they will have a monster at DT. But I hope they know the Falcons history—Remember Aundray Bruce—What a first round bust from the Auburn Tigers he was at DE. Ryan would be okay, but not enough NFL potential will be there for the Falcons offensive system. Brohm, Henne, or Flacco will be better QB’s for the dirty birds for an early second round pick. It will be interesting on who they pick.

By 1eyedJack

April 17, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

If there were a consensus #1 pick at QB this year I would say pick him. But there is no John Elway or Peyton Manning in this draft. There’s not even a Steve Bartkowski. Therefore I say live by the old maxim that you win football games by being able to run the ball and stop the run. Therefore I think we need to go OL/DL. The only way I take Ryan with the third pick is if Jake Long and Glenn Dorsey are gone and we can’t trade down.

By JUNE_BABY

April 17, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

imo, the falcons shouldn’t take a qb with their 1st pick. the talent level isn’t there for a qb in that spot. grab someone for the off/def line, because that will be a better choice in the long run. next year’s draft may be a better draft for qbs. in the meantime if they can get shockley healthy, that could carryover for a yr or two. if not, i’d rather take my chances with redmond than wasting that pick on ryan. if a qb is not head and shoulders above the other players in the draft, he’s probably a wasted pick, and you can get the same value with one of the 3rd rd picks. drafting a lineman, gives you an immediate chance to improve on the passing game/rush and running game/run stopper. i saw ryan play a few times this past season, and i didn’t see him as a top 5 pick.

By falcon tix holder

April 17, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

The Falcons would be foolish not to draft Ryan. I’ve seen every game he has played over the last 3 years and he has been a man among boys; ask any GaTech fan that as he lit them up for over 400 yards last September. How many did STafford put up against Tech? Answer 215 yds. Ryan was a superstar playing with BC talent, not UM or LSU talent like Jake Long or Glenn Dorsey; tough question, where is it hardest to succeed (i.e. look like a superstar) BC, LSU, or UM? Lastly, stop with the nonsense of the 19 picks, he threw the ball 650+ times last year, which translates into 1 pick for every 34 attempts. bottom line is that success in the NFL starts at the QB and it a QB driven league, Mike Smith said that himself in the ajc a few weeks back, and I guarantee he knows more about football and the NFL then all of us combined.

By roman88

April 17, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

get dorsey then load up on linemen, 11 picks, ought to get flacco in the second, stop the run, run the ball. ryan is not a clear cut jump ahead of broem or flacco, so why pick him at 3, when the lines should take priority. k..c and baltimore would possible take broem and ryan, get flacco in the 2nd. big nasty hawgs upfront then let turner and norwood pound away the clock thus the defense wont be on the field allday,

By Coach Hinz

April 17, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley’s name spelled backward is Kram Yeldarb.

By Tron

April 17, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Since most of the people posting here think it’s a horrible idea to draft Ryan at #3, I think that validates the decision to do so.

Mr. Dimitroff, if you read this blog, you can assure yourself success and prosperity with the Falcons if you simply choose to go against the opinions of the idiots that post here. That, good sir, is your game plan for success.

By Boiler

April 17, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

If you’re going to make a stupid choice why not make it flashy. No one could blame you for taking desert before the main course, as long as it was like a banana split with lots of flavors could run, throw, run back kicks, and catch passes. Sweet McFadden is way better than Boston beans.

By Two QBs

April 17, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

The Falcons should take one of the higher rated QBs with their first second round pick. And since he gets no buzz whatsoever, take Erik Ainge with a much later round pick. Like Reeves, used to say you can’t have too many QBs. Or something like that.

By Taylor

April 17, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. You have no idea what you are writing about each week do you?

You should stick to doodling in your journal privately rather than expressing your views in public.

By SC

April 17, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

The best collegiate passer ever? I would love to know how you came up with that> I like Matt but that is a stretch. I maintain that Dorsey is the best player in this draft and I think if available we should take him. I think the Falcons like Brohm better than Ryan and I think I do too. I think a trade back into the first is very likely

By Edd

April 17, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Mc Fadden at 1 wouldn’t be a bad pick either. He is the best at his position. I know we got Burner they would be great in the backfield together and trade our other running back. Of course any body we get with the first pick will be good. I think we are waiting for next year for a quarterback. Stafford or the kid from Florida. Redman wasn’t that bad when he had time. Heck they may be waiting on Vick, he was exciting to watch folks !! Go Falcons !!!!!!!!!!

By GeorgiaYankeesFan

April 17, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

I have been questioning the talent of the AJC sports team for a while and this column really takes the cake. Any average NFL fan can name about 50 QB flameouts over the last decade (Ryan Leaf anyone)? The last thing the Falcons need right now is to spend top dollar and high draft pick on a Matt Ryan at #3 when they could have a franchise talent on the Off or Def line. The Falcs have zero talent/depth at core bread and butter positions. It would make zero sense to spend top dollars for a QB and then have no protection for him (and no ability to run block), no receivers who can catch and a defense that is like swiss cheese. If Ryan was so awesome Parcells would snatch him up at #1 given the Dolphins woes at QB. He knows as anyone else would that getting a QB with the litany of deficiencies this team has at its foundation is like buying a Ferrari when your house is flooded. The Falcs should fill needs at core positions first and then if the right opportunity comes grab a QB in round 2 or 3. If Bradley had his way the Browns would have drafted Brady Quinn first and thus miss out on the best Off Lineman of 2007.

By Paul

April 17, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Alex Smith went #1 overall…. how many superbowls has he won?

He went #1 overall because the QB class sucked. Matt Ryan is #1 why? because he made a few key throws (in his favor) to pick up some wins in late games. Good for him. Akili Smith was a first round pick too right? How’d that work out?

Rothlisburger won a superbowl because of the strong team around him. Manning… See (incredible pass rush)

Phillip Rivers… pretty far away. Too bad we didn’t get Brees and Tomlinson when we could have.

By Al

April 17, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

You’ve been giving advice to the Falcons for how long?

And they have been a lousy franchise for how long?

Maybe it’s time the AJC followed the Falcons lead and started over with a real sports writer.

By regular guy

April 17, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

I would take the best offensive lineman still available, preferably one who is ready to start in the Fall. Ryan is good but he isn’t that spectacular that he can’t be safely passed up. There are other QBs out there who will be just as good, namely, Henne, Booty, Brohm, and Woodson. As long as the Offensive line is so weak, NO QB will have a chance. You could put Joe Montana behind this line and he would look like Joey Harrington.

By Bubba from Buckhead

April 17, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Job Ad:AJC Sports Column is full of mediocre talent. We’re looking for energetic, new ideas, and whitty columns from anyone but Moteasuh Moore and Marginal Bradley

This article is a joke. None of the fans agree with you Mark. Maybe you should get out off the golf course and do some real reporting.

By saint

April 17, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

With a weak OL any QB is either going to be hurried or sacked or injured, and any of those three spell trouble. Protect the QB. Get a strong OL with our picks.

By Supe

April 17, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Matt Ryan - Ryan Leaf..seperated at birth? Concidence?

By Peter

April 17, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Please let us look at New England, their early picks are line men….can you recall what round they got Brady in….. maybe the 3rd.

There will always be sleeper QBs out there…… We NEED a defensive line, and a O line before we spend Big bucks on a QB that will get knocked out of games, and put on injured reserve !

Sorry Mark this makes ZERO sense !

By LA Dawg

April 17, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Dennis Dixon with the 99th pick, anyone? Go to dennisdixon10.com to watch his rehab and throwing.

By Hamad Meander

April 17, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Sorry Peter - Brady was a 6th round pick. But your premise is correct - this draft has some of the most interesting 2nd day prospects at QB than I’ve seen in years. Kevin O’Connell, Josh Johnson, Dennis Dixon, and Eric Ainge are all very talented 4th-7th round prospects.

FIX THE LINE FIRST so that the next QB doesn’t spend most of his (or her) time on their backs.

By Rod

April 17, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

No way! Nothing seperates Ryan from the other QBs in this draft. It would be a total waste drafting Ryan at 3.

By V. Rice

April 17, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

I am in favor of building up the O and D lines respectively. No matter who is at QB, they will take a beating behind that O-Line. we can find a QB later in the draft. Matt Ryan is over hyped, he threw 19 pick is 14 games last year in the and we all know how DEFENSe heavy the ACC is. We must draft a QB though, just later in the draft, a Flacco or Woodson, someone accurate and not afraid to stand in the pocket but can get loose when needed.

By Colorado Bulldog

April 17, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Further evidence that Mark bradley knows absolutely nothign about sports. How did you get this gig? Like is your dad a part-owner of AJC?

By Eddie

April 17, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

If my two top picks on my wish list are gone (Jake Long and Glenn Dorsey). I would rather have McFadden even after we picked up Turner before I’d draft Ryan. We can get the same kind of talent in the 2nd round at the qb position.

By Mark Bradley

April 17, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Just curious: What prevents a team from taking a quarterback early and finding an outstanding offensive lineman, say, in Round 2 or later? Why does it have to be the other way around? Ever heard of Larry Allen? Dermontti Dawson? Ray Donaldson? Rayfield Wright? Jim Langer? Larry Little?

By Lynne

April 17, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, Just curious: What is it that makes Matt Ryan a need for the Falcons at #3, but not the Dolphins at #1?? Why has absolutely NO mock draft or sports writer in the entire USA pointed to the Dolphins QB woes? Huh?? Oh…because Parcells is no fool? If Ryan is worthy of #3 money, he’s worthy of #1….but strange, not a soul in all of the football world has even suggested Ryan to the Dolphins. Wonder why?

By Martin

April 17, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

taking Matt Ryan would be freakin’ retarded. Matt Ryan is OVER HYPED, look at his stats, they f***’ suck. Erik Ainge had better stats than Ryan, and Ainge is a 4th round pick. I personally think Ainge will go earlier than people think though!

By Troy B.

April 17, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

For you to say we need to draft Matt Ryan makes me wonder how you are a sports writer for the AJC. What a joke.

By Troy B.

April 17, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

For you to say we need to draft Matt Ryan makes me wonder how you are a sports writer for the AJC. What a joke.

By The Realist

April 17, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, I would suggest that we’d get more of an impact O-lineman in the 1st round than the 2nd. With the O-line as pathetic as it was last year, I just think that we’ve got to go w/ a 1st round O-lineman & a 2nd round QB as opposed to the other way around.

By will

April 17, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

WOW! AJC pays you to write this! This is CRAZY!! Stick to basketball please MB! What happens if Ryan is a BUST?? Invest 30 million in a question mark and he if fails (which he probably will) it sets the franchise back another 5 years! Do me a favor Mark and get a new job.

By Ted

April 17, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

QB or OL? I heard an arguement that impressed me. If you draft an OL at a specific position and he doesn’t work out, he could be moved to another line position as a possibility. But what do you do with a QB who doesn’t work out?

By charles harris

April 17, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

I agree we need to upgrade our OL first and foremost but if jake long is gone then we should trade down and pick up an extra 2nd round pick-i think are several tackles that would do a credible job even later on. The only thing about ryan is i am also a clemson fan and he broke our hearts 3 straight years and he also took a vicious hit 1 yr and still led BC to victory-he is a tough son of a gun-please go to an AFC team.

By Workinlkeadawg

April 17, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Henne or Brohm will be around in rd 2. What would have happened if Bartkowski had been drafted by Oakland or Dallas? He’d have won a SB that’s what. OL makes the QB just like they’ll make Henne or Flacco. Brohm and Henne were the only QB’s at the combine who had the swagger of a Marino. That’s right from the pages of AJC.

By ed

April 17, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Vick throws for 13 ints in the pros and he is regarded as a terrible qb. Ryan throws for 20 ints in a very weak ACC and he is regarded as a leader, gun slinger, etc. I wonder why ?(we all know the answer to that). Falcons do yourself a favor and draft Dorsey, Henne or Brohm in the second, or revamp the lines and secondary. Josh Johnson would be a nice pick at qb and you can get him in the fifth round. The guys was mentored by Jim Harbaugh. (114tds and 13ints)

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

“Just curious: What prevents a team from taking a quarterback early and finding an outstanding offensive lineman, say, in Round 2 or later? Why does it have to be the other way around?”

Peyton Manning, Carson Palmer, even Michael Vick were more “sure things” than Matt Ryan. I’m not saying Ryan’s gonna be a bust, but I don’t think it’s worth the #3 pick for this team to ignore all their other needs to draft the next Philip Rivers or Matt Hasselbeck.

By RTR

April 17, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

In football, you need to figure out how to block and tackle before you start worrying about throwing it.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah also, college stats don’t mean sh-t. 20 picks, 13 picks, 30 TDs, 40 TDs, it makes no difference. The way a guy plays — his footwork, his throwing motion, how quickly he makes decisions, how well he calls audibles — these are how you tell whether a QB will be good in the NFL. There are no stats to evaluate this properly.

By I'm Mark Bradley And I Don't Have A Clue !

April 17, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Just curious:………….. Did you pay any attention to what the sportscasters on NFL Network have been saying? More than a few of these guys with REAL FOOTBALL TIES like Charley Casserly, Mike Mayock, Jamie Dukes, and Adam Schefter have all said the same thing when speaking about the Foul-can’ts. They all say that the Cleveland Browns Draft last year is the PERFECT BLUEPRINT of what the Falcons need to follow. The Browns where in the exact situation last year that we were are in this year. They needed O-line, D-Line, and a FUTURE franchise Qb. They didn’t need running backs, wide recievers, tight end, etc. help immediately. If you remember, all the hype was on Brady Quinn and how he was going to be the #1 pick/franchise qb/yada yada yada. The Browns also had the #3 pick in the draft but passed on Quinn. I thought that Quinn was over hyped last year like Ryan is this year. All the sports “writers” was singing his praises. But Cleveland passed and he fell down the draft board like the World Trade Center. It was so funny watching pick after pick go in front of the sports “writers” GOLDEN BOY. It was so bad that the commisioner had to take pity on him and move him to his own private green room to help Quinn (and all the GOLDEN BOY’s fans the sports “writers”) save face.
The Falcons need to go with Jake Long first than trade back up to late in the first round like Cleveland did but pick Chad Henne. Even if Ryan fell that low like Quinn did last year, I would say still go with Henne. Personally, I think Brohmn is the best of the Qb bunch. BUT, Long and Henne already have a chemistry that they have from playing together. If a play went bust and they have to do a scramble drill to improvise, Long would already have a built in “feel” for what Henne might do in that situation to make something out of nothing. Plus everybody had wrote Derek Anderson off as a Qb, but with a decent O-line he went “off”. Cleveland had no choice but to redo his contract. Even though he never played a down, Golden Boy got to sit back and learn. Just like the REAL FOOTBALL TALENT of former players, GM’s, and Coaches from the NFL Network has said, Cleveland has already provided the Blueprint for the Falcons to follow. By the way, if you have doubts, look at their end of season record. If not for 1-2 bad calls, they would have been in the playoffs for what would have been a rebuilding year. And as for Ryan being the best pure passer, the only thing he was good passing in the “Almost Called a Conference” was GAS!!!!!!!!!!

By morris

April 17, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

“I think he’ll be really good. I maintain he’s the best pure passer I’ve ever seen as a collegian, and I covered my first college game in 1976.” ARE YOU FREAKIN KIDDING ME? Thats about the dumbest thing you have ever written mark. If that were the case then at least a half of dozen teams would be trying to trade up into the #1 position to draft ryan. But the Dolphins would say no because he would be a better prospect than even peyton manning according to you’re logic. Ryan is the SUPPOSED best QB in a very weak class and thats about the size of it. The falcons would be crazy to bypass long or dorsey if they are available with the 3rd pick. The falcons could then get a good prospect in round two. Or they could wait until next year with the possibilty of both stafford and tebow being available. I know some might think thats crazy but the falcons will likely be picking at the top of the draft next year when the QB class could be great. The falcons could have a newly rebuilt offensive line waiting on their 2009 QB. This the deepest year for offensive tackles in two damn decades so don’t blow it Dimitroff. The motto of this years draft should be draft linemen early and often!

By Greg

April 17, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Richard got it right in the third post: put Jake Long in there and Redman and Harrington are going to look a lot better, and a really good Q-back either drafted later or gotten through FA is going to look terrific. Start with the line and everything else will follow.

By BB

April 17, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Jake Long. If he’s gone you got to get best athelete -Mcfadden. Play him as the QB. Tough enough to take on the hits while building the O line with other picks and can run the smashmouth offense.

By tony

April 17, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

josh johnson is the best qb in this draft-matt ryan will average 19 interception a season.

By leo

April 17, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

yes, yes, yes take matt ryan! we are building for the future and need him, dorsey will be a lazy injured bust

By leo

April 17, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

I give up. Scouts have Ryan ranked super, as the best QB and these Falcon fans talk about Vick Jailbird, 1 year Shockley, and don’t forget David Green who made it to the pros, oops he is back home now isn’t he. Come on Ga fans, I mean Falcon fans.

By adam

April 17, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

couldn’t agree more….ryan should be the falcons pick…dont get me wrong I would love to have dorsey but I dont like any of the qb’s after ryan so I would take ryan with the first pick

By Mike

April 17, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Falcons should not draft Ryan. Falcons should hope he is there still, and that the Ravens want him bad enough to trade up. They could drop down to # 8 and get another 2nd rounder. (I mentioned this before, and now with McNair stepping down it is a more likely scenario) with the 1st round pick take Ellis DT USC, with the 2nd round picks Cherilus BC or

By Mike

April 17, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

DO NOT TAKE RYAN!!!!!hopefully he is still available @ #3. Maybe then the Ravens will opt to trade up to secure a QB (I mentioned this scenario previously, and now given Mc Nair stepping down even more likely) and offer the Falcons a 2nd rounder. With the #8 overall Falcons could grab Ellis. Then in the 2nd round take Cherilus OT BC if available, if not I like Sam Baker OT USC. Then Brian Brohm if available, if not Flacco is a solid pick. With the 3rd 2nd rounder I would like Mayo ILB out of UT, if he is off the board Dan Connor ILB Penn St. Then wiiht the next 2nd rounder you take Pat Sims Dt Auburn, or Thomas Decoud FS Cal. 3rd Round pick up Chevis Jackson CB LSU, and 4th round Dre Moore DT Maryland. If a trade does not pan out then Dorsey is your first pick then Cherilus or baker, Brohm or Flacco, Mayo or Connor, Jackson, Moore, adn then add depth to the O line and secondary. Even though they signed Elam I would consider Coutu in the late rounds. If Atlanta had all the pieces except QB I would be on the Ryan bandwagon too, but they need to upgrade the lines first. With DT upgrades we get to free up Abe and see what J Anderson is truly made of. Boley will be a pro bowl LB with the right DT. With upgrades on O line and the addition of Turner we can run the ball with a change of pace between Turner and Norwood, therefore controlling the clock. This is a rebuilding year for sure. Anything over 7 wins will show great promise for the future. The Falcons have young talent, a promosing coaching staff, and many picks in this years draft…sounds a lot like Dallas back in 1990?

By Derryck

April 18, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

Why is no one talking about Eric Ainge late in the draft? He was under Cutliff for two seasons. Had a huge impact in his pass completions. Tenn. could have thrown their way into the spotlight had they gone to the air more, and had a legitimate dowwn the field threat. He is 6 6 and has a very quick release. He is deceptivly quick, and played under the same coach that still has Eli, Peyton, and others come to him every summer to polish all area’s of their game! What about this guy? Why not at least look at this as a possibility? He would be very successful in the NFL with the right Quarterbacks coach! Just look at it!

By Derryck

April 18, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Why is no one talking about Eric Ainge late in the draft? He was under Cutliff for two seasons. Had a huge impact in his pass completions. Tenn. could have thrown their way into the spotlight had they gone to the air more, and had a legitimate dowwn the field threat. He is 6 6 and has a very quick release. He is deceptivly quick, and played under the same coach that still has Eli, Peyton, and others come to him every summer to polish all area’s of their game! What about this guy? Why not at least look at this as a possibility? He would be very successful in the NFL with the right Quarterbacks coach! Just look at it!

By Stirg d'Nahsif

April 18, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this

Despite all the analysis, this year’s draft is actually quite simple for the birds. Consider this, the top three names in this year’s draft is Ryan, Long and Dorsey. There are two teams that pick before Atlanta, which simply means that two of the top three names should already be selected (if not, consider it a blessing). Atlanta would simply select the one draftee not chosen. The upside to this scenario is that Atlanta must upgrade to the respective positions that are available in the top three picks. The later picks should be considered that’ll support the first pick.

Mike, your knowledge of the game is envious. You demonstrated valid points that the Falcons should address. A solid line on either side of the ball will compliment the foundation already established.

Free Michael Vick!

By Cam

April 18, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Best pure passer, that’s what was said about Jeff George. And what did he do for the Falcons?

The Matt Ryan pick would be pure bust. He couldn’t put together a pure spiral on his pro day.

Number 3 is definitely to high of a draft pick for him. Defense wins Super Bowls, just ask the latest winners.

By cam

April 18, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Best pure passer, that’s what was said about Jeff George. And what did he do for the Falcons?

The Matt Ryan pick would be pure bust. He couldn’t put together a pure spiral on his pro day.

Number 3 is definitely to high of a draft pick for him. Defense wins Super Bowls, just ask the latest winners.

By Boxcarar

April 18, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

Ryan should not be the first Falcons pick. The first year of a total rebuild will be for the trenches. I like the trade down to seven to take Caldy, a true possible left tackle prospect. Arthur could spin and hand off this upcoming year. The next three years will test the patience of true fans. We already have enough QB cap dollars tied up with MK7 to not compound the problem until 2009.

By badhatharry

April 18, 2008 5:13 AM | Link to this

I actually think the Falcons will end up taking Ryan. I think they would prefer Jake Long or Dorsey but i think they will both be gone before the Falcons pick.

By Still a Blank Fan

April 18, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

Yes the Falcons SHOULD draft Matt Ryan but they won’t because of one shining reason…the Falcons even with everything Blank has tried to do are like everything else in Atlanta a BLACK franchise and they cater to the BLACK community!!!

They will try everything they can to appease the BLACK season ticket holders who still can’t see the crime for the severity it was and are salavating and waiting for the release and “comeback” of CONVICT # 7!!!

No go ahead a read ANYTHING you want into this post, call me racist, angry, whatever but it’s the truth that really hurts!!!

By Still a Blank Fan

April 18, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Yes the Falcons SHOULD draft Matt Ryan but they won’t because of one shining reason…the Falcons even with everything Blank has tried to do are like everything else in Atlanta a BLACK franchise and they cater to the BLACK community!!!

They will try everything they can to appease the BLACK season ticket holders who still can’t see the crime for the severity it was and are salavating and waiting for the release and “comeback” of CONVICT # 7!!!

No go ahead a read ANYTHING you want into this post, call me racist, angry, whatever but it’s the truth that really hurts!!!

By Frederick McLaughlin

April 18, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

The Falcons should not take Matt Ryan with the first pick. And not that he is not worth it, but they have to many problems to put that much money in one player. They need to go d-line because that has been one of the worst lines in the NFL. They can get a QB later in the draft for less.

By John

April 18, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Son, we live in a world that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinburg? I have more responsibility here than you could possibly fathom. You weep for Santiago, and you curse the marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Santiago’s death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. I know deep down in places you dont talk about at parties, you don’t want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, then question the manner in which I provide it. I prefer you said thank you, and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand to post. Either way, I don’t give a damn what you think you are entitled to!

By Slick0ne

April 18, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Mark Bradley,

I don’t care if you called your first college game in 1876. We do not need a qb at #3 we need Dorsey or J. long if not available then we trade down for more picks, that simple. We can’t afford to wizz away our top pick on a potential bust because it’s the sexy pick. Build from the inside out, baby!!!

Question: When was the last time the falcons had a pro bowl caliber O-linemen or two?

By bigeasy830

April 18, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Mark you really took a beating on this one. The bloggers came armed with stats, you cannot argue against Ryan throwing many INTs. But, also I believe Ryan has that gunslinger mentality, in which I love. But, we must build up our O and D lines and we still have to deal with M Vick being on the roster. You cannot pay two QB’s all that money. If you cut M Vick he will still count against the cap so you have to live with what you got at QB. I do not believe we will even draft a QB in the 2nd round. We have to many other holes to fill. Our raft order will be D lineman, CB, O lineman, middlelineback (Lofton from OKLAHOMA), in the first 2 ruonds. There is no room for a QB.

Holla if you hear me, Say amen if you feel me.

By gabluesdude

April 18, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Even if they do draft a young QB he wont start this year, unless redman and crew go down due to injury. they will groom him for at least 1 season. If the falcons draft well and bolster their lines, then I cant wait to see what redman can do. Hell, he looked pretty good those last 4 games with a terrible offensive line and no running game. Beef up the line, add in a guy like turner who can pick up the tough yards, and I think redman might surprise a few folks this season.

By Carroll

April 18, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

I hope they take the Murphy kid in the later rounds. They’re looking for character guys, and his pedigree is second to none in that arena. Not to mention that he sounds like a pretty solid athlete, and would bring some intrigue back to Atlanta with his dad’s history with the Braves.

By T.C

April 18, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

mark remember thats just your view on the falcons needs and my view is not pick a Q.B with the first pick.who i would choose?anybody but a Q.B

By Ryder

April 18, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

You’re right Still a Blank fan the truth hurts, and the truth is YOU’RE AN IDIOT!

If this was all about catering to the “Black” community, why hasn’t Atlanta talked at all about drafting Andre Woodson from Kentucky? He’s a QB, and he’s black, yet I don’t hear anyone talking about drafting him to please a fanbase of d!cksuckers like you who slob on nothing but “sexy” picks like the morons at ESPN.

Ok, now on to more serious matters. Atlanta has decided they are going to pick depth to go with their smashmouth offense. No QB fits this description in the first round. Just see if they can make a trade with the Ravens for the 8th pick and an additional pick if Dorsey and Long are already gone (the most likely scenario) by the time the 3rd pick comes around.

Oh, and for all of those waiting for Tebow to come out and be the next big thing, you’re out of your freaking minds.

QBs from Florida are nothing more than system QBs who couldn’t run a pro offense on a video game much less in the NFL. Once Te-blow realizes he can’t rush up the middle every time protection breaks down he’ll be finished!

By Ramblin Wrecker

April 18, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

If the Falcons aren’t convinced that Matt Ryan is going to be a Peyton Manning caliber QB (which I’m certain they aren’t), then he is not worth the money a top 3 pick will command, especially since he’s likely to not see the field his first season. So that would be money wasted this season. Plus consider the fact that there are a trio of QB’s who are likely to be available from the middle of round 1 thru the top of round 2. The Falcons own three 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, so they have the wherewithall to move up to snag a Brian Brohm, Chad Henne or Joe Flacco. So no need to reach for a QB at 3. They have offensive line and defensive tackle issues, and both Thomas D. and Smitty profess to believe in the building from the lines out philosophy. So that tells me OL or DT will be their focus. So if Jake Long or Glenn Dorsey are there at 3, I expect them to be the Falcons’ pick. Plus consider the history of the Patriots. The entire starting DL were all first round picks. Seymour, Wilfork, Warren. It looks as if Jake Long is likely to be taken by Miami or St. Louis, unless somehow Vernon Gholston leapfrogs over guys that up til now have been considered better prospects. And if Jake goes to Miami, St. Louis could take Dorsey. In that scenario, I think the Falcons should try to trade back a few spots, maybe to entice some teams who want McFadden or Ryan, so that they can select either OT Ryan Clady or DT Sederick Ellis. Or if they can’t get Long or Dorsey, but feel strongly that Clady or Ellis are their man, then just go ahead and take them and not risk losing out on a big time building block.

Regardless, I have faith that if Thomas D. selects a OL or DT that the guy will be a successful player. I’d even be okay if the Falcons were able to entice the Cowboys to trade their two 1st round picks to Atlanta for the 3rd pick to get McFadden. Then Atlanta could get Brohm, maybe OT Jeff Otah, Chris Williams or Gosder Cherilus in the first round and then address DT, CB, LB with their 3 second round picks and 2 third round picks.

By Colorado Bulldog

April 18, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Best care scernerio for Falcons…

1R #3 DT DORSEY: best player in draft. What idiots are saying he is too small. WSapp 6’2” 300 / GDorsey 6’2” 316

2R #34 OT Baker (USC) Please let him fall!!! Better fit than Long because of run blocking. Dude presses almost 500lbs.

2R #37 Best QB left - *Ryan is way over-rated. Thrws too many ints. He will be a bust. There are some ones to be had that will be better. Flacco, Booty, Henne… *

2R #48 Another OL - Maybe Pollack of Az State. Could play C or G

3R #68 Best CB on board. One who can return kicks too would be ideal. There will be serviceable ones to be had at #68.

3R #98 A LB - How bout Bryan Kehl of BYU? Good talker

3R #98

By sumguy

April 18, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t even take any of the 2nd round QBs. If we plan to grind it out on the ground then there is no reason to invest in a QB in the 1st 3 rounds. I’d seriously draft Eric Ainge or one of the QBs from the San Diego schools in the 4th - 5th rounds. All of them have good size and decent arm strength (Doesn’t have to be great we play at least 9 games a season in a dome). Also they are much cheaper than even a 2nd round QB and can afford to wait a year to play.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

RYDER:

Darkman, how YOU dooin’? Joe Flacco will be a championship q-back the Falcons can get in the second round. Do it. I’ve seen both he and Ryan several times. Go your route with DL/OL first and foremost, two each if possible. Pick what’s needed with anything that’s already here to mesh into an offense and defense. Then go LB, DB, TE, WR. Armand Shields will make a good possession WR for you guys. Personally seen him many times. He’s gone to some of the combines, and has been seen, hopefully, by the Falcons.

And stay away from the ESPN’ers and Sports hyper’s. They’re pure poison. Dimtrioff will do his own evaluations I’m sure, and not pay too much attention to all that BS. For them, it’s all about endorsements and who can sell whom to make money. And that doesn’t win football games.

By Carroll

April 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

I agree with you, sumguy. With or without drafting a QB this year—be it as high as Ryan at 3 or as low as Colt Brennan as an undrafted FA—we are gonna blow this year. So next year we’ll be right back up near the top of the draft with a whole new crop of QBs to choose from. The difference is that at that time, it will be a lot better move to spend the money on a high pick QB because we may have somewhat of an identity and protection for him by then.

By Still a Blank Fan

April 18, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

LOL!!!…Ahhh! Ryder you were sooooo easy to bait into the conversation and of course you MISS READ my post…

The issue IS NOT what color the next drafted quarterback is, the issue is will the FALCONS do right and draft us a QUALITY quarterback???

We have a VERY talented quarterback currently under contract who unfortunately was injured before he could prove himself…I am talking of course about D.J.Shockley, who last time I checked is BLACK!!!

The difference is, he is a quality young man with tremendous talent who waited his time out at Georgia to prove he could play and will be a GREAT future asset for the Falcons. Does the team need another quarterback as D.J. matures into the position…OF COURSE they do!!!

My point was directed 100% to the way the team catered to “Con”Vick and how he repaid them…and to have everything that happenned occur and folks still say we need Vick back makes me SICK!!!…Give it up, let it go…the “CON”Vick era is over!

By Regal1_Got 1

April 18, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Good afternoon falcon family.

Okay, to the point. Should the falcons consider bringing Mr. Vick back then they should definitely not pick Ryan. If Arthur has no intention on bringing Vick back, dont be surprise to see Atlanta pick the best qb in this years draft (see Ryan).

Personally, I have no problem with the Falcons picking a qb in this draft. My take is if you are going to draft a qb then draft the best one and not the close second or the not so distant third best. So, in this case, if they think they need to pull the trigger on a qb then take Ryan or dont draft one at all. If they dont draft Ryan, I would be comfortable if they spent the whole draft addressing every other need and void wasting a pick at that position.

By Regal1_Got 1

April 18, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Still a Blank Fan, how sick would you be if you found out the Vick experience is not over?

By T.C

April 18, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

blank fan and ryder,what are yall taking about?do you not know that the NFL is 80%black.your posts doesnt make any sense.

By Ryder

April 18, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Let me take care of TC, I mean Too Clueless first!

Hey @sswipe, if you actually bothered to read my post where did I say anything about the NFL having too many black players? I thought I only talked about the Falcons not “catering to the black community” according to what that blank fan said first.

My rant was about not giving in and drafting a player like Ryan who wouldn’t fit this team’s long term interest.

Next time you decide to chime in with your opinions, be sure to actually read a post first? K,Thnx,Bye!

Blank fan, I will give you this: some people only bring up the Vick issue because they can’t let it go. Vick’s era is dead Atlanta, it’s over, and some folks will never get over it, and I don’t care. Vick won’t bring fans to the seats, winning does, and no matter what Matt Ryan is not a winner!

DJ Shockley a talented Quarterback? That Georgia heat must’ve really got to you brain, son. Either that or you must really be a hardcore UGA fan. If Atlanta was so sure he was the answer, why hasn’t the front office made that known to the public? Why would they resign both Redman and Harrington? I’ve never heard of someone sooooooooo talented such as DJ Shockley relegated to third string if he was so good.

I don’t see him doing anything in the NFL, and Atlanta would be wise to actually draft Flacco or Johnson and let them sit a year.

Oh, big up to my boy richbrave always representing strong on the Hawks blogs. Looking forward to the playoffs tomorrow and Sunday.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

RYDEYEAH BA-A-ABY. GO HAWKS. GO WIZARDS.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

RYDER:

Just scoped your rightous post of 1:28 today. I’m down with everything you say. Sorry Bradley. As you said yourself, the Falcons are not gonna’ take Ryan at #3. BTW The Redskins did O.K. a few years back with a LT at #3.

By Mike

April 18, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

DO NOT TAKE RYAN @ #3. However hope that the Ravens want him bad enough to trade up with Atlanta. One scenario I like is Baltimore offering a 2nd round to move up 5 spots. Either way take a DT first whether it be Dorsey, or Ellis. Then get a OT (Cherilus or Baker), QB (Brohm or Flacco), and ILB (Mayor or Connor) in the 2nd. If they can somehow aquire another #2 use it for Pat Sims DT…take Chevis Jackson in the 3rd, and your 2nd 3rd rounder for Dre Moore DT. 4th rounder take a safety, and the rest of the way add depth to the O line. Maybe a punt/kick retuner seeing how Jennings has been a disappointment. Atlanta is in a position similar to the 90 Cowboys. A little bit of young talent, a new coaching staff who have made a few solid, but not real flashy moves, and a bunch of draft picks. Hopefully we can take that and head down the same road as they did.

By Bugman

April 18, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Nitwit.

You actually get paid for this crap?

By Jay

April 18, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

I think we should fill needs with our first 4 picks Glen Dorsey 1st Round Sam Baker 2nd round Antoine Cason 2nd Round Curtis Lofton 2nd Round Then in 3rd Round Take a QB Like John David Booty Andre Woodson Both Experienced QB’s From Battle Tested Schools who we can get in the 3rd Round without much Risk and the money would be right, and its not like they would have to start right away either, so they can be groomed.

By Joebrave

April 18, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

You Stupid @ssed Muddaphuckers Don’t know JACK!!! Jesus,look Dallas cannot acquire The Falcons first Pick IT WILL TAKE MORE THAN JUST THOSE LATE 1st Rounders to do so!!!! League Rules prohibit taking less value for top ten picks,Stupid @ss holes!!! Now Josh Johnson,Look No More Negroid QB’s, The last Thing this team needs is another Negroid at Qb. Leave the Football To Dimitroff,and Smith!!!!

By Jay

April 19, 2008 5:59 AM | Link to this

The last how do say negroid QB (Vick) was the best thing this organization has ever had in terms of a super star, and before he got himself in trouble you know you were cheering as well. This thread should remain about football not about race. I do agree that Josh Johnson is not a fit because he is a better fit in a west coast timing offense.

By DP

April 19, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Having watched Ryan stink it up most of the game against Virginia Tech this year, I suspect he’s more likely to be the next Heath Shuler or Akili Smith than the next John Elway or Peyton Manning.

But then again I don’t watch all the tape and have the expertise and track record of success that Dimitroff does, so I’d defer to his judgment. I guess that makes me unqualified to be a loudmouthed know it all unaccountable AJC sports columnist or sports talk radio host.

I notice in other cities, guys like Mike Wilbon, Tom Boswell and Jason Whitlock actually write stories based on effort and research and interviews that tell their readers things about the players and coaches and games that they might not otherwise know. They don’t make a living slapping half-baked, intentionally inflammatory opinions in virtually every column they write. What a concept. I wish we had some sportswriters like that in this city.

By Ken Strickland

April 19, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

What this society doesn’t need is a bunch of RACIST INBRED MORONS like you JOE BRAVE. Why don’t you leave civilized discussions to civilized mentalities, you VULGAR UNCIVILIZED MENTAL MIDGET?

MARK BRADLEY-the Falcons ended up with 4 wins and have numerous OFF/DEF holes. So, why be foolish enough to advocate spending a #3 pick on a QB that’s obviously going to carry a clipboard for at least 1, maybe 2yrs? Your suggestion is even more foolish considering QB is one of the deepest positions in the draft. Ryan isn’t an elite QB, nor is he the most talented one in the draft. He’s simply rated as being the most polished coming out of this yrs draft.

By garry salter

April 19, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Draft Jake Long 1st if you think brohm will still be avaliable for 2nd pick! Build a strong o -line for a future great qb like brohm before you go after a qb 1st with a weaker o-line.

By Joebrave

April 19, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

Ken why don’t You sir take those Thick Watermelon,chicken eating Lips of Your and Plant them on My @sss. Sonsabitch!!!

By ray

April 19, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

What sort of sense is this suggestion supposed to make, Bradley?

The Falcons want a power running game. What does a “pure throwing” quarterback have to do with that…at such a high pick, no less. Furthermore, what good is a pure passer with no line?

Long, Long, or Dorsey. I’d say take McFadden, but then why did we sign Turner? And we still have Norwood, who’s quick as can be…a game-breaker.

By Ken Strickland

April 19, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

JOE SLAVE-since you are a VULGAR INBRED @SS, where does one start. Tell me INBREED, did you lose your virginity to a male or female member of your immediate family? I’ll bet your anger and obcessive vulgarity is due to being tramatized at an early age by one of your male relatives. I have a hunch your hatred toward Blacks is due to an unpleasant encounter with a Black man after experiencing jungle fever. He probably damaged your flat, narrow @SS single car garage with his large SUV(know what I mean you VULGAR MORONIC INBREED).

By Scooter

April 20, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

I believe the falcons will take either Jake Long, or Glenn Dorsey, which ever one is available. If both are gone they will trade down. Someone will be salivating on Chris Long, McFaden, or maybe Vernon. I would not be surprised to see somone like the Patriots trade their seven for for our three. That would give us a great player at seven plus another pick. Go Falcons!

By Ken Strickland

April 20, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

SCOOTER-I agree with you on that, but I want you to consider this. First, is Dorsey that much better than USC’s DT Ellis? If not, trade down for another 2nd rd pick and draft him. In addition to gaining an additional pick, we save money by drafting Ellis lower. What we acquire with that pick, and the money we save, could do more for us than any appreciable difference between Dorsey and Ellis.

We could use that pick to trade up into the 1st rd to acquire a quality CB. I don’t think OL will be a 1st rd priority unless OT JLong is available. Based on certain decisions that’s been made by our new GM and HC, I think they feel a lot of the problems certain players had last yr were due to Petrino and his staff. That’s why they resigned JHarrington and retained most of last yrs OLinemen. They seem to think our current OL will benefit tremendously from being coached by our new OL coach. Therefore, our starting OL could end up being constructed from a group that includes Ojinnaka, Clabo, McClure, Forney, Weiner and Blalock.

By Troy

April 20, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

What you guys are all over looking from what I can see is a situation that has a very real possibility of happening. As the picks go now it is Miami, St. Louis, then the Falcons… but what happens if the picks go: 1. Miami- Jake Long 2. St. Louis- Glenn Dorsey 3. Atlanta-??????

What do we do? I think in that situation we have to take Ryan, unless we want to take Ellis the DT from USC. But at that point I think the Falcons can get a DT who is just as effective in the second round like Pat Sims from Auburn.

I’m all for getting Dorsey and putting him in between Abraham and Anderson and letting him reek havick on the opposing offense.

By Ken Strickland

April 20, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

TROY-there are several good DT’s in this yrs draft, including PSims, but only 2 are considered playmakers and/or pass rushers. The Ravens are desperate for Ryan since McNair’s retirement. If Dorsey isn’t available, we could trade down to their #8 spot and get Ellis. The Bengals, at #9, are the only other top 10 team desperate for a playmaking DT. If we pass on Dorsey and trade down, it’s not inconceivable for him to fall into our lap at #8. An extra 2nd rd pick could get us that future MLB we need.

Far more talented QB’s will be available in the 2nd/3rd rds then DT’s. Besides, not one knowledgeable person has rated Ryan as a franchise or can’t miss QB. Unlike the Dolphins or the Ravens, we aren’t desperate for a starting QB. Why waste our #3 pick on a QB that’s only going to carry a clipboard. It makes more sense to draft a starting DT at #3 and use a 2nd rd pick on Brohm or Flacco and let one of them carry the clipboard.

With time and development, there are several QB’s that might end up being more successful than Ryan. Besides, Smith doesn’t intend to install a QB dependent, pass oriented OFF. Therefore, we can afford to draft a less polished, but possibly more talented QB than Ryan in the 2nd rd.

Quality pass rushing/playmaking DT’s like Dorsey and Ellis will help our LB’s and improve our horrid run DEF. They can improve our inside passrush, stop double teams on Abraham, and improve our secondary play. How will drafting Ryan benefit those areas or need?

By Joebrave

April 20, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

No Ken I don’t think any piece of $hit Koon is man enough to Try that kind of garbage with outb getting his Black Arse Dragged behind my Pickup!!! Feel me Bra???

By Danny

April 20, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

I know the Falcons will probably not draft Ryan, but I think that is kinda dumb. Our biggest need is QB. Redman? Harrington? Come on… Ryan is an exceptional passer, but again, he does need the line to give him some time to throw. I’d rather take Ryan here though, to lock him up for the future, and then build the line. It will take a couple years before we can make the playoffs anyways.

By Troy

April 20, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Ken I was just putting it out their, b.c the situation might happen. I would rather go with Dorsey or even Ellis before Ryan. He’s good but he’s not 3rd pick good, I would rather pick up Brohm or Flacco in the second. I personally believe that Brohm would be a steal because he was a projected top 10 pick in the 2007 Draft, so if he fell to us in the second he would be a steal. I’m just worried if Dorsey is gone what happens.

By Mike

April 20, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Thanks Scooter and Ken for backing up the point i made earlier.Baltimpre two years ago was a SB contender. This year because of injuries and lack of depth at QB they fell to the bottom of thier division. They have many needs, but very few of them are pressing. They have a huge need for a polished QB like Ryan. Given this Atlanta is in the perfect position to be offered a trade. KC or NYJ either one could snag Ryan. I think moving from #8 to #3 would give Atlanta another #2. They could take Ellis and save a lot of $’s. There is a huge price diff in a #3 and a #8, but not a huge talent diff.

By Ken Strickland

April 20, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

TROY-we’re obviously on the same page.

DANNY-think about what you’re saying for a minute. If we waste our #3 pick on Ryan, Redmon will still be our starting QB. How does having our top pick carrying a clipboard benefit the team? What makes QB our biggest need? We had 3 DT’s that started last yr. TLewis is on IR and his recovery has been set back by a reinjury. The other 2, GJackson and RColeman, have been waived. We don’t have a single projected starting DT. How does that make QB our greatest need?

Our run DEF was near the bottom of the league, even with GJackson and RColeman. Our pass rush was the worst in the league, especially our inside pass rush. With no cover CB on the roster since trading DHall, we desperately need improvement in that area. Drafting a DT #3 will definitely help our DEF. Wasting the pick on a QB just to stand on the sidelines and carry a clipboard won’t benefit us offensively or defensively.

What makes you, or anyone, think Ryan could do a better job than Redmon. Exceptional passers don’t throw 19 INT’s their senior yr, especially in a conference not known for being a passing conference. In fact, the ACC isn’t even considered a strong football conference with a strong football tradition for that matter.

By Ken Strickland

April 20, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

JOE SLAVE(a slave to ignorance and stupidity)-there is an old saying that seems apropos when dealing with you and IGNORANT, VULGAR, RACIST TRASH like you. It goes, “NEVER GET INTO AN ARGUMENT WITH AN IDIOT FOR HE WILL ONLY DRAG YOU DOWN TO HIS LEVEL AND DEFEAT YOU WITH HIS VAST EXPERIENCE”.

By Workinlkeadawg

April 21, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Morris- IMO your right on the money. Any QB the Falcons draft should be a second or third round pick. Too much hype around that 3rd round pick already. Anyone who’s ever played QB knows that their OL is the key to success. I think ATL should draft as many OL as reasonable. Sure Dorsey would be a great pick but, He’s not the answer. If Long is gone by the 3rd rd Atlanta sould take Ryan and then immediately trade down for more picks. I’d love to see Stafford in a Falcon uniform!

By NASCAR Dave

April 21, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

TAKE DARREN MCFADDEN!!!

NUFF SAID.

By Troy

April 21, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Hey I know that this is off topic but I know there are a lot of falcons fans in here. What do you guys think about possibly taking Jacob Hester the full back from LSU. He was a running back at LSU and could be the diamond in the rough everyone over looks. He is a great blocker, a superb back when it comes to pounding it up the middle on 3rd or 4th and short downs. He can catch the ball and scoot down the field and we can use him as an H back.

By Joebrave

April 21, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

Ken,You were born Stupid J@CK@SS!!!!

By Ken Strickland

April 21, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

NASCAR DAVE-you obviously don’t know much about football. We already have the fastest and one of the most dynamic gm breaking RB’s in the NFL in JNorwood. We just spent big money to sign RB MTurner, who’s one of the NFL’s best combinations of speed and power. Last we drafted FB/HB JSnelling and spent big money to sign the NFL’s biggest and strongest FB. With all of this, you still think we should duplicate what we already have by drafting DMcFadden. That makes a lot of sense, but only to you.

By dale in newnan

April 21, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Nothing against Ryan; however we cannot afford to pass up a dominant ol or dl. This team needs a cornucopia of talent. It would be a waste to draft a qb, and the subsequent salary cap ramifications, with the third pick . I believe the qbs in the second round are not that far behind ryan in a weak qb class. remember joe m was a third rounder.

By Ken Strickland

April 22, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

DALE IN NEWNAN-your assessment is right on point. A lot of Falcon fans don’t seem to know much about football, so they spit out whatever they hear on ESPN. Someone actually suggested we draft MRyan because we need a player to be the face of the franchise. He!!, Ronald McDonald is the face of a franchise(McDonalds)and a little cartoon like little girl with red pigtails and freckles is the face of Wendy’s.

We need OLinemen, not a prolific passing QB, to run the power OFF HC Smith intends to run. We also need DLinemen to improve our league worst pass rush, and our bottom of the league run and pass DEF.

This lack of football knowledge and understanding is why we have fans and certain commentators suggesting we draft QB Ryan or RB McFadden. Our GM and HC have already gone on record saying they want to get stronger up the middle. That statement alone should tell anyone with any degree of common sense that QB and RB will not be our #1 priority.

I don’t know where this idea of Ryan being a prolific passer comes from. It sounds like hype generated by his agent and Boston College officials to me. Any major college QB that throws 31 TDs with 19 INTs as a senior isn’t very accurate and shows questionable decision making ability. There isn’t a QB in this draft that’s worthy of the #3 pick.

Remember, Indy drafted PManning with their 1st rd pick and New England drafted TBrady in the 6th rd. Which of the two would any of you say has been more successful? Which team would you say got the better value? And last, but not least, what scout, who is now the Falcons GM, do you think scouted Brady and gave New England the information needed to make him their selection?

NUFF SAID.

By LC_Northside

April 22, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Dan Marino had more interceptions than Matt Ryan had in their respective Senior years. I think Dan fared pretty well in the NFL.

Please stop using the interception garbage.

By Ken Strickland

April 22, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

LC NORTHSIDE-your point is well taken. Marino had an outstanding NFL career and is the greatest passing QB, statistically(more yds, completions and attempts), in NFL history. He was a pure passer that was limited otherwise. The Dolphins designed their entire OFF around his one true gift as a QB. Since he was one dimensional, his team was also one dimensional and unable to seriously challenge for a NFL title. Since Marino’s retirement, the Dolphins have struggled, to say the least. They’ve been unable to find a passing QB to fit the one dimensional OL they surrounded Marino with.

Ricky Williams was the only RB that had any success with Miami and he did most of it by himself. That’s why the team totally collapsed after he left.

INT’s prevent OFF scoring opportunities and often lead to TD’s or FG’s for the opposition. INT’s also put extra pressure on your DEF, expecially if it’s just left the field a few plays earlier. I’LL BET YOU CAN’T FIND A SINGLE HC ON ANY LEVEL THAT WOULD SUPPORT YOUR CONTENTION ABOUT INTERCEPTIONS BEING CONSIDERED GARBAGE.

By Steve

April 22, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

The Dolphins have signed Jake Long and the “experts” have the Rams taking Dorsey. I dont think Atlanta will take another Defensive end in the draft so they may very well take Matt Ryan. If Dorsey goes to the Rams who could we draft? Perhaps we trade the pick for a handful of other picks? Fellas?

By Fan

April 22, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Do you think McFadden at pick #3 could play QB as well as the rest of the QBs in the draft (and run the sneak better than all of the QBs)?

By Troy

April 22, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Steve… I think if Dorsey ends up going second overall to the Rams then we either take Ryan9which we shouldn’t do) or we trade the pick to Baltimore or Carolina both have expressed interest in Ryan. A trade to Baltimore would be good because it would still put us in a position to take DT Sedrick Ellis before Cincinnati could and it would give us another early pick in the second round. I think that Dimitroff has heard the fans cry not to pick Ryan, and he has let everyone know about people wanting to trade up to get players like McFadden and Ryan.

By Steve

April 22, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

I’m all for trading down. There are tons of great prospects in the draft other than who gets picked in the exciting round one. Round 2 and 3 are just as important for us as roiund 1. Not to downplay our first pick but there is much more to a draft than round 1. I’d like us to land a solid defensive linemen who can make a solid impact right away but a trade wouldnt bother me at all.

By tbhawksfan

April 23, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

Trading down with BALT is the perfect solution. We should get a first, second and maybe a third next year.

At #8 I’d line them up like this (providing Dorsey and Jake Long are gone); Ellis, C. Long, Gholston, Clady.

Either way I want a DT and two OL out of the first two rounds.

By Ken Strickland

April 23, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

If the Rams take Dorsey, it will likely be as trade bait. The Rams need a pass rushing DE more than they need a DT that’s not a good fit at NT for their 3-4 DEF.

I don’t understand the Falcons obcession with getting a kick returner/CB combination. After all, JNorwood was 2nd only to the Bears DHester as the NFL’s most feared kick returner. Apparently Smith intends to feature him extensively in the OFF and doesn’t want to risk wearing him down as a KR.

Remember, a pass rushing DT like Dorsey can reduce or eliminate the double teams on DE JAbraham. A good pass rushing front 4 can make an average secondary above average, expecially CB’s.

I don’t know why everyone is so high on QB MRyan. His career passing stats are meager compared to others like Brohm, Flacco and Henne. In fact, Brohm threw and completed far more passes, especially TD passes, in about the same number of career starts. However, Brohm’s career INT’s were only a few more than Ryan threw his senior yr alone. At least 4 of the other top QB’s had a TD to INT ratio of at least 2.5, or better, to 1. Ryan’s career ratio doesn’t even come close to those ratios. I guess that’s why we’re always hearing about his intangible’s because his tangibles don’t measure up to the hype.

By Troy

April 24, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

I used to be against the idea of taking Ryan as the 3rd overall. But now i guess it would be that bad if we grabbed him and let him just grow and learn the offense for a year while we put all the other pieces in place.

By csolomon

April 27, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Great Falcon Fans! We got our trademark questionable white boy quarterback back again! Arent we all so happy! It worked so well before Vick I dont see why we went that way in the first place. BS!!!! We took the 3rd pick of the draft and drafted a guy who should have went no sooner than 15th. MV has turned the falcons racist and that can be seen easily by this draft. Dorsey was sooo much a better pick than Ryan. And Flacco will end up being a better quarterback anyway. But we got what we wanted right?