Mark Bradley

By Birdy

January 21, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

Woulda coulda shoulda.

The Falcons knew Brooking was the anti-playmaker before this season. The guy has always played soft and hasn’t made an impact play in years. All of this is readily apparent on the videotape the staff viewed before the season.

Yet they not only kept him on the team, but they kept him on the field for every single snap.

Someone in the marketing department made the call for Brooking to remain featured. This non-football decision bit the whole organization in the buns. Watching his soft game, his transparent sycophance, how could they ever have expected anything else in the clutch from Keith 3:16?

Wasn’t he the same guy beaten in Philly by a 250lb FB? Didn’t he also help Reggie Bush score when Lewis Sanders had shed one block then stood Bush up just short of the goal line? Didn’t Brooking whiff on a wide open sack opportunity against Tarvaris Jackson, immediately falling to the groud around the QBs ankles?

There was plenty of evidence available to the Falcons braintrust that should have made them pull Brooking from the lineup. I like how they introduced long-missing accountability into the organization — that is for all personnel except Keith 3:16.

It is unfortunate that they would deliberately negate the fine efforts of Ryan, Turner, Roddy, Foxy, Abraham and others. But that is what they did by keeping CrabbyJoe’s guy Keith 3:16 on the field.

They knew what they were getting and they got it.

By snellville jacket

January 21, 2009 9:33 PM | Link to this

Birdy;

TThe guy made a mistake. You ever make a mistake on your job?

HHe and Milloy are the heart and soul of the team. These guys lead the way for a very young team. You need leaders to take names when it is needed. These guys are not malcontents and do not cause friction.

BBring in replacments and let them learn how to pplay not just be a player.

By leftcoastfan

January 21, 2009 9:39 PM | Link to this

thomas D helped to build a patriot team without superstar drafts. his oline there were mid- late rounders who over achieved. First round for the birds might net a final component to the offense and the rest of the picks, and possible trades that come could round out needs on the D, but that can also be helped thru free agents, etc.

building a new oline for ryan, new linebacking core, and safeties seem like the way to go this year.

and i am out

By Greg

January 21, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

In fact The Birds were lucky this year, and more than a couple times. Their record was a bit better than they actually were. But the important things are now talent evaluation of the roster and talent evaluation of the free agents and players coming out of college. We’ll get a better idea of Dimitroff’s ability by seeing him do all this again this year. He did OK last year—-not great, just OK. A wiser GM would have taken Dorsey and traded up for Flacco (they paid too much in draft positions for Baker). But that’s all right—-they got a real gem in Ryan, and with him the Birds are set for the next ten years, barring injury. Brooking has got to go. Ditto Milloy. Too many mistakes. And what the hell was up with Boley this year? LB is a key need. They need a tough, tall corner, too, and at least two guys who can be impact players on the D-line. Also a great TE who can really move and has good hands. If they can get 80% of this, look for the Birds to clallenge for the play-offs again next year. If not, not.

By michaelgee

January 21, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

Dimitroff is THE MAN!

The naysayers simply don’t know football from shine-ola!

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 10:00 PM | Link to this

You know, Im so tired of defending grown men who get paid millions of dollars to play a game. Keith Brooking is terrible and has been for years. Who cares about Pro Bowls? We want Super Bowls. For years and years I have wondered why do we cater to this guy? Of course he makes tackles and racks up stats, but how many plays do you actually remember him making? He gang tackles and rarely makes plays by himself. I can recall a miss sack or two in that Arizona game as well by on other than Mr. Brooking. Stop defending him!! He is not and will never be a superstar. Im tired of getting players becasue they are from here. Damn that! Im from here but I can care less if you pick up a guy from GA, or Harvard. If he can play, get him. Who cares that his family is from here and he’s a nice guy? The fact is we are tired of losing.

Im so happy Mr. Dimitroff brought the New england way of thinking here. Sometimes we in the south are too kind hearted and make excuses for people because we like them. I dont have to like you, if you perform on and off the field like a real professional should. So stop all this Brooking and Milloy love because they are “good” guys. I want them to make plays. I can care less what you say in the locker room. Stay on your man and make a damn play!! GEESH!

By Mark Bradley

January 21, 2009 10:03 PM | Link to this

Let me go back to what Dimitroff said two weeks ago: His decisions on personnel won’t be emotion-driven. I interpret that as meaning the Falcons won’t dump a Milloy or a Brooking just because they whiffed against the Cardinals, and also that the Falcons wouldn’t keep a guy just because he’s a good fellow.

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

Well, they should dump them both! I’m sure he will!

By Chris Kilroy

January 21, 2009 10:16 PM | Link to this

LOL wow -

this time last year we had no QB, no RB, nobody thought we had any WR, no coach, and lots of questions on defense too…

So the fact that they kept Brooking or any player on Def or Off who may be past their prime was not a “marketing call”

we had so many holes to fill it was ridiculous. You couldnt ask for better results in one year considering where we were 365 days ago…

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

It’s ridiculous to read the comments made by Greg. Your exactly what we dont need here as Falcons fans. Dorsey!? Has anybody even heard of the man? Flacco! Come on man, here we go with this crap. Thats part of the reason I wanted the Ravens to fail. Because gusy like you would keep talking about some damn Flacco! Please! Mr. Dimitroff did a wonderful job with the talen we had. Think about the team before he got here. The only thing he could build on was our receivers and even that was a question mark. Everybody else on the team was too old, too slow, or too sorry. Stop p** on the parade.

But hey, at least I feel you on the linebackers and Milloy. They got to go! Lofton can stay though. You got out of my dog house and now your in the guess room, Greg. But I still put a 13 inch black and white T.V in there for you!

By LAWTON

January 21, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

Let me address what the falcons have been missing for years first, a big time HITTER at safety. I dont care what nobody says, safety is the key to your defense, and you HAVE to have a nasty one back there to intimidate offenses. Milloy doesnt put fear in opponents. The other safety doesnt either. They HAVE to address that. Next, they have to upgrade the defensive line and linebacker. I would try and address defensive line by convincing either hanesworth or peppers to come as a free agent. Linebacker, safety and the tight end would be addressed thru the draft and i WOULD get another offensive lineman just in case low in the draft.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 21, 2009 10:24 PM | Link to this

“the third-and-16 conversion, on which Keith Brooking was flummoxed”

How dare you criticize the almighty Keith Brooking! Don’t you know he’s been to five Pro Bowls? Clearly you hate white people. That’s the only possible explanation for making such a statement.

(sigh)

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this

Im half white! Thats the half that hates Brooking!

By BugKiller

January 21, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

Greg…

… Dimitroff did just okay???

“Just okay.”?

Dude, you’re a moron.

A good GM would have taken Dorsey and traded up for Flunko?

Dude, you’re a Class-A Moron.

You mean the Glenn Dorsey who is a colossal BUST on the scale of Jamaal Anderson?

That Glenn Dorsey?

You mean Joe “Mr. 40% Completion Percentage” Flunko?

Dude, you’re a complete and utter Class-A Moron.

You obviously know absolutely NOTHING about football.

Sam Baker, before getting a tough-luck injury from the Dirty Bucs, was OUTPLAYING all of the tackles taken before him.

Matt Ryan is the ROY, you MORON.

Joe “Mr. 40% Completion Percentage” Flunko, was not.

If Matt Ryan had Joe Flunko’s defense, the Falcons wouldn’t have been unstoppable this year.

Dude, please, don’t ever, ever post again.

Because you’re an IDIOT!!!

Thomas Dimitroff is one of the best GMs in the NFL. Not merely adequate, like you insinuate.

Name another GM who got four starters with his first four draft picks like Dimitroff did.

Not to mention a pretty damn good nickel back in the mix as well, as some good help for special teams.

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 10:34 PM | Link to this

Five Pro Bowls! And how many super bowls? Come on man. Who cares about stats. When every tackle he makes is on the sideline 20 yards up the field. Come on man! Plus Im half white and thats the half that hates Brooking!

By Mark Bradley

January 21, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

Two weeks ago I thought the Falcons would draft a cornerback in Round 1. Now I’m thinking a safety. Or a defensive tackle.

(But that’s not a prediction. I’ve sworn off predictions until the Final Four Fiasco. That’s a guess.)

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 10:45 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bradley, I think they are going to draft a defensive tackle. I think there are so many safeties in this draft that we can wait to get a nice one in the later rounds. I really think defensive tackle is the way to go. Grady is old man! I love Gravy Grady but he only plays a little here and a little there. If peppers wasnt stuck on playing in a 3/4 that would be awesome for us to sign him. Then we could move Anderson on the inside and give him one last shot. Now that was a bad decision. We definitely got hosed by Petrino on that one!

By BugKiller

January 21, 2009 10:48 PM | Link to this

Just like The Patriot Way prescribes, the Falcons will not draft for need, they will draft for talent.

The most talent available at the time they pick.

And I am predicting, if our good prognosticator Mark Bradley refuses to do, that the Falcons will take the TE out of Okie State, Pettigrew who is a complete and utter monster in the middle of the field as well as on the blocks.

They’ll either pick him in the first round, or do what else the Patriot Way prescribes, and trade their pick to a team that will suck in 2009 for their first round draft pick in 2010, thus picking up a top-10 pick in next year’s draft, and an extra number two and four in this year’s draft.

Because that’s what the Patriots do.

They’re smarter than everyone else. It’s why they win. And why teams like the Cowboys, who treat draft picks like they don’t matter, lose and fall apart in hilarious fashion.

You get your stars through the draft, and you get your serviceable parts through free agency, only taking chances on guys like Randy Moss when you’re absolutely certain that your locker room is foolproof, I mean Fool proof.

Proof from Fools.

Like the Patriots.

The Falcons are the Patriots South.

And that is why the Falcons will be good for a very, very long time.

That is, unless the Class-A Moron, Greg, has anything else to add to the conversation.

By durtydogg

January 21, 2009 11:00 PM | Link to this

I feel you BugKiller on the tight end. But if he is as advertised, he will not be there when we get our pick. Its no way. I hope so though.
Im still feeling defensive tackle in my heart. Ill have to wait and see the free agency list though and go from there.
Now about trading our picks, I dont know if now is the time. I understand that the Patriots did it their way but right now, we need players. Once we get another good draft then maybe I can see them trading away players for picks down the line. But not right now though. But hey, your a very smart person BugKiller. I like how you think. Greg, everybody is on you man. You need to think before you post!

By Bill

January 21, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

Another great job Mark. Dimitroff is doing what a great GM should do. Got to love his work so far. keep up the good job Falcons management. Looking forward to next year.

By Mark Bradley

January 21, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this

Defensive tackle is also a distinct possibility in Round 1. And don’t be surprised if the Falcons take a tight end on the first day. (This draft is apparently heavy in TEs.)

By Falcon4Life

January 21, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, what do you think about Sean Smith from Utah? He played corner at Utah and some project him as a FS in the pros. This guy looks like a ball hawk imo. Everything I am seeing has him going between late first to mid second so he would probably be on the board when we pick. Also, looks like Raji and Curry will be long gone by the time we pick so what other names are you hearing at DT and OLB that we may be intrested in?

By big o

January 21, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

We need a stud linebacker and a stud defensive end

By Reno 911

January 21, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

I know we need safety help, but we need a pocket-collapsing force inside more, and between BJ Raji and Peria Jerry one of them will be there for us with the #1. If they are both gone, both Ron Brace, BC and Fili Moala, USC should be there with our #2.

Three days through the Senior Bowl practices, the guys on NFL network are loving the TE out of Southern Miss named Shawn Nelson. I still like Chase Coffman, Missouri, but he might not be there when our #2 comes up, and this guy sounds like a good alternative (so far).

Though we need the help in the middle badly, I’m having real trouble getting excited about ANY of the available Safeties. Blah. Maybe we can wait one more year…

So, I know it’s ridiculous, and it was dumb when I said it before…and I know it’s a year early… but is there any way in heck that we could trade, like, half of our draft picks for a shot at Taylor Mays in 2010? That’s silly, I know. but you know what else is silly? Taylor F’ing Mays. There are few defenders in the sport who can single-handedly change games, and of those handful (pre-2006 Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Troy Polamalu), it’s easy for me to see Mays as one of those guys. Maybe I’m a little out there on this Mays thing, but it’s hard for me to imagine how Mays doesn’t become one of those same kind of transcendent, dominant players. If we offered the Chiefs our #1 and one of our #5’s this year for their #1 next year, would they take it? Man, it’d be unprecedented, and maybe really, really dumb (I mean, KC could go out and win their terrible division next year), but it would be tempting, even to get a shot at a top 3 pick and Mays.

By TURTSNAP

January 21, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

WOW!!! Good to hear that Dimitroff is looking Safety!! I couldn’t help but think how great it would be to have a Troy Polamalu on our defense.

By Meanwhile...things better left unsaid

January 21, 2009 11:35 PM | Link to this

Mark, not to drag you into the brouhaha over your colleague Mr. Moore’s column today, but suffice to say that the name Pacman Jones didn’t come up in your conversation with Mr. Dimitroff?

Your statement that the Falcons are soon enough bound for a Roman numeral game comes perilously close to the “p” word we dare not speak.

Still, I think it’s safe to say it’s a good thing Dimitroff has that drafting experience from New England to bank on, because I “fully expect” the Falcons to be drafting in the late stages of the first round for years to come.

By Mark Bradley

January 21, 2009 11:45 PM | Link to this

I haven’t heard names yet. It’s a little different when you’re drafting No. 24 overall, as opposed to No. 3. There are many more variables.

I’ll tell you when/if I do.

By Mark Bradley

January 21, 2009 11:49 PM | Link to this

Oh, and here’s the difference between a feeling and a prediction: A feeling is me saying the Falcons are bound for a Super Bowl soon; a prediction is me saying the Falcons will go to the Super Bowl in 2010.

But you’re right. There’s not much difference. No matter how hard I try, I can’t seem to stop myself.

By RaySkee

January 22, 2009 1:47 AM | Link to this

I have confidence that Dimitroff and his staff will get the players to make the team better. The offense is just about there once they add that tight-end to the equation. The DEFENSE is another story. I do feel that the problem will be addressed and looking forward to next season!

By Tech Man in Dawg Country

January 22, 2009 6:52 AM | Link to this

Is this draft deep in safeties? I hear different things here than I here on the sports talk stations. There they said that the draft wasn’t deep in safeties, and the best was the guy from Missouri who was a hard hitter but couldn’t cover at all. Just wondering. (What would be really interesting if they let you draft guys who were not eligible to play (or get paid) this year, but you retain their rights until they are eligible for the draft. That would make the draft very interesting. Then we could take Eric Berry of Tennessee and wait till next year to have him on the team. Just dreaming …. )

By Buzz Capra

January 22, 2009 7:19 AM | Link to this

Safety, Linebackers, D-Line, TE. All I know is that we don’t need QB, RB or WR. Falcons have a lot of holes to fill but luckily we have 15 picks this year with 7 in the first round AND Thomas D is going to hit on all of them. Of course not it will come down to who ever they get hot and heavy for after the combine. My prediction is a BIG 12 TE.

By DB

January 22, 2009 8:23 AM | Link to this

This team is only a few pieces away from being a true SB contender each year. If Dimitroff has as great of a draft this year as he did last year then this team will be hard to beat for a while to come….

It’s a good time to be a Falcons fan!

By Thomas Dimitroff

January 22, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this

You guys slow down. I’m taking notes.

By D.Ellis

January 22, 2009 8:44 AM | Link to this

-Mark B.- in short here is what my draft plan would be:

FA-1 good DT…1 service type DT Round 1-Moore safety from Mizzou Round 2-Macho Harris CB from VT Round 3-J.Cook/C.Ingram/T.beckham TE’s from SC/UF/Wis..WHIEVER IS THERE Round 4-TRADE UP FOR Mathews OLB from USC Round 5-Best OL Round 5-Best DE Round 6-Best LB Round 7-Best OL

Hopefully Haynesworth is the FA.

By Billy

January 22, 2009 8:46 AM | Link to this

Keith 3:16, that’s a good name for him!

By maddog

January 22, 2009 8:46 AM | Link to this

If Brooking is still on the roster when the 2009 season begins, then we will know for sure that the falcons have not changed. But I dont think we will.I think that we have a winning GM who knows when a player is washed up. Brooking was above average during his day, but his day is over. lets make a change now. If we dont, we wont go very far, I dont care how good the offense is.

By Billy

January 22, 2009 8:50 AM | Link to this

Keith 3:16, that’s a good name for him!

By Now that's funny

January 22, 2009 8:51 AM | Link to this

Eric Berry, from Tenn!!!!!!! That guy is a monster. ERIC BERRY FROM TENN. ERIC BERRY ERIC B E.B.

By AlphaDog

January 22, 2009 8:52 AM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks they kept Brooking for sentimental reasons is an idiot. The one thing the New look Falcons proved in the off-season was that its a business. If they had a more talented WLB they would of played him, of that I have no doubt. They didn’t, so they played with what they had. I love how people make these bold proclamations about the moves the Gm/Coach makes as if they do not want to put talent on the field. The irrational never take into consideration contracts/salary cap/available free agents. With that said, until the GM/Coach give me a good reason to doubt any of their decision(which they haven’t yet, I was expecting 5/6 wins this year, and I too wanted Dorsey) I’ll trust them.

Brooking can still contribute, just not at the salary he’ll want. Cut him and move on. I’m sure he will not stay unemployeed long.

There are still tons of holes to fill on this team on both sides of the ball. I hope they take the most talented player available (no QB or WR) in the 1st round then draft for need.

By Birdfan

January 22, 2009 8:52 AM | Link to this

You have to love it. This time last year, all was doom and gloom on this post. Today fans are actually complaining that we missed going to the Big Dance because of one or two plays. And by the way, Najeh Davenpoop, when did you get back from Jacksonville? You must have springs in your legs man , the way you hop on and off the wagon. Get em birds….

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 8:58 AM | Link to this

If I had to guess — and this is a guess, not a prediction — I’d say the Falcons won’t sign a big-name free agent this offseason. (No Haynesworth and no Dansby, in other words.) I’m thinking they’ll try to work more economically, which means via the draft.

But again: I’m often (always?) wrong.

By PatrickT

January 22, 2009 9:00 AM | Link to this

Then I’m sure Birdy, you know who the better option was, right? Top line talent was just lined up at the door at Flowery Branch, but this front office said “No, we don’t want your talent, we want Brooking because his Jersey sells.” You people who think you’re so much more knowledgeable than the people who do this for a living are laughable. Brooking was the best option for what they needed at the time. His skills are diminished, but his leadership and football IQ (along with Milloy’s) are a big part of why this defense over-achieved.

By PatrickT

January 22, 2009 9:03 AM | Link to this

Then I’m sure Birdy, you know who the better option was, right? Top line talent was just lined up at the door at Flowery Branch, but this front office said “No, we don’t want your talent, we want Brooking because his Jersey sells.” You people who think you’re so much more knowledgeable than the people who do this for a living are laughable. Brooking was the best option for what they needed at the time. His skills are diminished, but his leadership and football IQ (along with Milloy’s) are a big part of why this defense over-achieved.

By Meidzo

January 22, 2009 9:07 AM | Link to this

I think Stephen Nicholas can play…..this means we just need a strongside guy! I think Deossie from the Giants can play!

I think there are several TE’s that we could draft, high draft status does not always mean production. All we need is a receiving TE? The guy can develop as a blocker.

We have our blocking TE’s in place, so we can draft a guy who is basically a big WR..therefore no need for a 1st Rounder!

By VaBirdDawg

January 22, 2009 9:13 AM | Link to this

D.Ellis- NO MORE VT thugs. There are lots of safetys out there without having to go to Blacksburg to get another D. Hall type player. This is a team, and VY players have shown that they are not TEAM players. They are ME players. DT, TE. Safety ,DE outside LB and OL upgrades are where the money shoule go this year. They are building something special that we will be able to be proud of. Proud Atlanta Falcons fans. How strange does that sound….

By gdg73

January 22, 2009 9:19 AM | Link to this

Milloy got beat by two future Hall of Famers (Fitzgerald and Boldin). Brooking got hustled by a tight end that was pumping gas this time last year (Spach). See a difference. The first poster was right. Brooking was kept for marketing purposes so that a certain segment of the fan-base would relate to a familiar, friendly face and thus buy into the new regime. Dump this loser now. Highway 56 must go. If he is on the team next year, that would be a clear sign to me that this team is not serious about winning it all.

By noddy dred

January 22, 2009 9:30 AM | Link to this

EVERYONE GET READY FOR THE FIRST ANNUAL STEWPER BOWL PARTY AT THE LUCKY LOUNGE. THIS PARTY, HOSTED BY THE 2 LIVE STEWS, WILL BE THE BIGGEST SUPERBOWL PARTY IN AT LEAST 11 YEARS. COME HANG OUT WITH ME, THE STEWS, AND NUMEROUS CELEBRITIES AT THE FIRST ANNUAL STEWPER BOWL PARTY. TELL THEM NODDY SENT YOU!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 22, 2009 9:51 AM | Link to this

PETA IS URGING THAT VICK UNDERGO A BRAIN SCAN AND A FULL PSYCHIATRIC EVALUATION

By falcon12

January 22, 2009 9:53 AM | Link to this

Mark,

How much are the falcons under the cap going into this year? Do you know how much the NFL will increase the cap this year?

By 1911A1

January 22, 2009 10:01 AM | Link to this

In Thomas We Trust!

By mars

January 22, 2009 10:06 AM | Link to this

As enamoured with Julious Peppers as I am, that might not be the way to go. Bierman is doing well enough to pass Anderson in the line-up, and we need to start considering Grady’s future. He’s been a blessin for our team but he’s no longer an every down player. B. J. Raji for our first pick seems to be the most logical direction. At LB we need to be careful not to throw out the proverbial baby. Coy Wire and Stephen Nicholas are impressive enough to consider for the future. Suggs should definitely be a consideration for F/A. Brookings days as a dominating force are over, but I think a pay cut and back-up position are beneficial to him and the team. Safety…well I don’t see help on the horizon unless some cream rises to the top in the draft. Perhaps we could bring back a light and fast LB (Demorrio Williams) and hybrid him into a MONSTER safety roaming around in the backfield. Now, that sounds like fun!

By Barry

January 22, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

Dimtitroff is right on point in looking for defensive help, especially on the defensive line where we need a pass rusher like John Abraham. In fact, we need a team full of players that play like John Abraham on the defensive side of the ball. That includes the linemen,linebackers , and defensive backes. We need aggressive, assertive, big, strong players in the mold of John Abraham.

On the defensive back side, we have to be creative. We need ome flexible but physical defensive backs that are not all muscle. We need defensive backe that are quick and elusive who are abel to recover quicly when a receiver happens to get a step on them.. We need “ball hawks” that are apt a creating turnovers when they tackle. we want aggressive stripers of the ball. We want to be a hard hittting, run stuffing, turnover gettin team. that the way to go on the defensive side of the ball.

On the offensive side of the ball, we still need some big, nasty, fast, tough, smart linemen. we want to be able to move any defensive line. We need to made in the mold of the New York Giants offensive line. They are big, wide, nasty line men who go at it. I love the linemen we have now, but we can never get short on some more “big nasties”. Our running backs and receivers are O.K. However, We still need to be looking for that great receiver or running back that could always be a possible star in the leaugue.

All in all Dimitroff should have fun in bolstering the Falcons as a whole. I look forward to some great football next year with a stronger, faster, and innovative united team. I look forward to it in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”.

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY.

WAIT UNTIL NEXT YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!SEE Y’ALL AAT THE DOME!!!!!!!!!!

Ringold

By Dario

January 22, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

Dario from Turin, Italy. I think upgrading the defence was our first priority for next year since before the start of the season, not just after the Cardinals’game. Aging players like Milloy and Brooking are certainly reliable in terms of leadership, but not in playmaking ability. While Milloy still deserve to start (he’s still capable of playing the run very well, and still makes ggod tackle), i think Brooking career is near the end. He was allowed to play outside linebacker, his natural position, but yet struggled to make many big plays. Keith is certainly a good person, and dedicated his entire career for the Falcons, being very active not only on the field but also in the community. But now it’s time to move on. Linebacker will certainly be a position Dimitroff will try to upgrade. Needs on defensive line and secondary means this won’t be spending an high draft pick, so i think we’ll try to pursue a savvy veteran LB in free-agency (look at what Baltimore will do with his trio). With our first dfrat selection i think it will depends on what player will be available at #24. A safety, defensive tackle or cornerback will be picked based on the better player available when it come to us to select. With an upgraded defence we’ll be more competitive than this year, but i think the superbowl is still a pair of season away. Look at 2009 schedule: it will be very tough, and it will be hard to reach the playoffs. Grreting from Italy, and sorry if my english isn’t perfect. I hope you’ll understand my feelings. Bye

By Dario

January 22, 2009 10:17 AM | Link to this

Dario from Turin, Italy. I think upgrading the defence was our first priority for next year since before the start of the season, not just after the Cardinals’game. Aging players like Milloy and Brooking are certainly reliable in terms of leadership, but not in playmaking ability. While Milloy still deserve to start (he’s still capable of playing the run very well, and still makes ggod tackle), i think Brooking career is near the end. He was allowed to play outside linebacker, his natural position, but yet struggled to make many big plays. Keith is certainly a good person, and dedicated his entire career for the Falcons, being very active not only on the field but also in the community. But now it’s time to move on. Linebacker will certainly be a position Dimitroff will try to upgrade. Needs on defensive line and secondary means this won’t be spending an high draft pick, so i think we’ll try to pursue a savvy veteran LB in free-agency (look at what Baltimore will do with his trio). With our first dfrat selection i think it will depends on what player will be available at #24. A safety, defensive tackle or cornerback will be picked based on the better player available when it come to us to select. With an upgraded defence we’ll be more competitive than this year, but i think the superbowl is still a pair of season away. Look at 2009 schedule: it will be very tough, and it will be hard to reach the playoffs. Grreting from Italy, and sorry if my english isn’t perfect. I hope you’ll understand my feelings. Bye

By willdave

January 22, 2009 10:18 AM | Link to this

Mark, I agree. No point crying over spilled milk, but that playoff loss against Air-zona was truly a wasted opportunity. When you consider that no NFC team appears to have been truly dominant this season, the Falcons might have had a clear shot to SB43 had they avoided as little as one bad play against the Cardinals.

For example, consider that fumble to start the second half that led to an easy touchdown for Air-zona. Just take that off the board, and you might have had a 24-23 Falcon victory.

Anyway, like you, I am confident that Dimitroff and Smitty will make the right moves to improve this already impressive team in 2009.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 22, 2009 10:27 AM | Link to this

Birdfan, just because I don’t root for the Falcons doesn’t mean I don’t call ATL home.

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 10:29 AM | Link to this

You really can’t criticize a team that was picked to go 1-15 for not reaching the Super Bowl. At the same time, the Falcons seemed a better team than Arizona going into the playoffs. (At least to me they did.)

By JohnGTFan

January 22, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

Mark

I agree with you brother…I don’t think ATL will sign any big-time free agents. And I think they are right. We’ve got a very good core of young players. Draft what you need…DT, LB, S, TE. I don’t know how many draft picks ATL currently has (9?), but enough to get what we need and stock the OL as well. I think ATL will bring in a couple solid (not overpriced) free agents that will contribute. But I think Brooking and Boley will be gone. Please Please Please keep Foxworth.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 22, 2009 10:32 AM | Link to this

The Cardinals were literally two yards away from missing the playoffs. I’m not sure they are better than the Falcons even now.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

January 22, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

GET ‘ER DONE DIMITROFF!!!

GO FALCONS!!

By Dwayne

January 22, 2009 10:44 AM | Link to this

Had the offense not given up 9 points (Defensive touchdown & safety) the Falcons could have won!!!

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Here’s yet another guess/not-quite-prediction: Michael Boley won’t be a Falcon next season.

By CTfalconfan

January 22, 2009 11:20 AM | Link to this

Hi Mark, so you think ATL will shed both Boley and Brooking in the off-season? - What are your thoughts about trying to go after Peppers and MAYBE moving Jamaal Anderson inside but he’s tall and may have problems shedding blocks??

By Ernest

January 22, 2009 11:25 AM | Link to this

There will be some good ‘bargains’ in FA this year. If we pick up one to two defensive players in FA, the first pick could be the TE, if available. Having another receiving weapon in the middle of the field that keeps the chains moving can be as good as an elite defensive lineman. Some mocks have the Falcons taking the TE Coffman from Mizzou in the 2nd round also.

Mark, what do you know about Trey Lewis, the defensive lineman that missed the season for the Falcons? I hear they are extremely high on him. While I’d like to see Raji taken with the first pick, if available, how the Falcons feels about young, returning talent will also influence their decision.

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 11:25 AM | Link to this

I think Boley, Brooking and Milloy will be gone. I think Jamaal Anderson will become a full-time DT. I don’t think the Falcons will pursue Julius Peppers.

Again, that’s just me. Thanks for asking.

By GATORZONE

January 22, 2009 11:33 AM | Link to this

Mark, what happened to Boley??

He was all world 2 years ago and totally vanished last year

By SirReal

January 22, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

Guys, 1) I agree that we should NOT have drafted Dorsey (although I lobbied for it…..I’m just know being able to take my foot out of my mouth.LOL) and Joe FLATco will be exposed next year b/c w Rex Ryan (who’s gonna be a HELL of a coach) and half of the defense gone to free agency. Let’s see what happens when he has to beat a team with his arm ALL game and with them reaching the AFC title game, that schedule will be BRUTAL!!! 2) Mr. Bradley’s right guys about the free agents. I too dont think we should expect a huge splash as far as big names go. (Althouggh we know Blank STILL has an itchy trigger finger…he just has a GM now that can help him keep the guns in the cabinet.LOL)I think we sign some B-list free agents to sew up some holes. Remember we want our team to beat one unit now. (Where’s that “one hearbeat” guy anyway?) 3) We draft a great TE. If Pettigrew’s available, we should snatch him in the 1st rd. After that, ALL defense. Specifically safeties and DTs. Grady cant do it forever. We should look for a Bob Sanders or Troy Polamalu type safety. These are the concerns I think we should address. Would anybody agree with this assessment of the team?

By webhead

January 22, 2009 12:26 PM | Link to this

Brooking is not going anywhere , you bunch of dumb a* white hating racist. You don’t throw away the best player on defense away for nothing.He stuck around because he great and leads the team in tackles every stinkin’ year That’s why You morons!

By Reno 911

January 22, 2009 12:51 PM | Link to this

webhead

I’m as white as a snowflake, brother, but it doesn’t effect my assessment of Keith Brooking. He’s a great guy, and local, but none of that matters much when he’s two steps late to pretty much everything. Let’s not make this about race—because isn’t. Six years ago, against Tampa Bay, in the dome, I remember standing and screaming “no!” as I watched Michael Pittman release into a circle route, with the Falcons in man coverage. Brooking never had a chance. Brooking had already swiveled his hips and was moving to cover the toure he KNEW Pittman was running, and he still didn’t have a chance. Pittman covered about 10 yards (and caught the pass) in the time it took Brooking to cover 3. After that, it looked like Brooking was chasing the ice cream truck down the street. That was six years ago, man.
It’s time to let him go.

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 1:05 PM | Link to this

GatorZone, you’re asking the same question the Falcons are asking. I think it’s fair to say he hasn’t embraced the new regime in quite the way the new regime would have hoped.

By Zach

January 22, 2009 1:22 PM | Link to this

Brooking stays, but doesn’t start. He’s a strong leader and can mentor young players well. Guy’s had a great career here, and deserves to stay if he wants. He would just have to earn a starting job, which I don’t think he would. It’s the same situation going on with the Braves. If you aren’t loyal to your loyal employees, who wants to play for you? He doesn’t have to start, but he’s been to the big game and his mentoring of young LBs would be valuable.

And if having “good guys” or “quality people” in the locker room doesn’t matter, just go get Pacman Jones, T.O., Plaxico Burress, and bring Mike Vick back.

I saw that VickSupporter2. PETA is a bunch of lunatics. They need the psych evaluations.

By Zach

January 22, 2009 1:22 PM | Link to this

Brooking stays, but doesn’t start. He’s a strong leader and can mentor young players well. Guy’s had a great career here, and deserves to stay if he wants. He would just have to earn a starting job, which I don’t think he would. It’s the same situation going on with the Braves. If you aren’t loyal to your loyal employees, who wants to play for you? He doesn’t have to start, but he’s been to the big game and his mentoring of young LBs would be valuable.

And if having “good guys” or “quality people” in the locker room doesn’t matter, just go get Pacman Jones, T.O., Plaxico Burress, and bring Mike Vick back.

I saw that VickSupporter2. PETA is a bunch of lunatics. They need the psych evaluations.

By Slim Shady

January 22, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley

I know a lot of focus will be on defense, but any word on contract extensions for White and Norwood? Will upgrading the defense take money away from extending their contracts? I know defense wins, but so does scoring more points.

By GATORZONE

January 22, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I wonder how Boley embraced and played so well under Petrino when everyone else on the team seemed to hate his guts.

Now, when evreyone else seems to embrace the new coach/system, he goes in the tank.

Does his arrest last year have anything to do with his situation on the team? Perhaps, he was seen as not having a future with the Falcons?

Mark, any help?

By Crazy Legs Norwood

January 22, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

Peppers will be franchised and then traded. They are not going to let him go for nothing. I don’t see the Falcons parting with 1st round picks to a division rival. Maybe T. Suggs??

I think Thomas. D. will focus on DT, fast OLB’s, and Safeties. TE will probably be no higher than 3rd round. Just my hunch/prediction.

By falcon12

January 22, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

I was saying all year , what has happened to Boley! So he did not take in the new regime as well as the rest of the team. Huh? That is a little suprising. I hate to hear that because of his upside.

By Daddys357

January 22, 2009 2:03 PM | Link to this

I really think we should sign the free agent CB from Oakland. He is the perfect shut down corner we are missing and has a great attitude. Do you have any thoughts on that Mark? I think with that CB, TE first round everything else would fall into place.

By Daddys357

January 22, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

I really think we should sign the free agent CB from Oakland. He is the perfect shut down corner we are missing and has a great attitude. Do you have any thoughts on that Mark? I think with that CB, TE first round everything else would fall into place.

By Crazy Legs Norwood

January 22, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Nnamdi Asomugha is also likely to be franchised, I believe. Of course, it is the Raiders. But it begs the question: should the Falcons decide to spend top FA money on a defensive player, is it better to have a top pass rusher to help the secondary or a top corner to help the pass rush??

By Daddys357

January 22, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

I would say a top corner. If Anderson does move to DT that would allow him more time (which is something he is running out of) along with everyone else on the D-line. ALso having Asomugha would finally give us someone to stick S.Smith, Galloway, Colsten, and every other reciever that always seem to put 100+ yards on us twice a year.

By SirReal

January 22, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

Reno 911, I agree. Lets not make this about race please. We’re all Falcons fans here. I’m “black” and I’ve seen a lot of “black” guys suck for the Birds the same way I’ve seen “white” guys suck for the Birds. Get real with life. Keep the bigotry to yourself please. This blog is for FALCON FANS not FALKKKON FANS!!! Let’s please keep it about the game. Sorry CrazyLegsNorwood but us snatching the phenom Asomugha is just a dream, though you make some EXCELLENT points. Guess we’ll have to wait and see.LOL I just dont see us spendnig big bucks this year. We’re not rebuilding at this point. We’re retooling. :)

By Selwyn

January 22, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this

I predict that Stephen Nicholas will start on the Will LB side and bring in another veteran/rookie to push Michael Boley on the Strong Side.

I also believe that DT(BJ Rajji or his counterpart Brace/BC) in the First round; and TE(Jared Cook-SC/Gresham-OK/Coffman-MO) in the second round.

I pray that Dominique Johnson from Jackson State is available in round 3.

* We need to bring in someone to push Chris Houston as the other corner. He does not have any one-on-one skills whatsoever and never looks back at the ball*

By Matt Yoder

January 22, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

When you say the Falcons will go to the Super Bowl in 2010 are you thinking this upcoming season or the next?

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

I’m not saying they’re going to the Super Bowl in 2010. (Not yet, anyway.) But if I were, it would probably come after the 2010 season, not in February 2010.

By GATORZONE

January 22, 2009 3:40 PM | Link to this

Mark, what is the scoop w/Boley? Did he become expendable after his arrest last year?

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe the arrest has anything to do with it. I believe his play under the new staff simply deteriorated, for whatever reason.

All I know is that there were games this season when I forgot Boley was on the field.

By GATORZONE

January 22, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this

I agree. It did seem to me that something was off with him from the preseason forward. He seemed to have lost some of the fire that I had gotten accustomed to seeing.

By SirReal

January 22, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Mr.Bradley and GatorZone, I agree with you. His play fell off this year. I too dont know what happened. I know the man has a lot on his shoulders in regard to his personal life. We sometimes forget these gladiators are human beings first. Something was definitely wrong with him guys. I’m just trying to think of things that may have been factors….the sad part is the NFL is a cold world. His play may have cost him his job here and a little cash too. I hope he resurges….whether with us or elsewhere.

By Sly Ty

January 22, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this

The falcons have a bright future, and I have faith that the GM will do a good job again. I can’t forsee us getting Hayneworth or Asomough, we will build through the Draft. Provided that he is there the TE Pettigrew will be our 1st pick, and a LB will be the 2nd. Oh and please, resign#24 Foxworth. He was superb for us, please resign Foxworth. Stephen Nichols will replace Brooking at WLB, and Brooking should be kept….for the league minimum. Elsewise, he is gone. He is not worth 6 million.

By falcon12

January 22, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this

Everyone is forgetting about Von Hutchins. He got injured the first day of training camp last year.He is a very good CB. He could be a great addition for our secondary next year. We can focus on other positions in the draft or free agency.

By SirReal

January 22, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this

Falcon12, That may be a good thing that everyone has forgotten about Von Hutchins. Yes, he is a VERY solid corner (Would Dimitroff have brought him in if he didnt think he was?lol). Guys, we could have a solid tandem if we resign Foxworth and Von Hutchins does well. Chris Houston needs to be challenged . I like him and i think this will be what he needs to get to the next level. At the very least, we’d have some depth at CB. We could then focus on other parts we need on D such as safety and DTs.

By Mark Bradley

January 22, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

I believe the Falcons see Von Hutchins as a nickel back. Could be wrong, though.

By DebJay32

January 22, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this

Ya gotta sign at least one FA, Ya gonna need a vet on that defense after ya let keith, boley and milloy go. Deffinitely draft a safety, LB, and TE., but i rather have a vet DL and vets on the depth chart. FALCONS FAN SINCE 1990!!

By Say What?

January 22, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

Mark- Please Answer This

Everyone knows the Falcons need 1 or 2 big-time playmakers via FA. How in the world are we expecting to compete next year by trying to win with rookies? To me that does not make sense. If we go by your assumption that the Falcons will try and luring 2nd tier FA players, then that’s what we will get next year and no trip to the SB. Bank on it!

We have only 1 consistent star on our team and that’s Abraham. The rest, including Ryan, Turner and White, we don’t know what to expect next year…neither player has shown any consistency because this was the first real success for all three players. And if I had to guess — and this is a guess, not a prediction if we do not sign a FA like that of a Haynesworth, we, too, will endure another year of disappointment.

Lastly, I find it somewhat odd that you are pretty confident that Boley will be gone next year, but no mention of Brooking.

By N2Pain

January 23, 2009 7:28 AM | Link to this

Finally the world realizes Jamaal Anderson was the only 2007 Top Ten bust and needs to be jettisoned out. Keep the enema in the D and move out Milloy, Houston, Boley, and trade or draft all D-help. Falcons desperately need WR help with no one reliable. Shoddy White is decent but the demons own him and he will flop like a sad sack in big games. He’s the same Shoddy we know and love from the Vick era where he was God awful.

By Ernest

January 23, 2009 8:10 AM | Link to this

Say What?, obviously you did not read Mark’s post @ 11:25 AM.

By SC

January 23, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

Mark, I agree on Brooking,and Milloy. Not sure about Boley. I think we definitely draft a def lineman or a safety in the first depending on what we do in free agency. I would love to see Haynesworth added. We play alot of zone and a good zone corner can be drafted in later rounds. I hope we get Foxworth back.

By Pun 706

January 23, 2009 12:26 PM | Link to this

I was lucky enough to attend this wks Senior Bowl practices and to be able to speak to both Coach Smith and GM Dimitroff, and I can ASSURE YOU ALL that defense was a HIGH PRIORITY. One of these 3 players (gut instinct) will be in a Falcons uniform this season; DT BJ Raji, DT MITCH KING ( Iowa ) or DE/OLB Larry English. ALL THREE OF THESE CATS WERE DOMINANT AND I’D WELCOME EITHER ONE OF THEM WITH OPEN ARMS!!!!!!!!!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 23, 2009 5:28 PM | Link to this

THE WHEELS HAS STARTED

——SAN FRAN HAS STARTED THE BIDDING———

ESPN REPORTS THAT MV7 IS BEING COURTED BY THE 49ERS……SO FOR ALL THOSE SAYING MV7 WILL NEVER BE A QB AGAIN……SORRY :)

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 23, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this

http://blacksportsonline.com/index/2009/01/do-49ers-want-michael-vick.html

By junkyardawg41

January 23, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this

Mark,

You’re analysis is spot on as usual. The Falcons will go either S or TE with their pick. If a S ball hawk is on the board, the Falcons will probably go that direction, if not, a TE with excellent blocking skills and a decent route runner will be selected. The Falcons do not currently covet a receiving TE as much as a blocking TE. The last piece of the puzzle to assist the O-line (which looked awful against AZ but I digress). As for D help, it will be centered around the stop run first philosophy. It was the Jacksonville way and it is the way BVG coaches… look back at old UGA film to see the philosophy. That means above average sized, athletic DTs (not neccesarily dominant), edge speed DEs, fast linebackers and a safety punisher…where is scotty case when we need him.

By falconsfan1545

January 23, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

The Falcons may have been lucky a few times but they were no more lucky than anyone else this year. The falcons put a good team on the field and won some games this year, without much star-power. Get a couple of impact players on D and you may be hearing them talk about a superbowl next year (Hint: Albert Haynesworth)

By DebJay32

January 24, 2009 9:19 AM | Link to this

Sanfran would be a good spot for vick and thaey would play the falcons this coming season but it will be in Sanfran. If they gave pacman, chris henry, tank johnson, and rickey williams another shot they need to give vick another shot!

By Mark Bradley

January 24, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

It’s my belief that the Falcons think they can get greater value by drafting for talent, as opposed to paying for it in free agency. That doesn’t mean they won’t spend for the right guy — they spent to import Michael Turner — but I would be shocked if they went on a spending spree.

By Pun 706

January 24, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

I, for one, am NOT INTERESTED in spending a lot of money on certain free agents. I can live without Haynesworth and Peppers. This draft is DEEP on defensive linemen. We haven’t seen enough of Von Hutchins yet, so I do wanna slow my roll in grabbing the DB from Oakland. We can SOLIDIFY our defense thru the draft.

By DebJay32

January 24, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

Mark, every team needs vet leadership, if you do not bring back brooking, Milloy, or boley you are gonna hsve to replace the mental know how those guys have. Physically they don’t have it anymore, i agree and thats what you have to replace. Bring in just one or two FA’s and you still can draft what you want.

By dalyman

January 24, 2009 11:28 PM | Link to this

i am a supporter of the falcons, butt keeping keith brooking would stop a lot of fans from retuning as season ticket holders.

By Jake W

January 25, 2009 2:34 AM | Link to this

I’d probably take a DT (possibly Raji if he’s still availiable, or Jerry) or maybe a LB in the first round and go after that TE Shawn Nelson from Southern Miss in the 2nd round.

By J.Quinn

January 25, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this

I like the info i’m hearing, in a perfect fan world we could sign haynesworth and trade anderson for a real 2nd round draft pick defensive end to get the pressure off of abraham, also get rid of brooking ( i havent liked the way he’s played for years) and also milloy (he’s slow and doesnt play with enough fire) pick up Cushing out of USC in the 1st round to replace brooking, I like the way Wire played so I wouldnt mind keeping him he was very athletic and aggressive… and Taylor Mays at safety in 2010, he is an awesome player…pick up a wiley 5 or 6 yr player for the 09 season, as for the offense we were young and played well so i see the offensive line getting alot better as well as matty ice,turner,norwood,douglas, and roddy white, i would like to see us add another tight end with explosiveness and some depth at WR and another couple solid Offensive lineman

By Andrew

January 26, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this

that “cornerback from oakland” is nnamdi asomugha..he is known as the baddest cornerback in the nfl and is compared to deion sanders…he will go games at a time without seeing a ball thrown his way, he was on thrown on 27 times this year with only 8 completions against him, randy moss and tony gonzalez were the only two to have multiple catches with 3 each..also having guarded greats such as steve smith and chad johnson…he would be a perfect fit for the falcons and we would be able to focus all of out attention towards stopping the run, wouldnt be suprised if raiders did all they can to resign him though…

Also, what do you think about drafting a safety such as rashad johnson, he is known for being incredibly smart and atheletic and is constantly making plays on the ball know matter what part of the field it is..the guy was a walk on running back as a freshman and was captain of the defense by his senior year..does anybody remember his 3 Ints against LSU with one being for a touchdown??

By Andrew

January 26, 2009 4:38 PM | Link to this

O yea..and by the way Keith Brooking is from my hometown and I’m all for getting rid of the guy..and yes I am white..just in case there was any confusion there…the guy stinks, yes he racks up stats but only because he runs in and jumps on the pile after two guys have already made the tackle…

By 74Dawg

January 26, 2009 8:15 PM | Link to this

Mark,face it, you are a serial predicter. As opposed to a cereal predicter. You can’t stop yourself. When you make your living as a sports collumnist,that’s not a bad thing. Being wrong all the time,another matter.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 27, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this

DOME SALES DOWN 1.2 MILLION

HOW COULD THIS HAPPEN WITH THE “NEW FACE” OF THE FRANCHISE?

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 28, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this

IT WOULD BE SO MUCH EASIER ON MY LIFE

IF MATT RYAN WOULD’VE HAD A CRAPPY SEASON

VICK IS BROKE AND HAS NO JOB

UNDERSTAND, THIS IS A BIG PROBLEM FOR ME

By dan

January 28, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

First off, let me say that NOTHING the Falcons did this year was a fluke. This team earned it on the field and MADE their own luck. Dimitroff did a great job by getting a franschise QB and deserves the credit. However, now we must address our weaknesses. On defense we need a whole new secondary. Those guys play hard, but they’re outmatched against the Larry Fitzgerald’s of the world. We need to replace Brooking in the linebacking corp and we need another DE and DT. On offense we need another OT, Todd Weiner can barely move he’s so bad physically. Sam Baker is good but needs to stay injury free. So the Tackle position needs depth. And in the future( like 2010 draft), we need another power back to back up Michael Turner(Norwood ain’t that back) and another WR to take some of the pressure off Roddy( Finneran, Jenkins are 3# receivers at best).

By Andrew

January 28, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

Vick sucks..and i will laugh at the team that decides to give him a chance….he’ll never make it

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 29, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this

SOMEBODY TELL ME HOW

——-MOBILE QUARTERBACK——————

DOME SELLS-OUT PROFITS UP

——-NEW FACE OF THE FRANCHISE———

DOME LOST 1.2 MILLION PROFITS DOWN

YEAH THAT’S AN IMPROVEMENT :)

DON’T YOU JUST HATE THOSE WORTHLESS MOBILE QUARTERBACKS :)

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 29, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

MATT RYAN HAS COMPLETELY RUINED MY LIFE

I’VE GONE THROUGH SO MANY DIFFERENT SCREEN NAMES THAT I FORGOT WHO I REALLY AM

RYAN SUCKS, TAMPA BAY, OFFICIAL STATS, CHICAGO, REALITY_CHECK

BUT THEN I SAW SOMETHING AMAZING

SOMEBODY USING THE SCREEN NAME VICK SUPPORTER

SO I TOOK IT AND ADDED A 2 AT THE END OF IT

I USED TO ACTUALLY WRITE HOW I FEEL INSTEAD OF THESE ONE LINERS

BUT THE 2008 ROY CHANGED ALL OF THAT

PLUS ONE TIME I SAID THAT RYAN SUCKED AND VICK SUPPORTER HAD TO CORRECT ME BY SAYING THAT RYAN WAS ACTUALLY GOOD JUST NOT AS GOOD AS VICK

I WAS USING THE SCREEN NAME RYAN SUCKS AT THE TIME

I WANTED TO MAKE NICE WITH VS SO I USED HIS NAME SO HE COULDN’T CALL ME OUT ANYMORE

NOW WE’RE AS COOL AS MATT RYAN SLEEPING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE PILLOW

STILL MY LIFE IS RUINED BECAUSE THE FALCONS ARE DOING JUST FINE WITHOUT VICK

D@MN MATT RYAN!!

By Andrew

January 29, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

you mean better withought vick, alot better…yea ticket sales are down, but atleast we are winning as opposed to not winning???? And now we actually have a quarterback who understands the game and is a team leader, as opposed to a quarterback who is extremely athletic and runs around like a chicken with his head cut off

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 31, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

POSTSEASON WINS IN 2002 & 2004

How many playoff wins did we get in 2007 & 2008.

FLACCO HAD 2 BUT HE IS NO “ROY” :)

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 1, 2009 6:25 AM | Link to this

POSTSEASON WINS IN 2002 & 2004

THAT’S IT………………..THAT’S ALL I GOT

ONLY STUFF THAT DOESN’T MATTER

OLD STUFF, NOTHING NEW HAS HAPPENED

OH WAIT, THERE WAS THE 2008 ROY AND UH, LET ME THINK………………..OH YEAH, MV7 COULD BE MOVING TO A HALF WAY HOUSE ANY DAY NOW

THAT’S HILARIOUS :)

By Mike

February 1, 2009 11:24 PM | Link to this

I hope Jerry lands in Atlanta’s lap come draft day. Hayneworth and Peppers will both be costly, I think you get more bang for your buck with Suggs!!!!

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 10, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

JOE FLACCO

—-C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S—-

http://www.nfl.com/partner?partnerType=rookies

NFL & DIET PEPSI “ROY”

FINALLY SOME TRUE FOOTBALL BRAINS GOT IT RIGHT :)

SORRY LEAF :)

By mars

February 11, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

How proud one must be to have one’s hero upgrading to a halfway house. What a breakthrough! What an accomplishment! Redemption is here! Matt Ryan won’t be going to no halfway house, huh? Not good enough, no!