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Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Hartwell back; D. Williams demoted
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
There were two personnel changes made by the Falcons Wednesday, one forced; the other a move that reduces the role of a key defender so medically rehabilitated middle linebacker Ed Hartwell could be inserted into the starting lineup.
The insertion of Hartwell, who has not played this season after having both knees arthroscopically repaired, comes at the expense of outside linebacker Demorrio Williams, who has been relegated to nickel packages and special teams. Williams was demoted because Keith Brooking, who was moved back to his familiar position of weakside outside linebacker. Brooking, who played well in the middle, said he is much better suited to play on the weakside and looks forward to playing the position because he has more space in which to operate.
Hartwell, meanwhile, said his return comes at an optimum time. Since he spent most of his career in Baltimore, Hartwell said he is familiar with Pittsburgh’s style and is looking forward to getting back on the field against an opponent that will run more at him than away from him.
Offensively, the Falcons will replace Matt Lehr — suspended four games for violating the NFL’s steroid policy — with Tyson Clabo, a practice squad player who is now being thrown into the fire. Coach Jim Mora, quarterback Michael Vick and offensive tackle Wayne Gandy said Clabo should be able to fill in well, unless he gets stage fright in his debut. Gandy said the Falcons’ blocking scheme is predicated on assignments, not physical dominance, which should also help Clabo.
In regards to Lehr, no player openly expressed him letting the team down and all said they would be supportive.
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