Falcons

By dirtiestbird

March 12, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

I’m floored that significant changes have not been made in regards to STOPPING THE RUN. We were embarassed on more than one occassion last year when the D-line wore down in the 4thy quarter. Size, depth or both have to be a priority this year.

By Great Falconi

March 12, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

The Falcons may pick a safety in the first round, but I expect to see three or four linemen (offensive and defensive) drafted.

By D-Man

March 12, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

I agree Steve, we do need some assurance on the left end we really don’t have a run-hungry DE in the system right now on that end, maybe on the other side but that’s if Abraham stays healthy. Chauncy Davis shows flashes of greatness but these are grown men and they don’t sometimes play, they play hard all the time.

We also need a SAFETY, this is the only position we currently don’t even have on the roster, someone tell me a safety we have right now and I can tell you why there not. We need a dedicated CB, and another MLB I give Keith another two seasons we need to start looking for his replacement, and please don’t loose Demorrio for this will be a HUGE mistake. I also think we need to bring in Stokley from the Colts and sure up a dedicated slot position.

By D-Man

March 12, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

We need Spartans on both sides of the line!!!

By Allbtme

March 12, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the new blog, now let just stick to talking about the game and leaving our personal feelings out…..

By Chris J

March 12, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

they cant even risk it get rid of schaub for a second rounder or use him to move up and grab a left tackle or just sign the big boi who baltimore cut he was dogging our lineman when we played them we let porkchop get away we need a hog man please dont f* up the draft the only way you dont take laundry at ten is if Jammal Anderson or Gaines Adams fall to you i mean im a Falcon fan regaurdless just like i root for the hawks even though they drafted that bum sheldon williams who they claim was ready to play

By Brian Hunt

March 12, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Rich McKay is not the man for the job. The offensive line contracts that he extended last season made no sense then, and they look ludicrous now. Tim Ruskell was the strength of the personnel department and with out him, McKay is lost. Weak O-line play will stall Petrino’s offense the same way it did Knapp’s.

By Keeping it real

March 12, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Most people who watch this offense line know we are in trouble. The run blocking was OK except in short yardage. Pass blocking what a joke. People who say this offense line is fine need there head checked. Management don’t want to pay or draft pro bowl offense line. you want to do better in the passing game we need linemen. You can’t spin this this and say we don’t need line if so we need new management. How Manny more year must the fans must we have a bull$hit offense line. There grade on blocking in a game has to be poor. McKay you must do better on offense and defense. Management is making this team lose before the year starts! we are paying to much money for th

By Keeping it real

March 12, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

Management can do better!

By e.b.

March 12, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure why guys aren’t re-structuring their contracts, so we can sign more guys. We need help on the O-Line, I see Floyd Womack just rersigned with the Seahawks, and we need help on the D-side as well. To try and address these problems in the draft may help in the long term, but it certainly doesn’t help right now. Steve, anyone going to re-structure their contracts?

By chris

March 12, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

u play with the cards u r dealt now we need safetys and def ends that deck has been re dealt many games ago one left vguard and we will b fine

By lattimore

March 12, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

I like some of the moves the Falcons made this year,but I am not so excited about Joe Horn. Why do always get these over priced free agents who usually are past their prime when we get them? (peerless price,hartwell,abraham etc) I remember when we got Steve Deberg and he was 50! I’m sure Horn will be a good leader but he well past his prime we need some good recivers he can help White & Jenkins but was he worth what we paid for him? Will he be hurt by the 4th game? Whats next? The Falcons will probaly sign Brett Farve at age 40 to a 4 year deal next year!

By Greedy

March 12, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

its crazy that we spend 39 million combined on a wr and fb , when we could have got ex giant petttigout who destroyed us in the dome , remember tikki ran 200 yards on his side or we could have got leonard davis. Mackay , u suck for not getting a big body in here.

By Ken Strickland

March 12, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

DIRTIESTBIRD, we were all embarrassed by the DEF’s performance against the run, although injuries were a factor. But, that will be addressed through the draft, not FA. I don’t believe Petrino will pass on drafting Okoye(DT)if he becomes available. If not, he’ll likely take a DE. There will be some very talented, but lesser known, FS’s available in the 2nd and 3rd RD’s. He might even draft another DL in the 2nd rd.

And don’t forget, Rossum and Webster were as ineffective against the run as they were against the pass. JWilliams was more effective against the run, in 2 starts, than they were all yr combined. RColemen’s toe problem kept him from playing up to his usual standards, but he continued to play.

Petrino knows it will take time to construct the OL to his standards. So, I believe he will concentrate on building a quality DEF 1st. He will draft OLinemen in the later RD’s and develop them over time. We are not without OL talent even now, but they have to be given time to further their body development.

By hammerstone

March 12, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

D-Man, No Safeties?! What about Lawyer Milloy?

By dirty byrd

March 12, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

o line help is long term that has already been stated,we need de help in case abe cant go this next yr.draft is crucial for next 2 yrs,hope we can pick up fa help later in months to come.we will come out throwing football this yr and run to keep def honest, we were a couple good coaches away last yr so things will be better i am sure if coach p watches game and adj as game goes on we will be fine, our run game will always be there. GO YOU DIRTY BIRDS!!!!

By datruth

March 12, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

As long as Vick is here the huggers will say we need new O line, WR, and RB or anything but blame Vick for us having the 32nd ranked passing stats in the league. How I wish Vick were white so we could get rid of him. The best thing would be for Vick to be a tobacco chewing redneck, that way the fan base in the ATL could readily see the need to get a real QB. All they see now is whitey hating on their hero.

By gizmox329

March 12, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

I agree the Falcons need to improve the talent on both sides of the line. But safety was one weakness that really stood out. Chris Crocker would have a hard time covering ME, and believe ME, that’s sad. The best athlete in the draft is Calvin Johnson. If the birds can’t trade to the second or third pick then Laron Landy would be the perfect athlete to protect the secondary for years to come. He is a big hitter with great speed. After that any position on the team could use depth or an upgrade. Matt Schaub is the most important player on the team right now. His trade value will allow for more holes to be filled. The Falcons need quality and quantity all over the field.

By Jeff D

March 12, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Steve,

Any chancce the Falcons draft Levi Brown?

I say go defense with the first pick. Then, I would trade Schaub for a low first round or high second round pick. I would use that pick to draft JUSTIN BLALOCK - OG from the University of Texas. He is big and extremely strong. He could be our starting left guard for the next ten years.

Unless J. Williams is going to be moved to safety (and all signs point to that happening), we have to draft Laron Landry at 10. He is a future Pro Bowler who would start from day one.

By Keeping it real

March 12, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

By Datruth Really a lie. look at the fact about the offense line. If you think they are a good line you need your head checked! Vick 20 TD passing 2 TD running and he rushed for 1039. No other QB in the history of the NFL has done that in one year, facts not feeling look it up! we need a offense line not field with 4th and 7th rounder that start. Our offense line grade is poor if you check how they did one on one in most games. This is a team game not a one man show. The offense line had the best rushing record in the game this year but take vicks rushing out because most of the time he was running for his life. They were not design plays. Offense ranked 12th defense ranked 22nd just the fact. most people will say Vick was 32nd in passing or was the team 32nd . OH yea It was all Vick fault please! Please draft for the defense this year but get one good offense lineman please!

By "D" in Houston

March 12, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

1st let me address the blog and then I will address “DaIdiot”. Every successful team dominates on both sides of the ball. It starts and ends with the line….both Defense and Offense. I hope McKay grabs a DT,or DE with the 1st and 2nd Pick. Why? Well if the QB doesn’t have time to throw he doesnt throw…at least accurately. Now….”DaTruth”, both your name and comment sound dumb and uneducated. It’s a fact, that many successful QB’s often drop back into 5 and 7 step drops 20+ times a game…Vick is lucky if he can do that 5 times in a game. Not because the staff doesn’t trust him, but rather they don’t trust the line in passing schemes. “DaTruth” do me a favor….why don’t you move to another city and root for another team so you won’t be labeled anything, but a undercover packer fan….(and I meant that anyway you take it….gay boy!)

By Greg

March 12, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

The Falcons first pick will come down to who is available. If Gaines Adams or Jamaal Anderson are available, then they should grab one of them. If not, grab Landry or Nelson. At least one of those four will be available.

If you grab a safety, someone like Tim Crowder should be available in the second round. If you grab a DE, there are a ton of decent level two safeties.

By Darrin the "Vent King"

March 12, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

“datruth”- Your post is anything but what your screen name states. First of all, are you twelve years old? Saying the “Vick huggers” will claim that a new o-line is needed because Vick is here? You must have NOT been a Falcon fan long, the Falcons O-line has ALWAYS been a joke, long before Vick could even say the word football. You think Chris Miller got all those concussions playing cards? You think Chris Chandler earned the nickname “Chris Chandelier” because he actually collects chandeliers? How about asking Billy Jo Herbert or Jeff George how nice our o-line was for them. The fact that you address it as “they” when you say “all they see is whitey hating on their hero” shows your agenda and it’s pretty dumb. It’s fans like you or rather people like you that are so ignorant that you’re actually more dangerous than the so-called “whiteys” that you claim are hating on Vick. You actually think you are right. What a riot! Your whole post proves a statement a wise man once told me:

“Ignorance is not always bliss.”

lol….anyway, GO FALCONS!!

By D-Cider

March 12, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

The falcons are up against the salary cap ceiling and, considering their recent signings, will continue to salary cap problems. This is what “Dr. Z” (Paul Zimmerman) had to say about the Kerney and Horn signings: (Peter King of SI made essentially the same comment about Kerney last year) I’d call some signings “watch out” choices. Patrick Kerney ($19.5 mil guaranteed by Seattle) has been a terrific heart and desire guy, but the Falcons just about burned him out by keeping him on the field too long. If the Hawks are careful with him, then OK.

Joe Horn, 35, has missed nine games over the last two years with groin and hamstring injuries, but the Falcons guaranteed $7.5 million to throw him into the mix. This is what I call action just for the sake of showing you’re active.

By datruth

March 12, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

look, if Vick were white we could more easily critique him….that’s why I wish he were white, I’d love Steve McNair or Byron Leftwich, it has nothing to do with color but everything to do with quarterbacking. It’s his quarterbacking I don’t like, he’s indecisive and innaccurate and his whole game is built on the fight or flight reflex which is not adequate for an NFL QB. We’ve got the number 1 rushing stats in NFL two or three years in a row and yes Vick is a part of that because of his fight or flight relfex. I think Kynan Forney is a way beyond average Guard, Todd McClure is a average guard, Todd Weiner is a second round pick and at least a “sericeable” tackle, Wayne Gandy was a high draft pick and granted up in years and Lehr was the weak link probably but those guys aren’t chopped liver….just ask Warrick Dunn. A quarterback should have certain strengths….and PASSING should be at the top of the list, PASSING is not Vicks’ strength. Vicks’ strength is his fight or flight reflex, more specifically his flight relfex. That is why I wish Vick were white because blacks are the minority and whites are very “MATTER OF FACT”, and often not sensitive to minority mindsets, therefore if Vick were white we could all see him more objectively, but Atlanta is the racially charged center of the country it seems. I simply would like a QB whose strengths are more along the lines of smarts, savvy, leadership, passing and leading, that’s all I’m saying.

By Andy

March 12, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget the draft or Schaub’s trade value for more picks to help the team. I don’t see contracts being restructured because Petrino will want to see himself what he has got before commiting more guaranteed $ to a veteran.

By Mike

March 12, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with Darrin since the mid 80’s Atlanta’s OL has sucked. Usually our starting QB has been knocked out for the season by week 4. One thing that will help the O this year is Petrino should take some heat off of Vick by spreading the field. I think at this point we should be concetrating on a big man at D tackle. we need help at end, but we are a little deeper at end than at tackle. Coleman is good, but not great against the run. Jackson is slow and over weight. Babineaux I think has been a major disappointment. Shropshire is a pretty good pass rusher, but also sucks against the run. I think we can make do at DE if Abe stays healthy.

By Keeping it real

March 12, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

by Datruth put the pipe down please!

By datruth

March 12, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Sorry folks, I should have spell checked that last post at least somewhat.

By datruth

March 12, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but I seriously believe Vicks strength is his fight or flight reflex (more specifically flight reflex) and that just isn’t good enough for an NFL quarterback. Perfect for a gazelle in Africa but not for an NFL quarterback.

By will50

March 12, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

datruth…man, what can I say…you say if Vick were “white”, we could more easily critique him?…what a farce and asinine statment. I mean, have you not been reading all the posts on this and other sports boards? All I have been reading are criticisms and serious “put downs” of Vick. Some of the comments and criticisms were so blatantly racist and stupid as to be laughable and you say..”if he were white, we could more easily critique him?”..what a joke. Honestly, I have heard more criticisms of Vick than I have heard any sort of praise of him. Man what some people won’t say to try to make a point!..

By la tony

March 12, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

TO ALL MY FALCON BROTHERS STOP FIGHTING AMONG YOURSELVES IT’S ALL ABOUT FOOTBALL NOT COLOR.NOW THIS IS HOW TO MAKE OUR FALCONS A INSTANT WINNER.ADRIAN PETERSON WILL SLIP TO THE #10 PICK BECAUSE TEAMS LIKE CLEVELAND MAKES MISTAKES.WE NEED A HOMERUN HITTER IN THE BACKFIELD AND THIS GUY IS THE REAL DEAL.WITH THE 2ND LETS TAKE CHRIS HOUSTON DB FROM ARKANSAS THIS GUY IS A SHUTDOWN CORNER WHO CAN START FROM DAY ONE. WE DONT NEED A SAFTY BECAUSE JWILLIAMS WILL BE MOVED TO SAFETY.WE STILL CAN SIGN IAN SCOTT OF THE BEARS TO HELP SURE UP THE DT POSITION.TRADE MATT SCHAUB FOR A SECOND ROUNDER AND DRAFT JARVS MOSS. IN THE THIRD ROUND TIM CROWDER WILL BE PERFECT.AFTER THAT USE THE REMANING PICKS TO UPGRADE THE OFFENSIVE LINE. ALSO IF WE NEED A SAFETY TO GO WITH JWILLIAMS CUT CROCKER OR MILLOY AND SIGN KEN HAMLIN IF HE IS STILL AVAILABLE THESE ARE THE MOVES THAT WILL TAKE US TO THE SUPER BOWL

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

The o-line has to be changed to run a Petrino offense,but saying it was a problem under Mora is not true.The line was built for the zone blocking Mora favored and did a great job executing that scheme.Leading the league three strait seasons in rushing wasn’t an accident,we can debate the scheme but the results are what the line was designed for.The problems were more about a qb that couldn’t find a secondary receiver or even read the primary target on time.Throw in brick fingered receivers,a shaky secondary and gimpy d-line and pristo!chango!so here we go again,meet the new boss,same as the old boss? I don’t think so.

By Keeping it real

March 12, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Datruth have you every been hit by 300 pounder. Look back at the history of this team the offense line has all ways sucked. I would run, you would run any body with brains would run for your life. You guys sit back and drink your beers and say he should stay in the pocket and get killed. you are nuts. The line breaks down and vick should stay and get killed. The offense line has clearly broke down and he should stay in the pocket. You guy need you head check. ask chirs miller he stayed in the pocket and got killed and manny other QB in Atlanta!

By will50

March 12, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

oddjob…I agree with some of what you say, however, to say the line had no problems is a bit misleading. The line did have problems. They had no problems zone blocking for the run true enough…however, they had big time problems in the passing game, with their lack of enough protection for Vick to fine his 2nd or 3rd WR, let alone time to fine his primary read. Some of it may be on Vick, but for you to act as if none of it was on the OL is not correct and you know it. No QB can be as successful as they could be in the pass game if they don’t have adequate protection. That goes for Manning or Brady too. Give Vick some time and a couple of years in this offense and I believe non-believers like you and “datruth”, should be ready to “eat crow”.

By Mike

March 12, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

not sure we are going to see a Schaub trade for draft picks. I think with the rediculous offers out there now, and Atlanta’s tight checkbook this year, I do not really see a Schaub trade. We will sit down and watch him walk away next year. I am curious to why we are still carrying Rossum? Is that not why we drafted Jennings last year? What about Hall, he is more than capable of kick and punt returns. I try to remember McKay assembled a winner in Tampa. DATRUTH I tend to agree with you, Vick has been erratic the last couple of years, but much of the time he has been running for his life. We can’t afford to let him go now, with the cap implications the Falcons prob would struggle to field a team at all next year. I say now he has a coach willing to give him freedom to QB, they will spread the field to give him more time. If he still looks bad, then we go from there. I do think it is ashamed that you can’t speak honestly about him with out being labeled a racist. I however do not think that all white people take the approach and judge Vick what they percieve his abilities to be. Many call him a thug or worse which has absolutely nothing do with his ability to play football. I personally could careless what color a player is, what the look like, how they wear their pants, or hair. I do not care how many tatoos, or piercings they may have. Does not matter if they are straight or gay. I could care less what kind of car they drive, or what type of music they like. Character does matter, because I know a lot of kids who look up to these guys. What really matters the most though…Is this the right guy for our TEAM? One thing people needs to understand is while the Falcons were winning with Vick he was taking a lot of credit. He is going to recieve equal as much credit when they do not win. Comes with the territory. Anyone out there in management knows thats how it goes, today your the hero, tomorrow you could be the goat.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Will50 When the hbo interview ran the coaches’ threw out the old (and all good sense).The line was a mess after that.The type blocking Gibbs used may be the hardest thing in football to keep sharp,so all that came after Mora gave into Vick should come with an asterisk.

By datruth

March 12, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

The main reason I say I wish Vick were white is because whites are the majority and aren’t offended if a white man is criticized, there’s no defense of the white man mindset that jumps into play….I would love that to be the case with Vick but it never will be. Look, I’d get my way in a heartbeat if we had a scrambling white QB (say from Nebraska) or something, and he’d drop back, see no one open, take off running, or drop back, scramble, finally throw after receiver has broken off his route, throw it too hard and the receiver misses it, or doesn’t throw it accurately after he scrambles and again the receiver has broken off his route, of course then people say….(well, if Vick had good receivers, he could throw it when his back foot hits on a 3, 5 or 7 step drop and hit him on timing but the receivers don’t get separation…blah blah blah…), the excuses for Vick just never seem to end….LIKE I SAID THAT IS THE REASON I WISH VICK WERE WHITE SO WE COULD TALK ABOUT HIM IN A MATTER OF FACT MANNER, WE CAN’T WITH ALL THE RACIAL CRAP.

By will50

March 12, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Mike…yours is a voice of reason and for that…I am appreciative. Vick is not as great as most of us think, nor is he as bad as most of us think also. You give your opinion along a line of thoughtful reasoning and truth…not like some who would rant and rave and spout all sorts of innuendos without any facts to back them, one way or the other. It is good to have the one fan who can HONESTLY see both sides of the equation and come us with some thought provoking comments…yours are just what I am talking about…Here’s to you, a true, mature and thoughtful Falcon fan.

By will50

March 12, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

What racial crap?…datruth, you are still not getting the point..Vick has been criticized as much if not more than any QB in recent years. So I don’t get where you say that “if he were white, then you can critique him more fairly”. Heck how much critiquing of him can you do than what you are doing now? Aren’t you critiquing him in your comments? aren’t you laying out all his weaknesses and shortfalls? how much more can you critize him? if you have more, lay it on the line…I don’t see or hear anyone on this board saying that you can’t. Vick is not Manning or Brady and never will be. Vick has to be Vick. No two QB’s are alike, so if you are looking for Vick to be the typical, classical dropback passer, don’t hold your breath, for he will never be that type of QB. In that case, criticizing him is just a waste of time. Just let Vick be his own QB and not “what you want him to be”. Vick ultimately will be the one writing his own legacy and his legacy will not be about what type of QB you want him to be, but what type of QB HE want to be and how successful he will be. The guy has time, heis only 26-27 yrs old and hasn’t reached his prime yet. Remember, some flowers bloom a lot later than others just as success comes much later for some that they do others. Not every QB mature at the same level, at the same time to the same degree.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

This excusing Vick because he was ‘running for his life’.I started watching for just that last year.What I saw was a qb that caused many of the sacks be not getting the ball out,that goes back to his lack of poise and slow reading of the situation.Watching Payton Manning getting the ball out on time and to the right guy with accuracy with the defense in his face time after time was in stark contrast to Vicks panic and run or make a bad throw reactions.When a qb exploits a pass rush he can force the defense to back off the line.When a qb can’t exploit an overly agressive defense he often gets more of the same.

By will50

March 12, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Wouldn’t we all love to have a Manning? but that isn’t possible, so we go with what we have. One thing about Manning, he has been in a passing offense all his football career. Vick hasn’t played in a passing offense all his career, thus you can’t expect him to be as acute in the passing game as those QB’s who were taught from peewee league about the passing game. The fault lies there. Let’s be honest here. Most Black QB’s are placed there becasue often times they are the best athetes on the team, thus they are chose as the QB because they give their teams they best chance to win by having the ball in their hands at all times. It is their coaches fault for not teaching or allowing them to become complete QB’s in the sense that you, datruth and other are talking about. You can only be as good as what you are taught and coached to be. Most coaches aren’t concerned with the Black Qb being a “classic” passer as they are about them putting their teams in the best position to win. That goes for pop warner to high school and college. Tech them the fine art of the passing game like they do the Mannings, Bradys and others and they can excel. They are who they are, becasue the coaches (mostly white), don’t take the time to teach them the game. They want instant success, and now better to get instant success….by allowing your best athlete to be just that…an athlete rather than being a QB and that is to the detriment to QB’s like Vick. It “ain’t” all Vicks fault that he is not line Manning or Brady. It goes back to the teachings and the fundamental they receive in popwarner and high school and college.

By datruth

March 12, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

When I say criticize him in a more matter of fact way, I mean just saying “anything” without being called a racist…you’re automatically called one if you don’t like him as a QB, I don’t like him as a QB because of his quarterbacking, how important is athleticism to quarterbacking, it’s like saying Tiger Woods runs the fastest 40 in the PGA, what good is that…what good is Vick being the fastest QB in the NFL..we had the 32nd ranked passing stats in the league. I don’t like him as a QB but that doesn’t make me racist…it’s like (ok, 41 Super Bowls have been won with this type of QB, but that doesn’t mean anything), we’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, just put a proper piece of the puzzle together and this is how it has been done but let’s do it totally differently and ignore what’s worked in the past. I just say, why not get a QB who distributes the ball smartly, plays the percentages and manages the game. Not turn a shot putter into a ballerina.

By Ken Strickland

March 12, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

DATRUTH, I don’t know if you believe your own hype or not. Either way, you are lying to yourself and/or everyone else. The following statement gives you away, “HOW I WISH VICK WERE WHITE SO WE COULD GET RID OF HIM”. You see, if race wasn’t an issue with you, you would have wished he was a BETTER PASSER. But that’s not your real motive. You want him gone in the worst way, and him being a better passer would be counter productive.

What makes you think being white will automatically make him expendable? MSchaub is white, and nobody’s calling for his head. He is considered a better, more accurate passer than Vick, yet he’s never led us to a single win. His overall QB rating and passing percentage are lower than Vick’s, and he’s thrown as many INT’s as TD’s.

Ask yourself, how many NFL QB’s were better passers, and have better QB/passer ratings than RGrossman? Then, ask yourself, how many of them played in this yrs Superbowl? Only one, PManning. Even an idiot, when exposed to the facts, should realize you don’t have to be a great passer to achieve success.

By Psack

March 12, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

THIS OFFFENSIVE LINE DID A POOR JOB OF PASS PROTECTING VICK….VICK WON’T BE EFFECTIVE PASSING IF HE DOES NOT HAVE TIME TO THROW THE FOOTBALL. THIS LINE DOES NOT HAVE THE SKILLS TO PASS PROTECT….IF WE DON’T FIX IT WE WILL NOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS

By datruth

March 12, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

He’s not gonna be a better passer because I wish he were a better passer, if I wish midgets were more successful at basketball, it would be meaningless wishing. I wished for the last 6 years he was a better QB, now I wish they’d get another QB.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

WILL50 The offense the Falcons used was put together FOR MV! the idea of zone blocking was to exploit an over aggressive d by allowing a rb or qb to find a lane from safely behind the line.This is the only reason Vick could survive with such a lack of poise all these seasons.Thats not to say P

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 12, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

The scheme overhaul won’t hurt the pass-blocking as much as the run-blocking. The O-line gets blamed for the pass protection problems from last year, but that had a lot more to do with playcalling and the QB not being allowed to audible. Even the best O-lines in the NFL will have a much harder time pass-blocking for a moving target, because the D-linemen can see a QB moving out of the pocket before the O-linemen can. Knapp’s propensity for designing plays to move the QB out of the pocket played right into the hands of defenses, who could see the QB moving and react accordingly before the O-linemen could. Even if/when the O-linemen knew that the QB would be moving out of the pocket, it’s still much more difficult to pass-block when you are moving. And when the play called for the QB to be in the pocket, he couldn’t change the protection schemes to account for defensive pressure. Defenses picked up on these limitations and began to incessantly blitz in the 2nd half of the season. But the few times when the play called for the QB to stay in the pocket and defenses didn’t blitz, the line did a pretty good job of pass blocking. Under Petrino’s offense, where the QB will be allowed the freedom to audible and will probably be kept in the pocket more often, the pass-blocking probably will improve.

Run blocking in a power run offense, on the other hand, will be a challenge for every O-lineman on this team not named Gandy or Forney. Gandy’s had experience in power running offenses before, and Forney’s the biggest lineman and best run blocker on the Falcons’ O-line. Weiner and McClure, on the other hand, have never been power players, and the left guard position is up for grabs. Mughelli should offset some of the power-blocking problems the line will have, but I still don’t think the between-the-tackles running game will be very consistent without the addition of another lineman or two… especially since the Falcons don’t really have a power runner who can break tackles (Norwood, despite his size, is still more of a speed back). McClure’s worked with the QB for his entire career, so it would probably be easier to replace Weiner. If I’m Rich McKay, I’m looking to draft a power run blocker either at tackle or guard on the first day of the draft, who can challenge for a starting job in training camp.

I don’t like drafting solely based on need, since that strategy invariably results in reaching for players who should have gone much lower. But if the Falcons are targeting any particular positions at all, they should look at DE, OL, and FS on the first day, and RB, OL, MLB and secondary on the second day.

By SC

March 12, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Blame Jim Mora for the current OL roster problems. He’s the one that decided adopt the Gibbs cut-blocker philosophy. Had Mora not insisted on a move to a cut blocking scheme, which offensive linemen would be in Atlanta now?

Isn’t it amazing how much a head coach with bad offensive and defensive schemes can set back a football team? I’m not so sure that Rich McKay should be blamed for the requirements Jim Mora imposed upon the roster. Mora and Alex Gibbs should bear the responsibility.

In hindsight, the whole strategy of “get ahead in the game with a devastating running attack” seems very, very simplistic. It reminds me of the underpants gnomes from South Park.

McKay would put the Falcons in an even worse predicament if he wasted the precious remainder of his salary cap on overpriced, under-performing linemen. For example, note how the Cardinals let Leonard Davis walk.

The most important improvement to the OLine which the Falcons made this offseason is that they fired Jim Mora and hired Bobby Petrino. Rich McKay should get the credit for that move.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

Will50 sorry the post cut short,let me finish my point.I don’t know if Vick will respond and become a qb who can run a conventional offense,but you can’t beleave that the coach can mold a qb out of any athlete black, white or green, some have the makeup and some don’t.Truth is nobody really knows if Vick can do the job,I hope he can but we’ll have to wait and see.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 12, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

“I WISH VICK WERE WHITE SO WE COULD TALK ABOUT HIM IN A MATTER OF FACT MANNER, WE CAN’T WITH ALL THE RACIAL CRAP.”

In other words, you are making a racial statement about the QB, saying that you wish everyone else wouldn’t make racial statements about the QB?

Regardless of whether or not your point is valid, you are not doing yourself any favors by making blatantly hypocritical statements.

In related news, I’ll raise this question once again: is it not possible to get through one football-related blog on ajc.com without someone making reference to Michael Dwayne Vick? Last I checked, #7’s name is mentioned exactly 0 times by Steve Wyche in this blog. Believe it or not, 52 other players play for the Falcons; some of you may want to occasionally talk about them as well.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Alex Gibbs won everywhere he coached,so to say the scheme was a loser is to ignore reality but if it makes people feel better to blow hot air theres’ no harm I guess.

By Ken Strickland

March 12, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

DATRUTH, the fact Vick wasn’t going to turn white didn’t stop you from wishing he was white. You see, it goes both ways. Reality is always difficult for some to deal with.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Will50 Mcnabb never had a problem running an offense,that goes for Warren Moon and others.Vick is a qb and at some point like all men he has to do his job or get replaced,like everybody else.

By will50

March 12, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

oddjob, yes I do believe that a “good” coach can mold a QB out of any athlete (black, white or green), if that athlete has the will and desire to become the best that he can be. If a coach can’t mold a player, then why are they coaches. Part of the responsibility of any coach, teacher or leader is to mold individuals. Now that doesn’t mean that they will be successful in every situation, so of the responsibility lies with the individual player. If Vick is willing to learn and applies himself to becoming the best that he can be, he can excel. However, he can’t do it alone, it takes coaching also. Qb’s are not “born”, they are made/molded. QB is a learned positon. a Top flight QB is a coached, dedicated, desire and want to be the best position. If a person has those traits, they can be taught/molded to be one of the best. I still say it starts in pop warner, high school and college. If you don’t get the coaching and molding at those levels, you are doomed to be not the best that you can be. My eyes are not jaded by Vick…however, I have seen enough of him to know that he has the skills. My only question is..does he have the DESIRE and dedication to be the best. If he does..then he will be fine… if not, then he will NOT be the best that he can be and doomed to ever lasting criticism. Oh well, I guess the MONEY he has can always ease that pain (maybe)..Really though, I believe Vick will be better than most of his naysayers think he will be. He certainly has the skills to be one of the best. He just has to utilize and realize and dedicate himself to getting there….will he????

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 12, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Also, for those of you who may or may not care, the New England Patriots are apparently interested in signing free agent MLB Ed Hartwell.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Will50 I’m sorry that is just such a fairy tale.The idea that any body can learn and do anything is so far from reality as to stump any meaningful response.

By Mike

March 12, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

remember the last couple of years we have drafted a couple of guys who could challenge for jobs, and only reason they havent before is because they did not fit the zone block scheme. The small athletic line was great at times, but killed the Falcons in short yardage and passing situations. I really hoped this offseason Atlanta would be able to trade up to get Calvin Johnson, but with some of the unreasonable offers, and questions to if the Falcons could even afford him now have me leaning towards a big D Tackle. Okoye is probably the best at #10 and possibly the best D tackle in the draft. They could still pick up Jarvis Moss in the second round. Sidney Rice also would not be bad 2nd round take. I think we paid to much for Joe Horn, but I do not feel he is a bad edition. I think he is intended to be more of a player/coach. Ovie Mughelli is a great addition. He will provide much needed support in short yardage situations and in pass protection. The one thing I would like to see the coaches work with Vick on is him carrying the ball away from his body. I would rather see him be a step or two slower and protect the ball a little better. Does anyone know if Mathis will be back next year? He was having a pretty solid year before his injury. I think losing him was the biggest shot to our secondary last year.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Will50 I went back over some of your postings,you can’t seriously believe in grading an nfl qb on a curve or affirmative action for nfl qbs can you? This talk of how Vick got to where he is might be a good case to extend a person a scholarship but this is about who can do the job not who was prepared from the cradle or any other factor.Whatever got Vick to this rare and richly rewarding position the minimum price is to be the best available choice.Not the best available black choice.

By will50

March 12, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Oddjob…sorry you feel that way, however, you are entitled to your opin. I am not in a fairyland, for I do not believe that just because you have desire and “want to”, that you will be successful in each and every venture. I do believe that, “nothing beats a try but a fail” and if you don’t try, then you are doomed to failure. Who am I to say what one can and cannot do. I can only answer for myself. I can’t get in Vicks or any coaches head and read their minds or how determined they are. All I know, is that if a person applies themselves, they have a better chance for success than someone who doesn’t put forth the effort or even try. Leaders are leaders because they have the ability to lead and mold people. Coaches are leaders aren’t they? a coach in little league, pop warner, high school, college and even the pros have a responsibiltiy to mold young men and women. Now, those young men and women have a responsibilty to put forth effort and a willingness to learn to gain something out of the coaching don’t they? then I fail to see where my comments are such a “fairy tale”. I guess I just have more faith in the human spirit, until I am shown otherwise, than you do Oddjob…that is the difference between us..

By datruth

March 12, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Yes, and Rex Grossman is a good example, nobody said anyone was racist for picking on Grossman, the whole world could criticize him and never bring up his race. That’s the way it should be.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Mike Okoye seems like a good chice and I agree he could be the best d-tackle in the draft.If the safty from Texas Griffen is on the board I’d consider him second.Other needs at o-line,d-line,etc could be addressed by the best available in those groups.

By destin

March 12, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

The Falcons need to get on the stick and sign a quality starting OG (with size and who is solid on pass protection). There are still 2 or 3 pretty good ones still out there in free agency. If this can be done, all our starting 11 on offense will be set. We are better off with an experienced veteran at OG than with some 3rd or 4th round college kid who has no knowledge of NFL schemes - much less expect him to start. This would leave the draft primarily for the defense. We need at least 2 starters from the draft - DE and DB. We should take Carriker with our 1st pick. He has the size the Falcons need(6’6”,295), and has been moving rapidly up the boards. Gaines Adams is like Abraham (good - but smallish). At any rate, Adams and Anderson will probably be gone by the 10 slot. Round 2 - DB

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 11:11 PM | Link to this

Will50 No doubt fate favors the prepared and determined,but we’re talking about 32 starting nfl qbs in all the world.I think there are many more with the desire and work ethic and even athleticism than the number of job openings.That’s where makeup comes in that rare intangible that few possess and can’t be transfered or coached into someone.

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

Destin These o-linemen on the roster aren’t ideal size for a Petrino line,but people talk like they’re a bunch of dwarfs(sorry little people)most are 300lbs or more so I’m guessing they can add a few lbs and the line should average around 310 next year.

By a monotti

March 13, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Vick can throw the ball over a six story building. Only trouble is , the receivers are hanging out the third floor windows.

Wish we had Vince Young.

By The Boogie Woogie Man

March 13, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

I have a question for the pathetic jock sniffers who worship at Vick’s throne:

Why do you give your savior ALL of the credit when the team wins, but NONE of the blame when the team loses?

It’s funny: you clowns used to crow about Vick’s winning percentage.

Since he hasn’t done very much winning the past couple of seasons, y’all try to change the subject and talk about how “he’s doing things that no NFL QB has ever done before”, i.e., rush for 1,000 yards.

Well, this may be news to all of you Vick-heads, but MOST fans prefer SUBSTANCE (victories) over STYLE (meaningless rushing stats).

The bottom line is that, thanks in large part to Vick’s habit of taking off at the slightest sign of pressure, the Falcons had the WORST passing attack in the league in 2006.

Don’t blame it all on the line, because the Falcons were middle-of-the-pack in sacks allowed.

And don’t blame it all on the receivers, either, because the Falcons were middle-of-the-pack in dropped passes, too. (In fact, the stats show that the Colts dropped more passes than the Falcons in 2006.)

Some of you people need to get a life and stop living vicariously through Vick.

By Barry

March 13, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

This is going to be a great Falcon season. Nobody in the leauge is going to expecting what the Falcons will have planned and it is going to hit them leauge like a slegde hammer. The Falcons were already a compettive team last year. It was just the crazy playcalling and antics by their young and unprofessional coaching staff that got them in trouble. Petrino knows what he has to do and he is chopping at the bits to get his hands on everybody on the team for practice sesions. Believe me, this is going to be a great season for innovative,professional, smashmouth foootball!. The coaching staff Petrino has put together is second to none. I cant wait. Yeah, we wil get some beef on the offensive and fdefensive line and that big back that Petrino is salivating for. But after that the team is SOLID. With a little attitude adjustment and ridding some malcontents and partygoers who are just here to get a paycheck off the team, the Falcons will be great. I can’t wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! This is a SECRET from us Falcon fans. Tell EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ringold

By Barry

March 13, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

This is going to be a great Falcon season. Nobody in the leauge is going to expecting what the Falcons will have planned and it is going to hit them leauge like a slegde hammer. The Falcons were already a compettive team last year. It was just the crazy playcalling and antics by their young and unprofessional coaching staff that got them in trouble. Petrino knows what he has to do and he is chopping at the bits to get his hands on everybody on the team for practice sesions. Believe me, this is going to be a great season for innovative,professional, smashmouth foootball!. The coaching staff Petrino has put together is second to none. I cant wait. Yeah, we wil get some beef on the offensive and fdefensive line and that big back that Petrino is salivating for. But after that the team is SOLID. With a little attitude adjustment and ridding some malcontents and partygoers who are just here to get a paycheck off the team, the Falcons will be great. I can’t wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! This is a SECRET from us Falcon fans. Tell EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ringold

By Barry

March 13, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

This is going to be a great Falcon season. Nobody in the leauge is going to expecting what the Falcons will have planned and it is going to hit them leauge like a slegde hammer. The Falcons were already a compettive team last year. It was just the crazy playcalling and antics by their young and unprofessional coaching staff that got them in trouble. Petrino knows what he has to do and he is chopping at the bits to get his hands on everybody on the team for practice sesions. Believe me, this is going to be a great season for innovative,professional, smashmouth foootball!. The coaching staff Petrino has put together is second to none. I cant wait. Yeah, we wil get some beef on the offensive and fdefensive line and that big back that Petrino is salivating for. But after that the team is SOLID. With a little attitude adjustment and ridding some malcontents and partygoers who are just here to get a paycheck off the team, the Falcons will be great. I can’t wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! This is a SECRET from us Falcon fans. Tell EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ringold

By Steve

March 13, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I think we ought to go after former Baltimore guard Edwin Mulitalo (6-3, 350). The guy is an outstanding lineman in all regards and has great character. His position is guard and we need a replacement for Lehr. Mulitalo would provide immediate help and be a BIG Upgrade. I’d like to see a few hogs drafted for both D and O lines and yeah, we need a darn good safety. I think Milloy would be a great mentor for the position.
Question for Steve…What is the status of this team signing a good offensive lineman? Thanks for your blogs.

By Oddjob

March 13, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

For all the talk about the lack of size across the o-line here’s a number for you.The Colts starting line has only two players over 300 ‘the tackles’ all three guards are in the 290s. Now my memory aint great but didn’t they have a pretty good season?

By Oddjob

March 13, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

I did some research with all the talk about the birds midget o-line.The Colts o-line has only two of five starters over 300 (the tackles) all three guards are in the 290 range.My memory isn’t the best but didn’t they have a pretty good season?

By toshie

March 13, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

This blog can’t have a conservation without getting off on Vick. Why don’t we talk about picks that we need to pick up? Like offense and defense!!! We need some size on both sides of the ball. Mora and Reeves both liked small players and thats why we are stuck with them until we work our way out of it.

By toshie

March 13, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Just to put my 2 bits in. I am a white woman and I think this is the racist blog I have ever read. Ever time someone post it has to be about color one way or another. Boy I am a minority being white and female. But I can’t stand this crap. Why can’t you keep it to football only.

By SC

March 13, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

With all due respect Oddjob, certainly Alex Gibbs has been at a number of teams and had success, but he only started installing zone-cut blocking schemes in Denver. And after that, he came to Atlanta. So yes, he may be a great teacher while at the Chiefs, Raiders, Chargers and Broncos, but his promulgation of undersized, cut-blocking offensive lines in today’s league might be a little more suspect.

Consider what Jeff Legwold of the Rocky Mountain News said the Broncos o-line in December of 2006:

“During the John Elway-Terrell Davis Super Bowl years, guards like Mark Schlereth were a major force, but for the past few years it has seemed to me that teams have been attacking Denver’s guards because they know that they can disrupt Denver’s finesse zone-blocking scheme with brute force.”

And further in the same article:

“The Broncos are sixth in the league in rushing at 136.4 yards per game. So the production overall has been good.”

“They have been among the top six for most of the season. But they haven’t always been strong at the point of attack at important times in the game.”

Sound familiar? How about the other cut-blocking teams. Houston - 21st in rushing yards in 2006. Ask David Carr about his pass protection last year. Green Bay - 23rd in 2006.

Ask not for whom the hot air blows, my friend. Is it so difficult to be civil yet disagree?

By Ken Strickland

March 13, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

STEVE, I was also interested in Mulitalo, so I did some research on him. He’s rated as one of the NFL’s top 10 OG’s. His scouting report rates his run blocking skills very highly. As a pass blocker it says he has problems, because he has very short arms for his size. He sounds like a much bigger version of MLehr.

ODDJOB, I also got tired of hearing about our undersized OL, and checked the size of the Colts OL several months ago. Like you, I was suprised to find that 3 of their OL were under 300lbs. I also posted my findings on one of the blogs, to no avail. People that constantly complain about the size of our OL, don’t seem to have a clue, do they. They seem unable to grasp that even though the Falcons OL and RB were the NFL’s smallest, we led the NFL in rushing 3 consecutive yrs. Not a single one of the NFL’s top 10 OL’s, size wise, came anywhere close.

Our OL’s size became an issue in pass block mostly because of our OC. His predictable, conservative play selections, limited use of talent, and the handcuffing of his QB’s ability to control the OFF, allowed DEF’s to stack the the box, and blitz all out at will. Under those circumstances, our OL wasn’t big, or strong enough to compensate. Those disavantages could have easily been eliminated by a competent OC.

By SC

March 13, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

I think a better course of investigation, Oddjob, would be to look at all of the undersized offensive lines in the NFl instead of just that of the Colts. The Colts example does prove that it is possible to win the SuperBowl with an undersized o-line. But is it probable that any given team in the NFL would succeed with an undersized line? I don’t know, but I still hope the Falcons win the SB with whatever o-line they have.

By rob

March 13, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

The writing is on the wall!! Face it!! Prepare for it now!!!This year will be a rebuilding year!!!

By Ken Strickland

March 13, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

SC, I don’t have a preference for either type of OL. Teams have won SB’s using both types. The Redskins won SB’s with a big, strong, powerblocking OL, called the HOGS. The Bronco’s won consecutive SB with a small zone blocking OL, including a thrashing of the Falcons. The choice really boils to preference, rather than requirement.

It’s possible that at least 3/5ths of our future OL will be made up of linemen already on the roster. I read today where Petrino schedule March 19 as the beginning of wt training for the OL. Within the next 2yrs, we could see OT’S QOjinnaka, and/or FOmiyale(6’5” 295lbs, 6’4” 310lbs respectively), OG’s TClabo and/or BClaxton(6’6” 314lbs, 6’2” 301lbs respectively)teamed up with incumbent KForney. Add strength, and about 8-12lbs of muscles to their respective frames, and you have a strong, athletic, agile, physical, power blocking OL. If we don’t sign a FA starter, or use at least one of our top 2 picks on an OL, look for that to be the case.

By "D" in Houston

March 13, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Okay…Let me get this striaght….Vick is not a good passer? Vick is responsible for our sacks? Vick is responsible for ballooning our rushing stats? AND Vick is responsible for our wide recievers dropping the ball too? It seems as if Vick is responsible for alot, and since he is probably deserves his outlandish check. Will50, DaIdiot….move to Green Bay…It’s only fair. There you won’t have to deal or struggle to critique anybody based upon race. Guys, I mean Fans, let’s only take time to debate against fans. And when I mean fans, I mean Tommy Nobis, Jesse Tuggle, Jeff Van Note, William Andrews, Chuck Smith, White Shoes Johnson, Deion Sanders, Steve Bartkowski type of fans…..Just like all of my Braves fans, gleen hubbard, deion washington, dale murphy type of fans….I bet I lost you huh…….Just cause I moved to Houston, I bleed Falcons,Braves, Hawks, etc…

By SUPER RED BIRD FAN FROM THE ATL

March 13, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

TOO ALL OF THE BROTHA’S AND WHITE BROTHER—-S LISTEN IT’S TIME TO SEE THAT WE ALL BLEED FALCON RED!!! I THINK THAT WE ARE IN FOR A GOOD PLAY- OFF RUN. THE FALCONS ALWAYS PLAY WELL ENOUGHUNDER 1ST YEAR COACHES TO MAKE TO THE PLAYOFFS (ALLA GLANVILLE,COACH REEVES(1998 SUPERBOWL), MORA (2002 PLAYOFFS AGAINST GREEN BAY). SO EXPECT A PLAYOFF YEAR. MCKAY PLEASE DON’T DRAFT LANDRY WATCH SOME TAPE AND WATCH HIM GET BEAT DEEP BY TEAMS WHO HAVE CHALENGED HIM!!! REGGIE OF FLA. GATORS IS A PLAY-MAKER AND CAN CHANGE THE OUTCOME OF GAMES HE AND HAS THE SPEED TO GET TO PLAYS THAT MAY NOT BE THROWN IN HIS DIRECTION !!! YOU CAN’T TEACH THAT !!! LET’S NOT F—K UP THE DRAFT? GO FALCONS

By Oddjob

March 13, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

A little perspective on the o-line,the Colts starting line had just two of five weigh 300 or over this past season(the tackles) all three guards were in the 290s.Now my memory isn’t the best but didn’t they have a pretty good year?

By Mike

March 13, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

The Falcons I believe will use more formations and schemes to protect the passer this year. I think spreading the field, using screens and shovel passes to neutralize blitzes will take a lot of pressure off Vick. Not sure they need to draft linemen early…not on the O anyway. This draft really favors the Falcons. The pool of D linemen and safty’s is deep. Some good recievers there too. Okoye is a solid pick up with the first overall and #2 should be wide open. You have Jarrett, Rice, Nelson, Griffin, or Hughes who may still be available early in the 2nd. Maybe McKay can even swing an extra 2nd. This is the time of year we can all speculate and make our team as good as we want them to be. I do not expect a SB run this year (though it would be nice)..but I do expect a run at a division crown. The Falcons have less needs than the Saints did at this time last year. A new coach, qb, and some young guys who contributed right away and they were one game away from the SB. I am still waitng for them to release Rossum and maybe Webster. Maybe we will not see that until after the draft.

By BROTHALOVA

March 13, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Mans yalls gots to quits pickin on my man VIck…da mans da man fo Atlanta, hes gonna get da job done sho nuff…yall white cracka mo fo’s need to shut yo traps an supout da black qb in da ATL….fashizzle.

By BROTHALOVA

March 13, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

Mans now I knows why da cracker barrel is so big around here wid da redneck mo fo’s and der racist crap…dat’s what I’m talkin bout.

By Hot Sauce

March 13, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

Michael Vick for President….Troy Smith for Vice! Per my Dawg H!

By Just the facts...

March 13, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

The Colts O-Line might not be as big but Indy stresses pass protection because they actually want to protect their franchise QB. The Falcons have only stressed run blocking and those results are skewed because our O-Line gets credit for rushing yards when rushing yards are gained due to blown protection. In Atlanta, the staff has never stressed pass protection because we figure our franchise QB doesn’t need adequate protection…cuz he’s skilled at “getting away”. Up until this year, the Colts had problems in short yardage running situations as noticed by the failure to score from the one yard line when being ousted from the playoffs on more than one occasion. All because they were small upfront. They CHANGED their approach and began to run out of passing sets to get the run game going. We, the Falcons, haven’t learned that trick yet…meaning adjusting to your short comings.

And am I the only one who has noticed that even though we’ve led the league in rushing for the last 3 years, we have never sent an O-Lineman to the probowl? Why’s that? Probably because the players get a vote and they know more about whose talent should put them in the probowl. But count the number Indy has sent to the probowl…and they haven’t been their because of their run blocking.

By Ken Strickland

March 14, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

A recent mock draft shows us taking DT Okoye with our #10 pick, and S Eric Waddle with our 44th. Waddle’s a 6’ 200lb S, that’s a former freshman All-American. He has CB speed, and hits like a SS. He’s proven to be very versatile by running for 147yds, scoring 4TD’s and throwing 1 TD pass, while playing OFF. His scouting report says he can be a successful CB, or FS, at the Pro level. If we can trade for another high 2nd, or low 1st rd pick, we can get a quality DE.

With a quick, fast, aggressive, young and talented DEF, we can be a serious contender.

By Just the facts...

March 14, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

And to the Boogie Woogie Man, I know you’re trying to make a point but at least give the people the whole truth. You say the Falcons O-Line was the middle of the pack in sacks allowed but YOU FORGOT to mention that our O-Line was LAST in pass protection attempts. You shouldn’t be last in pass protection attempts but middle of the pack in sacks allowed. That means your horrible at pass protection and giving up sacks at an alarming rate.

And then you say don’t blame the Falcon receivers because they were middle of the pack in dropped passes but YOU FORGOT to mention AGAIN…that the Falcons receivers were LAST IN PASS CATCHING ATTEMPTS. You can’t have the fewest passes thrown to you but be in the middle of the pack in drops. That means you’re horrible and dropping passes at an alarming rate.

Good try though…but your argument might have credibility if you presented the entire case. And maybe we were last in passing BECAUSE WE WERE LAST IN PASSING ATTEMPTS. By the way, we were LED the league in rushing attempts and LED the league in rushing yards…

By Dustin from Dville

March 14, 2007 7:30 AM | Link to this

I think except for bringing in abraham and gandy ,mckay has been a terrible GM. How do we sign a old often injured,slowed down wide reciever to be our #1 while passing on Calvin Johnson??? And to make matters even worse….predictions have tampa taking johnson with the 4th overall pick. We should of done EVERYTHING possible to grab this guy!! After he burns the falcons and horn has another bust game because vick cant throw for crap….i should repost what i just wrote in the fall again after we play tampa next year! Horn will be good for maybe another 2 years. While CJ is going to become the next TO without the attitude…and more speed! just watch!!

By destin

March 14, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

There’s no way we should go DT over DE with our 1st pick. We only have one quality DE on our roster and he seems to have a problem staying on the field. DT does need someone to spell Grady, but we must get a “starter” at DE right now! The draft is fairly deep at DB - and this is where we need to use our #2 pick. By the 3rd round, there won’t be a DE of the quality we need. We have to fill our starting roles B-4 we work on the back-ups. If a miracle occurs and Jammal Anderson slips, take him, otherwise take Adam Carriker.

By vickisick

March 14, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

as long as mckay gets “value” for his picks that is the key. if he stands pat at pick 10, he better get a bonified starter. if he trades down for mutliple picks then he can get a quality DT and maybe a DE like Jarvis Moss or Charles Johnson.

i’m for trading down for more picks because this draft has a lot of depth on defense especially d-line. he could trade down 10 for a mid-late first and a mid second. also, trading schaub will give him another low first to mid second. that gives: mid first, low first, 10th in 2nd, mid 2nd.

that, boys and girls is how you build depth and quality starters at the same time. with all the DE’s and DT’s available you can’t screw this draft up.

By Ken Strickland

March 14, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

VICKSICK, I agree. Trading down is our best option, especially if the teams trading up aren’t after the player(s) we want. We need a DT a lot more than you may think. Last yr, if teams passed on 1st/2nd dns, or in traditional nonpassing situations, we couldn’t replace GJackson. That left us with only 3 effective pass rushing DL, and they usually double team Abraham. That’s the major reason we didn’t have an effective pass rush last yr, plus the fact our DC didn’t like to blitz.

GJackson is better suited to play nose tackle in a 3-4 DEF. He lacks the stamina, quickness, speed and latteral movement it takes to be a consistently effective 4-3 DT. He can hold his position, even penetrate and make the tackle if the RB comes right at him. With a healthy RColeman, and an athletic Okoye, we could collaspe the middle of the pocket and flush the QB towards our DE’s. Our LB’s are better suited for running down RB’s, not meeting them head on between the tackles.

If you read the scouting report on some of the lesser known DB’s, you’ll be supprised. Some might actually be better suited to play FS than the highly touted Nelsons and Landry’s. They’re not as tall, or as big, but their speed, cover skills, and hitting ability can equal, or exceed, those of more highly touted DB’s. Utah’s Eric Waddle(6’ 200lbs), a former freshman All American, is a good example. He has CB speed, SS hitting ability, and the versatility to rush for 147yds, score 4 TD’s and throw 1 TD pass. I wouldn’t blink an eye bypassing Landry, Nelson, or Griffin, in the 1st rd to draft this guy in the 2nd. Why burn a 1st rd pick just to gain an extra inch or 2, and a few extra lbs.

By dirty byrd

March 14, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

how quick we forget last yr, we had mr mike throw correct in two games we beat 2 good teams thru the air then turned around and lost 2 games beat by our poor coaches play calling. as far as players needed with our new coaching staff we are not in bad shape, coach p is very smart on game day he watches and adj every series not at half or not at all. if off players can get coach p 800 page play book down we will be fine. def is how we must win games in 07 feel we have to have better def on the field we got burned by poor off teams when it counted most we could not stop anybody not even 3rd string, draft for def this yr period. go you dirty birds!!!!

By dukeman42d

March 14, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

I been a falcon fan for years and year around this time we start knocking guys or hyping guys up. The one thing that I notice about we draft we tend not to go after the next supper star. I can only remember 4 super-star or pro bowler player.

Deion Sanders- he just fail into our laps Brookings-local kid Mike Vick- Dan reeves did it to save his job D. Hall- he just fall into our lap

Roddy White was not consider super star Mike Jenkens was not consider super star.

This is will be the year we can finally give vick a big time targert. One of the the WR will be either RA free-agent or UR-Free-agent. Calvin Johsnon he has super star all on him. Beside this year draft is pretty deep at DE’s and Safety.

By cp

March 14, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Actually i was thinking about the team trading down for more picks today. Can someone tell me how much money we have under the cap and do we have enough to sign the 10th pick and the rest of the guys we are going to draft.. What was the 10th pick last year paid? I dont know much about the cap and all but im thinking we are going to have to release some more players so we will be alble to sign the draft picks. Whoever gets a chance please get back to me.

By WASHINGTON GENERALS

March 14, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

WE SHOULD CHANGE THE FALCONS NAME TO THE* “WASHINGTON GENERALS” *THEY WERE SACRIFICIAL BAFOONS FOR THE GLOBETROTTERS. ITS MORE FITTING WHEN FALCONS PLAY AT HOME… THANKS MCKAY!

By FALCON WEST

March 14, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

TO ALL MY FALCON BROTHERS LET ME TELL YOU EXACTLY HOW THIS DRAFT WILL GO.FIRST OF ALL THE WAY TO BUILD A CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM YOU MUST GET STRONG UP THE MIDDLE OF THE FIELD.LANDRY IS A NO BRAINER YOU MUST TAKE THIS GUY AT #10.OUR CURRENT SAFTIES COULDNT START ON MY SONS POP WARNER TEAM.IF HE IS NOT AVAILABLE TRADE DOWN A COUPLE OF SPOTS AND TAKE REGGIE NELSON.WITH THE SECOND PICK TAKE DE FROM FLORIDA RAY MCDONALD I WATHED THIS GUY AT FLORIDA AND HE WILL BE A BETTER PRO THAN A COLLAGE PLAYER.HE IS 6-3 285 AND QUICK AS A CAT.THE THIRD PICK IS ALSO A NO BRAINER THIS PICK WILL BE MICHEAL BUSH.PATRINO LOVES BIG PLAYERS AND TO CONTROL THE CLOCK YOU NEED A GUY WHO CAN MOVE THE PILE FOUR YARDS AT A TIME.THIS GUY IS 6-2 250 AND PLAYS WITH POWER.THE REASON WE HAVENT SIGNED ANY LINEMAN IS BECAUSE PATRINO KNOWS THE GUYS WHO PLAYED FOR HIM AT LOUISVILLE KURT QUARTERMAN 6-4 337 WILL BE AVAILABLE IN THE LATER ROUNDS.FALCON FANS ALSO FORGET PATRINO HAD A OFFENSIVE TACKLE AT LOUISVILLE NAME RENALDO FOSTER 6-6 324.BOBBY IS NO FOOL HE KNOW HE CAN DRAFT THESE KIND OF GUYS LATE AND STILL GET PRODUCTION FROM THEM.ALSO IF BOBBY MADE DECENT PLAYERS OUT OF JAKE PLUMMER AND MARK BRUNELL HE SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE VICK LOOK LIKE JOE MONTANA.AS FOR THE REST OF THE DRAFT WE WILL UPGRADE THE DEFENSE AND SPECIAL TEAMS WITH GUYS LIKE KANSAS STATE KICK RETURNER YAMON FIGURS,DAVID HARRIS LB MICHIGAN,MARCUS MCCAULEY CB FRESNO STATE.BE PATIENT FALCON FANS GOOD THINGS ARE COMING.I LIVED ON THE WEST COAST WHEN THE 49ERS HIRED SOME GUY FROM STANFORD PEOPLE LAUGH AT THE TIME BUT I DIDNT BECAUSE WINNERS HAVE CERTAIN TRAITS AND BOBBY PATRINO HAS THOSE SAME TRAITS.OH BY THE WAY THAT GUY THE 49ERS HIRED WAS BILL WALSH.I BET YOU NOBODYS LAUGHING NOW

By FALCON WEST

March 14, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

TO ALL MY FALCON BROTHERS LET ME TELL YOU EXACTLY HOW THIS DRAFT WILL GO.FIRST OF ALL THE WAY TO BUILD A CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM YOU MUST GET STRONG UP THE MIDDLE OF THE FIELD.LANDRY IS A NO BRAINER YOU MUST TAKE THIS GUY AT #10.OUR CURRENT SAFTIES COULDNT START ON MY SONS POP WARNER TEAM.IF HE IS NOT AVAILABLE TRADE DOWN A COUPLE OF SPOTS AND TAKE REGGIE NELSON.WITH THE SECOND PICK TAKE DE FROM FLORIDA RAY MCDONALD I WATHED THIS GUY AT FLORIDA AND HE WILL BE A BETTER PRO THAN A COLLAGE PLAYER.HE IS 6-3 285 AND QUICK AS A CAT.THE THIRD PICK IS ALSO A NO BRAINER THIS PICK WILL BE MICHEAL BUSH.PATRINO LOVES BIG PLAYERS AND TO CONTROL THE CLOCK YOU NEED A GUY WHO CAN MOVE THE PILE FOUR YARDS AT A TIME.THIS GUY IS 6-2 250 AND PLAYS WITH POWER.THE REASON WE HAVENT SIGNED ANY LINEMAN IS BECAUSE PATRINO KNOWS THE GUYS WHO PLAYED FOR HIM AT LOUISVILLE KURT QUARTERMAN 6-4 337 WILL BE AVAILABLE IN THE LATER ROUNDS.FALCON FANS ALSO FORGET PATRINO HAD A OFFENSIVE TACKLE AT LOUISVILLE NAME RENALDO FOSTER 6-6 324.BOBBY IS NO FOOL HE KNOW HE CAN DRAFT THESE KIND OF GUYS LATE AND STILL GET PRODUCTION FROM THEM.ALSO IF BOBBY MADE DECENT PLAYERS OUT OF JAKE PLUMMER AND MARK BRUNELL HE SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAKE VICK LOOK LIKE JOE MONTANA.AS FOR THE REST OF THE DRAFT WE WILL UPGRADE THE DEFENSE AND SPECIAL TEAMS WITH GUYS LIKE KANSAS STATE KICK RETURNER YAMON FIGURS,DAVID HARRIS LB MICHIGAN,MARCUS MCCAULEY CB FRESNO STATE.BE PATIENT FALCON FANS GOOD THINGS ARE COMING.I LIVED ON THE WEST COAST WHEN THE 49ERS HIRED SOME GUY FROM STANFORD PEOPLE LAUGH AT THE TIME BUT I DIDNT BECAUSE WINNERS HAVE CERTAIN TRAITS AND BOBBY PATRINO HAS THOSE SAME TRAITS.OH BY THE WAY THAT GUY THE 49ERS HIRED WAS BILL WALSH.I BET YOU NOBODYS LAUGHING NOW

By Ken Strickland

March 14, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

CP, we will find the money to pay our picks. Most of the players we draft will likely replace someone on the current roster. We also have some assets that can be sacrificed, like Webster, Rossum, Shropshire, etc. I think Brookings and Dunn have contracts that can be restructured. Also, Weiner, McClure, and Forney signed contract extentions that can possibly be reworked.

I have a question concerning cap space. If a team cuts a player, and that player signs with another team, will his cap charge be removed. The contracts of ALelie, PKerney, JGriffin, IReese, and EHartwell have been terminated. Since the 1st 3 have signed with other teams, and the Patriots are considering offering Hartwell a contract, what does that do to their cap charge?

By BUSHWACKER

March 14, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Vick looks like he just toasted a fat one in the picture on th internet on Weds

By cp

March 14, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Ken i do appreciate that.

By Matt

March 14, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Nice to see #7 doing some real work…oh wait, no, that was Joe Horn doing the work while Michael Vick is opening his new restaurant. I guess that I just missed the 8 on Joe’s jersey. Too bad that the Falcons have still hitched their dreams onto a QB who looks out for himself more than he does for his team or his organization. I don’t think that he deserves a good O-line until he shows that he’s more commited to the Falcons and Atlanta as a city. Some day, he’ll come to realize that being a star isn’t the greatest thing in the world, and maybe by that point, he’ll have become a football player that I would actually spend my money to go and see.

By mountain jim

March 14, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Scouts.com reporting:

FALCONS LAND FONOTI

The Atlanta Falcons wanted to go bigger on the offensive line in 2007. In one fell swoop, they have.

Adam Caplan of Scout.com reports that the Falcons have agreed to terms with “Two-Ton” Toniu Fonoti. The contract has a duration of one year.

The Chewin’ Samooan has bounced around the league (literally) since 2002, playing with the Chargers, Vikings, and Dolphins, and spending a short amount of time with the Raiders and the Bucs.

Fonoti is listed at 350 pounds

By Sensible

March 14, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck…hey, who am I to say Vick looks like a pot head or Rosie Odonnel eats too much….I will say this though, it’s a good thing Vick is an athlete, not many employers would hire him. He looks like a member of Snoop Doggs entourage.

By RickyWilliams

March 14, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Duuuuuuuuuuuuude, my bro’s on the front page….whazzzzzzuppp Vicky ? When you comin’ back to Miami playa?

By Ken Strickland

March 14, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

It’s MONKEY TIME. You can always tell when MONKEY TIME comes around. All of the HATERS start posting their ANAL MINDED CRAP. What’s up dumb A?

MOUNTAIN JIM, thanks for the info. It looks like Petrino wants to build his OL from the inside out. With Fotoni and FB Mughelli, DEF’s will have a hard time getting to our QB up the middle. For intelligent fans, that aren’t focused of personal issue, the upcoming season is going to be really exciting. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!

By Sensible

March 14, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Yeah, anal minded crap….in other words if you’re not warmly tucked in between the testicles and the thighs of one Michael Vick your comments aren’t welcome….I’d rather be a hater than a hugger living in fantasyland….hey, huggers, while you’re in there…pull your head out of Vicks a$$.

By The Grinch

March 14, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Ken Strickland, you really consider Webster an asset? No sane team would offer a bucket of chicken for him, unless Jr. could talk the Seahawks into it like he did the ‘niner’s and Falcons. I still think compromising photos are involved somewhere. Like the signing of a 350 pund guard, though if he couldn’t stick with the Raiders or Bucs (both who have crappy lines), makes me wonder how good he is.

By Mike

March 14, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

KEN I agree with you on OKoye. I think even with the loss of Kerney, as long as Abe stays healthy, the Falcons really aren’t hurting at DE. I definitely do not think they should take Nelson in the first round. He may even fall to the second round (depending on the needs of other teams). This draft is very deep Defensively this year. I like defensive picks, because they usually are less riskier than the 1st round QB’s, Recievers, and RB’s. Someone said Michael Bush in the 3rd round. That would be nice, but I do not see him going past the middle of the second. Kenny Irons may be a solid third rounder.

By Carroll

March 14, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

What the hell is Vick doing wearing a Nationals baseball hat?! We put up with his sorry a* and he can’t even show support for our Braves?!

By Mike

March 14, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

I would like to add to the Vick huggers and haters. One man can not win nor loose a game. I have loved and hated Vick during his career with Atlanta. Fact is he has not looked well for the most part for the last couple of years, but the guys making the big bucks to make the decision says he is our man and I can only trust that they know what is right. The times they won he did not win it all..the team did. The times they lost he did not drop passes, miss tackles, or blow coverages. It is a team sport. Everyone said Manning could never win the big game and they were right, but when they put the right players with him he was able to lead the team to a championship. Vick has looked awesome and awful through the years, because everyone puts it all on his shoulders. The coaches we have now will make him and all the other players accountable in victory and defeat. There is a reason we are in the AJC postng our wishes and so forth for our team rather than in the office making the decisions.

By falconfan

March 14, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

As long as we have the great Vick, forget about winning, You can talk needs all day , a moot conversation.

By Ken Strickland

March 14, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

This will probably be the hardest piece of factual information for you ANAL MINDED HATERS to grasp. THIS IS AN ATLANTA FALCONS TEAM BLOG, NOT A MICHAEL VICK BLOG. These blogs are intended for intelligent fans that want to discuss all Falcon issues. Your personal issues with players should be discussed among your family members, where it can be embraced, and/or appreciated.

My comments weren’t directed at anyone by name, or any particular individual, just a certain ANAL MINDED MENTALITY. Anyone that responded is saying a lot about who and what they are, and how they ultimately see themselves. Good luck to you all, you need it.

By Oddjob

March 14, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

When looking at what Petrino accomplished at Louisville, the game coaching is obvious,but something to keep in mind is he never had a top 25 rated recruiting class.That tells me two things,he knows talent and he can get the best out of players.This is why I like his chances in the NFL compared to coaches who came from schools who had their pick of top recruits,also I trust his judgement on draft day.

By Ken Strickland

March 14, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

GRINCH, Webster is an asset as far as being expendable. Cutting him would not hurt the team, and it would free up cap room. The OG you mentioned could actually end up becoming a valuable asset. I remember an OT the Falcons drafted #1, and shortly thereafter they gave up on him. His name is Lincoln Kennedy, and he went on to have an Allpro career with the Oakland Raiders. Fotoni can’t be too bad, he started 16gms with the Chargers, and we all know how good that OL has been.

Neither Oakland, or TB uses a power blocking scheme. His size, and their blocking scheme, might have made him a bad fit. However, his size(350lbs)and power might end up making him a Probowler under Petrino’s power blocking scheme. Don’t be so quick to jump to conclusions. To tell the truth, the way jr has performed it does makes you wonder how he continues to land on his feet.

MIKE, when DE’s pressure the QB, he usually steps up into the pocket and calmly completes the play. It’s always an advantage to collapse the pocket up the middle. It forces the QB to move/slide right/left, and try to complete the play on the move. Accuracy will always go down when throwing on the move/run. Our DE’s are young, talented and inexperienced, but they are getting better. That’s not the case with our DT’s. Babineaux has legal troubles, Shropshire is in a depth chart freefall, TJackson is not ready, and GJackson is too limited and coming off surgery.

By Falconfan

March 14, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

I’m tired of all this Vick bashing….He’s our running back dadgummit and you rednecks are just gonna have to accept it.

By Mike

March 14, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

I think Fotoni will be a great addition to Atlanta. I think a huge guard like that will compliment the speed of Vick and Norwood. One of Vick’s strengths is being rushed up the middle and being forced to roll to the outside.I think with a huge guard and FB now protecting him on the outside he will have more time. Big guys on the outside will also compliment Norwood’s speed. The main thing I would like to see is the ability to keep drives alive. If you look back at the year the Falcons went to the Superbowl… they did it with a D that didnt give up big plays… and the offense kept the D off the field and rested. I would like to see one good reciever drafted, maybe a big running back, and the rest should be focussed on the def line and secondary. I think one more linebacker for some depth would be good. Williams should be on the weakside, because he has better closing speed than Brooking. Move Brooking to the middle. Boley has been impressive so far in his young career, and is going to get better. I think Beck will be ok if he can stay healthy. Can everyone get off of Vick please. If you are a real Falcon fan, as long as he is wearing a Falcon’s Jersey… you should be hoping the best for him. Let’s cut the racial crap in these room and root for our team. When they win we all win, when they lose we all lose… plain and simple. If you have an idea of how to get rid of Vick and win just send your resume in to Mr Blank and Mr McKay. I am sure they will be impressed enough by your AJC posts to offer you a job.

By funnyman

March 15, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

he’s our running back and we’re just gonna have to accept it? Real comedians on here…I think the Falcons should sign Ricky Williams….Vick and Williams, that would be dope.

By dakid

March 15, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Okay, All the Vick basher’s. I have a question that i know will not get answered. What would Peyton do with the falcon’s team last year? And i agree, Vick has to improve as a passer. Also I don’t think that we should take a saftey with 10th pick. We need to pray Adams, or Anderson falls to us.

By funnyman

March 15, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Peyton would probably throw the ball at the last step of his 3,5, or 7 foot drop and give the receiver the best chance to catch it. Vick is not a good QB and nobody will accept this simple truth… Get Vick a new o line, new receivers, new rb, new O coord., new head coach, you name it, I talk to a lot of people who don’t like him but here there seems to be undeserved love for the guy. Vick is black and therefore can’t be judged as a QB alone, that’s the truth, Atlanta is the African American city of America and MLK and all that good stuff. I wish it weren’t the case but it sadly is….VICK IS A ATLANTA NAACP ICON. Not a good QB but a NAACP icon. Peace out ….GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 15, 2007 1:04 AM | Link to this

Signing Toniu Fonoti to a minimum deal is not a bad move. When he keeps his weight under control, he is a powerful run blocker, but he struggles in pass protection and gets fat real easy. Then again, he’s instantly the best left guard this team has. He’ll help transition this offensive line to a power run blocking scheme. The Falcons certainly could have done worse for a minimum-salary player.

By FU-BUDDY

March 15, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this

Vick is not a running back, he’s a qb who plays on a team with a lousy o line, lousy wide receivers and lousy coaches till this year. I swear I hate Georgia sometimes because the idiocy just seems to get more and more rediculous with each passing day. funnyman talks crap from his double wide while his wife works her waffle house shift.

By FALCON WEST

March 15, 2007 3:25 AM | Link to this

WELL FALCON FANS MY BLOG LASTNIGHT WAS SO GOOD MY FELLOW FALCON FANS HAVE ASK ME TO DO IT AGAIN.FIRST OF ALL THE RUMOR IS LANDRY WONT MAKE IT TO #10.BUT THE GOOD NEWS IS ADRIAN PETERSON MIGHT FALL TO #10.NOW I DONT LIKE TO DRAFT ANY RUNNING BACK THIS HIGH BUT THIS GUY IS A CARBON COPY OF ERIC DICKERSON.HE IS A GAME CHANGER AND PATRINO MADE IT CLEAR THAT HE WANTS A HOMERUN HITTER.AS FOR THE FONOTI SIGNING 350 POUNDS IS MUSIC TO MY EARS AFTER SEEING LEHR PLAY THERE.ALSOTHE RUMOR IS BRADY QUINN MIGHT GO #2 TO DETROIT IF THATS THE CASE PHIL SAVAGE OF CLEVELAND WILL BE UNDER THE GUN.MANAGEMENT HAS TOLD HIM TO FIND A QUARTERBACK OR ELSE.I DONT REALLY WANT TO MOVE UP BECAUSE IT WILL COST TO MUCH.PLUS THIS DRAFT IS LOADED WITH WIDE RECIEVERS.IF WE CAN GET A SECOND AND FOURTH THAT WILL BE GRAVY.NOW ITS TIME TO GO THE RUMORS ARE FLYING SO FELLOW BIRDS LETS GET READY TO FLY BECAUSE THE RICH AND BOBBY SHOW IS READY TO GO PRIMETIME

By Jake

March 15, 2007 4:17 AM | Link to this

Until we find a quarterback no free agent is going to do anything. I hate how people say Mike Vick is revolutionizing the QB position. Let me relate something, that is like saying that there is a center in basketball who can shoot 3 pointers with 100 percent accuracy, but can’t make a shot within the paint. He isn’t revolutionizing the position he is just a shooting guard, just like Vick isn’t revolutionizing the Quarterback position he should just be a running back.

By Eternal Optimist

March 15, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this

Jake/ get over it bro. Vick is our QB. Yes, the guy has work to do like everyone else, but I would definetely pick him on my team. He’s a baller. He lays it out there and that’s all you can ask. Be patient. We will make some good improvements this year, you’ll see. So says the Eternal Optimist!!!!!!!!

By destin

March 15, 2007 8:49 AM | Link to this

For anyone to say we are OK at DE is absurd. Davis,Carrington and Mallard are back-ups at best. Abraham probably will never play a full season. We need a dominant DE that will grow with the Falcons for years to come, not some journeyman or marginal later pick. The first round is the only place we can get this kind of talent. Again I say, if Anderson falls to us, take him, otherwise take Carriker. We need to think about winning ‘this year’ and right now our priority list on defense is: 1.DE 2.DB 3.DT 4.LB - Hell, with the exception of four or five players, we need a lot of help on D.

By larry w.

March 15, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

destin, I agree that DE should be a priority this off season. We are very marginal at this position to say the least. I do not, however feel that we have to take a DE with our first pick. There should still be some talented young DEs’ in the second round, possibly even the third. Of course if we trade down, we could address multiple positions of need in the first and second rounds. More and more I’m starting to feel that may be the best way to go.

By FU-BUDDY

March 15, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Vick is daman……fashizzle my brizzle….DOWN WITH WHITEY

By dakid

March 15, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

FU-Buddy,if that was an attempt to “talk black”, that was terrible. I don’t know anyone who talk like that. And Peyton would deliver ball out on his correct steps,but they would get picked off. His reciever’s in Indy are great. Not so in Atlanta. You still didn’t answer question though. And i’m not making excuses for Vick. He has to get better. With 10th pick, DE. 2nd round, DB. If we get a corner, Move Williams to saftey. If Vick doesn’t improve,i’m the 1st to say get him out of here. I like the signing of the guard. A power running game,will open up alot of things for this team. I still think we should go after Rb Chris Brown.

By Booduh

March 15, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Hey, dakid, don’t you think Manning plays a role in the “greatness” of his receivers?

By mountain_jim

March 15, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Way to keep trashing Vick in an article that should have been about his positive steps for his and his city’s future, Steve.

It’s no wonder he does not want to say anything or appear in public during the offseason, apparently you and the AJC just can’t let the incident where no charges and no illegality were found die. Every mention of Vick in the AJC keeps bringing it up, bringing it up.

I am sure plenty is going on over at the Falcons headquarters right about now that relates to Falcons Football - why don’t you interview some folks and write something about the new players and new offense us fans could enjoy reading?

By commonsense

March 15, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Yes, Manning plays a role in the greatness of his receivers, Vick plays a role in the sorriness of our receivers…A BIG ROLE.

By long time falcon

March 15, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Ken, you tend to lay it on a little to thick sometimes. Lincoln kennedy went on to have a decent career with the raiders but he was never once all- pro. You said the guy had an all- pro career with the raiders. You make it sound as if the guy turned out to be bruce matthews. The falcons had every right to give up on the guy because he was always an overweight underachiever while he played here.

By Ken Strickland

March 15, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

This is how I would rebuild the Falcons. (1)We trade down and secure an additional 2nd rd pick. If APeterson falls into our lap, he would present us with an excellent opportunity to trade down and get value. (2)Then we trade MSchaub for a low 1st rd pick, if possible. That would give us 2 1st and 2 2nd rd picks. (3)With the 1st pick I’d select DT Okoye, who should be available in the middle of the 1st rd. He has size, quickness, and athletic ability. He and RColeman together could blowup any pocket and flush QB’s toward our DE’s. (4)We use our 2nd 1st rd pick to take OT LBrown, who might be available. If not, we use our extra lower rd picks to move up and get him. (5)We use our 1st 2nd rd pick to draft Notre Dame’s DE. He needs development, but he is a superior pass rusher now. We’ll need another pass rushing DE, if Abraham goes down. (6)We use our other 2nd rd pick to take RB MBush. This gives us the big RB we need, and he’s already familiar with Petrino’s system.

Let’s see what we have.(DEF)DE-Davis (rookie pass rusher)& Abraham DT-Coleman & Okoye LB-Boley, Williams & Brookings CB-Hall & Sanders SS-Molloy FS-JWilliams. You have an aggressive DEF that’s quick, fast, versatile, athletic, young and experienced. (OFF)OT-Gandy(315lbs)& Brown(323lbs), OG-Forney(307lbs)& Fonoti(350lbs) C-McClure(286lbs). Add our big, strong, primere power blocking FB Mughelli, team him with Dunn, Norwood, Bush, and what do you have. You have a power running game featuring 2 of the fastest(Dunn & Norwood), and 2 of the most powerful(Mughelli & Bush) RB’s in the NFL. We use our remaining 6/7 picks to add depth to the roster. We are due 2 supplemental picks that will fall between the 3rd & 6th rds. That would leave us 7 picks, after rd 2, that we could use for trading up. What do any of you think?

By vickisick

March 15, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

i’ve been suggesting that the falcons trade down out of #10 and trade schaub for a late 1st early 2nd.

trading down gives late 1st plus late 2nd/3rd. schaub trade gives late 1st early 2nd.

that gives them: late 1st, late 1st, #10 in 2nd and another 2nd. they should take all defense d line and secondary. better to get 5 B+ guys than 1 A+.

By vickisick

March 15, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

guys i would go after:

Okoye DT, Carriker DE, Charles Johnson DE, Reggie Nelson S, Ben Grubbs G, Levi Brown G.

I’m not saying these guys are the BPA in the draft, but they’ve got good value b/c their not top 10 picks.

Brown, Okoye and Carriker will be gone in 1st, so if ATL has 2 firsts they should take these guys if available in picks 20-30.

By reality

March 15, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Please draft defense, Vick can’t ruin defensive players.

By dakid

March 15, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

You are right. Manning does. But what would he do with the Falcon’s team last year? You think they would make playoff’s? And Ken you have some nice idea’s. I love that Carriker guy from Nebraska. But i’m weary of taking another NE player(Booker)lol.

By Ken Strickland

March 16, 2007 3:00 AM | Link to this

DAKID, Carriker would be a good fit. I read his scouting report, and he seems like a bigger, faster, stronger version of PKerney. He would be an excellent compliment to JAbraham. You should check out a DE named Victor Abiamiri of Notre Dame. He’s a 6’4” 270lb version of JAbraham. He is said to be so athletic, he could play OLB in a 3/4 DEF. He can be had in the 2nd rd. I’d much rather pass on Carriker and use our #10 pick on OT LBrown, or DT Okoye. You won’t find an OT, or DT in the 2nd rd anywhere near the talent and polish of Brown, or Okoye. But, you can find a DE in the 2nd rd equal to Carriker with enough talent and potential to become even better.

I feel the same way when it comes to FS. Why spend a 1st rd pick on Nelson, Merriweather, Griffin, or Landry when you can find simular talent in the 2nd. Check out Eric Weddle, a 6’ 200lb safety from Utah. His scouting report says he has the speed to play CB in the Pros, and he can also play both safeties. He is versatile enough to have gained 147yds, scored 4TD’s, and thrown 1 TD pass on OFF. I wouldn’t hesitate passing on either of the big 4 to take this guy in the 2nd rd.

This is why I say we should draft either DT Okoye, or OT Brown with our 1st pick. If we can work a draft day trade using Schaub, and maybe our extra 4th rd pick, we could draft them both. That would give us 4 possible starters. Okoye, the drafts best overall DT, LBrown, the drafts 2nd best OT, abiamiri, one of the drafts most talented DE, and EWeddle, one of the drafts most talented, versatile, and athletic DB’s. We could have all of this just by refusing to draft a DE, or FS, in the 1st rd. Imagine how stupid it would be to give up all of this talent just to acquire Calvin Johnson. How many passes will he defend or intercept, fumbles will he recover, or tackles will he make? How many holes will he open for our RB’s? He’s not worth what we’d have to give up to get him.

By vickisick

March 16, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

trading up for calvin would be nice, but you can’t give up that many players. like i said earlier…better to have 5 B+ guys than 1 A+.

Also, a strong D-line is more important than a strong secondary. Any secondary will get killed if the qb has enough time.

petrino should build the team from the line out. he’ll get his d-line and o-line built before he goes after the skill positions wide-out and secondary.

By Somesense

March 16, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Oh my goodness, I just read some common sense on these boards, congratulations vickisick, of course judging by your name you’re probably a hugger but you are dead right about building the team from the line out….when are people gonna learn football games are won on the line of scrimmage. I would be totally thrilled if the Falcons drafted nothing but O and D line, next year get your big RB or WR, of course Falcon fans want to draft a WR every year to bring out the “greatness” of their savior Mike Vick, not gonna happen if we had 4 #1 wide receivers, Mike Vick will still be Mike Vick.

By Eternal Optimist

March 16, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Only in Georgia do you find fans that consistently bash a QB that has brought league respectibility to a otherwise “historically crappy” franchise. Atlanta fans suck. Yeah Vick has alot of work to do, but I think there are some great things in the works ahead of the Falcons. Go Falcons,Braves, Hawks…..

By Ken Strickland

March 16, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

LONG TIME FALCON, Lincoln Kennedy was a 3 time Probowler with the Raiders, who retired after playing in the 03 SB. The really sad thing is he lost his job as an NFL analyst, and is now trying to reenter the NFL as a player. He’s 36yrs old, overweight, out of shape, and hasn’t played since his 03 retirement.

By realism

March 16, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

I don’t want a “hyped” QB for the Snoop Dogg crowd. I want a real QB, you know, one who can P A S S !!!!

By long time falcon

March 16, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Ken, you said kennedy was all-pro. There is a big difference between going to the pro bowl and being named all-pro. Only one player per position gets named to the all-pro team. The allpro team is picked from both conferences so there is no afc or nfc team, just one total team. Just about any decent player who plays 12 or 13 years goes to a few pro bowls. So many guys year in and year out miss the pro bowl for various reasons that alternates are given many opportunities. I won’t argue that kennedy salvaged his career with the raiders but he was given every opportunity here. It’s not like we gave up on him, more or less he just layed an egg in a falcons uniform. Sometimes guys in the league realize that their opportunity in the NFL is about to end and that motivates them when they are facing the real world like the rest of us. When he got a second opportunity with raiders he took full advantage and deserves credit for redeeming himself.

By dakid

March 16, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Ken, I don’t like that kid from ND. He is very athletic,but he didn’t play at 270, he played around 250. I am weary about kids that put on weight for combine. Also, they aren’t trading Shaub. I don’t think that DJ is ready, but you never know. I like DB from Fresno State. And move JWill to saftey. I also think we need another DT. But not with our 1st round pick. Pray one of the big 2 DE’s drop’s. If not trade down with NE,if they target someone. They have 2 1st round picks. We could get a saftey or cb. And maybe the OT from Arkansas. Or DE from Texas. Optimist,you are right. But they are fans that loved him in ‘02,’04. Leading the team to the playoff’s. And the same one’s when he got hurt saying that he would never get his position again because Doug Johnson would play so well.Are fans are a joke. Always have been.

By Ken Strickland

March 16, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

LONG TIME FALCON, I got your point. I incorrectly used AllPro career instead of ProBowl career. The misquote doesn’t change the overall meaning in any way. In fact, you actually made my point for me. I was trying to make a point to a poster that criticized the signing of OG Fonoti. He judged the acquisition based on the fact he had been waived by Oakland and TB. Fonoti is a big, strong, power blocking OG that’s had weight problems, and problems with teams that don’t employ a power blocking scheme.

Petrino obviously feels he can eliminate, or control, those problems and maximize his talents in our new power blocking scheme.

By Sweat 2

March 16, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

I’ve stayed away out of frustration, but can’t avoid adding my two cents about this Horn character. Just what most of us want to see, another show boat who acts like a jerk if and when he does what he is paid to do. Yeah. that’s the kind of leadership we need on the team!!! Wouldn’t it be great to have a group of decent guys who just tried their best that you could get excited about pulling for again.

By Oddjob

March 16, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

SC I lived in Colorado in the late 90s.The problems Denver has had post Elway are more about qb than o-line.

By Ken Strickland

March 16, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

DAKID, I like your ideas. Actually, we are saying the same thing, just different names. We both know there’s a wealth of quality talent at our disposal in the lower rds, especially on DEF. With 9 picks over 6 rds, we have the resources to trade up. I don’t think Schaub wants to spend another yr as a Falcons backup. That’s why he hasn’t signed the teams contract offer. I am certain his agent’s trying to get a team to consider trading for his services. It’s going to be difficult for a team to cough up a 1st and 3nd rd pick for Schaub. That’s what it will take to sign him to a FA contract.

I’ve been monitoring various mock drafts, and they have everybody falling to the #10 spot except WR Johnson, OT Thomas, QB’s Russell and Quinn, and the big DT from Michigan. One has us taking DT Okoye, another FS Landry, another DE Anderson, and one has us taking RB Peterson. They’re all over the place. I don’t think Schaub will be traded until the 2 top QB’s in the draft are taken. If they go 1-2 as expected, look for teams to start seriously inquiring about Schaub.

By long time falcon

March 17, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

Browns | Team eyeing quarterbacks Thu, 15 Mar 2007 21:28:55 -0700

Steve Doerschuk, of the Canton Repository, reporting for the Sporting News, reports the Cleveland Browns have been monitoring what it would take to pry restricted free-agent QB Matt Schaub (Falcons) away from the Atlanta Falcons in a draft-related trade. They also have been studying Houston Texans QB David Carr.

HMMMM. If we could trade shaub for their second round pick this would be a good deal for both teams. The browns have the third pick in the second round and we could get a good player at that spot. It is also a lot easier to trade into the first round when you have a high second round pick. If we saw a player we liked we could easily trade their(browns) second and our third to move into the high twenties. Then we still have our own second round pick. That would give us three picks in the first 47 and allow us to address the offensive line / defensive end/ and safety. If this scenario played out then I would hope that levi brown fell to us with the first pick. With the browns pick we could possibly trade up into the end of the first round and get a guy like carricker. With our own second rounder we could take the best safety left on the board. The two strongest positions in this years draft are safety and defensive end so this plays to our advantage.

By long time falcon

March 17, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

I have read comments about us not wanting to trade shaub and that is false. Shaub will be an unrestricted free agent next season and no way are we wanting him to walk without compensation. The only way I see him staying is if we don’t get an offer worth trading him for. At this point I think the falcons would trade shaub for a second rounder especially if its the browns high pick. If the best deal we could get was a third rounder or lower then we might rather have him around for security next season than to let him walk for such a low pick. But I think a second rounder or higher would do it.

By larry w.

March 17, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

long time falcon, good info. I would be surprised if something isn’t done with Schaub on draft day. An extra pick in the early rounds would be huge toward filling some of our needs. And as you pointed out, it would give us more flexibility to make more moves on draft day. As I have pointed out before, I believe Petrino has his eye on Michael Bush, possibly in the second round. An extra second round pick may be what Petrino and company are counting on to get this accomplished. Petrino has been very straight forward in stating his desire to acquire a big back for his power running game. Bush knows his system and has gained the coaches trust. If the opportunity presented itself, I don’t think Petrino would hesitate taking Bush.

By Ken Strickland

March 17, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

LONG TIME FALCON, very good info. I didn’t know who would want Schaub, but I knew he’d draw interest. Teams needing a QB would prefer to draft Russell or Quinn over trading for Schaub. I figured if Russell and Quinn are off the board early, it would force teams to act immediately to secure Schaub. He’s a better option than any of the remaining QB’s in the draft. If we trade him for a 2nd rd pick, we would get compensation next yr, by way of a compensatory or supplemental pick.

This is why the Falcons tendered Schaub a high contract offer. The offer established Schaub’s value at a 1st & 3nd rd pick. If we trade him for a 2nd, the Falcons would be receiving less than rated value. Therefore, the league would award us a supplemental pick next yr to compensate for our lost value. We’re receiving 2 picks this yr, and I know one of them is for the loss of OT KSchaffer. These picks can be no higher than the bottom of the 3rd rd, and a team can receive no more than 4. If this trade takes place, we’d have(1)1st, (2)2nd, possibly (2)3rd, and (2)4th rd picks. We can acquire some serious talent with these 7 picks. We can use the remaining (3)picks to trade up.

By long time falcon

March 17, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Ken, the browns are probably thinking about taking a guy like peterson and then trading their second rounder for shaub. In this scenario the browns come out better because they get a stud running back and a young QB who is seasoned and ready to step right in. Neither russell or quinn are sure things anyway. I know I would rather have the combination of shaub/peterson or even shaub/johnson than a rookie QB and whatever cleveland would have gotten with that second round pick. In fact one top NFL talent evaluator at the combine who wished to remain anonymous said that his team had russell as a second rounder on their board. And I don’t see any superior skills in brady when comparing him to shaub. This would be a shrewd move for the browns and a good deal for the falcons as well.

By destin

March 17, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Every team in the NFL wants and needs a solid backup QB that could potentially be a starter. The Falcons are especially vulnerable if Vick either gets hurt or just can’t cut it. If we lose Schaub, we have created a serious weakness in our team. As to how we could fill this void, who’s to say? We need to think about winning “THIS YEAR” and not be one injury away from a blown season. I was in the Dome the night Baltimore blew-out Vick’s leg, and the season was gone before it even started. I would “consider” nothing less than a top 5 2nd round for Schaub(hell, last year we supposedly turned down a #1 - is his value dropping?). If his value turns out not to be so high, then we could maybe sign him ourselves after this season. Anyway, if we lose him, we damn sure better have a good plan to replace him with someone capable of taking us to the playoffs ‘this year’.

By long time falcon

March 17, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

Destin, we have never been offered a number #1 pick for shaub. The Jets wanted our #1 plus shaub in the trade for john abraham. It is unrealistic for people to expect that shaub will get us a #1 pick. He was like the #87 pick when we drafted him so why do people think he will now fetch us a number one? It’s possible he could get us a late first rounder but most of the teams that are desperate for a QB are picking much higher in the draft. If we could get a high second rounder that would be good value for us. I understand your concern about what would happen if vick went down next season. But imagine how your going to feel when shaub walks away for no compensation next year. If we do in fact trade shaub there are always veteran QB’s we could sign as a plan B.

By Ken Strickland

March 17, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

LONG TIME FALCON, can’t argue with that logic. I want you guys to try this on for size. Lets say we trade Schaub to Cleveland for their 2nd, and we swap 3rd, and possibly 4th rd picks. That would give us the 10th, 35th, 44th, and 67th picks in the draft. We draft OT Brown with pick #10, which makes TWeiner expendable. We know the Raiders have serious OL problems, especially at OT. We offer the Raiders Weiner, and maybe a 5th rd pick, for their 2nd, and possibly swap 4th rd picks. Now we have the 33rd, 35th, and 44th picks in the 2nd rd. We can package one of these with our extra 3rd, or 4th rd pick, and move into the 1st rd. That’s when we draft our DE/DT, based on who is available.

We would have 2 high picks left in rd 2 to select a CB/FS, and either RB Bush, or another DL. We use our high 3rd rd pick on a WR. I believe we could do a lot worse.

By destin

March 17, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

I still haven’t heard who we would get to replace Schaub that could fit right in if Vick when down and be capable of leading the team to the playoffs.

By long time falcon

March 17, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Destin, joey harrington is available and he is young. He played pretty well for the dolphins last year and he would be a solid backup if vick were to go down.

By Ken Strickland

March 17, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

DESTIN, I’m not certain anyone can give you a name. But it’s been stated that if the Falcons trade Schaub, they would sign a veteran backup. Petrino’s OFF won’t be as dependent on Vick running as much as Mora’s was. It’s the threat of running that will serve this OFF best. At this point, it’s not up to the Falcons if Schaub returns. He has to accept their contract offer 1st, and so far he hasn’t. I’m certain Schaub wouldn’t wait this long without signing if returning as the Falcons backup was his preferred option. He’ll wait for the draft to play out, just like the teams looking for a quality QB.

Schaub has to leave the Falcons this yr, otherwise he’ll end up being another Billy Voleck. Several teams made good FA offers to Voleck, including the Falcons, but he decided to resign as the Titans backup. By resigning, he sent the message that he preferred being a backup. And that’s about all he’s had a chance to be since. Tenn drafted Young because they no longer trusted him to be a starter. Schaub will be sending the same message, unless he resigns for the purpose of being traded, like a sort of sign and trade.

I really hope we draft OT Brown so we will have something of value to trade, OT TWeiner. If we draft a DE, DT, or FS/CB, we won’t have anything of value to trade. Sure, we’d still have Weiner, but we’d have nothing dependable to replace him with.

By hawks r cursed for trading nique

March 17, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

I agree with u Carroll: Vick wearing his washington hat isnt a good sign for us true fans. He must of been stoned….washington sucks anyways. And by the way theres nothing wrong with getting stoned (id rather be hi than drunk)…but when it comes to the leader of your team that has to memorize a 800 page playbook and now call audibles. I shure hope Vick can put down the blunts until the season is over.
I think trading Schuab would be a bad idea and as i called for SEVERAL times last year i think they should use vick and schuab as “situational quarterbacks” If were loosing in the 4th quarter and dont have time to rush we should put Schuab in the game! using this strategy the Falcons would of made the playoffs last year i guarntee!! i like Vick…but man u gotta step up your game.

By Tired of the madness

March 17, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Whether it’s draft day or some other time, Schaub will not be a falcon fro very much longer. I’ve been out for a while, but I’m happy to see that Ken Strickland, Long Time Falcon and others have been holding it down. In spite of all of the naysayers, I’m satisfied with the direction the falcons are headed thus far. I still have concerns about the O-line and DE position, but I’m confident we will come through there as well. As far as the Vick detractors, it’s analogous to a bird that keeps bumping into a well cleaned window. All of the whining and moaning is not going to change anything. If you are a TRUE falcon fan, you cheer for the team and ALL of its players.

By hawks r cursed for trading nique

March 17, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

Anyone else think the falcons signing Horn and basicially giving up hope of moving up and drafting CJ was a bad move? It was and will look even worse if tampa bay ends up with CJ.

By Ken Strickland

March 17, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

CURSED, the Falcons primary needs are a DE, FS, OL, and a big RB. Calvin Johnson can’t help our poor rushing and passing DEF that’s finished near the bottom of the league the last 2yrs. It also won’t help our OL’s poor pass blocking. If we trade away the # of picks needed to acquire the draft rights to CJ, we won’t be able to adquately address our DEF/OFF needs. CJ might be the most talent athlete in the draft, but he’s not talented enough to overcome our weak DEF and weak pass blocking.

Tampa Bay will likely end up with him. However, CJ isn’t unstopable. There were college DEF’s that held him in check. Overall, TB doesn’t have the supporting cast to make CJ the dominate WR he has the overall talent to be. With CJ, the Falcons will have a dominant WR, but a poor rushing/passing DEF, and pass blocking. Without CJ, the team could have a dominant DEF overall, and much better pass blocking. Which do you think will make the Falcons a better team overall?

By Steve T

March 18, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

Hey, I had to get a draft mag today. I see that we may have lots vaule in the 3rd of the draft. I list some guys and why I would like to be falcons.

Most of these guys have strong work ethics. This goes a long way in the NFL. Some of these guy love the weight room. We need some big power players on the the team.

I would like to see us get more picks in the third round because this may be the round to really do a team make over. Joe Staley-OT- 6-6 - 296 - 2nd - Nasty Streak.

Manuel Ramirez-OG- 6-3- 335 - 3rd - Steongest lineman in draft.

Dustin Fry- C- 6-3 - 326 - 3rd - 500 lb bench press.

Josh Gattis-FS- 6-1 - 206 - 3rd- 4.4 speed.

Eric Weddle-SS- 5-11-205 - 3rd - athletic.

By Ken Strickland

March 18, 2007 2:35 AM | Link to this

STEVE T, this draft has a ton of quality talent. Eric Weddle is the FS I’ve mentioned a couple of times. One mock draft had us taking him with our #44 pick, 2nd rd. We will receive two supplemental picks, and one of them could come at the bottom of the 3rd rd. Let’s hope so. We can do some serious damage in this draft with 9 picks. And that doesn’t include any picks we will get if we trade MSchaub, and/or trade down. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 18, 2007 3:04 AM | Link to this

That quarterback to whom y’all refer is from Newport News, VA… which happens to be much closer to RFK Stadium than Turner Field.

By destin

March 18, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

I’m so releived to hear that Joey Harrington could lead us to the SB if Vick goes down.lol

By roan st

March 18, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this

Teams that lose their starting QB’s don’t go to the superbowl. Laugh out loud all you want but joey harrington would be a much better backup than most teams have in place. It’s real simple pal, we can either keep shaub one more season and get no compensation or we can trade him now and get a good draft pick this year. All of the intelligent fans have already expressed their desire to get compensation for shaub. And no we are not going to resign him next year because some team will pay him good money and give him the opportunity to start. Trade him now and get something or next season he walks, thats the bottom line.

By destin

March 18, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

I want to be in a position to win ‘this year’. If you think some 2nd or 3rd round pick gives us a better chance than having a solid backup QB thats your opinion ‘pal’. Again, I was there when Baltimore blew out Vick in pre-season and the whole year was shot. I think most Falcon fans are tired of the “wait til next year” mentality.

By Steve T

March 18, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Ken, I want those two big linemen. They both are stronger and will work out. According to the scouting reports, they just need go coaching. They both watch a lot of film and you know that will go a long way when they get in the games.

They could turn into some Larry Allen type of football players.

By Tired of the madness

March 18, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

We definitely need to win “this year” for more reasons than I can post here. Can we win this year? Of course we can, but sometimes it’s like a crap shoot. You never know what you’ve got until the “product” is put in place and all of the peaces have come together. If Petrino has his way, the Falcons offense will be the antithesis of what it was last year. Unpredictable, explosive and high scoring. However, it will all be meaningless if our defense continues to give up big plays through the air and give up big yards on the ground. Vick will need a paradigm shift. He will have to be more of a leader on the field and in the locker room. If need be, he will have to get in players’ faces when they are playing lackluster. Conversely, he will have to except constructive criticism when he’s not getting it done. I would like to see him looking at snapshots when he’s on the bench and studying how plays developed or how they breakdown. No sitting complacently on the bench and acting as if he has a cavalier approach to the game. That being said, the rest of the team will have to play at a high level as well. Reduced the number of dropped passes. Learn how to separate from the DBs and safeties of the opposing team. Learn how to come back to the ball when plays breakdown. Learn how to get more yards after the catch. I think that the Falcons can slip in under the radar because there isn’t much expectation from them going into the season. My biggest concern is how they play in the second half of the season. It has been their Achilles heel the past two years. I’m excited about the draft. We have the opportunity to bring in some good young talent that can bring IMMEDIATE help. The start of the season is still a long ways off, but its not too early for Vick , the receivers and others to begin getting in shape and working hard. I’m optimistic that we can challenge for the Division and possibly the NFC championship. Commitment and hard work will be paramount. I don’t believe that Petrino and his staff are going to go for any bull crap from ANY of the players. That’s the way it should be and has to be to play winning football. Just my opinion.

By jaytriskit

March 18, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

I wonder if we could get the Raider’s first, second, and third round picks for Vick???

By destin

March 18, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

It’s apparent that we should go DE & DB with our top 2 picks. So, do you think Petrino will have a good idea of where he wants to play Jimmy Williams before the draft?

By dakid

March 18, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Why would we trade Vick? It would kill our cap situation. I like FS from Wake, but he is very stiff in the hips. I alway’s purchase like 10 draft guides. Me and my friend, call them the bible. LOL. This is my fav time of year. SO many idea’s. We need depth on OL. Ken, Brown is a good pick, but I have feeling Miami may snatch him. And for a big back, we can get someone cheap on Free Agent market. Chris Brown, I would’ve loved Najeh Davenport.

By long time falcon

March 18, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Tired of Madness, well said. I think petrino and staff alone could be worth two or three wins next year. We do have some holes to fill but I believe good coaching can go a long ways toward curing what ails this team. Not only was Mora and company lousy at the x’s and o’s but they didn’t do well in coaching these guys up to play at that high intensity level. I think bobby petrino will bring both of those elements to this team next season and I’m excited about that. Hopefully we will be able to get something good for shaub and that will give us an abundance of picks this year. I just pray that mckay and petrino come up big in the draft. Lord knows were in need of a good draft because we have been kind of spotty the last couple years in player evaluation.

By Tired of the madness

March 18, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

I agree Long Time Falcon. This is a very important draft year for us. The impact of our selections will be felt for years to come and determine the direction of the team for the future. I have confidence in Petrino. He impresses me as a no nonsense coach with little or no tolerance for bullsh!t. It’s what we need. I think that Mora was too emotional. The way he reacted when Roddy White let that pass bounce off of his chest…well…I can’t think of any other coach that would have reacted the way he did. Some cursing maybe, but not falling on the knees and all. How was Roddy suppose to feel after that? He’s a young guy with some upside to him. The best of them miss passes like that from time to time. He and his staff was not creative and too predictable. I think that most of the players loss confidence in Mora and his ability to game plan and make adjustments to counter what the opposing teams were doing through the course of the games. He might have been a good guy, but he wasn’t a good coach in my opinion. Say what you will about Petrino, but he is nothing like Jim Mora. Thank goodness.

By Mike

March 18, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

The recivers were really hammered last year, and some they deserved. One problem they had had though was lack of consistency on the offence. One week Atlanta comes out and Vick is a “pocket qb” and he does really well…then one bad week and Mora and CO were scrambling for a new team identity. When you are Jenkins or White running down the field in the Falcons offense the last couple of years…are you going down as a blocker or a reciever? Everyone likes to put Finn on a pedestal, but it is easier when you are running 5-10 yd routes. Jenkins and White had really tough jobs the last couple of years. I am sure when they actually have an offensive system you will see a vast improvement. I am looking forward to see a lot of little changes… from the recievers taking on the attitude of being a reciever first…blocker second…to Vick being more careful with the ball, hopefully having more time and being a little more careful with his reads, and a little more touch on the short passes. I hope we can see better pass protection wirh our O line and more penetration in the short yardage situations. I also hope to see our D-backs improve and not get burnt deep so much, more pressure on the QB….. and better run support from our D=line. Linebackers were not bad last year, but often found themselves overpursuimg plays, and being out of place. I am sure with new direction and the right people this team can go a long ways. Everyone bashing Vick, all I can say is give him a chance this year. If we recieve the same results than I am the first to sat send him packing. I would much rather be sitting here this time next year though, talking about what a magical season we had, and hoping we can keep it going into the 08 season.

By Steve T

March 18, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

I think coach has set the tone for the o-line. He likes 350 - 370 ponds guards. With that said, it will be harder to get pressure up the middle.

By Dining with Delamort

March 19, 2007 7:56 AM | Link to this

By Dining with Delamort March 18, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this Review

This was an assignment I relished. I’m a big fan of the Falcons and of Mike vick. When my editor gave me my orders I was very enthusiastic about dining in Mike’s new eatery. The Golden Chitterling is a nice, cozy affair with a smoky ambiance without the smoke. It is quite charming except for the loud Rap music being played over the sound system.

My dining experience commenced with my waiter, Dequishas, bringing me a fine bottle of wine. He twisted the cap off and poured a glass of pungent, tasty Mogen David, vintage Wednesday. Quite good. He then brought my appetizer. Now, I’m not really that big on pig’s feet but these were particularly briney. You might want to try the pig ears instead. The snouts might be of interest to you as well. They looked absolutely delicious. My entree arrived about the time I had gnawed the last little bit of gristle off the last pig foot. It looked scrumptious. Breaded and deep fried, these were chitterlings to remember. They were everything a chitterling should be-fried to a crisp and chewy beyond belief. It took me about an hour to devour the entire platter of rodent innards. Umm Umm! Tasty. Dessert was red vevet cake and it was sweet! It was not up to the standards of Pic-a-Dilly but it was sweet. All-in-all, my dining experience was quite good. If you have a longing for some down home “chitluns”, then Mike Vick’s Golden Chitterling is the place to go. Also, check out the menu. They have freshly road killed possum and armadillo on the half-shell. Salivating yet? Me too! A word to the safety conscious among you, it is very dark in the parking lot. So, take a flash light with you and it wouldn’t hurt to pack your nine as well. Bon appetit!

By Allbt me

March 19, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

Dining with Delamort:

I have a question did you write that review with sheet on or off?

Keep that mess on this blog we want to talk about FOOTBALL, you can hate Mike Vick all you want but now you are trying to insult people as a whole….

Keep that sh!t at your own dinner table not here…..

Because you are truly the only n!gg*r on this blog writing mess like that… I mean that in the true sense of the word, (completely ignorant) )

By Falc Fan

March 19, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

Vick recently said, “I can’t play football forever. I’m going to have to become an entrepreneur and make my money grow. This is a step in a different direction. I’m trying to do some things differently.” Am I wrong? Vick can’t play football now. A fluke NFC Champ run to get embarrased by the Eagles is hardly a peak in anyones career. Rushing stats aside, if Vick wants to take a step in a new direction and truely make his mark on Atl he should try focusing on his new found freedom in the Falcon’s offense. Not his restaurant. Maybe we will even win some games after November. Dining with Delamort, you sound like trash. Real classy.

By BROTHAMAN

March 19, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Dining with delbert…you be racist man…the only thing you left out is the watermelon you can get at Vick’s restaraunt bro. What’s a brother got to do to get some respect in the dirty south? Having said that, the best thing to eat at Vicks’ is the fried chicken brother….you know a brother loves him some fried chicken..that’s what I’m talkin’ bout. Oh, and by the way….DOWN WITH WHITEY.

By BROTHAMAN

March 19, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Dining with delamort…just wonderin’ cracker…do they have pork rinds there?..I love me some pork rinds.

By Pragmatist

March 19, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

I ate at Vicks restaurant and it gave me the runs……………….get it……..the runs………lol.

By Shaniqua

March 19, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Hey, this is Vicks girl here, yall done pis%$ed me off now. I’m gonna come after some crackas in this motha. I got somethin’ fo ya limp diched cracka mo fo’s. I’s got connections at da AJC and I’s gonna be findin out who you mo fo’s be. You aint heard da last of Shaniqua baby. I’m gonna be givin’ you rednecks some watermelon upside da head.

By Shaniqua

March 19, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Hey Mike baby, be back soon lova’, I’s be headed to try out with da Pussycat Dolls baby, “hey, dontcha wish your girlfriend was hot like me”. I’m movin up in da world, no more strippin’ for me baby. Shaniqua is movin’ on up sho nuff.

By Professor

March 19, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

I’m thorougly appalled at the childishbess and trashiness of the posts I’ve read pertaining to our splendid quarterback, Michael Vick, I find it indicative of a culture that makes famous Paris Hilton and Nicole Richey. I find it imperative to proper unbringing that young men and women are introduced to reading fine literature and studying history. This board seems to indicate a gathering of people who would prefer to watch Jerry Springer, I find it very disheartening for the sake of America’s future.

By Allbtme

March 19, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Can we please just get a new blog already….

By dukeman42d

March 19, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

How about if we trade our 1strd pick, schub and next year 5 rd pick to the Browns for their 1st pick and they swap 2 rd picks.

Or we pull of some type of three team trade. with Clevaland and Ariz or Wash.

By What

March 19, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Playoff elemination… catch it.

By Eternal Optimist

March 19, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

The Byrds have alot of work to do, but we could make major strides in the next 2 yrs. 1st, we should draft Landry. 4.3 speed and a headhunter is exactly what this D needs as the last line of defense. Secondly, it’s a toss up between D line and middle linbacker. If we go into the season as K Brooking being the answer at middle LB we are destined to fail. Brooking is too small and not bulky enough nor strong enough to be a impact in the middle of the field. He’s more of a sideline to sideline LB. He does not fight of blocks and fill the whole well in traffic, though he does make alot of tackles. Then we poor all our other draft choices or trade aspirations into suring up the D line. Then maybe draft a big bruising back in the later rounds of the draft. This would get us on the right track….

By dining with Delamort

March 19, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

By Allbt me March 19, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this Dining with Delamort:

I have a question did you write that review with sheet on or off?

Keep that mess on this blog.

Well, thank you very much. I’m pleased you likeded the review. I did not wear sheets while writing. Then, as now, I wore my green, black and re dashiki and my little pill box hat. Al salam alaikum, my brother.

By dining with Delamort

March 19, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

By Allbt me March 19, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this Dining with Delamort:

I have a question did you write that review with sheet on or off?

Keep that mess on this blog.

Well, thank you very much. I’m pleased you likeded the review. I did not wear sheets while writing. Then, as now, I wore my green, black and red dashiki and my little pill box hat. Al salam alaikum, my brother.

By Tired of the madness

March 21, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

“dining with Delamort” is none other than T!t. I can rcognize his call sign any where. Sad.

By Trader Vic

March 24, 2007 6:29 AM | Link to this

Isn’t a team supposed to represent its city? Kind of like ambassadors? What would be Atlanta’s image if Mike Vick was truly our intellectual spokesman who happened to play QB for the Falcons? What does the rest of the nation and world think when this dumbas^ overpaid anvil yet again f******* up when the camera is on him When will Falcon the front office realize what a stupid MF this sorry selfish experiment has been. Look no further than than the polls the AJC has asking if we thought trading Schaub was a good thing, or if we believe that the dark particulate was really a secret compartment for his diamond ear rings. What a ghetto f*******, you must now be realizing what a stupid sh^t you are and all those time you played street ball instead of studying like your mom wanted you too was a mistake.

I enjoyed reading Furman Bisher’s article about what a mistake it was to trade Schaub and how the Falcons have covered one mess after another for Vick. Say what you will and it mostly depends on your race it seems as to whether you support Vick or not. I am shocked to here people say he had his best year in 06 because of his td’s and rushing. What a dysfunctional worthless and blame everyone else fool he is. Just give him all the money and tell him to get lost. There is no way he will win with consistency. You will see this again next year. Oh I forgot, it will be my fault again.

You look like the dumb thug that you are and only in this city could you be elected mayor and defended with such vigor because a lot of the people who support your every move are the ones who see you as their hero too. Wake up retards you’ll never make it to the promised land when you can’t spit out the truth, hide behind your name calling will keep you down——rise up support hard work, truth, and honor——no BS lets call them rednecks, continue to complain about everything, and for God sake elect Mike Vick as our messiah!!!!

By Tired of the madness

March 24, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Trader Vic, you need counseling or some mild therapy at the very least. Is it really THAT serious for you? Don’t you realize that your post is just meaningless drivel and will never be read, considered nor contemplated by any one that make decisions where the falcons are concerned? Hopefully, your post allowed you to vent your apparent pent up frustrations. Guys like you need something else to do. I see you also have the power of clairvoyance since you can predict the future. You obviously live a pristine life devoid of any human failings of any kind. That’s obvious by the way you have this propensity to judge others with impunity. Judging from your post, you would be a BAD choice for ambassador for the city as well. You’re too dayum angry! You people kill me coming on here with your holier than thou attitudes , casting aspersions and disparaging while you hide your cowardly azzes behind your computer screens. Perhaps some day you’re come to the realization that no amount of b!tchin, moaning and whining is going to get you what you want. Take an inventory of your own life and I’m sure you will find that you are no paragon of virtue yourself. It’s real simple. If you don’t want to be a falcon fan…DON’T, but stop all of the b!tchin! Geez!

By Ken Strickland

March 24, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

TRADER VICK, only a ANAL MINDED IDIOT would think that one person, and a sports figure at that, should represent over 5 million people. If YOU are so inadequate, as a person, that YOU can’t represent yourself, as well as the city, then your ignorant a$$, and idiots like you, are the problem. Our president is a mudering moron, and an embrassment to this country, and your ignorant a$$ is worried about being represented by a damn QB.

By Tired of the madness

March 24, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

TRADER VICK, only a ANAL MINDED IDIOT would think that one person, and a sports figure at that, should represent over 5 million people.

Good point Ken! Trader needs a class in anger management or maybe he’s not getting any punana or something. You would think that Vick is shaggin his wife or daughter.

By trouble

March 26, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

trader vic….my, my, my. what can i say? i love it. you see guys like you are the reason so many white women are now loving black men. your anger, jadded since of views, and pure hate is what is finally running them into the doctors office to get butt implants. why? because thats what we like.when you don’t have a valid point, just stand up and talk bs. sorta like your president. i love it. keep hatin blacks, and we will keep puttin out hip-hop that your daughter sneeks and listens to while you think she is dreaming of sugar plum fairies.then when she leaves the house and pulls off her GAP sweater unveiling her #7 jersey you wonder why. who is the biggest supporter of hip hop? suburban white kids. your daughter included. plus, size does matter. i love it.