AJC > Sports > Falcons > Blog > Archives > 2007 > October > 24 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USJackson’s release met with skepticism
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
To say that the release of veteran nose tackle Grady Jackson didn’t go over well with some of the Falcons veterans is an understatement.
Several players either declined comment or would not speak on the record but the gist of most of what they said privately was that the move validated tight end Alge Crumpler’s claim of a phasing out of the veterans.
Some players did speak, though, and one, cornerback DeAngelo Hall, went off.
Hall said it’s clear that the veteran players are being pushed aside. He claimed that Jackson’s release was “asinine,” and that it’s difficult to play hard for a team when everyone but the players isn’t completely on board. Some of his comments are online at AJC.com.
Hall said that if Jackson’s release was solely for football reasons, as coach Bobby Petrino said, then the whole roster should be released since the 1-6 record proves nobody is doing their jobs well enough.
Tailback Warrick Dunn said players are now wondering who’s next on the chopping block.
What’s bothersome to some players is clearly a lack of communication. Some of them wanted to hear from the coaching staff why Jackson was released but they were not told. Others would like to know if a veteran purge is underway.
Ownership, management and coaches don’t have to explain themselves about anything. They are in charge and they expect players to perform as professionals as long as they are getting paid handsomely to do so. Petrino said he did not expect any negative backlash over Jackson’s release. Petrino has shown not to be bothered much by how players feel about him, either.
The rawness of emotion will probably wear off during the bye week but there is a connection that seemingly has been severed - not among players - that could make the final nine games for a team already among the NFL’s worst, a rough ride.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By JT
October 24, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
Was any reason ever given for Jackson’s release? I’ve seen rumors, but no official word.
By Tom
October 24, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
The word implosion comes to mind.
By Dr. Sigmund Football
October 24, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
My analysis is that Petrino is doing things to purposely hurt the team in a passive agressive attempt to lash out at the organization for all that has gone wrong since his arrival.
His psyche is such that he cannot see that much of what has gone wrong is his fault.
Coach Me-trino will not be back next season.
By Grady Jackson
October 24, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Headed to the nearest KFC buffet, catch ya later.
By boots
October 24, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
DeAngelo: You need to play defense and keep your mouth shut. Your not in management and have absolutely no say in persononel matters, SO SHUT YOU FREAKIN’ MOUTH AND TRY NOT TO LOOK LIKE A FOOL ON THE FIELD!
And, if you can’t get with the program, just pack you crap and don’t let the door hit you in the butt!
Adios, bro!
By Vick-da-Quick
October 24, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
Heheheheeee… Dont you just love-it. Vick is gone, and so is any hope of winning in Atlanta. That’s what they get for not backing Vick the great all the way. Go Jackets, to hell with them Dawg’s
By d-hall hater
October 24, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
hey the falcons are 1-6!!! management can do whatever they feel like doing. If Jackson isn’t practicing hard and not listening to the coaches then cut him..I”m sick and tired of D-HALl crap..he cost us the game against the panthers..and he hasn’t done crap since the showdown with t.o a couple of years ago..if i’m not mistaken..the coaches ask him if he can play offense.and he decline..where’s the team aspect in that? did he talk to his teammate and ask them if playing on offense is going to help the team?? NO..he’s a selfish player.. I was sick to my stomach having to watch the MNF in charlotte and seeing him get burn by toomer..but yet celebrated when He caught an interception..so d-hall dont give me that crap..u’re selfish and i hope they cut you too…but b/c of salary reason…go play out next year and be a bust…and see how much money you gong to get… what a joke..primetime..please
By jack
October 24, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
8-8 in 05 7-9 in 06
and these records with Vick whose talent probably hid many of the teams flaws.
1-6 in 07
This team needs changes and they appear to be on the way. This won’t be pretty and nice but I say it’s time to clean house.
By GeorgeCobb
October 24, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
It seems to me that the veterans on a demonstrably poor team SHOULD be worried. Why would the coaches continue playing these Bozos and expect a different result? (That would be insane AND asinine). Anybody who doesn’t want to be here should be accomodated as soon as possible within the parameters of making the team better. Surely some other NFL locale would be interested in D. Hall. I believe at this point a draft pick or two would pay dividends before yet another Hokie thug does. Let’s clean house and begin building a team that wants to be in Atlanta and win.
By NASCARfan
October 24, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
The blame for all of this lays in the extreme coddling of this team and its players by Arthur Blank and the idiot Little Jimmy Mora. Those two men elevating certain players (Michael Vick, MeAngelo Hall, Alge Crumpler, etc.) over the team has created this poor lockeroom attitude
These aren’t men, they’re coddled, spoiled children. There will be more purges, for sure, and I hope MeAngelo Hall is the first to be traded in the offseason.
In order for this team to be rebuilt as team-first, team before the individual, and the other ethics that Petrino is trying to bring in like hard work that teams like the Patriots embody, he’s going to have to cut many other players that Mora infected.
By LUKE
October 24, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
I really thought that the season would be a tough one with all that the players have been through but it looks like the coach and management have decided to chuck the whole season and go for draft picks. The coaches and players have been at odds since virtually day one and in case no one has noticed it hasn’t led to good results ( 1-6 record and a boatload of quotes by players in the media). There ultimately has to be a plan but right now it is rather hard to see. Maybe there is a plan, I hope there is a plan.
By GT80
October 24, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
What’s asinine is that DHall keeps flapping his gums. If this guy would concentrate on playing instead of talking he might be respected a little. I heard an assitant GM on the radio and he very clearly explained why Jackson was let go. He wasn’t buying into the defensive scheme and was doing his own thing instead of what the defensive play called for him to do. That, and he apparently wasn’t giving 100% on every play and wasn’t practicing 100% of the time. The coaches probably didn’t feel like they needed to explain this to DHall and the rest of the team since they are there for every single minute of every practice and game and can see it for themselves.
Football is the ultimate team game, where all 11 players must do their job correctly in order to achieve success. Obviously this hasn’t been happening on any regular basis with this team.
By Apaul404
October 24, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
1-15 HERE WE COME, GOOD LORD! This ship is sinking and it’s not going to get better folks.
By epb
October 24, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
And D. Hall might should be next. Need players and not attitudes. We see where the attidude took us in 6 years!
By LUKE
October 24, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
Looks like Blowhard MeAngelo is at it again. Just shut up play your position and cash those big checks MeAngelo, you certainly haven’t earned your money yet.
By July Jones
October 24, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
I am sorry, but as leaders of the organization, the coaching staff and the front office absolutely have to communicate and explain themselves. They have to take responsibility for a 1-6 start and an offense that flat out sux.
They have lost the players and are losing the fans. Incompetence with a capital I and the person responsible is Bobby Petrino.
Forget Hall, when you have Crumpler and Dunn who are confused and speaking out, what does that tell you ???
By epb
October 24, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
And D Hall might should be next. We see where attitudes have gotten us over the past6 years….. Need players!
By tp
October 24, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a diehard Falcons fan since 1978 and have NEVER seen this organization in such disarray. It can only be described as absolutely pathetic.
Note to Falcons management and Owner Arthur Blank: Don’t insult our intelligence and use Vick’s situation as an excuse. We don’t want to hear it! The way you’re conducting business is a disgrace to the city and to the NFL.
By dannotdan
October 24, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
When the Falcons pull the plug on the Petrino experiment do the new coach a favor and get rid of Hall.
These two are better suited for the title roles in Dumb and Dumber III than they are for the NFL. You may want to through in Blank and Vick too and make it Dumb and Dumber, and still Dumber and Dumbest.
By truthteller
October 24, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
This team is sick from top to bottom. If I were coaching this group of “players”, I would release Hall today, and all the rest of the loser malcontents. I hope Petrino released Jackson because he was a jug butt who could not pursue more than 5 yards to either side. I’m not sure whether Petrino and staff can coach or not, but it is pretty clear that Mora helped to create some really bad attitudes that have carried over. It is also pretty clear that quality of the person has not been a factor in recent drafts and signings. And, wow, what a shocker that the coach is not “explaining” to Hall and the other losers why he is releasing a player. Since when is the coach supposed to explain his decision to these prima donnas?
Why should any Falcons fan care about any player in this group being released or traded? It’s not like these clowns have ever won anything. I think Hall is pretty delusional if he thinks there are a lot of NFL teams lined up to pay him his “big bucks”. With his attitude and mouth, if the Falcons don’t release him, he should just quit…after all, he is giving nothing on the field, and neither is Crumpler. May as well just sign some Arena guys or free agents who want to play….a loss is a loss no matter who they put on the field.
By Nolan School
October 24, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
Obnoxious. The whole Falcon story is obnoxious and any loyalty built up during the early Blank years is simply disappearing. I know that Arthur was told by other owners of long duration that they key is to stick to your coaches and management, give them time.
What Arthur Blank needs to take into account while he’s on his way to the cigar store is that guys like my co-worker who with great excitement plunked-down a hunk of his income to buy season tickets a couple of years ago is not going to re-up with this current dissonant band of birds.
Obnoxious bunch, sad story, biggest disappointment and most disgusting developments in a long history of tawdry mediocrity.
Sad.
By Coach
October 24, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
I guess the whole team is falling apart,The Owners, Management, Coaches and the Players. It is so amazing that just one ago we thought that the team had gotten rid of the negative preception, only to find out otherwise. Hope is a small, but necessary element in any system regardless if it is sports or business. With Michael Vick we did not have the best quaterback in the NFL, we also did not have the most ethical person in the world, but what we did have from week-to-week was Hope. When the Falcons took thier position in the Mike Vick situation they thought they were making the right decision to save face for the club. What they really did was create a hopeless situation for everyone (Owner, Management, Coaches and Players), because they did the right thing they just went about it the wrong way. Thus we all have lost Hope. It’s Evident! Falcons,you made Peta happy with your actions, but you also gave away our Hope. I guess you can’t have it both ways!
By OVER RATED
October 24, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
Be careful what you wish for there TOAST….I mean D Hall.
By tp
October 24, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
Steve, can you please ask someone in management this question (you may already have): Do they realize that the lowly Atlanta Hawks franchise is garnering more respect around town these days? That Billy Knight is viewed as a better chooser of personnel than McKay?
By observer
October 24, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
What’s bad about this whole situation is not necessarily what the current players think - but that the situation doesn’t exactly look inviting to any potential free agents. Who wants to come play for a coach when there is near mutiny on hand - whether or not he is right?
By boots
October 24, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
DeAngelo, do yourself and the team a favor: Shut up and try to play defense.
You’re not in management, so have no imput into personnel matters.
So, shut your freakin’ mouth and try not to embarrass yourself or the team when you get on the field.
By satand
October 24, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
D. Hall keeps on digging his hole deeper. Coach cannot let him get away with this - and won’t.
By JAG
October 24, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
As a season ticket holder, I am really at a lost. Somebody (Petrino,Blank) needs to let us know what the plan and future of this team. Are we rebuilding or what. I am really at a lost for words or emotion anymore. The last two primetime games we have on Thursday and Monday night will just be a game to field 52 un-emotional players.
By Traceman
October 24, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
If Falcons’ ownership, management and coaches believe that they don’t have to explain themselves to the players when they release one of the team’s best players, we are in even worse shape than I thought. If Petrino honestly didn’t expect any negative backlash for releasing Grady without giving any explanation, he is an idiot and it shows he is still operating with a college coach’s mentality.
College coaches are the unquestioned cocks of walk and they can pretty much do whatever they please. The good ones are often as powerful as the university presidents. In professional sports however, the PLAYERS have the power. The ability to manage those players and to get them to buy into your system is what separates the good coaches from the bad ones. X’s and O’s alone won’t get it done at this level.
I knew that it was going to be difficult for Petrino after the Vick fiasco and I felt sorry for him up until now. I was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt as the team changed its scheme on offense and adjusted to life without MV7. Right now though, he looks to be more of a problem than a solution.
By glw
October 24, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
This is a sinking ship and it is sinking fast!!!! Its one thing to faze out veterans, but to outright cut them after being a starter for a year and half does seeem a bit absurd. Sure, maybe Grady takes a few plays off every now and then, but he is a disruptive force at times and seemed to be well liked among his teammates. Petrino probably will lose even more of the veterans now, and team morale will be even lower. Teams tend to try and see themselves as a family, players and coaches alike, but Petrino has definitely created a rift there. As far as performance, maybe Petrino and management should look in the mirror. I mean it was managment that traded away Schaub, signed Mulghelli to basically do nothing and then cut Billy Cundiff and signed Matt Prater the last week of preseason.
By Dawgs2007
October 24, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
Out with the old and in with the new. This team needs a makeover. Adios, Meangelo! Don’t let the door hit in ya ……
By Eugene
October 24, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
I think that Coach Petrino will not be here past next year. He is not just loosing his locker room =, but what free agent will want to come to Atlanta and play for a coach who is not succesful and treats his players with no respect. This was not a good fit from the beginning. Even after Petrino get what he calls his players his program will wear thin quickly. Its nto about being pals and friends with the players, Its about mutual respect. Its obvious the players do not respect or trust thier coach and the coach does not like or respect his players.
By The Grinch
October 24, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Hall needs to be cut RIGHT NOW. I don’t know where the hell he learned to play football, but my high school coach would’ve had him running gassers ‘till he started crying the first time he opened his mouth about anything other than a football related question to the coach and nobody else. Crumpler and Dunn, too. I’m sick of these overpaid primadonnas mouthing off and disrespecting their coaches. They all deserve to be working at McDonald’s, where they’d be fired for mouthing off to the assistant manager. I’d love to see them in the Marines.
By wayne
October 24, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
If the coaching staff saw a need to improve a position on the team, I’m convinced a couple of more positions also need to be improved, dont critize them when they do. At best Grady was a part time player, good at times and not show up at other times.As for Hall, send his Punk A$$ some place else, His greatness is in his own mind. Wait until Payton Manning toasts him and you will have to agree.With all the credentials that Terry Moore has he should send his resume to Arther Blanks. The AJC writers were the people writing earlier about A flawed roster, now it is a flawed coaching staff, make up your minds, at least be consistent.
By Get the Picture
October 24, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
Well, I think Arthur Blank now sees what being a “player’s owner” get him. If the Falcons want to have the same success as the Patriots, they will have to emulate the Patriots. That means ruthlessly trading or cutting veterans who are close to reaching the downside of their careers-which Jackson, current stats aside, is getting close to. Emulating the Patriots also will mean getting rid of players who do not buy into what they are being asked to do by the coaches and management.
By larry w.
October 24, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
It appears that this may be the first step of a youth movement with the Falcons. I can’t see any other reason for cutting Grady at this stage of the season.
D. Hall is obviously not a big Petrino fan. I have to wonder if he will be around next season. He seems to be doing everything he can to make it clear that he is not happy with the present coaching staff.
By sonny
October 24, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Please go ahead and give Meangelo what he wants. He is the worst TEAM player ever to put on a Falcons jersey.
By BUSHWACKER
October 24, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
You know what, EVERYONE ON THE TEAM should wonder who’s next.
I know there are some guys out there trying to win every game regardless of our record.
But, it is quite obvious that alot of players on this team haved laid down and quit, just like they did when Vick broke his leg several years ago, which resulted in the biggest mistake Blank has made, firing COACH REEVES.
Maybe this time he should fire 1/2 the team and the general mgr that picked them.
Keep the new coach and the players who MAN UP and go out and bust it for the rest of this season regardless of the record.
It will be very obvious which players are giving 100% and which ones are not!
Start over next year with about 25 new faces, we do not need anyone who is currently on the roster to help us lose games.
These next 9 games are all about the players standing up and keeeping their jobs!
As far as DHall, we can lose without him. There is no way he is going to get the huge contract he wants ffrom the Falcons, meaning he will be gone, so treat him like the baby he is,make him stand in the corner because he can’t behave like an adult, in other words, bench him for the rest of the season then trade him to MIAMI while we still have the rights to him.
By humble
October 24, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
we wont win another game this year! jimmy johnson went 1-15 in his first year. i honestly think if petrino fails and has to be fired mckay is going with him, and he should!
By jas
October 24, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
These Falcons players are use to being coddled by their ex-head coach Mora. I do not care if they hate Petrino. As long as he gets them to play to an NFL level, more power to him. Do you think the teams like the New York Giants are buddy buddy with their head coaches? Maybe if Meangelo Hall would but as much effort on the field as he does with his tirades he could actually cover somebody.
By True Braves Fan
October 24, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
Looks like the Falcon franchise is in shambles. No communication. No trust. How can you play (much less win) under these circumstances. If this is an example of “home town ownership” I am glad that Liberty owns the Braves. WE GOT SCHURHOLTZ!!!!!!!
By TEAMKILLER
October 24, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
FOR ONCE I AGREE WITH MeAngelo HALL, THE MOVES PETRINO IS MAKING IS ASSinine… The Fan favorites and playmakers no longer exist on the team.
BRING BACK MORA AND VICK!!
By DK
October 24, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
This is a good start! Put Hall on the trading block and maybe Alge too. This team is a bunch of talentless bums that need to pack their bad attitudes and hit the bricks. All one needs to do is to look at the last few seasons and you’ll see that we have a bunch of quitters that collect million dollar paychecks then whine and under-perform. While you’re at it, send Rick McKay packing too. He’s the one who hired these losers.
By Joe Bob
October 24, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
Bobby Petrino hear this: GET A F*&#ing Grip on that locker room! Cutting Grady Jackson was the worst news I’ve heard about the Falcons since Michael Vick’s Dogfighting incident! I’ve been a Falcons fan for a long time and so far I’m not impressed with Bobby Petrino or the rest of the staff for that matter. D’Angelo I love you because you keep it real! This year SUCKS as a Falcons fan! I can’t even bear to watch anymore. Grady was the only one consistently clogging up the line so we can stop the run! Now we have to literally watch teams run all over us. I’m displease with the whole organization right now and our extremely good veterans are p** off. How do you expect our team to come out and lay it on the line week to week when you are not even communicating with them. If Alge Crumpler doesn’t sign next year I will boycott the Falcons! I’m SICK!!
By Ryan Ferguson
October 24, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
This team needs an overhaul of it’s roster and to be build with good young free agents, but mostly through the draft. If we can get picks for some of these vets lets do it and re-build, if not some of them need to be released so Petrino can get his guys in the lockeroom and on the field. The end of this season is going to be rough, but i trust Petrino and this organization that they know what they are doing. Some people act like it’s Petrino’s fault the falcons are not winning, while he is not totally without blame, how many teams could have a good season with their back-up qb starting. NOT MANY, probably non at all. Colts would be 1 -6 with Sorgi throwing the football.
By BUSHWACKER
October 24, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
“Others would like to know if a veteran purge is underway.”
that says it all,they are not worried about THE TEAM, they are worried about THEIR PAYCHECKS!!
Considering I have to get by on $50k a year, I hope the ones woried about their paychecks get cut and have to get reals jobs and see if they can get by on $50k.
By ToeKnee
October 24, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Seriously, WHAT THE HELL IS BOBBY P DOING? to not make any effort to keep this team together is insane! i dont see why they’re already throwing in the towel on all these veterans, if thats the case. i mean, football isnt like basketball, you cant turn a team around through the draft in just a few short years. and a bad team in football loses fans fast! look at detroit the past few years. we can stay competitive, AND STAY INTERESTING!! we may be 1-6, but as any FAN knows, they Have been exciting games. i thought grady played great. but the biggest thing here is that we need AN EXPLANATION!!! because without one it really looks like he’s throwing the current team under the bus. and NEWSFLASH the fans do like other players besides just VICK!! get that through your heads! DEANGELO, boley, roddy, lawyer, these guys are great! i love watching them play. so BOBBY, keep the team TOGETHER. TALK TO THEM!!!!
By Anthony
October 24, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
So a player (D. Hall) suggests he may not go 100 percent? I’d cut his rear end, too. These guys haven’t accomplished anything. There’s no selflessness with a guy like Hall. Petrino needs to do it his way and Blank needs to get the message to the players to shut up. The Falcons need some discipline.
By KrisG
October 24, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Say what you want, hate DeAngelo all you want, you know he’s telling the truth…. If I were him, I’d be quiet, but absolutely nothing he’s said rings false or selfish regarding Grady Jackson.
By Bruce
October 24, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
Frankly, D.Hall, needs to go as well. I am hopeful as a fan that the Falcons organization purge all malcontents and individual players from the roster. Hopefully, the organization is realizing that in the end, support for this organization is not about indvidual and individual ability. When each player accepts that being part of the Falcons and the NFL should be a “Earned” honor,that should not be taken for granted, the franchise will regain the committment of the true football fan. Right now the true fan wants no more of the Vicks, Halls, regardless of their athletic ability, we want a TEAM that plays like a underdog and takes nothing for granted.
By Bulldog Mike
October 24, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
It seems to me that Petrino would have taken the team he was given and worked hard to build upon what Mora had been able to accomplish during his tender. Instead he has, from day one, complained about the make up of the team. Even though he has not openly discussed his plans fro the team, the casual observer would have to agree with the players on this one. When Petrino arrived there were players here that should have been the basis for building a winning team here in Atlanta. Now we have lost valuable pieces that can’t be replaced and the rest of the team is on the verge of a breakdown. =For whatever reason the Blank ownership has become a disaster.
By falcondawg
October 24, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
I’d bet my wife that Grady has said or done something to the coaches or management of this team that no one but the parties involved know about. Sure, he took “a play or two off” but when he exerted himself, he was extremely effective. Therefore, I doubt that he was cut just because of that. Perhaps before it is all over, we will know all of the details.
By Brian Hunt
October 24, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
Why are people so upset about veterans being phased out on a team that has lost 15 of its last 23 games? These same veterans obviously weren’t helping the team win. Nobody not currently named Boley, Norwood, White, or Abraham is safe. Hall is having his best season yet as a pro, so maybe he should continue to be mad the rest of his career.
By Shamus Thacker
October 24, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
If bossman fired me, nobody would give a damn. The Falcons fired Grady, (which was their right), and I don’t give a damn.
They’re 1-6; how any player can b*** about personnel moves, with that record, is beyond me. We can lose games just as proficiently without Grady!!
If this is a veteran purge, I’m ALL FOR IT!!! Now that MV7 is gone, we might as well finish taking out the trash… Crumpler and Hall are cancers on this team; they should go first. Brooking has sucked from day one in my opinion; he’d be next. Warrick would be nice to have as a brother or friend, but as bad as I hate to say it, he’s done.
I regret having to again evoke the memory of my dear old dead granny, but she has a stronger leg than Morten Andersen at this point. We should sign kicker after young kicker, till we find one worth grooming. We need to do this NOW to avoid a rerun of this year’s preseason/inseason kicking fiasco.
Get with it McKay! If this is a veteran purge, it’s the first smart thing you’ve done. If this is, in fact, a purge, then speed it up dammitt, and prove to me you’re not the complete moronic dumbass we’ve seen so far.
Play the young guys! That’s where our future lies.
By Coach
October 24, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
I guess the whole team is falling apart, The Owners, Management, Coaches and the Players. It is so amazing that just one ago we thought that the team had gotten rid of the negative perception, only to find out otherwise. Hope is a small, but necessary element in any system regardless if it is sports or business. With Michael Vick we did not have the best quarterback in the NFL, we also did not have the most ethical person in the world, but what we did have from week-to-week was Hope. When the Falcons took their position in the Mike Vick situation they thought they were making the right decision to save face for the club. What they really did was create a hopeless situation for everyone (Owner, Management, Coaches and Players); because they did the right thing they just went about it the wrong way. Thus we all have lost Hope. It’s Evident! Falcons, you made PETA happy with your actions, but you also gave away our Hope. I guess you can’t have it both ways. Because of the actions of the Falcons the team now has a large gulf that exists between Management and Players and the Fans.
I believe that Mike Vick had to come face-face-face with his bad decision making and that he needed some time to reflect and to think about his future. But, I also believe that Mike Vick was the glue that held the team together; right, wrong or indifferent. He did not hold the team together because he was the social conscious, the ethical leader, the best quarterback in the NFL or a sage. He simply provided something that this team and this city have been lacking for years Hope. Arthur Blank, Hope does not show up on your Balance Sheet, it does not show up in the Editorial Columns, but is does show up in the hearts of Men/Women. Suspending Mike Vick was a decision that I support, Taking away his pay I support, Making the decision to move your team in another direction I support. But when you decided to Humiliate him at the expense of making yourself and the Falcons look good I lost Hope for the team, the Players lost Hope for the team. Hope that is lost can not be easily gained back with another player or a winning season, it’s a process. You can start this healing process by reaching out to Mike Vick, not as a quarterback or a commodity, but a young man that you once looked upon as a son.
By TROTTINGHOMETUDD
October 24, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
I didn’t get much of an a reason for getting layed off either. And I only make $13.50 per hour. I SHOULD BE THE ONE P** OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Jammer
October 24, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
If we’re transitioning,(politically correct for giving up on this year) why didn’t we go ahead and trade Hall, Crumpler, Brooking and Dunn. I don’t want to lose them, but that’s a lot of salary and attitude you don’t have to deal with. Dunn isn’t the same back. Brooking looks lost, pitiful effort on Bush’s go ahead TD. Crumps ALWAYS hurt. Plus, we don’t have anyway to move the ball without an o-line. Time to start over, and I would give Petrino his walking papers as well. Not all his fault, but he’s throwing gas on the fire. McKay’s days should be numbered as well.
By TAM
October 24, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
1-15 this team will surely be. D-Hall is horrible. Keep your mouth shut, the team has enough mess to deal with. Learn to jam at the line and do more than be the best CATCH UP CORNER IN THE LEAGUE. The only good thing from this season will be the 1st round draft pick we will receive…
By April
October 24, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
I am BF with a player on the team and the reasons the organazation gave for cutting Grady are a lie and what we want to believe. This all goes back to what Crumpler said. They feel the season a lost cause and looking more to the future. As a season ticket holder who have seen other ticket holders for years not renew this year. Then Falcons will have a empty dome with only staff watching more crappy rookies they bring aboard! All the worthy players Falcons had were brought when Dan Reeves was around!
By gk
October 24, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
Remeber all you simpletons, the Great Falcons lost 9 games last year with the Great MV7 the thug. This team was sorry last year and it was sorry at the start this year. Maybe they are culling out the real sorry ones who were babied by Mora and his crowd and they are going to rebuild with real players. Bye Bye Meangleo Hall. You are next.
By The Grinch
October 24, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
I bet some team’s desperate enough for a “pro bowl” corner to give us a couple of 2nd rounders or at least a 2 and 3 for MeAngelo, maybe a 2 or 3 each for Crumpler and Dunn…along with the high 1st and two seconds we’ve already got this year (plus a free agent or two) that’s your new team. I say pull the trigger; we’ve already come too far in the “blow it up and start over” phase to stop now; git ‘r done. Arthur, back Bobby like you did Vick and we’ll have ourselves a winner before long if we haven’t already convinced coach to leave with our crappy, whiney fan base.
By jrod
October 24, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
This team is pathetic and will get alot worse. You can say “Cut Hall” but the whole team is upset about the move. What quality free agent will come to this squad unless they overpay, and dont think there is not any backlash among players about the vick sitaution.
By Coach
October 24, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
I guess the whole team is falling apart, The Owners, Management, Coaches and the Players. It is so amazing that just one ago we thought that the team had gotten rid of the negative perception, only to find out otherwise. Hope is a small, but necessary element in any system regardless if it is sports or business. With Michael Vick we did not have the best quarterback in the NFL, we also did not have the most ethical person in the world, but what we did have from week-to-week was Hope. When the Falcons took their position in the Mike Vick situation they thought they were making the right decision to save face for the club. What they really did was create a hopeless situation for everyone (Owner, Management, Coaches and Players); because they did the right thing they just went about it the wrong way. Thus we all have lost Hope. It’s Evident! Falcons, you made PETA happy with your actions, but you also gave away our Hope. I guess you can’t have it both ways. Because of the actions of the Falcons the team now has a large gulf that exists between Management and Players and the Fans.
I believe that Mike Vick had to come face-face-face with his bad decision making and that he needed some time to reflect and to think about his future. But, I also believe that Mike Vick was the glue that held the team together; right, wrong or indifferent. He did not hold the team together because he was the social conscious, the ethical leader, the best quarterback in the NFL or a sage. He simply provided something that this team and this city have been lacking for years Hope. Arthur Blank, Hope does not show up on your Balance Sheet, it does not show up in the Editorial Columns, but is does show up in the hearts of Men/Women. Suspending Mike Vick was a decision that I support, Taking away his pay I support, Making the decision to move your team in another direction I support. But when you decided to Humiliate him at the expense of making yourself and the Falcons look good I lost Hope for the team, the Players lost Hope for the team. Hope that is lost can not be easily gained back with another player or a winning season, it’s a process. You can start this healing process by reaching out to Mike Vick, not as a quarterback or a commodity, but a young man that you once looked upon as a son.
By G. Gordon Liddy
October 24, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
Toast better keep his mouth shut! All I ever see is his #21 chasing somebody from behind.
I like the message Petrino is sending. It may take a few years but this organization will be winning and going to the playoffs year end, year out!!!
By Coach
October 24, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
I guess the whole team is falling apart, The Owners, Management, Coaches and the Players. It is so amazing that just one ago we thought that the team had gotten rid of the negative perception, only to find out otherwise. Hope is a small, but necessary element in any system regardless if it is sports or business. With Michael Vick we did not have the best quarterback in the NFL, we also did not have the most ethical person in the world, but what we did have from week-to-week was Hope. When the Falcons took their position in the Mike Vick situation they thought they were making the right decision to save face for the club. What they really did was create a hopeless situation for everyone (Owner, Management, Coaches and Players); because they did the right thing they just went about it the wrong way. Thus we all have lost Hope. It’s Evident! Falcons, you made PETA happy with your actions, but you also gave away our Hope. I guess you can’t have it both ways. Because of the actions of the Falcons the team now has a large gulf that exists between Management and Players and the Fans.
I believe that Mike Vick had to come face-face-face with his bad decision making and that he needed some time to reflect and to think about his future. But, I also believe that Mike Vick was the glue that held the team together; right, wrong or indifferent. He did not hold the team together because he was the social conscious, the ethical leader, the best quarterback in the NFL or a sage. He simply provided something that this team and this city have been lacking for years Hope. Arthur Blank, Hope does not show up on your Balance Sheet, it does not show up in the Editorial Columns, but is does show up in the hearts of Men/Women. Suspending Mike Vick was a decision that I support, Taking away his pay I support, Making the decision to move your team in another direction I support. But when you decided to Humiliate him at the expense of making yourself and the Falcons look good I lost Hope for the team, the Players lost Hope for the team. Hope that is lost can not be easily gained back with another player or a winning season, it’s a process. You can start this healing process by reaching out to Mike Vick, not as a quarterback or a commodity, but a young man that you once looked upon as a son.
By Tyger
October 24, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Keith “Olay” Brooking misses a game- saving tackle and they cut Grady Jackson. Huh? Oh, its the Falcoons.
By kieran36
October 24, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
Well meangelo does have 2 picks so its not like he isn’t doing his job. He’s gotten burned a couple times but then again show me a corner who’s not…I could do without all of the self-praise when he does make a good play…
I like his fire though…I know he’s cocky but at least he seems like he cares. Haven’t seen anyone get fired up on either side of the ball…
By Singindablues
October 24, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this
If your boss fires a co-worker do you think he will bring you in and give you an explanation of why? Not a chance. No difference here. Management makes a decision that Jackson’s not performing up to expectations and dumps his fat **s. Has no one watched our defense up the middle? Jackson’s been pretty much a non-factor this year. Last year he made an impact, this year nothing much. Perform or you’re gone. Trey will actually be an upgrade here even as a rookie. At least he brings effort every play.
By This Gets Really Old
October 24, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
“Ownership, management and coaches don’t have to explain themselves about anything. They are in charge and they expect players to perform as professionals as long as they are getting paid handsomely to do so”
Steve you have had about as rough of a year as anyone connected with the team but that’s as idiotic of a statement that has ever been written in this town.
Everybody over there is getting paid handsomely and you know where the pay comes from? THE PEOPLE WHO BUY THE TICKETS YOU IDIOT! We deserve an explanation for what goes on over there, don’t we? Fewer of us, less handsome pay don’t you think?
I don’t expect someone to always jump up into the face of the management but to have a total shill is something else and frankly, weak and sickening.
It’s obvious to ALL of us that the team is one of the worst? Shouldn’t you be trying to find out from management why this is happening? We assume that they’re not all over there arguing whether or not this is because it’s a racial issue. We have the blogs for that! Tell us something we don’t know and exactly what Grady has to say!
By Gary
October 24, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
It’s easy to point fingers when you’re 1-6, but I haven’t had much use for Petrino since the Auburn incident. I don’t think he was the right fit for Atlanta with or without Vick. Hall has a big mouth, but I kind of agree with him about Grady. That guy was a solid player on game day even if he didn’t give 100% in practice. Who’s he going to cut next Abraham? This was a good looking team at the beginning of last year, now they’re a joke. It may be time for Blank to rebuild the whole franchise starting with the GM and working his way down.
By Get real people
October 24, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
You think that real NFL teams with good, professional staffs won’t jump at the chance to get a CB like DHall?
Teams that know how to pressure the QB? Teams that don’t allow weak offenses to trample them and help the DB’s out?
Gripe all you want to..we’ve seen players that didn’t “behave” the way some fans wanted. We’ve seen them wearing SB rings later. It’s not always the malcontent player. Look at the history people.
You might not like it but DeAngelo is one of the most well liked guys in the league and when he and guys like Mughelli start talking about this staff then it all goes down the drain.
Who’re players going to think is the problem, guys like Dunn and Crumpler? Grow up!
By jrod
October 24, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
stop complaining about your crappy jobs. Alot of you are just mad they make more money than you. Falcon fans are stupid. they kill vick cause he went 15-17 the last two years like we are the steelers or something. We are the sorry falcons, We always lost before vick got here and more importantly we expected to. Now all of sudden alot of you think this is a quality franchise. Is your hate for #7 so great that it is making you think we will be good. It is over. Vick isnt coming back, the fans arent coming back, and i expect the team to move in a few years. Next year will be even worse.
By ATLNOLE
October 24, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
Man this team is a train wreck! Anyone think that A-Blank is going to ask for another ticket price increase this off season?
By Whocares?
October 24, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
The way Hall, Crumpler, Dunn and Brookings are playing, who cares if they want out. The organization will be better off without them. It not like the Falcons have been some powerful team with them.
By Transition year
October 24, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
Let’s make this a full transition year. Go ahead and release Alge Cumpler, Warrick Dunn, Keith Brooking, and Lawyer Milloy. Let’s clear some cap space and move on. What is difference between 1-15 and 3-13? Nothing.
By Brian O'Brien
October 24, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
It seems obvious to me that Petrino is in over his head. He’s a college coach, plain and simple, and he needs to make adjustments to the pro game whether he likes it or not.
Yeah, DeAngelo has a big mouth, maybe there were issues with Grady Jackson, but the whole situation has been mishandled, and Petrino has demonstrated absolutely ZERO control of the admittedly difficult circumstances.
Bill Bellichik makes unpopular decisions all the time, but you seldom see players openly criticizing him because he commands respect. I can’t say the same for Petrino.
By opps
October 24, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
It sounds like Bruce is Joey’s daddy. This team is awful. This is not high school football where you can cut the whole team. If you think you’re watching terrible football now. Just wait til next year
By Mack73
October 24, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
I agree 100% with Hall. Grady was somewhat helpful on stopping the run. And players should be the first to know when something is going on in the organization. How can anyone say phase out the veterans and play the rookies? The draft picks have been busts(Jimmy Williams, Roddy White, Mike Jenkins, Anderson). And you can’t build a team from drafting. Someone needs to have the ability to evaluate talent from free agency and trades. To bad this team is lacking that person(McKay is a joke). This team needs a top to bottom makeover(McKay should get the boot first). Instead of going after money that Vick clearly earned, Blank should go after unearned money from Mughelli, Harrington and all the other bad choices that McKay keep dumping on the team. Vick didn’t bring this team down. He simply left it the way he found it!
By terrell barron
October 24, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
Its time to clean house! These guys havent won a damn thing, so who are they to determine who gets released or not. PATHETIC
By sonny
October 24, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
Brian Hunt: Can you roll me some of that stuff your smoking. Meangelo is having the worst season of his career. You might can look at stats and see a few picks, but I can watch the game and see #21 getting burned. I also read the papers and he appears to be putting the nail (that MV7 started driving) in the coffin for this franchise. If he makes the pro bowl this year, I will buy you season tickets my friend. Or I could just hand you a ten dollar bill. That should be enough to scalp your way into all 8 games next season.
By Fred Flowy
October 24, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Its 1996 all over again. I can almost see june jones, chuck smith, and jeff george coming to blows on the sideline. Welcome bad to the bad all days! (sigh) I can only imagine the headlines the next few weeks will bring….
By Old Man Falcon
October 24, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this
As far as I’m concerned, MeAngelo can be the next to go. He seems to think we’re paying him by the word..let some other team over pay for his big, fat, me-first mouth next year.
Poor Grady..never met a triple stack he didn’t like. I cringed a bit everytime he waddled those 350 (closer to 400)lbs onto the feild. He was without a doubt the most un-conditioned athlete I’ve ever seen. I heard he was cut because he ate coaches clipboard..or maybe it was his desk. Quick, somebody call Chris Mortenson!!
Petrino no doubt didn’t want to be caught in the blast feild when the Gurgitator’s heart explodes. Jackson should seriously seek help, the team tried to tell him he was a walking time-bomb last year so he sued them. Talk about not taking constructive criticism well.
Oh well, best of luck big man, but seriously…dial 1-800-597-JENNY, if Kirstie can do it, so can you!!
By Dawgma
October 24, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this
Not much of a foundation left on this team, except for the coaches. Everyother facet of the team is in complete turmoil. Rebuilding from what is left after the veterans are gone will leave us in the cellar for years to come. No quarterback, No run stop, no O line, No redzone schemes, no touchdowns, whatcha got left? Oh! Mort and Petrino. 3 points, uh-oh over 45, 3 points, 3 points, 3points,uh-oh over 45, 3 points, 3points, 3points, uh-oh over 45, 3 points, 3 points, uh-oh over 45, 3 points
By Gary
October 24, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Mr. Petrino needs to retreat back to the world of college football where the coach is omnipotent. His obvious inability to motivate and or coach professional athletes is blatantly obvious. I admit that professional athletes are pampered and hard to handle but that is the nature of profesional sports and Mr. Petrino should have known that going into his current position. While the Falcons are cleaning house they need to dismiss the coaches and Mr. Mckay. Maybe Mr. blank needs to consider selling the team to someone whose ego has not been bruised as his has by the mv fiasco.
By OpinionsAreLike
October 24, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
I’m in agreement with Shamus Thacker. This season is done and the smart thing to do is purge and replace. If you are a player your job is to play, the coaches and management aren’t obligated to tell you anything. Peterino didn’t make this crap of a team, he just stepped in it.
By John Carroll
October 24, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this
I’m not a fan of Hall but he’s spot on this time. The Falcons need to Cut Petrino NOW. As Chuck Dowdle said on channel 2 last night, “this is a team without a compass”. Petrino has lost the confidence and respect of his team. I’ve watching these guys for over 30 years and it has never been this bad.
By me
October 24, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
Look for McKay to go to the Dolphins next year as the new GM. Then look for Petrino to take the LSU job too. Both men do not want to deal with Blank sticking his nose in there business. (no pun intended) Until Blank sell the team the Falcons are doomed.
By Thomas Daves
October 24, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
**On a lighter note, Mr. Blank will only increase ticket prices 5% as opposed to the league average of 6%.
Seriously, I will be sitting on the 1st row with all these season ticket holders giving up their tickets. The owners are shooting for a first round draft pick and I am shooting for a 1st row seat in LOWER PRIME**
By FatAlbert
October 24, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this
This is the same bunch of veterans that has quit on the team in the second half of the last Two seasons. Cut them all and get some offensive linemen who can pass protect. Maybe then I can stay healthy for an entire game.
By Chan Gailey
October 24, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
The Falcons needs to sign me to be the Head Coach
By rob
October 24, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
Go Falcons! And Take the Hawks with you!
By RB
October 24, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this
I don’t understand why so many people are “shocked” that player morale is hurt by Jackson’s release. Anyone who takes the attitude that “the owners and management can do whatever they want” obviously hasn’t managed a business in the real world. Try that tactic at the local five and dime and see how long you have a productive staff. I’m not a D. Hall fan, but he’s only saying what most of the other players are either too scared or too smart to say. You should thank him for giving you some insight into the true psyche in the locker room.
By DOG LOVER
October 24, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
I MISS VICK
By MV7 fan
October 24, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
THANKS DEANGELO!!!!!!!!!!!
THANKS FOR NOT PUNKING OUT LIKE YOUR OTHER TEAMMATES, THEY ACT LIKE STAR-PUPILS IN 52 STUDENT CLASS.
IF THEY DO CUT YOU, AT LEAST YOU GO OUT IN STYLE MY MAN!
YOU’VE MADE MY DAY!!!!!!!!!!!
By MV7 fan
October 24, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this
BY THE WAY DEANGELO, I DON’T CARE WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT YOU……
YOU KEEP IT REAL,
THE OTHER FOLKS; THEY DON’T LIKE THAT, THEY WANT YOU TO BE A YES SIR, KEEP QUIET TYPE PERSON.
DON’T CHANGE, KEEP BEING YOU, IF THEY DON’T LIKE IT THEY CAN STOP WATCHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Just Nasty and Mean
October 24, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this
…looks like more of the Rankin Smith Family ownership of the Falcons. There always seems to be some excuse..always building for next year. That’s why I have never been a Falcons fan and have never personally purchased a ticket. If you invest your time and money in them, history shows they will just break your heart and wallet. …Not worth it….
By duckboy
October 24, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
Being from Oregon I’ve had the “pleasure” over the past few years of reading blogs from Detroit to Miami to, now, Atlanta. Just once I wish someone would stand up and celebrate the fact that you have a decent QB who keeps his mouth shut and works his a* off every down. To read about all of the problems this team faces and read how people think the QB is the problem is truly unbelievable. Joey Harrington is NOT your problem. He’s capable of winning as many games as the talent around him will allow.
By Bumblee Tuna!
October 24, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
I didn’t know so much damage could be done in less than a season. Apparently, Rich McKay and Arthur Blank forgot why they brought Grady Jackson in - because we couldn’t stop the run without a big body.
By A Falcons fan walks into a bar. . . .
October 24, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
Duckboy,
Please tell us what Joey Harrington’s career record in the NFL is and then repeat what you just said again… seriously, that’s good comedy.