Falcons

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 11, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

I would cut anyone over 30 who can be cut without accumulating cap charges in future years. That includes Dunn, Coleman, Brooking, Weiner, etc. If you can’t cut them without incurring significant dead money in future years, try to restructure them or get them to take a pay cut or something. If you can trade for more draft picks do that too. The more new, fresh, young faces the Falcons can bring in the better.

Oh yeah, also, fix the formatting on this article.

By carlun

February 11, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

The Falcons do not need to hesitate to make any roster moves. This is a business and whoever gets cut gets cut. There’s been to much crying and passifying over the years which is why we’re in the state we’re in now.

By Boiler

February 11, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

PURGE!!! Trade Deangelo for 1st rd pick. Trade Alge for a 3rd rd pick. Trade Brookings for a 4th rd pick. Release Leftwhich, Harrington, and Dunn.

Keep the wide recievers and outside lbs, and def ends.

Everybody else should be upgraded. Don’t even draft a QB until the meat ot this team gets physical and fast.

By Terry

February 11, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

BLOW IT UP!!! This is a rebuilding year. The only way to change the culture in Flowery Branch is to bring in new players. We have 11 picks (more if we trade out of a the 3rd pick). We should target free agents under the age of 25 who fit Smitty’s scheme. We should expect this team to win 6 to 8 games in 2008. That would be ideal.

By will

February 11, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Cut: Dunn, Forney, Harrington, Sanders, Leftwich

Trade Crumpler for a 3rd rounder and Rod Coleman for 3rd rounder

Make Brooking take a huge pay cut, or cut him also

By Dale

February 11, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Steve,

Why haven’t the Falcons cut Vick? After the ruling last week, what benefit is there in keeping him on the roster? Do they have to have him on the roster to get the 3.75 million? If not, is there any chance they are considering keeping him to play and/or trade?

Any insight would be appreciated.

By BT

February 11, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

What kind of salary cap ramifications if we do a purge. Two qbs, TE, Dunn, half the offensive line etc.

By JohnGTFan

February 11, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Being a GT guy, I have no problem saying this at all…I hope Shockley makes it back 100% from his injury. I would really love to see what the kid has. With him just sitting and waiting, and now after the injury, I think the kid is hungry!!! I’m looking forward to him getting a chance. Other than that, Brooking, Crocker, Demorrio Williams, Gandy, Harrington, at the very least, will probably be gone. As much as I love the character and professionalism of Warrick Dunn, I think he’s gone also. With Dallas wanting to move up so high in the draft, and if McFadden is availabe (assuming ATL has the no.3), I say trade with Dallas for Marion Barber, their earliest 1st rounder, and a 2nd or 3rd rounded as well. I love McFadden, but Barber is a proven stud. Probably just wishful thinking, but it’s not out of the realm. Miami will take either Ryan or Long with no.1, St Louis will probably take Dorsey or whichever Miami doesn’t pick…if ATL has the no.3…they’re sitting in a very powerful position.

By mj

February 11, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

am i a nutcase for thinking they should pursue derek anderson of the browns? he seems more talented(and proven) than any of the college kids being hyped for the first round do.

By Tyger

February 11, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

The Falcoons Roster Needs:

Offensive Line: Blalock, Forney, Weiner. Needs: LT and C. Sign one big name FA here, draft another.

Running Back: Norwood, Snelling, draft another.

QB: Draft Woodson; Shockley and a FA

TE: Crumpler, Milner

Defensive line: Abraham, Anderson, Davis, Coleman, Lewis, Babineaux

LB: Boley, Williams or Brooking; need FA MLB.

CB: trade DeAngelo, play J.Williams, Two FA

FS: Darren Stone, FA

SS: Lawyer Milloy, draft

By Al

February 11, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Its time to move out the older highest paid vets and begin a youth movement.

By snake mathis

February 11, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

I think the team has to be more directed toward 300pounds on bother sides of the line,get Mcfadden and make some dust.

By eddie from acworth

February 11, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Here is a suggestion from a long-suffering season ticket holder….I want a boring draft, which would mean ALL LINEMAN!!!!!

By Neckville redneck @atl

February 11, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

=draft linemen on both side of the ball and a middle linebacker. draft a running back and a QB, woodson would be great to draft but all in all bring back vick till woodson `is ready to start 3 to five years from now. I am ready to bring vick back and ready to win just get vick or who ever is QB lots of help!
Just watch the dome when you bring vick back. I tell you we can’t wait. The seats will be full bank on it!!!

By falcon fan in dosta

February 11, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

please please please,,,,,trade down in the draft and pick up some draft choices,,,namely some good lineman to start. we can fill some sore spots with veterans until the picks are ready to step it up. no need to get a matt ryan right away and then watch him suffer a career ending injury with the lineman we have. please,,,whatever you do,,,be smart for a change. it seems hiring T.D might be a good hire,,,one thing for sure,,,his first draft will be under great scrutiny.

By Skip

February 11, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

Chris Redman played well enough that he should be the Falcons starting QB next year. If the Falcons improve the OL and get a fast power back this offence will rock with Redman. As you saw in the Super Bowl, if the OL does not protect the QB not even Brady will have a good day.

By Dexter

February 11, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

I think that we should give Redman a chance to be the starter this year. He seemed to do pretty good last year, I also believe that we should draft a new quaterback in the draft. He can sit a year and learn, and not get killed behind this awful offensive line. The worst that Redman can do is lay an egg, if that is the case, we can go with the Rookie earlier!

By Greg

February 11, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

OF COURSE there has to be a major overhaul! What else?! At which positions were the Falcons above average in the NFL? in their division? Very few. This is simply beyond dispute…a no-brainer. To some extent one has to look at potential, and keep some guys who can grow into their position (Clabo? Blalock? Jamaal? I dunno). And there are some real question marks, for example Mughelli, who was hardly used last season and is costing the team a fortune. How good can he be? But for most of the veterans, it’s syonara baby. If Smith and Dimitroff don’t buy into this kind of radical change, the Birds are doomed. This is for certain: Dunn, Brooking, Harrington, Houston, Forney, Jenkins, Milloy, gone. Very important: trade D-Hall and Roddy, who will fetch good value (D-Hall is corrosive, and Roddy—-how to put this kindly—-we need receivers who are a bit sharper above the shoulders. If management doesn’t make deep cuts, I’ll know they aren’t serious about winning.

By brodan

February 11, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

Got too show some tough love and treat this situation like we’re a new start-up team. Say thanks and good luck to those who have turned the corner in their careers and bring in the hungry young guys and hand-picked free agents. It will be tough with salry cap and other contract considerations, but a successful model to follow is what Jimmy Johnson did with Dallas back when. Or just pray over this fallen franchise, annoint it with oil, and lay hands on it, and claim healing. Wait…Authur doesn’t like to hear committed prayer of a righteous and fervent nature.

By kudzu

February 11, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Part of me can’t believe I am reading this about the Falcons. It just seems like (yesterday) that this town was all googoo eyed about this team and the direction of this team, with Vick and his star appeal etc. Crap, now it’s like reading about some new expansion team trying to get all the pieces together…good grief… did McKay stink things up that badly…is this team (that bad)? Somebody help me out here…Go Braves!

By GA Native

February 11, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Keep Redman and Shockey and let the other two find new homes. If Shockey is ready lets give him the chance at starter he deserves. Draft O line and Def Secondary, beef up the D Line through Fee agency and look for a QB in rounds 4-7, seems there is always a hidden gem in that range. D Hall could be good trade bait for other needs if we don’t resign him next year.

By gizmo

February 11, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Major changes need to take place in order for the Falcons to become a winning team. All overpaid, disgruntled, whining players should be released or traded (D’Hall,A Crumpler)for draft picks. The team must get younger and faster at RB and LB. Good Bye and thanks for all your hard work and effort-Dunn and Brooking. Cut veterans such as Horn and others for cap space. Draft Arkansa RB McFadden number one, then draft O’line and sign free agents to block for him and Chris Redmon. Draft a QB in a later round(Erick Ainge-TN)for development. A first round rookie QB this year will be a waste.Replenish the D’line through the draft and free agency.Atlanta needs to get bigger,faster and stronger to stop the run and rush the passer. The secondary needs retooling with a SS,FS,and a CB. If Jimmy Williams does not want to play safety then trade him. And last but not least, will somebody find a Kicker with 50yd plus leg strength, but just in case we need him again, give Morton Anderson an assistants job just to keep him close. Then keep your hopes high that MV7 will return one day. GOOD LUCK ATLANTA!

By ChicagoPOW

February 11, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

Keep Gandy. Keep Coleman. Business is business for the rest of the high $ players.

By falconbacker

February 11, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Miami cut Trent Green so they will draft Matt Ryan. The Falcons need to call Dallas and take the 2 first round picks and Marion Barber that they were offering Miami for the #1 overall pick. They want Darren McFadden. We can still get a quality QB with 1 of those picks, a 1st round Offensive linemen, and have the bruising RB in Marion Barber. We will still have our early second round pick for another Offensive linemen. WOW!!! Do your work GM to make this happen and we will start to believe again. Go FALCONS!!!

By Brent

February 11, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

I do feel that a roster purge, to a degree, is necessary; however, you have to be careful on who you let go. A) I think Warrick Dunn is…well DUNN in Atlanta. He’s been a great contibuter to the team but his “lack of size” and aged body won’t be to beneficial in a power running scheme. And if we still have issues with the revamping of the offensive line, then he won’t be that effective anyway b/c we wasn’t last year. He only has speed in the open field, which makes me wonder why in the hell have we not used him more in a screen passing attack? How many times have we seen “Dunn up the middle”, “Dunn to the left”, “Dunn to the right”, 4th and 7, PUNT!!

B)Someone needs to have a SERIOUS “come to Jesus” talk with D-Hall. If he is to remain here next year, he needs to GROW UP, shut his mouth and play ball. I’ll be happy to trade my 12.50 and hour salary for his ANY DAY!!

C)As far as the linebacking corp goes, which is a sensitive subject for me since Keith Brooking is my favorite player, I think we need to re-sign Boley (obviously), make Demario Williams a back up, draft a middle linebacker and move Brooking back to the outside. I know brook has some age on him, but I feel he can still have an impact but he needs to be where he can run to the ball more. In ‘05 and ‘06, even though we had bad records, Brooking led the team in tackles both years. That’s becuase he played outside b/c we had Hartwell(when he was healthy), so Brooking could persue and attack the ball carrier. I feel it would be a big mistake to let him go considering we’d be taking a 7.7 million dollar cap hit with his salary.

By P Dawg

February 11, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

The first thing the Falcons should do is dump DeAngelo Hall. Too much hype and too many STUPID penalties. He’s an idiot that sholuld be playing for Al Davis. If he stays there a couple of years, he’ll probably get his buddy Michael back.

By dorrel

February 11, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

Hell yes, they should purge this group of bums! Only Warrick Dunn should be kept because even though he is useless as a RB, he is an example of class that would be needed for the new crop of young players, they won’t win much next year but the character guys can teach the new guys.

By Falcon1

February 11, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Tear it down and start all over. Games are won in the trenches. We have an old Defensive Line Coach running the show now… Look for the team to move down in the draft for multiple picks.

Signings will be for 300 pounders, not 4.2 40’s…

It doesn’t matter who quarterbacks this year. Both lines and the defensive have to be built up first. Once the line comes together, then start ‘shopping’ for the right QB…

By Tim Parker

February 11, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Purging the roster would e a very expensive thing to do if you talk about a major overhaul. Cutting star players really doesn’t make any sense either. I think Dimitroff will be smart about the process. Gone will be Gandy, Forney, and Dunn. Brooking, Coleman, and Crumpler will probably be approached about voluntary restructuring with none except maybe Brooking making the accommodation.

By saint

February 11, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

My bet is a gradual but significant changeover in player personnel. Redman has shown he can do the job even without much protection, so with blocking he can hold the fort til our #1 QB comes in. If it is a college draft, I doubt if he will play right away. A tall/big QB with a quick release (no windup)could fit the bill. The tight coverage of opposing secondaries means the ball better be at laser speed & accurate. Too bad D.J. was injured, but it might just keep him on the team during his recovery period. Maybe the cleaning people can find some of Devaney’s notes; we can use them.

By ATLplayer

February 11, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

I hope they know what they are doing

By Mike

February 11, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

If Devaney is a solid pro personnel guy how come his valuable “input” has helped produce the sorry roster we have now?

By In te round 1980

February 11, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Given the immediacy with which things have been accomplished with the Falcon’s transition, it would seem the stage has been set to accomplish a total turnover of office and player personnel. This approach has both benefits and detriments. Salary cap expenditures and new player acquisitions will be the driving factor in any decision. However, one thing is perfectly clear. There will be change, for the newly vested staff has been given full and complete control to form and run an NFL football team. The detriments, if any, will be considered in January 2009.

By MARCUS RAHMING

February 11, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

We do have some talent here. The Dline can be very good with an inpact D tackle. The Wide out could be excellent with a potential pro bowler added there. Running backs are easy to get in the draft and if we have a good enough Back (IE McFadden) and or another receiver, Chris Redman wont be asked to do as much. Taking Woodson in the 2nd gives us a project to work on for 8-12 months. I’m excited about what could be.

By GwinnettFalcon

February 11, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

This is the first offseason for the new management and whichever direction they choose to go i will support them. I don’t know if the complete overhaul of the roster is necessary though. We have some players that we can build around. Boley, Houston, Abraham, D-Hall, Norwood, Mughelli, Roddy White, etc…. We as fans need to have a little patience and a lot of faith in this team, and fill the dome during home games. Falcons fan forever.

By G-thang

February 11, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

The Patriots showed the blue print for offense and the Giants showed the blue print for defense. I want the Falcons to pick one and be noted for that, a helluva offense or defense. I am sick of the “No Identity” stuff. Do not pick a qb in the 1st round!! Good qb’s can be found in the later rounds, Tom Brady, Gerrard, Derek Andersen, etc. The difference with these team is the O-line. Brady litterally gets 6 seconds to go through his progressions before he throws the ball. Falcons should get that O-line in shape or the D-line. Forget qb’s in the 1st round

By San Antonio Falcon

February 11, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

I know nothing about salary cap ramifications when it comes to slicing and dicing a franchise, but I will say this, Harrington and Leftwich are not the answer. Redman could start next year with a rookie waiting in the wings, he is at least a decent backup-he proved that last year. The best we can hope for is an improved line along with the defense getting a little better. Defense was decent against most offenses, but struggled big time against the high powered ones.

By FalconFan75

February 11, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

As much as I don’t want to wait to see the dividends of a full fledged roster change, I do believe that it is what this team needs. I’ve come to grips with the fact that some of the players that could leave, are the same players that I don’t want to leave. In this age of free agency, it’s almost a bad idea to like the team for the players. Cause they’ll just be gone in about 5-6 years. So lets go ahead and all prepare for the changes, and lets sit back and watch what the new regime can build for us to enjoy in about 2-3 years.

By 20yr season tix holder

February 12, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Billy Devaney should have been let go, along with McKay.

If he was THAT much of a talent expert, would we have had the free agent busts of the past few years? For every (healthy) Abraham pickup-there is a Hartwell.

We wasted salary cap monies on Horn, Leftwich and Crocker, just to name a few in the past several years. We let Kerney go.

A total management cleanout is needed.

By the way, Mr. Blank. I am NOT satisfied with upper level end zone prices being cut while my seats will remain the same. You have raised my ticket prices 250%- I think I am owed a refund

By Bob in SF

February 12, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

Give Redman a 3 yr. contract to keep him as an experienced backup after breaking in the QB they draft this year be it Ryan, Woodson, Flacco etc. Give DJ a chance to prove he can play this summer and if he can beat out Redman, let him have the job. There is nothing wrong with having two QB’s who can play. I truly think the Birds would be best served drafting the OT Long out of Michigan in the first and getting a QB like Woodson or Flacco in the second round.

By Chris

February 12, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this

I say gradually turn over the roster in 2-3 years. It will take about that long to ween out the players who may have been affected by the culture of losing and get the proper fit of personnel and schemes. By 2011 or so, we will know if the right moves are being made.

By highflyrep

February 12, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Harrington, Leftwich, Brooking, Crocker, Gandy, J. Williams, Jenkins, Horn. And i would hate to see Warrick Dunn go, the man has been a true warrior and the face of a Falcons team that we the true fans love. Give him a front office job, MR. BLANK!

By CC Rider

February 12, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

The roster should be purged of all non producing players, but let’s not get rid of older high salaried players that are still good players (Keith Brooking, Kynan Forney, Alge Crumpler, Etc.) just for cap space. Cap space that may never be used this year because of a weak free agent market where the majority of the top players will probably be francised by their teams. This changeover will take at least three years. I hope we are not going to release good players just to get high draft picks that will result if we strip the team down and they become a team not worth watching.

By bravesnfalcons

February 12, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

First off none of those three quarter backs from should be back from last year. We should trade Donavan Mcnabb and let him be a good starter and mentor to Denis Dixon, who we should take in the second or third round instead of waisting a top five pick on a QB. And second, if we dont re-sign Boley I think we should fire Blank.

By WILL

February 12, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

THE FALCONS NEED TO DRAFT,JAKE LONG FIRST, THEY NEED TO BUILD THE OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE LINES FIRST, JAKE WILL BE A LINEMAN FOR 10 YEARS OR MORE,THERE ARE PLENTY OF RUNNING BACKS, IN THIS DRAFT AND QB’S.IF YOU DRAFT MATT RYAN, HE WILL GET CREAMATED IF HE HAS TO STAND BEHIND THIS OFFENSIVE LINE.VICK SHOULD BE OUT IN NOVEMBER HE WILL BE READY TO RUN.TAKE A NEW COURSE BUILD THE LINES OF SCRIMMAGES AND YOU WILL WIN MORE GAMES I APPROVE THIS MESSAGE.

By USMCdawg

February 12, 2008 2:45 AM | Link to this

Keep DJ!!! As a UGA fan I still pull for our players, especially the ones in Atlanta. Losing them just makes me lose more interest in an already disappointing team.

By Unbiased_Blogger

February 12, 2008 3:11 AM | Link to this

I hear that as soon as the Falcons cut Vick, the Vikings will make him an offer. So much for Vick not playing quarterback again.

By dick

February 12, 2008 5:59 AM | Link to this

Been a season ticket holder since 88, and have suffered a lot through the years. Myself I would like to see drastic changes. This whole team should feel the heat, and realize no ones job is safe. I would like to see some players who are getting a little long in the tooth given walking papers. We should try to build are O line with a mix of free agents and later round draft choses. And if McFadden is there for us to pick we need to take him. Our QB situation is a joke except for maybe Shockley(spell) who we really have not seen much of due to injury. But I don’t think you waste a first round draft choose on a QB till the line is addressed. I will continue to buy my tickets but I need to see some major changes. Do I expect instant success? No, but like other ticket holders we want to see some improvements in all areas. I was real close to giving up my tickets this year, but I will take a wait and see attitude for a few more seasons. I hope the new GM and Coach Smith can turn things around here.

By John

February 12, 2008 6:41 AM | Link to this

The Falcons need to look at the massive house cleaning Parcells is having in Miami. Isn’t that what we were supposed to be doing here?…Follow the leader!

By Paddy

February 12, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this

Don’t be too quick with that purge plan TD. Give some credit to past decision makers. Not all their moves were wrong or mis-guided. Once you purge that roster you have cast your lot and your career on that decision. There is some evil on that squad that must go. If not cut loose it will bring you down also. GOOD LUCK, we will be watching.

By toshie

February 12, 2008 6:52 AM | Link to this

Complete overhaul is needed. Mouth pieces and non productive should go. Harrington and Left-Foot as I call him should have never been brought in. That is another brillant decision of McKay. Dead beats along with the coaches letting them do what they wanted to do is what’s wrong with the Falcons.

By savannah falcon

February 12, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this

Lets go after players in free agency. We can build a good offensive line in free agency. We have to go after the best players in the draft. Especially a solid running back. We have to let go some players like Dunn. Dunn should be reassigned to the front office.

By bubbac

February 12, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this

Who really cares. If Mr. Blank couldn’t see what M. Vick was doing, and kept kissing his u know what, do any of you think, he is smart enough to turn this around. He better be glad, that he had Bernie at Home Depot. When he let Dan Reeves go, I knew then, that the Falcons had a nut steering the boat.

By Gregory Pressley

February 12, 2008 7:33 AM | Link to this

What ever happen to love of the game? It is really heart breaking to see how much the almighty dollar means to sports now days.If the players concentrated on playing the game instead of worring about how much they will make per touch down, we would probably see more w”s in the win column.

By Smash

February 12, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this

Clearly the Falcons don’t need to gut the roster, just selectively remove old contracts/ players who are no longer seen by the new regime as potentially effective. The key is to not bow to the mounting pressure to “solve” the problem a quarterback by choosing one too early. Build up front on both sides of the ball, find an effective running game with a good solid defense that can stop the run, have an effective kicking game and buid slowly to a winning team.

By Bubba, Lower Forty

February 12, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this

Hi y’all!! Three years. That’s the minimum it will take to get us back on track. I’ve been thinking about the upcoming draft and hope that DimiSmith picks either Jake Long or Glenn Dorsey. Hopefully, pick up Joe Flacco in the 2nd or 3rd round, give him about 3 years to get his feet underneath him. We should be looking at a strong season in 2011.

By Myrtle Beach

February 12, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

Jake Long at LT number 1, you have 2 number 2 picks. We need a center who can drive block without a double team. A back, A QB, A middle line backer, A free safety and 2 serious prospects at DT. That should do it, lets see….that will take at least 2 years so i will not be buying the NFL package to watch the Falcons next year unless Vick gets out early.

By Matt Yoder

February 12, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

I frankly do not believe this team needs a complete overhall!!! Give us a smashmouth type of running back, A offensive lineman (Jake Long)and draft a solid nonthuglike QB and put Redman as the starter for next year and this team could be well on its way for success in the next 2 years! GO FALCONS!!!!

By St. Bernard

February 12, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

Hope Shockley sticks! He deserves a chance.

By ab

February 12, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

I know it wasn’t your fault DJ, but man did you miss a chance last season! Come back strong!!!

By Mayfield

February 12, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

I think the first person that Authur Blank needs to get rid of is Authur Blank. He is his own enemy to this franchise and city. Ok, he has money. Who gives a hoot. He has made bad decisions as a owner. This is not Home Depot. This is not retail but this is a team. iF your not a team player then Authur you need to leave because we love our Falcons and Mike Vick. Bet ya bottom dollar that PETA will not go after P. Diddy.

By Bernard Brooks

February 12, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

Suggest drafting Andre Woodson, then prioritizing building the offensive & defensive lines asap. The blueprint to success in the Not For Long (NFL) is SIMPLY controlling the line of SCRIMMAGE on both sides of the ball, daaah…

By RICK

February 12, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

Quarterback is not the main problem with this team. Offensive line, def. line are what is needed first. Trade Meangelo and let Irons play the corner for 7 million less. Houston is going to be a player. Williams at safety, let Crocker go.

By gdg73

February 12, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

yes, I say get rid of the high priced dead weightstarting with Dunn, Brooking, Gandy, Forney, and Joey Harrington. They make too much and produce little results on the field. I’m sick and tired of all this “locker room leadership” crap that always comes up when talking about Dunn and Brooking.

I’m still on the fence with Horn and Leftwich. Horn started coming around when Redman was inserted into the starting lineup. If Leftwich doesn’t win the starting job outright this year, he should be cut too. We are not going anywhere next year so let Redman, Shockley, and 4th round QB round out the QB rotation if Leftwich is cut. Also, draft a RB to compliment Norwood and find a MLB replacement for Brooking and start him Week 1.

By Joe

February 12, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

As long as they unload D. Hall, they are headed in the right direction. He could provide some valuble draft picks that want to shut up and play. At this point in the Falcons history, it would be best to get rid of as many old guys as possible. The team desperately needs an injection of youth and energy. A big bruising RB running behind an even bigger O line is in the future for this team. That HAS to be the foundation before they even think about building any fancy QB/WR tandems. When the Falcons start punching people in the mouth, they will start winning games.

By jw27

February 12, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

i think the first player the falcons should try to get from free agency is Asante Samuel. Him and DeAngelo Hall would be considered da best duo of corners in the leauge.

By Dawgs

February 12, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Would be nice to see Shock in a back up role next year. I think he could be a very solid back up Qb in the league.

As far as the rest of them… Blow it up. The only players I would like to see stay are Boley, Abraham, J.Anderson on D. On O… Our full back and back up RB. Sad to see Dunn go but he now has a lot of mileage on those wheels. Dang fine guy though.

By The Grinch

February 12, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

It’s definitely time for a purge, but when the team loses many of it’s first games (which it must) the parade of morons will be all over this board calling for change again. Blank HAS GOT TO stay the course for the next three or four years at least at this point, hopefully this town will let him. I don’t like Devaney leaving, though.

By Crown & Ginger

February 12, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Trade Brooking to New England. They love old linebackers

By saint

February 12, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

No rush…Brady went as the 166 pick and A. Bradshaw at number 250, the last running back taken. I’d like to know if our GM knows why Brady was take so late? There’s a lot of talent in the late picks, let’s see how our wonderkids in the front office do in another annual rebuilding year.

By mars

February 12, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

As far as QB’s go, there is very little to choose from in this draft. However, there is an abundance of linemen. Do the right thing. Next years draft has already been projected as ‘QB rich,’ so let’s quit digging through the garbage and finally eat at the buffet like successful teams do.

Also, I like the idea of hanging on to the criminal to use as trade bait ala Herschel. Some team out there is stupid enough to trade all their good players for him.

By Richie

February 12, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

I believe that it would be a huge mistake to purge the Falcons’ roster. Although last year was a terrible year for the Falcons, the 3-13 record is deceiving. There were 4 games that the Falcons should have won (Jacksonville, Tennessee, Carolina, and Arizona) but for poor coaching. So the 3-13 records should have been 7-9 in a down year.

The Falcons have some good, very good, and outstanding players that will be difficult to replace either through Free Agency or the draft. I read an article that would have the Falcons either cut or release Warrick Dunn, Algie Crumpler, Rod Coleman, Keith Brookings, and Joe Horne, basically the veteran leadership of the Falcons today!

Rod Coleman is a beast when healthy and he has been rehabilitating for almost a year. If we remember Patrick Kerney and how he responded to being overlooked by the Falcons, coming back from an injury filled season, then imagine what Rod Coleman will do for whatever team happens to obtain him if the Falcons make the mistake of releasing him (What draft pick/free agent will be able to perform as well for the next two or three years).

Algie Crumpler is not the tight end of 2-3 years ago but it would take the Falcons at least 2-3 years to develop a tight end that can perform as well as Algie does today. Why waste time and money on what can possibly be and neglect what we do have. Build around Algie instead of without him.

Keith Brooking has played the past two years out of his normal Pro Bowl position at the team request. He is a still a monster outside linebacker with experience (See New England). He needs to be move back to his normal position and the Falcons need to secure a Middle linebacker!

Warrick Dunn and Joe Horne can be effective, but they are not needed as much as Rod Coleman, Algie Crumpler, and Keith Brookings. Reworking the salaries of all the players mentioned would be better than outright releasing them and putting the Falcons fortune in the hands of Free Agency/Draft instead of utilizing Free Agency/Draft to supplement rather than rebuild the Falcons.

By badnewz

February 12, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

We should get Darren Mcfadden,Trade Dunn, get T.O. or Ocho Cinco,and sign or draft a hard hitting linebacker.If we could get Asante Samuels as well it would be a blessing! Imagine Norwood and Mcfadden in the backfield.

By Mr. Thprnton

February 12, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Here is my thinking….. At QB I agree that Redman played well at the end of the year, so keep him. Shockley is coming off of injury but has proven that he is an exciting QB, so keep him. Release Joey and Byron. Draft Chad Henne in the 2nd round. He had a great senior bowl and he started 4 years at Michigan, He’s gonna be fine in a year or two. Build the o-line through free agency. Alan Faneca and Max Starks from the Steelers are both unrestricted free agents. Let Gandy go. Draft Darren McFadden in the first round. There is no real need to trade down with Dallas for their two first round picks. If we wanna win now we don’t need a team full of rookies!!! Defensively I say go after FS Ken Hamlin from Dallas in free agency. He had a pro bowl year last season and he was pretty good in Seattle. Start transitioning Jimmy Williams into that SS spot or at least play him at nickle back and draft a future SS in the third round (Craig Steltz, LSU). At LB keep Boley, draft a future MLB, and go after a free agent WLB (Lance Briggs Bears, Karlos Dansby Cardinals). Other than that get a WR and a DL in the draft and we’re good!!!!

By Space Mountain

February 12, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

The roster that the falcons have now has been about the same for the last couple of years.( Except for the qb position). And look at what they have done over the course of that time. Get rid of all these players and get as many draft picks as you can for them. Anyway most of them dont want to be here regardless of who is calling the shots. Overwhelm the roster with as much fresh young talent that we can get and sooner not later the roster will be stacked with quality players who want to be here. And will do what it takes to get a championship ring.

By dirty byrd

February 12, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

been falcons fan since the fulton county stad days have seen good teams and then the past 3 yrs .ok seems we need only few key moves in the current roster to be able to compete week end week out all older high priced players that want to play great take a pay cut or c-ya. last years draft was good several players we can keep that can start this year, we need to see who is left on roster after pay cut or c-ya happens ,then pick up FA to fill and draft like last year we will be in great shape for 08 GO U DIRTY BIRDS!!

By Bebeau

February 12, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Warrick Dunn wants to go to Tampa or Indy since he is not part of the new game plan. Instead of cutting him, let’s try and trade him to Tampa for draft pics to strenghten our lines or one of the ten qb’s they have on the bench. Chris Simms for Dunn and a 4th rounder would give us a good qb to compete with Schockey and Redman for the starting job.Draft McFadden with the first pick if Dallas doesn’t offer Barber and picks to move up. Trade Deangelo to the Bengals for Chad Johnson, he will give us something to cheer about and he doesn’t mind helping to turn around a franchise. If he wouldn’t mind going to Miami to help turn it around there,why couldn’t he come to ATL and put some points on the board. Trade Crumpler for picks, he is not going to be happy without Vick.If we get the lines strong and put some points on the board it won’t take long to turn this team around. On defense we need to look for FA middle lb so Brooking can go back outside and wreack havoc.Also need FA safety help maybe Ken Hamlin to help secondary coverage. Use majority of draft picks on o and d-line, a strong kicker and cornerback help. Go Falcons.

By Tommy Maddox

February 12, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

They need to get very large offensive lineman to protect whatever QB we use. Then go get a bunch of large defensive lineman. As for the overpaid loudmouths, trade them for draft picks.

Sadly though, you could start just about anywhere with our team and it would be an improvement.

By Ken Strickland

February 12, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

DALE-The Falcons had to keep Vick on the roster in order to collect any of the signing bonus he was paid. Also, if he returns to the NFL, any team interested in him will have to compensate the Falcons since he’s still their property. Why worry about him being on the roster? He’s not being paid, and cutting him wouldn’t give the team any CAP relief. The team is making solid common sense decisions regarding this matter. They’re obviously not letting fan overreaction and bias influence their decisions regarding MVick.

There’s no reason to blowup the roster. That would be stupid and unnecessary. The new HC needs to design a system that takes advantage of the teams existing talent. Then discard players that don’t fit into that system. That’s what Mora and Petrino didn’t do. They tried to force players that weren’t good fits into their systems.

The 1st thing we should do is solidify the DEF before we do anything else.

(1)We should draft LSU’s DT Dorsey with our 1st pick. Solidify the DEF before making another move. Dorsey is a bigger, younger, stronger and more athletic version of RColeman. Team him up with last yrs rookie DT TLewis and DE JAnderson, along with Allpro JAbraham, and you have a solid DL.

(2)MBoley should be the only holdover at LB. Brookings and DWilliams should be replaced. DWilliams used speed and quickness to make plays. But those attributes also caused him to run himself out of position and miss a lot of plays as well. We have got to find someone in the draft or through FA to play MLB.

(3)We are solid at CB. How many teams can say they have 2 shut down CB’s. As far as DHall’s performance and attitude are concerned, how many Probowl CB’s would have made it without an effective pass rush in front of them? DHall has been voted into 2 Probowls without the benefit of an effective pass rush. I’m certain that was noticed by the coaches and his peers when they voted him in.

(4)With better DT and LB play we should consider upgrading our safety positions. JWilliams should be given a chance to finally crap of get off the toilet.

Offensively, we should look 1st at the OL.

(1)OLG JBlalock and OC TMcClure should be the only locks. Sign a quality LT through FA. They should be able to find an OT and/or OG on the current roster.

(2)In every draft there’s always a quality RB or two to be found in the later rds.

(3)Draft your future QB in the 2nd rd instead of the 1st. If fact, 1st rd QB selections have a failure rate as high, or higher, than those selected in the 2nd round. There’s always a vet QB or two available through FA that can do as much or more than most rookie QB’s, especially for the 1st yr or two. Remember JHarrington was a 1st rd selection and CRedmon wasn’t. Which of the two would you choose to be your starting QB?

(4)Keep TE ACrumpler and ask him to restructure his contract. Where are you going to find another TE with his size, speed, hands and blocking ability. Most teams have one TE for blocking and another for catching passes. With Crumpler you get both plus outstanding hands and speed for his size.

That’s how this roster should be rebuilt without any drastic makeovers.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 12, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Or, they could be holding on to Vick until public sentiment against him blows over, so that they can bring him back on the team.

Hopefully.

In any case, it makes very little business sense to let go of an asset for zero compensation at his lowest trade value.

Besides, seeing as how none of the QBs in this draft looks to be a true franchise player, it would be somewhat foolish to draft one of them and expect them to develop into one, when there is already one on the roster.

I’d keep the seemingly unpopular Vick and Hall, as well as players who are on their rookie contracts in the hope that they will improve with better coaching (I’m looking at you, Michael Jenkins). It’s the big-salary, over-the-hill veterans who are eating up cap space who need to be released or traded.

Ultimately, if there’s one thing pro sports has shown, it’s that even the most unpopular athlete becomes popular again when he turns his team into a winner. Say what you want about Vick and his character and what not, but every Falcons team that he quarterbacked overachieved, even the 7-9 team in 2006. If you don’t think the Dome will start selling out again for a Vick-quarterbacked team that is winning, you are sadly mistaken. I’ll say it again — business-wise it would be foolish to release him for zero compensation without at least seeing what he has left in the tank.

By Orlando

February 12, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

I feel Atlanta is looking to build a traditional, ball-control type of team. I don’t think it makes sense to draft a QB in the first round this year. Depending on the coin flip, if Atlanta ends up at 5 in the worse case scenario, then trade down to get multiple picks, because the two big names they need (McFadden, Jake Long) will be gone.

I think Atlanta needs to have one of those drafts where they don’t get the big name talents but instead draft some linemen, a QB like Chad Henne and some depth at the corner position, in case DHall leaves.

Free agency can be used to obtain an RB like Micheal Turner.

Atlanta has tried the big splash and failed. Time to build an actual TEAM.

By sam08

February 12, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

I think the defense is better than they appeared last year. I think they just spent to much time on the field for the depth of talent they have right now. The offense needs to do better than 3 and out every time they get the ball. The only thing wrong with the defense is D-Hall. He should shutup and play or go to the bench. I think a true MLB would help so Brook could go back to the outside which is what he is best at. The offense is a whole new bag of worms. I think Dunn is a class act and probably can still play in a different role (3rd down) but I think it is time to give Norwood more time on the field and draft another youngster to groom. Sorry but Crumpler needs to go. He and D-Hall are cancers for the “team” regardless of talent or not. Crumpler is injury prone and out of shape compared to his P-bowl year and he is not near the blocker that some of the other guys are. I believe whom evermade the decision to bring in the injury prone Lefwich needs their head examined, cut him now.Bolster the line with some big boys and do what champions do, run the ball. KISS - keep it simple stupid.

By David-ATL14

February 12, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Blow it up!.

Striving to barely reach mediocrity is not in the best long term interest of the franchise.

Nor was drafting Vick either. Terribly overrated in his pre felon days, now his actions have absolutely desroyed a frachise both on and off the field.

By T

February 12, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Purged. As in when one sits on the throne on a sunday morning and expels the poisons ingested in the previous evening.

By Todd Hanson

February 12, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

First of all I think that they should hang onto Chris Redman he showed some good potential, much more than harrington or leftwich! Or else they should pursue either Derek Anderson or McNabb! I think that it’s time to cut some of the Vets and trade D-Hall he’s not worth the money we pay him or the headache he brings to each game. Now is the time to rebuild and make most of free agency, smart drafts, and trades(D-Hall).

By ck

February 12, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

This just in… The Atlanta Falcons have acquired Michael Vick for the 2009 season. Vick is a former all pro QB who has not been in the league for the last couple of years due to personal reasons. “I had to get my head straight” says Vick

By Northwest Dawg

February 12, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

I would definitely like to see Dimitroff come out of the gate strong and really put his stamp on the roster for better or worse. This franchise needs new faces on the field as well as in the front office.

By Ken Strickland

February 12, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

NEJAH, that would probably work as far as national sentiment is concerned. But the majority of the anti Vick element that follow the Falcons have personal issues that aren’t necessarily football related. Believe me, for most of them those dogs were only an excuse, not a concern. If those dogs were truely an issue of concern for them, including the AJC and PETA, they would have been just as outraged with the others involved. They lied, trained, raised, brutalized and killed more dogs than Vick. I guess in their dillusional minds the breeding, training, brutalization and killing of dogs and dog fighting ceased with the incarceration of MVick. Most of these fools probably voted for George Bush even though he lied through his teeth to congress, the nation and the world. His lies have caused the deaths of tens of thousands of people overall, including thousands of Americans. Why should any of them give a damn about human lives lost in Bush’s war. After all, none of them were Falcon QB’s.

If Vick came back and QB’d the Falcons to a division title, these clowns would be filled with more hate and venum than before.

By TCM

February 12, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14 you’re an idiot!! How can you blame one person for the demise of this franchise when he had nothing to do with the other side of the ball. I guess MV was responsible for all the missed tackles and blown coverages by the defense, right? If you’re going to talk about somebody not producing, at least be fair in what you say you moron.

#7 is not responsible for the draft day decisions and free agent signings, nor can he catch his own passes, block for himself, or kick field goals and extra points.

If you want to point the blame it should go to the front office for not adequately building this franchise the way other teams in the NFL do like the Patriots, Steelers, Jaguars, Bears, Colts, etc. In football it takes a TOTAL team effort to win, not just a team riding the back of one player. That’s why the Giants just won the SB, TOTAL TEAM EFFORT!!

#7 is only responsible for himself and yes that cost him personlly, but its still no excuse for what we saw in 2007. Back in 2001 Drew Bledsoe got hurt, Tom Brady(the back-up QB @ that time), had to come in and pick up the pieces. I think we all know how things turned out. In 1999 Trent Green got hurt for the Rams and Kurt Warner(the backup QB) had to come in and pick up the pieces. The Rans did okay that year too. And back in 1990, Phil Simms got hurt and Jeff Hostetler(the backup QB), once again had to come in and save the season for the Giants. In football, one player doesn’t make your franchise a team. * It’s a total team effort you idiot!!*

By neckville

February 12, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

As a season ticket holder draft offense lineman and defense lineman. we also need a middle line backer . Draft woodson that’s a great pick at QB. We need a big speedy running back too .

But as a season ticket holder bring vick back. there is nobody right now that the falcons could get that is better,plus he will fill the dome and win .

All you need to say is that Vick is comming back to the Falcon and season ticket would be sold out in a flash. Bank on it MV@ATL#7 can’t wait! Keep Hall unless you find a better cb but that not likely!

By Alex

February 12, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

It’s obvious that Falcon fans as well as fans that enjoy the game of football agree that this team needs some serious work just to present itself as heading in the right direction. I as well as some of the other season ticket holders have considered not renewing my season tickets. I am a Falcon fan true and blue, but if this team cannot get it right sooner or later, I might as well be as other Georgians out there cheering for an out of town team. Mr. Blank, I agree with he other saeson ticket holders, why lower the prices for upper seats only? I’m not sure where the Falcons should start, I’m not an expert. I will sit back and let the “quote, unquote” experts make the decisions. By the time June arrives, we should all have an opinion one way or another. “Go Falcons”

By Hosemaze

February 12, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

PURGE PURGE PURGE look back at the players Pittsburgh let goin Cowhers tenure. Linebackers Greg Lloyd , Green,Joey Porter all pros so we can let Keith go along with Dunn, Alge and Coleman.Trade Deangelo to Patriots for Asante and also sign Gay for nickel back.

F/A Max Starks-OL Justin Fargas/ Julious Jones to
team with Norwood at running back resign Boley first

Draft defensive tackle from USC 2-2nd rounders should be used for O-line and Middle linebacker Defense will be strong addition by subtraction.Addresses all three tiers Line,linebacker and secondary. after that best available players.