AJC > Sports > Falcons > Blog > Archives > 2008 > March > 17 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USWho will replace D-Hall?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
D-Hall could be in the Silver and Black by the end of the week, Jason Elam might come back home to kick after 15 seasons in Denver and Keith Brooking will return to middle linebacker for a third straight season.
With the recent developments with the Birds, the most talked about has been the likely trade of two-time Pro Bowl cornerback DeAngelo Hall to Oakland for second and sixth-round picks in this draft. The Raiders and Falcons have agreed on the trade but since Hall is entering the final year of his contract, he wants a new deal in place - as do the Raiders.
They don’t want to trade away two draft picks (the first being the 34th overall choice) for a one-year player and Hall wants to get P.A.I.D.
Once those terms are agreed upon, and they should be in the next few days, Hall will be the latest member of a team that, in 2004, went to the NFC championship game. As a side note, only Brooking and offensive linemen Kynan Forney, Todd Weiner and Todd McClure remain key contributors from that squad.
The biggest question regarding the Hall trade might not be who Atlanta takes with the picks it gains from the trade, but who is going to play that cornerback spot.
The Falcons just signed Houston free agent Von Hutchins but they want him more as a nickel back/safety. Second-year player David Irons and third-year player Brent Grimes are possibilities - Irons made a huge impression last season - but the eventual starter might not be on the roster right now.
The Falcons would save just more than $3 million by moving Hall, which would help create more space under the camp to use in a variety of ways. Whether that player would be a rookie or someone acquired in a trade/free agency, a lot would be asked of him, especially with the pass rush still a concern with help needed at defensive tackle and end Jamaal Anderson still developing.
That high second-round pick Atlanta could receive could be used to nab the quarterback they need or someone like Oklahoma middle linebacker Curtis Lofton. Atlanta could also parlay that pick into a mid-first rounder and nab the best available cornerback to replace Hall.
Regarding Elam, the Brookwood product is coming to Atlanta Wednesday for a visit. Based on how things have gone so far, this won’t an wasted fly by. The free agents the Falcons have brought in, they’ve pretty much signed. Elam has been one of the better kickers in the NFL for 15 years and at 38, he’s still nearly a decade younger than 47-year-old Morten Andersen.
Andersen has been automatic inside the 42/43 but the Falcons want to explore getting a stronger-accurate leg, which could be important since touchdowns might be hard to come by again with the offense being rebuilt.
Defensively, Brooking has been slated to play middle linebacker again, according to defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder. The five-time Pro Bowler would prefer to play as the weak side outside linebacker but because of the lack of MLBs in free agency and the draft, Brooking likely will end up in the middle.
That could change if Atlanta were able to draft Lofton or someone of his ilk. However, another reason Brooking is being kept in the middle is to get second-year linebacker Stephen Nicholas on the field. Nicholas was on the verge of replacing former WLB Demorrio Williams until Nicholas suffered a high ankle sprain that basically relegated him to being a special teams player.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By The Realist
March 17, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Just want to say, before bitterness & personal biases bombard the blog, that it would be nice to hear ideas on REPLACEMENTS FOR D. HALL. I’ve been aching to hear the team’s options for replacing a pro-bowl caliber CB. Please spare us the oh-so-tired MeAngelo jokes!
By Chris
March 17, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
I’m surprised that the Falcons cant get more for D-Hall, I guess he really hurt his own stock. With 3 picks in the 2nd round the Falcons could go OL/DL with their first round pick and still pick up a QB, S, CB, LB, or another lineman in the 2nd. I hope that the Falcons wait until the 3rd round to pick a QB like Josh Johnson or Dennis Dixon. That way the Falcons will have the option to develop 2 mobile QB’s, assuming Shockley sticks around.
By Kenny
March 17, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
C.Houston / J.Williams is a decent CB tandem…. no?
Elam? Should have signed Josh Brown.
By Bring him home
March 17, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Bring Elam home. Ship MeAngelo out. With three picks potentially in Round 2 would there be a possible starter at CB Steve?
By Ced Ced
March 17, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this
Keith…IN THE MIDDLE…Another year of that, I cant take the thought if it. He was HORRIBLE, he was ineffective, on numerous occations he got in the way of his OWN TEAMMATES. The falcons should draft a MLB, maybe lofton or preferrably Phillip Wheeler. But either way Brooking shouldn’t be in the middle maybe not even on the roster. I think we will be just fine without D-Hall, hes good and could be great but he lacks focus and the attitude to help the team.
By The Realist
March 17, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Chris, I was shocked that they couldn’t get more for him either. His comments really hurt the team’s bargaining power in dealing him. Kenny, I believe we’ve got a winner in C. Houston but I think J. Williams has shown he doesn’t have the cover skills for the CB position. Irons was impressive in limited play last season but not potential pro-bowler impressive.
By SCBird
March 17, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Lito Shepphard
By Boots
March 17, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
From the way he played last year —- getting burned on long patterns and costing us a couple of games because of his rabid mouth, penalties and lack of self-discipline —- we shouldn’t have any trouble finding someone to chase the receiver down field.
By Jay nichols
March 17, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
I’m done with this organization!! Getting rid of a young Pro Bowl corner for a second and a sixth? Why not make Oak give up their number 4 pick and the second roundr? This guy no matter what you think of him has first round talent!! And just who do you get to replace him? A rookie unproven corner? or an older and just as expensive one? As far as saving cap space none of these stupid moves means anything if you don’t spend the money to pick up talent! Goodbye ATL with Dimitroff here this rebuilding project will take longer than when Sherman burned ATL down!
By Najeh Davenpoop
March 17, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
If you stock up your D-line and create a fearsome pass rush you don’t have to spend big bucks on a CB. With the number of first-day picks the Falcons have they can use one on a CB, preferably in the 2nd round after they have drafted a lineman or two. Without a good pass rush the Houston-JWilliams-rookie tandem is gonna get burned regardless.
By Willie Taylor/Turner
March 17, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
The 34th overall pick and a six round pick is the best you an expect for Hall. Draft a OL/DL and a cornerback in the 2nd round for these three picks
Go Falcons…. Fan since 1966!!!!!!
By A Falcons fan walks into a bar. . . .
March 17, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
Why doesn’t everyone just accept that the Falcons aren’t going to be very good next year, and it doesn’t really matter who plays CB, because we are builing for a team at least 2-3 years from now? D Hall burned by every good receiver that he played against. He isn’t shut down anything. He can’t even shut down his own mouth. He is a pretty good corner. That’s about it. Deon Sanders? Only in his own mind.
By fatalbert
March 17, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Trade Hall. Elam is the answer to a question that was never asked….Save the money and call Morten back. If we can’t get closer than a 42 yarder just punt the damned ball!
By RAM
March 17, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Can’t say I’ll miss D’Hall’s attitude, but he was one of the best Falcon Players on our roster, which must speak volumes of what we, as fans, didn’t see off field or attitude wise to actually take a hit with that loss. As far as Brooking, he has to be one of the most unselfish players on the team. How many times has he played other position’s than the one he was supposed to play, because of fellow team-mate injuries. As far as that goes, yes he didn’t have very good years sometimes, but when he did play the position that was earned by him, he busted his a* and was not tooting his own horn, just doing what he was told,which is refreashing to see for a change and has been lacking by so many players on our roster for many years.
By Holeinthedome
March 17, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
Jay - you’re right, DH is first round talent. He’s also a disruptive cancer in our locker room. I’ll take the 2nd and the 6th, who’d give more than that?
By roman88
March 17, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
tracey porter-indiana if we can get him , 4.29 40.
By GoDawgs
March 17, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
In my opinion the Falcons brass should have waited til draft day to deal Hall. They would have gotten a 1st rounder for him for sure. He is definitely worth that. This is a sick move and I don’t like it. Patience is the ultimate virtue. Wait it out and you will be rewarded. Brooking needs to go back to his weakside lineback spot and I should repeat WEAK. Elam should be a good addition for a year or 2 but we need some good young blood at the kicker spot. I still don’t know who New Enlgand’s kicker is and he does just fine but he is also very rarely needed. We are in for another aweful year. This really really hurts! Way to go Falcons Brass! Can’t wait til the draft..Hopefully they don’t screw up anymore.
By roman88
March 17, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
get elam while we can thats very much a upgrade, isnt that the idea of the team, upgrade. it may be alot of running the ball and long field goals. d-hall didnt wanna be here, if he doesnt wanna be part of another losing season, oakland makes alot of sense then their going nowhere,
By SickandTired
March 17, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Who can replace D. Hall? Anyone that can put a jersey on as far as I’m concerned. He and those of his attitude and personality will no longer be welcome on the Falcons roster. The new GM in town is taking Atlanta down the path of New England and the Atlanta Braves. You do your job, you keep your nose clean, you portray an image that is a credit to your profession and the franchise that writes your check or you hit the road or you are never considered for membership on the team in the first place. Good for the Falcons and Good for the city of Atlanta. Good days are somewhere in our future. I am proud to be a Falcons fan and season ticket holder again.
By tt44
March 17, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
Hey Realist, GET With the Program! He is NOt a true pro bowler, he is all hype….my goodness. You must be kin folk?
By johann
March 17, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
jay, the reason we can only get a second and a sixth for hall is because 1- his mouth. His outbursts are well known across the league and most teams don’t want to put up with that and 2- he’s a cancer to any lockeroom. No one’s going to risk a decent first round pick with those character issues. It has never been about the team to Deangelo. The only reason he was ever nominated to the probowl is bc its currently a popularity contest and has nothing to do with how they actually played. Certainly, he is wicked fast, but because he only plays to get interceptions {and boost his image} instead of actually defending the receiver, he gets burned several times a game is is only a mid-tier corner.
By gregw
March 17, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
I like the idea of giving Jimmy Williams a shot at the position. Grimes looked like a gamer too.
Why not flip flop the LB’s and give Nicholas a shot at MLB? He and Brooking are of similar size.
By Singletary
March 17, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
CLE sportswriters were talking about their remaining draft picks to get DeAngelo.
Why sign Elam for a lot of money? Keep Morten and see if we can find another Aussie footy kicker to train in 2006!
Just please tell me we are not taking Matt “Another Interception” Ryan…
By This Gets Old
March 17, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
This is a repeat of last season when Kerney left. We created a need and ended up with Jamal. How’d that work out for us? Nobody can cover with no rush.
No we go out and create a need at CB and who’s to say that there is a quality guy there? We have so many other needs. You’re really going to put one rookie and one near rookie back there when you still don’t have one good safety and no DT’s?
And IF you wait until the second round to try and find your QB who also can say that there won’t be a run on that position before we pick a guy?
Brooking back in the middle? Rebuilding the offense? Around whom? Michael Turner? That’s not a position of strength in this draft? No new offensive lineman? What chance does Turner have? While I believe Forney can come back I just can’t see where they’re going here.
It never seems to change. It just gets really old.
By Tyger
March 17, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
FALCOONS EASY BUTTON
1.3 Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU take all gamechangers, period end of story.
2.34 Kenny Phillips, FS, MIA - best safety in the draft.
2.38 Andre Woodson, QB, KY - maybe high, but dont sleep, KY beat LSU, FLA …why?
2.47. Fred Davis, TE, USC - Alge who? OR Brandon Flowers, CB, VT -another Hokie?? NOT
3.67 Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU, 6’0, 192 - did anyone say champion??
By Peter
March 17, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
If you’re going to re-build then re-build. You’re bringing Elam in for what? So that we can watch a parade of FG’s again? Draft of sign a kicker that’s going to be with us for a while.
If we’re going to take our lumps for a couple {a COUPLE??} of years then make sure first that you get your top rated QB. Then the same day get your LT. They never got T’s for Vick. And we’re really keeping Joe Horn on this roster? The more the Falcons change, the more the Falcons remain the same.
By SeminoleWarrior
March 17, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
Moving DeAngelo at this time is a fine move. He had already stated that he would be a distraction this season and there was no reason to believe otherwise. The compensation that we get in terms of the picks is great. And given the Kearney deal from last year, the Falcons stand to have possibly SIX picks in the first three rounds. And FIVE of those will be significantly more cap-friendly than getting a first rounder. We can acquire some great talent with those picks. And we can build for the long term viability of the team at the same time. Keep up the good work TD. The tree will bear an abundance of fruit in about 3 years…and where will all the “experts” be then. GO FALCONS!!
By morris
March 17, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
Good move dimitroff, getting rid of hall. No way the falcons were going to invest major dollars in this cat. Why do you think hall is going to the raiders? Because Al Davis is senile enough to overpay for these loudmouth underachievers. Getting a a real high second rounder and a sixth is not a bad deal for a cancer like hall. The niners only got a second rounder when they traded T.O. Regardless of Hall’s physical gifts, he never showed the mental toughness of a great player. Just wait until he gets his hands on that 18-20 million in guaranteed money, then you will see this dude pack it in.
By *1 fan
March 17, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
REALLY SHOULDVE TRADED D-HALL/ADAM JENNINGS//MICHAEL JENKINS TO COWBOYS FOR BOTH FIRST ROUND PICKS.OR COULDVE JUST TRADED D-HALL TO PATRIOTS(IN DESPERATE NEED OF CORNERBACK)FOR THEIR 1ST ROUND PICK(TOP 10)
By will
March 17, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
traded hall, got rid of crumpler, coleman, resigned harrington started brooking at middle linebacker, what in the world are these guys thinking?
By taco slammer
March 17, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
Someone is worth what the market is willing to pay. Don’t you think that Atlanta’s GM is taking the best offer for Hall? GM’s around the league know the baggage that DHall brings with him. I’d bet that most teams are simply not interested in him for that very reason.
Being able to perform on the field is only a part of being a good player. Some owners just don’t want him around. They saw last year’s Charlotte Panther game highlights too, where Hall’s mouth cost the Falcons the game.
By Boots
March 17, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
The only thing Al would give beyond the second and sixth round picks for DeAngelo Hall was a Tony Bennett CD of “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” and a gift certificate to Won Hung Lo’s Chinese Resturant for Mr. and Mrs. Blank.
By Rock
March 17, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
How many of D-hall’s teammates have ever said anything bad about him?? The same folks that hate #7 are the only hypocrits that call D-hall a “cancer in the locker room”.
Do you think Alge was a “cancer in the locker room” also?
I’m no big D-Hall fan, but this is the dumbest move EVER….next to hiring that “offensive genius” Petrino.
By Former season ticket holder
March 17, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
Why is Brian Fineran STILL on this team? Talk about STEALING $$$, he should be in jail with MV!!
By Bravesfan79
March 17, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
fatalbert: I agree with what you said man. Why go after Elam when we have Anderson and are rebuilding anyways?? Regardless of WHO the field goal kicker is next year, were still going to be a crap team for the next 2 or so years.
Every year we do this, we blow 2 or 3 games at the beginning of the year by missed fieldgoals before we cave in anad bring Anderson back. It seems like all the players were signing now were backups that rarely played at other places. So should we REALLY expect a upgrade over a Crumpler, or Gany, or D Hall?? Were talking about replacing our few pro bowl players with BACKUPS! Im still a falcons fan regardless, but man were gonna suck.
By Chuck
March 17, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
D- Hall and Alge have more talent in their pinky toe than Keith Brooking……it’s obvious what the falcons organization are trying to do…….I can’t WAIT to watch Tampa Bay play every Sunday, because ALL of the falcons games WILL BE BLACKED OUT!! Unless they play the cowboys and Indy at home…lol
These LOUD MOUTH haters are not the folks that filled the GA Dome 2002 - 2006!!
By falcon fan 77
March 17, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
D Hall - He should have been cut last year, but it is nice to know we can get anything for him. He really showed his colors vs both Tampa and Carolina last year. How many personal fouls?
Keith Brooking - It is nice having a local guy stay, but he is lacking in the pass defense department, which is something we will really need next year.
Jason Elam - Why not just sign Morton another year or two? Jason’s leg does not have much left and he must be a great sales man. Proven accuracy, but the distance did come in the mile high stadium. The Falcons do need local guys to help bring together the fan base. UGA’s Brandon Coutu would be a much cheaper answer and would be a longer lasting solution. Who really remebers Elam’s days at Brookwood anyhow? He was forgotten when he left for Hawaii. Coutu is from Collins Hill and went to UGA. Last I checked, the Falcons fans wear red and black and could care less about Rainbow Warriors. I say let Coutu and Elam have a long kick contest at the Dome.
By gdg73
March 17, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Also just draft a kicker like Coutu with one of those late draft picks. That’s what they are for.
By country boy
March 17, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
You Deangelo Hall fans need to watch a game once in a while. Steve Smith of the Panthers made a season in two games every year against Hall. He is not an elite cornerback in this league- just a great self promoter. Due to the fact that he will request mega bucks after next season the high second pick is about all we could expect in return. I agree that we lack a replacement there would be no dropoff if we could draft/sign a midlevel cornerback.
By JohnGTFan
March 17, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
I love the trade. People really won’t miss Hall as much as they think. All you have to do is watch film on the games he played. Yes, great talent…but he was always better in his mind than he was on the field!
I kinda like Kenny’s idea…why not let Jimmy Williams get a shot on the other side…CB is his natural position anyway. Just a thought. But I love ATL having 4 picks within the top what…47, 48 picks of the draft. Talk about the ability to seriously rebuild…this is the way to do it. The ability to draft VERY HIGH quality players…4 OF THEM before the middle of the second round is over…come on..how can you not love the future for ATL!!!
By A Falcons fan walks into a bar. . . .
March 17, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
Go Dawgs,
How could the Falcons wait until draft day to trade Hall when Hall has to agree to a new contract with his new team. You see how long that is taking. No way that gets done on draft day. This is a great trade. The Raiders 2nd round pick is basically a low 1st round pick, plus we get a 6th rounder for him. He isn’t that good. Only the Schaub trade was better than this.
By A Falcons fan walks into a bar. . . .
March 17, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
D Hall doesn’t care about winning. He cares about getting paid and getting on Television. Trust me, if you want to win, you don’t go to Oakland.
By Chad
March 17, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
This is a good deal for the Falcons. They could not wait until draft day because D.Hall only has 1 year left on his contract. They would have got less on draft day. This deal is similar to the NBA sign and trade. Sign him and the trade goes through. If he demands too much money, the trade gets pulled from the table. Remember, this is a high 2nd round pick with a 6th round selection you could get lucky with. Good ridance. You think Hall really cares about winning? He will be going to the true laughing stock of the NFL.
By South Georgia Dawg
March 17, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Well to tell you the truth I could care less about Hall,but hope we get all we can for him. He never had any class. As for the kicker, we need to go after Brandon Coutu in a big way. I truly believe that he is going to be one of the premier kickers in just a short period of time. And as a plus he is from Georgia, as everyone knows, and will definitely help ticket sells! Keep Coutu in Atlanta, just my opinion.
By Bluestreak
March 17, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
You DeAngelo apologists just don’t get it, do you? He’s not about the team, he’s about D. That’s it…nothing more. He’ll do the same thing in Oakland when he gets burned by every good receiver in the AFC and some in the NFC. And then, he’ll tackle a guy after a 15 yard gain and act like a four year old Pop Warner player that just made his first tackle. What a joke. The only problem is Lane Kiffin can’t yank him up by his face mask and bench him for acting like a fool. I’m glad we can get anything for this idiot. He runs his mouth, let’s Steve Smith mess with him to the point of losing a game for us (and yes, his selfish, stupid penalties lost us that game) and then gets upset when the team entertains trade offers. What a coddled baby.
But most of you fake Falcons fans that are jumping off the team because they’re trading Ronnie Lott, er…DeAngelo Hall, are the same ones that said the same thing when the Falcons ‘turned their backs on Michael Vick’ and swore then you would never be back. So one question, why you still here?
By mave2124
March 17, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
Da Raiders get Hall, we get picks…good deal to me…we better not take Matt Ryan (that would kill the good feelings I have with the new regime)…we better take a DT (Dorsey if ‘cleared’ healthy) or Long (new go wrong with stuf O-lineman) with that No. 3 pick. The other three picks should be used to nab Brohm (a pro ready QB), a CB and MLB. Sheppard is like Hall, a CB who wants to get paid. If he wants a reasonable deal, fine, but he has to know he is coming to a rebuilding project where 8-8 would be a reason to pop champange. Who from the team is going to watch Ryan tomorrow??? Hope that person blows a ton of smoke like we would really draft him.
By joebrave
March 17, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Antoine Cason
By South Georgia Dawg
March 17, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
I’m trying to post this again since it did not get sent the first time. In my opinion the Falcons need to go after Brandon Coutu in a big way. I really believe that he is going to be a premier kicker in a very short period of time. And also he is from Georgia, as everyone knows, and he will help ticket sells!
By Rocket
March 17, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
That shouldn’t be hard to do, never really made enough plays for me at corner.
With the exception of one game against TO while in Philly, he never measured up to the better receivers.
Was always on the bad end of too many replays, farewell D Hall.
Surprise he could not bring more than a number 2 pick though, I guess that says it all.
By al
March 17, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Theraiders only got a 4th for Moss.Brookings should play weekside not the middle.They brought in Hartwell for th middle buthe stayed hrt. Use the last No.2 on a CB or tradeit to Phila. for Shepard.
By Andre
March 17, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
the spec of getting Elam is great he is the second best kicker ever besides Vinateri.
By J.T.
March 17, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Yeah I agree D.Hall is washed up getting that second rounder can really help us. Now we can draft a QB,CB, and a LB in the second round. I say we draft Josh Johnson for QB, Cromartie or the LSU conerback,and lofton for linebacker. I think all these players will contribute well to the team.
By Bill
March 17, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
It would not make sence to get rid of brooking at this time.Hes allready been paid the falcons would lose money.I guess we will see his slow a* another year.Iknow hall had a big mouth but he is a good corner he just did not have any help back there.We should get more for him.
By Bill
March 17, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Hall is the best player left on team. I for one don’t like the trade.He’s the only one that showed any fire.The fans in atlanta made him feel unwanted and thats why he wants to leave.You can bet one thing,you will miss him.
By GRose
March 17, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
This is such a loser deal. What kind of chumps turn a former top 10 first round pick, fastest man in the NFL winner, who has made two pro bowls and is in the absolute prime, most productive portion of his career, into a second and sixth round pick? Answer: Chumps. Losers. Morons. This organization absolutely stinks.
By Mike In Woodstock
March 17, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
He probably doesn’t care because he’s about to sign a big fat contract but what happened to him saying he didn’t want to play for a losing organization anymore? The Raiders are not playoff bound anytime soon either.
By ripdog
March 17, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Pacman Jones. Same caliber player and we can get him at a good price assuming he’s reinstated.
By The Grinch
March 17, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Why does everyone hate Brooking so much? He’s unselfish, hard working, does what he’s asked to and doesn’t embarrass the organization. No, he’s not the best MLB in the world but that isn’t his position, either. You think Ray Ray would play out of position and keep his mouth shut?
Even with all these picks, we’re still not going to get it all done in one year. Relax; it’s going in the right direction.
By Tom
March 17, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Hall is a tough athlete to replace and we will not find a replacement instantly with a draft - regardless, the pro-bowl corner has not been winning us games. We have a lot of holes to fill and the Falcons need to sale tickets. Pick up Brandon Coutu from UGA to replace old Morton Anderson - we’ll fill a kicking void which is desperately needed and maybe sell a few more tickets to Atlanta fans with strong UGA connections…
By Scott
March 18, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
For all the folks who think we should keep DHall no matter what just because he’s talented…get a grip!! He’s a textbook example of a self-absorbed athlete who CAN make great plays, but all too often doesn’t. The problem is, we always remember the great plays more easily, and it clouds our judgment. He is NOT worth the $9 million or so he’ll demand…he DOESN’T want to be here…he is NOT a leader at all…AND if the Falcons were to bend to the pressure and re-sign him, does anybody think his me-first attitude would improve OR would he even be harder to deal with?
Now, is he worth more than a high 2nd rounder and a 6th? Absolutely, but the reality is that DHall’s comments about wanting to be gone or sitting out part of next season takes away much of the Falcons’ leverage (he’s hurting the team even going out the door). The Raiders’ pick in the second round should provide good value AND the Falcons won’t have to pay 1st round bonus money (that is why this deal is much better than the Giants offer of the last pick in the 1st round).
Who will replace Hall? Irons may be the guy or maybe it’s finally time for Jimmy Williams to show he’s an NFL caliber player. Remember the Falcons will not be good again next year, so we don’t have to make any rash decisions at CB by making a bad trade (ala Lito Shepherd - always hurt, and not a strong tackler).
Shore up the OL and DL positions in this draft. If Matt Ryan is available at 3 and they take him I’ll be OK with that, but you can get Flacco or Brohm with one of the high seconds, and not see a huge dropoff.
I do like 5 picks in the top 50.
By Mighty Joe
March 18, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
D. Hall is a Pro-Bowl talent with a 2 year-old’s attitude. He’s made it clear if he stays in ATL he’ll stomp his feet and shake his curls until he disrupts the whole team … again. Let him go whine somewhere else. two words - “BUH - BYE”
Elam’s an excellent player, but there’s nothing wrong with Mort for one more year. If they can get Elam without too much salary cap damage, I say go for it. He may not have a big impact next year while the team’s in rebuilding mode, but in a few years, as the team becomes more competitive, he can make a difference in close games.
By BeeBee
March 18, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Forget Elam. I’d love to see them get Coutu as their kicker. The guy is incredible. He’s just the young blood they need and he’ll bring in fans.
By TOSHIE
March 18, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
I don’t understand why anyone is upset about getting Hall out of Atlanta. He made the comment himself that if he didn’t get traded he would do everything to disrupt the team. Why do we need anyone like that good or not. And anyone that watched how many times he got burned last year its a wonder the dome did not burn down.
By George Holman
March 18, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
I say good by to Hall. Atlanta needs help in virtually area and the draft choices are great to get new, quality people in the organization. Hall can take his talent and his MOUTH to Oakland where he will fit right in with the rest of the misfits. It is a brighter day in Atlanta knowing Hall will be gone!
By Falcon1
March 18, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
We all know D-hall is one of the better corners in the league, and he is only 24, but he is so immature and so selfish and publicly stated he doesn’t want to play for the franchise why should they keep him?
If they get that high of a 2nd round pick for him, they can replace with him a good corner, for example Justin King from Penn St might be available
The team is in rebuilding mode and D-Hall has proven he cares more about himself than he does the team. Get rid of him and get character guys like Pitt, Jacksonville, NE, IND
Thats how you win!
By Scott
March 18, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Reasons to keep (and re-sign at ~ $9 million annually) DHall: he’s a very good CB; CAN be a shutdown CB; he WILL mature and become more of a team leader.
Reasons NOT to keep DHall: he’s NOT as good a CB as he thinks he is; he’s only a shutdown CB ON OCCASION; he’s a me-first athlete who will always fail as a true team-player; if you think he’s bad now just wait until he gets his money; if the Falcons decide to keep and re-sign him, he will truly believe HE is in charge and will not respect the organization or the coaches.
The Falcons are going to be bad again next year, so it would be foolish to panic over being weak at CB and make a VERY POOR long-term decision to keep DHall…he’s got to go, if for no other reason than HE DOESN’T WANT TO BE HERE!!!
Is the Raiders’ offer of 2nd and 6th round picks good value for DHall? Probably not, but it is not bad. I just read on NFL.com that the trade is in trouble - DHall playing hardball. Other suiters (Redskins, Giants, Cowboys, etc.) will show up, but his rep as being difficult takes away the Falcons’ leverage in getting a deal done.
Last thing on DHall: Chris Mortenson yesterday said that DHall’s on field behavior is well documented, but what most people don’t know is that he exhausts his coaches, teammates and front office with his DAILY selfish behavior. Mort said that nearly EVERY DAY DHall would do or say something to draw unnecessary attention to himself. HE’S NOT A TEAM GUY!! Ignore the talent and do what’s best long term for the team…get what you can for him and move on.
By Barry
March 18, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Hey Y’all:
Why didn’t the Falcons just resign D’HAll? The man is a proven professional cornerback in the NFL. He can cover anybody in the league, in addition to doing many other things on the football field. Now the Falcons are opening themselves up to get burnt on both sides of the field by wide receivers. When did the Falcons have the luxury of releasing pro Bowl players, especially cornerbacks, who are not a dime a dozen in this leauge. The Falcons will surely pay for this one in the defensive backfield and in the emotion and fire that D’ HAll brings to the defensive unit. His demeanor is what you want on a defensive football team. Just ask the Super Bowl Giants about Michael Starhan. they are of the same mold. they talk a lot and they back it up. D’ HAll backed up everything he said he would do against the opposition on the football field. Next to Muhammad Ali, you do not see much of that in professional sports, and we trade the guy away. I do not know what the new ownership is thinking about in trading D’ Hall, but I hope it does not come back and bite us. It is going to be a challenge to find someone who nplay with the skill and enthusiasm of D’HALL, the fastest man in the NFL who can cover any receiver.
SSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN!!! TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ringold
By Falconeddie
March 18, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
I say get what we can for D-Hall, and cut our losses. He’s not worth the “confusion” he’ll cause in the future. We need TEAM players, who are loyal and are willing to make the sacrifices to make this team a perennial winner…and I believe that our Owner, GM and HC are ALL earnestly working toward that goal. If we could get Chris Long, Bryan Brohm, and a big mean offensive lineman or two in this year’s draft, I would be jumping up and down happy! I’m a native Atlantan, and have “revelled” in the Falcon’s successes, and suffered with them through the bad times, and I can honestly say that with this ownership and Front Office personnel, I am more optimistic than EVER!!! GO FALCONS!
By Brad
March 18, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
It says a lot about Hall that no one stepped up with a 1st round offer. Any other team could of had Hall, but only Oakland steps forward? That should tell you all you need to know about Hall’s reputation in the league. And not to mention getting burned by T.O. or Steve Smith or Colston.
By Ramblin Wrecker
March 18, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Let’s be totally honest…the Falcons were bad because of poor line play (on both sides of the ball) and because of bad QB play. Having a Pro-Bowl CB didn’t make the Falcons any better. The bastions of how to do it right in the NFL (New England and Indy) don’t loose any sleep over cornerbacks. NE just let Samuel walk and a few seasons ago let Ty Law walk, no tears shed. Indy replaced both starting cornerbacks after winning the super bowl. Denver, who has arguably the best CB in the NFL, Champ Bailey, has done squat since they got him and have even regressed since his arrival. So spare me any arguments that you absolutely NEED a pro bowl, shut down cornerback to win in the NFL. It just aint the case. Not to mention the fact that in head to head matchups with the NFL’s best receivers, Hall couldn’t hold his own, even to the point of meltdown against Steve Smith. And I believe, given his astronomical mouth and contract demands to match, getting a 2nd round and 6th round picks for him is a good deal, particularly since the 2nd round pick is the 3rd pick of that round, which is in reality the 2nd pick of the 2nd round, since NE’s pick at 31 is forfeited. So the pick isn’t that far from being a 1st round pick, and certainly not far from what they would have gotten from NYG if that trade had materialized. What it does is gives the Falcons the ability to fill the REAL holes on their roster…at OL, DL and particularly QB. Having two high 2nd round picks allows the Falcons to either a)trade back up into the mid to late 1st round to get a player they really want b)pick one of the QB’s that is sure to be available at those spots in the draft. I believe this absolutely shuts the door on drafting Matt Ryan. Ryan is that high in the draft board, not because he has no-brainer talent, but because QB is always over-valued in the draft. For example in the draft a few years ago with Manning, Rivers, Rothlisberger he would have been picked after those guys. Or maybe even after Young, Leinart, Cutler. So to me he’s a reach at #3 and really a reach when you could have a potential perennial pro-bowler at LT or DT in either Jake Long or Glen Dorsey.
Take Long or Dorsey at #3. Then either trade up to get Brohm or if he drops to the second round, pick him or pick Henne and then use all those picks that have been stocked piled to build a TEAM. Use the scouting wisdom of Dimitrov to find hidden gems. They’ll address the CB spot vacated by Hall, and I guarantee that he won’t be missed.
By E-Roll
March 18, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Come guys, let’s not overstate DeAngelo’s worth here. He is a young Pro Bowl quality cornerback but let’s look at what a fourth round pick get’s you - 98 rec., 1,493 yds. and 23 TD. That’s what New England gave the Raiders for Randy Moss last year. When a player decides that he is no longer going to perform for a team, you get what you can for him or you release him.
By mars
March 18, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
I for one am glad the attention has been shifted to CB, and what we’ll do to compensate. Perhaps this will put to rest the ridiculous ideas of drafting a QB, any QB, no matter how untalented this class is!
By MrKnowGood
March 18, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
WOW! This trade sucks. But I’m happy for DeAngelo Hall. At least he won’t have to suffer another losing season; and (most importantly), HE CAN’T BE USED AS A SCAPEGOAT FOR THE IDIOT AJC COLUMNISTS. The AJC scapegoated Vick, Harrington, Leftwhich, Hall, and Crumpler before it realized the problem was our sorry O-Line.
So, I wish Dunn, Hall, Vick, Coleman, and Crumpler the best. They all deserved better than the Falcons and the idiots at AJC. Remember, Patrick Kerney was “too old” and “too injured,” but SOMEHOW in his “too old” and “too injured” state he managed to be a monster DE for SEATTLE!!!
I hope Arthur Blank has his TV makeup on, because he’s going to be spending alot of time trying to avoid TV blackouts and begging fans to return to the Dome.
Meanwhile, Hall, Kerney, Coleman, Crumpler, Dunn, and yes even Vick will be enjoying their Pro Bowl and Super Bowl appearances.
Falcons radio ad in 2012: “Come see Super Bowl MVP, Michael Vick of the TB Bucs take on your Atlanta Falcons!”
By rj
March 18, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
well for those of you who think the raiders are sorry check the rosters and you will see they have better players and will have a better record seasons end.dont rule out the playoffs for the boyz in silver and black this year.go ahead,check the roster and you will see they are better in every position starting at Q.B.
By E-Roll
March 18, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
I have looked at the free agents available and I do not see anyone out there who I would spend any money on. Just draft a young corner in the second round and let the guys that we have (Irons, Williams) fight it out for the starting job.
Also for those that don’t think we are getting enough for DeAngelo maybe this story from cbs sportsline will clear up the picture a little bit:
The Giants talked with Hall about a contract, but none could be reached. So no deal was made, even though the Giants would have parted with their first-round pick and a player.
Next came Jacksonville. The Jaguars were granted a 24-hour window to negotiate with Hall but also couldn’t agree to a deal. That led to the team signing Drayton Florence as a free agent.
So maybe it isn’t the oppurtunities but the player that is limiting the Falcons options.
By Son of a Gun
March 18, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
Glad to see we’re getting rid of Hall..but disappointed at the 2nd round pick we got for him.(we could have gotten a late 1st round pick). Use it to get a good middle linebacker like Dan Connor or Phillip Wheeler, so Brooking can go back to the weak side spot.
..Oh yeah.. DRAFT JAKE LONG!!!
By Boots
March 18, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
DHall is just not very smart. If he had any intelligence at all, he’d take his overblown salary and keep his mouth shut.
Heck, they’ve even named the burn center at The Grady in his honor.
If I’m the owner of the team, I don’t need the distraction.
He’s all hat and not cattle.
If the Oakland deal goes through, he’ll fit right in with those losers. Good riddance!
By mars
March 18, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
EVERYBODY WAKE UP! Brian BrohBrian Brohm is leftover Petrino crap!m is leftover Petrino crap!Brian Brohm is Brian Brohm is leftover Petrino crap!leftover Petrino crap!Brian Brohm is leftover Petrino crap!Brian Brohm is leftover Petrino crap! WHY WOULD YOU PEOPLE WANT ANY RESIDUE THAT FELL FROM PETRINO’S DIAPER LEFT BEHIND?
By RICK
March 18, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Most are forgetting Irons. As an Auburn fan I have seen this guy a lot and he can play. This draft is rich in corners. Take either Long, Dorsey/Gholston in the first. grab a corner, Qb, and another lineman in the 2nd. Also, how much are we saving on the cap 4-5 million? No-brainer, Hall is average on the field, much more flash than player. another thing is 2nd round picks make far less than first rounders. To all you Hall lovers, Do you really watch the games or do you just like his character? He has neither. how many times was it 3rd and 3 or 4 and Hall would play off 8 yards? Quick slant first down, defense cannot get off the fieil. Good riddance!!!! I do like the kicker from georgia in a later round.
By Lil E
March 18, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Offensive Linemen and Interior pass rushers should be our focus with our first few picks. I believe Jake Long will be a great addition on our team for years to come. Our next picks should be used on finding interior pass rushers and a middle linebacker. There are plenty of good safeties available in the 4th and 5th rounds, so we shouldnt have reach. This team can still make some noise in the NFC with the right pieces.
By Wes
March 18, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
Realist, how about trading a third round pick to Philly for Lito Sheppard? He is a good, not great corner (much like D. Hall) who is on the block, isn’t a cancer, and has never single-handedly cost his team a game.
By Falcons Real Deal
March 18, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
D. Hall, whether or not you like him he is one of the best players on our roster. As a corner, your play is also determined by how well your safeties help. Although he cost us the Panthers game, you can’t blame him for all of the secondary miscues. I played corner for years, I know a thing or two about it. Considering the fact that our safeties were below average, the corners had no help. Keep D. Hall, give him an extension and get a good safety through the draft, we’ve already picked up a safety through free agency and he’s good; and wait and see what the results will be. If it doesn’t work out, then you can trade him. It doesn’t make any sense to trade a Pro Bowl corner for a potential rookie that’s not battle tested. And remember in his 4 years in the NFL, he is a two time Pro Bowler. Brooking is a good player but overrated at this point of his career. He’s very intelligent but too slow to play a position that requires a lot of speed. We need to draft that Oklahoma kid and trade KB. the DL/OL are my main concers, we need to address those. Dimitroff is starting to worry me with his decisions.