AJC > Sports > Falcons > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 19 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USIs Thurman worth a gamble?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Falcons started OTA’s today and for those of you don’t know what OTAs are, they are technically Offseason Training Activities or more scaled down mini-camp type practices. These are additional sessions to help with on-field work. The big difference between these workouts and mini camps is there aren’t meetings and film session required.
Players can put in the extra work if they want, but it’s voluntary.
There was a development that took place today that got me thinking about how much I’d love to get your thoughts.
The Bengals released former UGA middle linebacker Odell Thurman. According to them, Thurman had not taken the proper steps to convince the image-tarnished franchise that he was worth any more investment. Thurman recently was re-instated after being suspended the past two seasons by the NFL. Thurman was barred for repeated violations of the league’s substance-abuse policy.
Thurman has not failed any drug of alcohol tests and he has been diligent with alcohol counseling for months, which is why NFL commissioner Roger Goodell reinstated him last month, according to his representative, Safarrah Lawson. Cincinnati let him go because Thurman missed a whole week of voluntary OTAs last week after his grandmother, Betty Thurman, died, Lawson said. If that is true, Thurman could have grounds for a grievance because OTAs are voluntary.
What I’d like to hear from you is this: Should the Falcons take a flyer on Thurman? Yes, they are trying to clean up their image and Thurman has had character issues dating back to his UGA days. However, he had shown enough character improvement/development for Goodell to reinstate him, so maybe he has gotten some things in order
Atlanta could get him for relatively cheap and always get rid of him if there is even a sign of a problem. Granted, the Falcons just drafted Curtis Lofton from Oklahoma, who is pegged to be the middle linebacker of the future. And Thurman has been out of football for two years. Yet, in 2005, Thurman drew strong consideration for the NFL’s defensive rookie of the year and he is a prototype middle linebacker.
Thurman also could be reunited with his college position coach Brian VanGorder, with whom he held a strong relationship with at one point.
I’m not advocating a move by Atlanta either way. I’d just like to get your thoughts.
On a different note, NFL officials will hold a one-day meeting Tuesday in Atlanta. The 2012 Super Bowl will be awarded and there will be discussion of whether owners will opt out of the current labor pact, which could interrupt playing beginning in 2011.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By tp
May 19, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
I thought the same thing too Steve when I read an article about him being cut.
I’d give him a shot. Vick situation or not, we don’t have anything more to lose than every other team. However, unlike teams with established and productive Middle Linebackers (all due respect to “OLB” Brooking), we have much more to gain.
Hey Thomas, you better snatch him up before Coach You-Know-Who up north does.
By Great Falconi
May 19, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
There’s no way that the Falcons should sign Odell Thurman. I don’t think they’d even consider him as a possibility right now. If the team hadn’t been turned upside-down the last couple of seasons, maybe there would be enough structure in place to try something like that. However, now is not the time.
By Jack Lambert
May 19, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Sign him now, Wyche you’re exactly right. You can get him for a decent price and make none of it guaranteed. If he has any issues he can be cut immediatly. Lofton will be good, put Thurman in there too. That would be awesome. Brooking is slowing down, and is way too expensive anyway.
By deadbird
May 19, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Thurman paid a hefty price for his behavior and would likely not risk being permanently exiled. If he is in shape then he could help this team for sure.
By leifj
May 19, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Thurman is a monster on the field and if he can prove that he can stay out of trouble then maybe. I would love to see him turn it around in a Falcons uniform because they need a ton of players. Yes I graduated from UGA and am biased but if you don’t have to pay him that much what is the risk? Cut him loose if he even looks at somebody wrong!
By Moe Dirty
May 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Yes,Thurman will be a very good pick up for the falcons.Atlanta could get him for relatively cheap. Thurman and Curtis Lofton will be the 2 best middle LB since JT at middle LB for the falcons.
By ATL "79"
May 19, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
NO! DON’T NEED HIM…..
By WineBird
May 19, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Why not? I don’t think anyone has any right to question if the Falcons try to give a hometown guy a second chance.
If he’s clean enough for Goodell, I think I can deal with it.
By jason
May 19, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
I think with alot will depend on an interview with Thurman. As much as I love all DAWGS, and want them in ATL… this will be a big gamble even with a cheap contract and an easy waive. Peramiters will surely have to be in place to protect the franchise. I could see a situation where you sign him to a one year minium salary and signing bonus.
By James
May 19, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
I know that the Falcons are trying to clean up their image and I truly believe Matt Ryan will be a good quarterback.Yet I also believe the The Falcons would have drafted Ryan had he been a defensive tackle.Odell Thurman has had problems and has served his suspention.Give the guy a shot.
By dig003
May 19, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
I think it’s worth a gamble… won’t cost much and has the potential to be an elite LB. He’ll be in a comfortable envt. around people he knows around the ATL area, including Van Gorder and his ex-teammates, as well as closer to his family.
We need LB depth behind our future MLB Lofton… but remember Curtis is a rookie and as much as I like his game you never know how he’ll develop. As long as we make it clear to THurman that (1). He’s being signed as a backup and (2). it’s one strike and your out I think we should take the risk.
ps. I’m not a UGA fan.
By jcarson
May 19, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Yeah, right….like the Cowboys won’t have him signed by tomorrow.
By Tom in ATL
May 19, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Yep. Odell is a special player with a history of major character issues - no defending that. But if he’s been tested, met the qualifications for reinstatement, and then released due to attending the funeral of the person who raised him - then why not? Having him coached by VanGorder and playing close to home could be the perfect situation for him. And not just saying this becuase of his ties to UGA - the guy led the NFL Bengals in tackles as a rookie. Why not sign him to the minimum, or at least offer a non-guaranteed contract with a termination clause if he runs afoul of the law? He’s got to know he’s one stike away from being permanently banned by the NFL.
By Taylor S
May 19, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Sign him up. We are rebuildind and if his head is right Thurman is a great football player. He is better than any linebacker in the draft this year. We gave Mike Vick 50 chances why not give Thurman one.
By Sure, why not
May 19, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Go ahead and do it. It’s not like he has a bunch of friends in the lockerroom already who are going to be bent out of shape if he doesn’t make it.
By ROD GRIFFIN
May 19, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
IF A GEORGIA GUY CANT GET A BRAKE IN ATLANTA ,THATS NOT GOOD FOR ANY OF US
By Joe
May 19, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
They should give Odell a chance - just make sure he’s not into dog fighting. Thye can structure his contract in a way that allows them to get rid of him at the first hint of trouble.
By Billy White Shoes
May 19, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Normally, I would say sign him up. But, the Falcons can’t afford to take any more publicity hits now. They would do well to not have anymore potential problems for the next couple of years. They should just focus on building a team that can compete.
Besides, Thurman can’t block for Matt Ryan, so we don’t need him.
By john
May 19, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Why not! What’s to lose.
By Barry
May 19, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
There’s nothing wrong with giving the guy a chance as we go into training camp. It could be good if he and VanGorder were reunited. We don’t know what kind of relationship they had, but if the Falcons pick him up, let’s hope they know something about his character we don’t.
By The Ole Ball coach
May 19, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
I would take a chance at Odells expense.. if he screws up then he pays the Falcons.some $$$$$.
By Singletary
May 19, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
Why not? Let him come home. He may get cut after training camp if he hasn’t mended his ways…
The Bengals have larger problems than cutting a man after his grandma dies.
By gdg73
May 19, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
The Falcons lack proven talent up and down the roster. If they pick up Thurman (on the cheap)this team could have one of the best LB corps in the league. Think about it, Boley, Nicholas, Lofton, Taylor, Brooking, and Thurman. Blank needs to stop looking for “goody two shoes” players, take a worthwhile gamble, and sign the guy. He’ll be playing back in Georgia and be putting his best foot forward to get his career back on track. Afterall, he is only 24 years old. I really think that Cincinatti wanted him gone anyway, regardless of this latest episode, which wasn’t really an episode at all. The guy was burying his grandmother for crying out loud.
By Richard
May 19, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
First, the guy had too many off-field issues for the Bengals. That’s like Mike Vick telling someone they should take better care of their pet.
Second, he hasn’t played a snap in two years.
The reality is that if he hadn’t played at Georgia, this wouldn’t be a discussion.
By Dan
May 19, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Absolutely they should take a chance on him. One thing the Falcons need more than a clean image is a winning football team. The young man is taking the right steps to straighten his life out and he has added longevity due to his league mandated hiatus. Sign him under the consideration that he will be cut if he has any off field issues.
By GeoH
May 19, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
This is a no-brainer. To be able to pick up a young, quality defender relatively cheaply. (The depth could be VERY important with no DTs to protect the LBs.) Yes, there is a risk of future embarrassment, but really - EVERY team has to take such risks, and this is a very small one. It is a fact that he has done everything necessary for Goodell to sign off on him. Van Gorder would be perfect to bring Odell back into the good graces of the NFL. C’mon Arthur, we ALL value character, but redemption and the offering of a second chance also have a place in a quality organization. If it doesn’t work out, your exposure is limited. If he’s not the “cancer in the locker room” type, give him a chance to help us.
By Freshmaker
May 19, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
Meh…I dunno. The Falcons have been trying hard to get rid of the malcontent-type guys. Thurman’s a good talent, but I don’t know if Atlanta is the place for him to revive his career. I’m sure Dallas will give him a call.
By Dr. Tobias Funke
May 19, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
Absolutely not! The Falcons are working to rid themselves of the disruptions and drama caused by people exactly like Odell. Nothing he does next year will make the Falcons any better than a 5 or 6 win team, so why take the chance on a guy who has so much baggage already? I don’t care if he is a former UGA player — there’s no place for someone like him on a team that’s trying to cleanse itself of horrible personnel decisions.
By why not?
May 19, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Might as well give him a shot. He’ll be close to home (not sure if that’s good or bad), and reunited with BVG. If he couldn’t stay clean in Cincy, not sure that he could handle the ATL. We could finally sit Brooking!!!!
By Billy White Shoes
May 19, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Normally, I would say sign him up. But, the Falcons can’t afford to take any more publicity hits now. They would do well to not have anymore potential problems for the next couple of years. They should just focus on building a team that can compete.
Besides, Thurman can’t block for Matt Ryan, so we don’t need him.
By Sparky
May 19, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
No! Haven’t we had enough character-challenged thugs?
By MJM
May 19, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
Wouldn’t that be wonderful. Odel reunited with VanGoober.
By Son of a Gun
May 19, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t touch him with a ten foot pole. The history of character issues and the possibility of future off field problems is too great of a risk. Look away Falcons fans, just look away….that includes you Dawg fans as well. Just because he was once a very talented LB at UGA doesn’t make him automatically eligible for a spot on this team.
By Zeke
May 19, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
Why not? We need all the help we can get!!
By Jerry
May 19, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
No. The Falcons have just about got rid of most of the guys with questionable character. Let somebody else take a chance on Odell. He seems destined for heartache and we don’t need to take that trip with him.
By mdawg
May 19, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By PAUL
May 19, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
the falcons should pick odell thurman up right away.
By The Realist
May 19, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Oh boy, here we go. Soon to follow are comments that have more to do w/ the former QB than how the Falcons’ defense (& clubhouse, I suppose) would be affected by grabbing Thurman. It would be great to not see another blog morph into a racial slur/stereotype free-for-all. BLOG EDITORS, if it matters to you, please be on guard.
Now, as for the proposed subject…
I say, give Thurman a shot with absolutely no room for behavioral drama. One mistake & he’s out of here. I understand the emphasis on character but character alone won’t win games & sell tickets. We need help on defense…especially up the middle!
By TheBird
May 19, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
Let’s see. We have an opportunity to put a classic thug who hasn’t played football with his old coach who hasn’t kept a job for more than 9 months at a time over the last 5 years.
Hell, Van Gorder has already tried to ruin one football program in Southeast Ga in the last two years, why not see if we can give him a way to ruin a North Ga football team this year.
By 100% FACT
May 19, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Sure why not. He and VanGorder belong together. They’re both pieces of s*! Afterall, the Falcons haven’t taken any character hits the past two years.
By RJS
May 19, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
Yes, sign the man.
By FACT
May 19, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
Sure, why not? Team him back up with VanGoiter. They’re both POS!
By GT fan
May 19, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Odell Thurman is a man child and has the mean streak the Falcons Defense needs.(this coming from a former Yellow Jacket) So I say give him a shot, and agree wholeheartedly that we can’t win by recruiting the goody two shoe types. We’re not trying to audition candidates for the Nobel Peace prize or find someone willing to chair the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus. This is football for crying out loud, and we’re trying to field a team. Plus the man’s grandma died- Gotta think there was more to it than that, but I’m willing to give Odell the benefit of the doubt.(which he probably does not deserve)
So suit him up and lets play ball! Just drug test him twice a day and don’t let him be alone with women, children, or farm animals at any time.
By Christian
May 19, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
I say that we go after Odell Thurman. Besides we need to get all the players that gives us a chance to win. Dont Forget…. Defence wins Championship
By Cole
May 19, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
There are a bunch of hypocrites on here, are you telling me that everyone on here haven’t did one bad thing. No matter how small or big it was…Please look at yourself before you pass judgment. Give the guy a second chance like you would want someone to give you. Do you wonder why a lot of Cincy players get in trouble? THERE IS NOTHING TO DO IN CINCY!!! Al least in Atlanta he will be close to home and have an outlet.
GO FALCONS!!! FREE VICK!!! SUCH HAVE PICK DORSEY!!!!
By falcondawg
May 19, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Well said, Realist. However, I’m absolutely surprised that so far, there has only been one racially tainted post. I’m also surprised at the number of posts supporting bringing Thurman here.
By FACT
May 19, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
Sure why not? Him and VanGoob are both a POS. Let them team up!
By Ron Moody
May 19, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this
Thurman is proven talent at MLB who can stop runs at the line of scrimage, and we have not had a MLB since Jessie Tuggle who could handle that task. I don’t know what kind of football shape he is in now, but he has proven he has the physical and mental tools to do that job in the NFL. I feel we should give him a look with proper contract protection.
By Wil
May 19, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
If there’s any talent left,VanGorder is the only coach that can extract it.Think of it as a 5th Round draft pick.Any sign of infecting the locker room,cut’em.
By TheJama
May 19, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Not gonna happen. He’s already two steps towards his official exit from the NFL. We don’t need the distraction. There is enough work ahead as Coach Smitty has to put together an entirely new ball club.
By MJM
May 19, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this
Hey Jerry you say the Falcons have gotten rid of most of the guys with questionable character. Remember they still have Van Goober.
By Mike
May 19, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
All the Falcons need is one more player whose name is never in the news because of his playing but always in the news because of his conduct.
By FAT BOY
May 19, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
Absolutely, especially with the perception in Atlanta that blacks are being treated unfairly in every respect. Giving a black man from your own state a second chance could be a big public relations lift. With a morals and drug clause you could always cut him yourself, besides he’s one heck of a linebacker. In Cleveland he had already developed quite a reputation for being all over the field like a torpedoe blasting targets.
By Najeh Davenpoop
May 19, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
Didn’t the mighty Falcons just finish drafting three linebackers, ignoring the gaping holes along the lines, after already having Brooking, Boley and Stephen Nicholas on the roster? How would they even find enough plays to get Thurman on the field, even if they did sign him?
By jake
May 19, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
Atlanta already has enough defensive troubles with Van Gorder being the defensive coordiantor…why add more complication?
By BADDAWG
May 19, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
The guy can play!!!! Give him a shot…he has a substance abuse problem and according to the article he is trying to deal with it!! Give him a shot. After all…there are some players in the league with serious character issues….anybody heard of Ray Lewis!!!
By Bk Hawk
May 19, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
What ever the new GM and Head Coach decide will be ok. He who is without sin throw the first stone. We need big time dl and ol.
By ted
May 19, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Odell has always been a good teammate in terms of effort at practice and on the field. As far as talent goes, there aren’t many that have his speed and instincts. I’d at least interview him.
By Rod
May 19, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
HOW BOUT THEM DAWGS!!! GO DJ, ODELL, BROWN, TAYLOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Greg
May 19, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
YES, YES, YES! I already wrote to Thomas D. this morning about this. This is a rare, great opportunity! Any rookie LB who scores 150 tackles in his rookie year is, as has been said by others here, a no-brainer. Odell has shown he has cleaned up his act…he just ran into some hard-assed types in Cinncy. Grab him!
By Dr. Dave
May 19, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
The Falcons have nothing to lose by trying Odell out. Let him come into camp and compete. If he is better than anybody they drafted, sign him. If they sign him they should have a zero tolerance rule for any indiscretions.
By BB
May 19, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Please sign him…tonight. I haven’t seen a bone crushing hit from a Falcon linebacker since Tuggle.
By ronald
May 19, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
I know the Vick situation is still running through the organization and it will be hard for them to take a chance on son one like Odell because he have some issue that he have to work out it would be nice if the falcons do pick him up
By Scot Waldrop
May 19, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
I think they should sign him to a contract commensurate to his ability, plus performance bonuses, etc. as long as it does not include a signing bonus or guaranteed money. I imagine that would be a deal breaker, but the Falcons can’t afford another salary cap hit on a troubled player.
By mark
May 19, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Falcons fans will be a lot more forgiving signing a guy from UGA that has had problems then…say…from VTU. Bring him in and watch him tear it up with a chip on his shoulder!! He’s a great talent and we have a team that needs talent greatly.
By tyger
May 19, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Why Not? Your’e not going to win a Super Bowl with a bunch of choir boys anyway. Blanks obsession with public relations will be his own undoing.
His and the public’s over-reaction to Vick’s situation has to come to a head, enough is enough. We need some nasty, cussing and spittin head crackers on this team.
The only thing thats going to repair this teams image is winning football games.
Look at Randy Moss now, two years ago he was portrayed as Satan himself, now he’s St. Moss.
Truth is, he’s the same guy.
By heckno
May 19, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
i say no way no how… not with the falcons reputation right now, the last thing we need is another troublemaker… the guy has gotten more than enough chances.. sometimes you’re just who you are, and he doesn’t need to come cause more problems in atlanta. He was trouble at UGA and even worse at Cincinatti, he should have been in jail for the things he did in athens.
By 'Ol timer
May 19, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
It is pretty sad to see a bunch of non UGA fans pick a guy apart, or two guys for that matter. Those of you who can’t refrain from name calling are just showing your ignorance. How you pathetic individuals get a charge out of that boils down to it being the only way you can feel like a “big person”. It is obvious that most of you don’t know this young man’s background, and his lack of teenage guidance. Mark Richt can tell you. He has struggled with more as a young man than most of you jerks will in a lifetime. You pathetic losers.
By Statick
May 19, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
Steve, what part of “trying to change the culture” didn’t you understand? We trying to get rid of one problem child, we don’t need to bring in another one.
By Mack
May 19, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Exactly Rich. Funny how everyone wants to give this man a 2nd chance when he has done nothing but be in off the field trouble since the beginning of his NFL career. This would not be a topic even if the guy went to Ga. Tech for some of you hypocrites.
By trey
May 19, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Van Gorder is his daddy. The perfect person to put Odell through the ringer, to see if he has anything left in the tank.
By $hit at standard at GM
May 19, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
If the falcons give him a break give vick one too.
They both should be given a second chance. a lot of season ticket holder would come back to the dome. I want to win and now to hell with PR.Pr never won a game. And from the look of ticket sell PR is loseing. What ever happen to have a winning team . we don’t need saints we need football players.
The market here in Atlanta for both player would sell like hot cakesou need ticket sell to keep a team so give the people what they want. If you poll all the last year ticket holder on both players we would have a sell out.
Now that if you want to win and sell tickets you or the GM still try to make this a PR game. This is Atlanta not boston. If the Gm don’t know by now stay tune if you are hard head.
By UGOTTABKIDDINME
May 19, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
While we’re at it why do we give Lawrence Phillips a shot at RB and bring in OJ Simpson to do commentary in the booth.
By kirknga
May 19, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
YES! The Falcons need plymakers and here’s a homegrown one at a good price. The Falcons should not let the issues of former players blind them.
By tony
May 19, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
i will not hesitate one second to get this kid on the roster. there are other things going on with the bengles than just the players (starting with their h-coach
sign the kid tomorrow!
By The Grinch
May 19, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
While I would normally say we should absolutely sign him, linebacker is the only position on the roster where we don’t need any help. Who loses his job if we sign him? Brooking? Tony Taylor, the hometown Dawg who beat all odds to make the team on character and hard work? Boley, who has character issues but is fresh off a great season? Nicholas is undersized but a good player, and Thurman’s not a Will-type anyhow. Not sure where he fits if one of the above isn’t cut.
By GW
May 19, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Atlanta is too close to Monticello. If they sign him, stay off I-20 east.
By woodie
May 19, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
NO…NO…and NO !!!!!
By meester
May 19, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Sign Thurman. No risk really. Eject him if he’s not user-friendly. Good linbackers dn’t fall into the lap everyday!
By why not
May 19, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
AB better start thinking about winning games this is football not a church retreat so give the guy a chance and quit looking for preacher/football players——so Blank sign him and i bet all the MF’s talking about don’t take him are not season ticket holders
By UGA Dawg Fan
May 19, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
I say the Falcons should definitely give him a chance. It’s not like he’s in the most high profile position on the field like Mike Vick was. Plus, he would be close to home and close to those he looks up to, most notably Mark Richt, which will keep him on the straight and narrow. I think his best chance of succeeding is with Atlanta. He’s already shown he can prosper under the right leadership.
By anotherdamnjack
May 19, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Nope!! Let some other team take the chance. Atlanta has had enough problems the past year and they certainly don’t need to take any risks. Things look alot better now. Why take a chance when everything is going your way!
By hop
May 19, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
it will never happen here , even though i wish for the very best for odell!
teh raiders will be the club to sign him
By David
May 19, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Yeah, that’s just what the Falcons need a LB that has been in the league three years and has been suspended for two. What’s all this talk we heard about character issue stuff we heard before the draft the Falcons wanted to avoid?
By paulie
May 19, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
I say, put the ol’Dog on a short contract and an even shorter leash and get him a shirt and a hat in the Branch (i.e., a jersey and a helmet)!
By hook
May 19, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
I think he’s a very good player if he can avoid more trouble. I sat give him a chance! If trouble continues, let him go.
By Sam Maister
May 19, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
PICK HIM UP Why not. Nothing to lose, and if he is a disturbance, release him
By BullDawg Rick
May 19, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
Sign Odell.. place character clauses in his contract & see how he works out. He was the best rookie defensive player in the NFL then it went to his head. He’s made amends with Goddell and the NFL..
As for you haters that will not afford a second chance, Leonard Little killed a mother & child as a DUI driver, he was still allowed in the league.. Ray Lewis was a part of a double murder and he’s revered in the League…
Get over it.. Thurman has paid his debt to the League. He’s a baller !!
By JIMMY
May 19, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
WE SHOULD SIGN THURMAN!!!! THAT WOULD BE A CREAT UPGRADE. WHO KNOWS HE MIGHT BE THAT ONE THING WE NEED TO PUSH OUR DEFENSE TO THE TOP. ATL SHOULD NOT SKIP OUT ON HIM, YOU GUYS WOULD NOT SAY KNOW IS ATL WOULD HAVE GOT PACMAN. HE WAS WORSE OFF THAT ODELL. SO JUST DONT JUDGE HIM FOR HIS FAULTS. LOOK AT WHAT HE HAS TO OFFER.
By joebrave
May 19, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
NO WAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!
By Pago Flyer
May 19, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
He’s given the DAWGS a bad name, suppose he could do the same for ATL.][
By FRESH MEAT
May 19, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Grab him up. He could have a serious fire lit under him on the right team, which Cincy obviously wasn’t. He could bring depth and competition to a defense that needs it. Maybe he hasn’t played in 2 years, but he’s fresh meat, no injuries, 24, and he’s got skills. What’s with all the POS remarks? A DUI can happen to anyone, and the “publicity hits” are media offseason by-product and don’t translate to the field. They better pickup somebody on defense, and he’s probably the best available.
It’s not that Atlanta couldn’t benefit from some hoodlums, they just needed to clean Vick advocates from the locker room. He’d make an awesome Falcon!
By TW3A
May 19, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
ODELL THURMAN…TAKE THE CHANCE ATLANTA SIGN HIM BRING HIM HOME
By TW3A
May 19, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
ODELL THURMAN…….SIGN HIM ATLANTA
By MariettaFalconFan
May 20, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this
Sign him to a one or two year deal and make sure that the contract stipulates that he must undergo drug/alcohol testing at least once a week. Also give him a bonus laden contract. So that way he has to earn every dollar, and the Falcons can have a “cheap” contract on their books.
According to NFL.com, in ‘95, he had 98 tackles and 5 interceptions; which is very impressive.. In the words of most of the people on this blog, SIGN HIM!
By John
May 20, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
I know Odell, went to school with him, and this would be the worst thing to ever happen to him. He needs to be as far away from Monticello as possible. He has too many hangers on down here that drag him down. The Bengals cut him because he didn’t report back to them after his grandmother’s funeral. They even sent a team rep down here to bring him back, and the rep was unable to locate Odell. They really had no other choice but to cut him.
By GHunt
May 20, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this
Sign Odell to a one year maximum contract. Take an additional one year option at club discretion. Performance and conduct incentives should be a major reward/punishment componet of the deal.
Character counts, however, if you do not win, no one will fill the seats in the dome because you have the best character in the league.
By SD
May 20, 2008 2:40 AM | Link to this
Sign him.
By COWBOYFAN
May 20, 2008 2:48 AM | Link to this
Don’t sign him, Jerry Jones will! Thanks LOSERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Bird Boy
May 20, 2008 3:42 AM | Link to this
Before we all jump on the Dawg bandwagon, ask yourself this…..If this young man and his baggage were applying for a job at YOUR company, would you hire him?? I think i would have to think twice before I invested ANY money in him. Talent or not. If he kept his nose clean till opening day and then screwed up, would the Falcons not be on the hook for his WHOLE salary under the cap? Take that money and put it in a player you know can help you for the whole year!!!!
By Lifelong Atlantan
May 20, 2008 6:12 AM | Link to this
No way. This guy has been given more chances to change his behavior and never does, starting all the way back at UGA. Obviously the Bengals must have thought he could have been at camp, that there was more to it than simply attending his grandmother’s funeral, or they wouldn’t have cut him now after sticking with him for two years. He would be another distraction when things go badly again. This is the LAST thing Atlanta needs now.
By Behind Enemy Lines
May 20, 2008 6:46 AM | Link to this
Good Lord NO!!!
By aaron c
May 20, 2008 6:46 AM | Link to this
No more homers … especially the kind with background problems.
By Bob
May 20, 2008 6:48 AM | Link to this
Give the guy a chance. He’s obviously an excellent football player and deserves another opportunity. AND the Falcons could use a former Bulldog to help draw fans. I believe he has learned his lesson. I can’t blame him for wanting to spend time with family and needing to get some personal matters completed before going back to football. Although we can never be sure, that seems to be the reason the Bengals dropped him.
By SouthOfTheBlackoutLine
May 20, 2008 7:14 AM | Link to this
He obviously proved to Roger Goodell that he’s taking sobriety & the off the field issues seriously, so I’d say any team that gives him a shot probably gets a young man who #1 can play & #2) comes cheap the first year, so why not. Although, being a Falcons fan, I can’t see where we’d have drafted 5 LB’s if we knew he’d fall in our laps. Maybe we’d have addressed our DLine at some point. On the other hand, with a highly unproven DLine, we might need all the LB’s & safety’s we can get.
By wright
May 20, 2008 7:18 AM | Link to this
I am sure Falcons’ management will talk with Cincy management to ascertain the real circumstances that led them to release Thurman. If he is healthy and is passionate about playing football again, I would sign him without hesitation. The man is 24 years old and has probably learned his lesson, therefore, give him a chance. He could solidify the LB position and contribute on special teams. If he messes up, send him packing. If not, you have a steal.
By Dan
May 20, 2008 7:19 AM | Link to this
Ok everyone slow down and consider for a brief second, the BENGALS RELEASED HIM. They have a roster full of guys that have been in trouble and they released him. Tells you all you need to know. Unless he wants to prove himself for the league minimum NO WAY
By Tim Parker
May 20, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this
No. It’s really not a big or complicated decision. He’s had so many problems in his past why would you even think of it.
By mdawg
May 20, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this
YES! YES! YES! a no brainer, sign him up. When he’s on the feild crushing people all these nay sayers will be on the band wagon. The man missed a practice to go to his grandmothers funeral, that really shows Bad character. The bengals are crazy, sign him AB
By dh
May 20, 2008 7:27 AM | Link to this
The only reason everyone is saying to give him a chance, is because he went to UGA. You wouldn’t see this if he went to Florida, Tennessee, or Tech. You dog fans sicken me.
By morris
May 20, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this
This story has been so misconstrued by the media it’s not even funny. His grandmother’s funeral was last monday the 12th and the bengals just wanted the guy to show up last week at some point. Of course he didn’t and so the bengals were completely justified in cutting him. The guy missed the last two years so showing up to OTA’s is not a lot to ask. He is one of those talented players who just happens to be a cancer to a team. The falcons should steer clear of this cat if they want to continue their new image makeover.
By steve
May 20, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this
sign him, get him playing well, then trade him for a OL. whats the problem?
By GADAWG
May 20, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this
I would love to see Odell play again. He has had lots of tragedy in his life that he could not help. He deserves a chance.
By weights and standards
May 20, 2008 7:42 AM | Link to this
To all that has never done any thing wrong, you are not from earth.
What would the world be like if people did not get a second and third change? you are not so o mutual. every time you mess up that would be the end no more chances life would end as we know it! People get real!
I would love to see him and vick here playing for the Falcons. This team could use all the help it can find . We need play makers.
By Pat
May 20, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this
Lots of folks are saying sign him and get rid of him the first sign of trouble. What if that first sign is on the eve of a big game in week 10? Then the fans feel burned again.
By Jonathan
May 20, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
Yes…not that big of an investment on someone that has great potential. May work well with the new staff?
By JOSH
May 20, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
The NFl power rankings are out. The Falcons are rated 32 out of 32. We can can only go up from here. Odel Thurman…. why not?
By sh76
May 20, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this
Sign him, ASAP! With condititions. If he stays out of trouble. Reward him. But SIGN HIM…
By JJBubbaLips
May 20, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
Are you out of your mind? He is not worth the risk/reward factor. We don’t need that trouble and we are fine at linebacker.
By JJ
May 20, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
This is pro football folks. A violent sport. It takes tough, hard nosed guys to play and win a championship. Oh, we could have a team full of good character guys and remain last for years. Many of you here do not believe in second chances but have probably received one or two in your lifetime. When it was mentioned that Randy Moss could have come here a couple of years ago, some of you on this blog cut him to pieces. Look at him now. Who was it that said “GOOD GUYS FINISH LAST”.
By James D Feely
May 20, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
He won’t last 2 months in Black Atlanta. Too many clubs, too much temptation.
By caldwell58
May 20, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Give him a chance. If he doesn’t fit, he can be gone.
BTW Najeh Davenpoop - “How would they even find enough plays to get Thurman on the field, even if they did sign him?”
There will be plenty of defenisve plays, because the offense will not be on the field long without a solid line. The linebackers will need planty of rotation to keep from getting tired.
By JD
May 20, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
Sign him for the minimum and load that contract with performance-based incentives. If he screws up, cut him. If he succeeds, pay the man.
By Jay
May 20, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
I would be a little nervous about signing a guy with problems like that. On one side he could make our new front office look like idiots and completely take away the only positive we have going right now.
On the other hand, winning cures all. People will sell their first born child for tickets if we could field a winning team for a few years.
If there is one position in football that you want a mean nasty guy to play it is middle linebacker (see Butkus, Lambert, Nobis). What the heck, invite him to camp.
By chris
May 20, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
No… the falcons do NOT need character isses… and that is what Odell has plenty of
By David
May 20, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this
ONLY because Van Gorder is here would I do it. Meet with him, lay out the rules, give him to VG and see what happens.
By Orangeblood
May 20, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
Yes the guy has issues. No we falcons don’t want any more problem makers. But maybe some of you that don’t really watch the game and know who the good players are. This LB is a superb tackler. He is very strong and probably better than Micheal Boley. You suggest since we got a good rookie that we should be fine. That LB of the future was taken in the second/ third round and will make mistakes next year and after that to learn the pro game. Brooking is a solid in the middle, Boley is out for part of the season and maybe all 16 games, and who knows is starting for the other side at LB. I say grab him ASAP. Thurman will improve the whole team as other teams will be forced 2 pass as the run will be shut down against Brooking & Thurman. If the rookie starts rising in a few years than you can trade Thurman/ Boley for a punt returner DB down the road. This is the smart route TALENT-WISE!
By Brian
May 20, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this
The Falcons coaches and front office will loose all credibility if they sign Odell after all that talk about bringing high character guys. All of you who say we can’t win with high character guys are full of BS! Who says a guy can’t be a baller and have high character! No more Dirty Birds!
By wayne
May 20, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
What Leonard Little did was terrible for that family he made a mistake and if you read he’s is paying for his one mistake for the rest of his life. He didn’t also fail the NFL substance Abuse Policy, so don’t include him with Thurman. BTW if the Falcons want to improve their image do they want someone who IMO already now has 2 strikes on them as well.
By BOBO
May 20, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
YES SIGN HIM YESTERDAY
By clpendley
May 20, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this
The Falcons aren’t an agressive team when it comes to getting great players, so no they won’t get Odell. He’ll be a all pro for the Panthers, Bucs, Saints but not the Falcons. But hey guess what?, well get to watch him play twice a year. Thanks for nothing Arthur.
By Johnny H
May 20, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
YES TAKE HIM! Having character issues in he NFL just means that you’ve gotten caught (for the most part). He was a great player as a rookie for Cincy and was up for Def. ROY (I think the ‘Hawks LB won it). The Falcons need him and it never hurts to get some UGA players to help build back up the fan base.
By Hmmmmm
May 20, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
Just say NOOOOOO!
By dugoutAK
May 20, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
Sure, sign him…and continue to be a joke of a franchise. The Falcons are becoming worse than the Hawks and Thrashers.
Add another loser with a drug problem, just what the Falcons need.
By BengalsBoy
May 20, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget too guys, this is a man that sat out of the league for 2 years and when he did actually show up right after his reinstatement he was grossly overweight from where he was his rookie year.
Sitting out that long, you’re going to lose a bit.
By Leonard
May 20, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
Think long, you think wrong on this one. Go for it.
By Matthew
May 20, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
This wouldn’t be discussed AT ALL if he wasn’t a former UGA guy. These are the same people who would start DJ Shockley before Tom Brady.
By UGAnSFLA
May 20, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
Just because MV screwed up numerous times, they shouldn’t pass up on a guy that can help. Give Odell a chance to play, but if he causes any problems, let him go.
By willbeezy
May 20, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
If he can stay straight he is one of the best lb’s in the league. Get him and he will make you rich. IMO
By Adam
May 20, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
Folks you need to stop playing fantasy football and get real. This discussion is moot, there is no way the Falcons can or will sign him.
(1) the new GM and new manager have a constant mantra… character, character, character. They aren’t going to bring in Odell Thurman.
(2) Wyche you’re nuts if you think we can “get him at a good price.” Dallas or Oakland will throw too much money at him.
(3) He hasn’t played in TWO YEARS!!! And remember what he was initially suspended for - violation of the league’s substance abuse policy - what substance? No one knows because it’s likely he just refused to take the test!
In all likelihood Odell might have had a little chemical help his rookie year.
(4) This guy cares so much about his career that while he was suspended he got a DUI and got into a brawl at a w