Falcons

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 wedding - class act.

This is bush league fantasy football garbage. Get real - Dimitroff is too smart to go snap up a cast off with drug and alcohol problems from the Bengals, the only team that has been a bigger joke than the Falcons, just because the guy had a decent rookie season two years ago.

By Joe

May 20, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Definitely worth the risk. By the time camp is over, you’ll have a good idea of how he’s gonna be. He’s gonna be very inexpensive and you can cut him at the first sign of trouble. As I remember, he was a very good LB. WTF?

By bill_in_atl

May 20, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

He is better than any LB on the Falcons roster so the talent is not in question. He price will be cheap and he will be coached by a hard nosed guy that handled him pretty well in college. Seems from a business perspective it’s a small risk to take.

Really it would depend on him saying all the right things in a very thorough interview process.

The sad part is that he would probably bump Tony Taylor off the roster if signed and if they don’t sign Odell I actually think TT would end up starting. He is a very overlooked player with stats better than Lofton from a defense that was as good or better and he has more experience as well.

Should be interesting.

By SouthGARules

May 20, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

No way the Falcons need Odell Thurman no matter how good he is. You can’t teach an old dawg new tricks. He was a problem at UGA & in the NFL.

By JDE

May 20, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

At UGA no one hit harder, no one, than Odell Thurman; except maybe Greg Blue. Odell’s a Georgia boy and Monticello is close enough that if he has any family issues he can make it there and back in the same day. He just needs a kick in the a**, and is worth the risk. His attitude cant be any worse than De Angelo Hall; his behavior doesn’t come close to M.Vick’s. I know Arthur Blank has had enough of these thugs but this guy is worth taking a long look at simply because he’s a local product. He’s consider this home.

By Beth

May 20, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

The Falcons should definitely give Odell a chance. He has had some rough times but sounds like he is on the right path. He’s a great player and had some of the biggest hits I have ever seen at UGA! Falcons could really use his physcial play on the defense!

By LT

May 20, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

I’ve heard richt did not try to convince him to stay at UGA because of his off the field trouble and suspected Odell would do something that would lead to him being kicked off of the team. Richt didn’t convince him to stay because he wanted the kid to make some money before he totally blew it.

By Al

May 20, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Everybody deserves a second chance. He will be close to home and with his old coach. Ang BTW, don’t we all have some character flaws?

By Bill

May 20, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Under the right conditions, we could give him a chance. I don’t agree with everyone that says we can pick him up cheap though. I am sure there are plenty of teams running a similar poll to this one as we speak. He may even have a choice of teams at various levels of money. Anything other than cheap and it’s not worth the risk.

By Reality Time

May 20, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Look, I love the Dawgs, and love it when the Falcons draft them, but please, do you really think Cincinnati cut Odell Thurman because he missed OTAs. He couldn’t stay on the field at Georgia (suspension for hitting girl friend in parking lot in Athens), couldn’t stay on the field at Cincy (drugs, drugs, drugs) and believe me he wouldn’t be able to stay on the field in Atlanta, especially if Atlanta doesn’t cut Jimmy Williams. No way the Falcons should even let his name pass their lips.

By Shannon

May 20, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Of course you sign him. You do it right (with an incentive deal) but you definitely sign him. Substance abuse is not a character flaw. He is not a “thug”. If the NFL says he can come back that is good enough for me. The Falcons have nothing to lose.

By jusbeinreal

May 20, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Sign him…NOW! He is a beast…we just have to keep him tamed!

By CC

May 20, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

the hiring criteria for any job should not be whether you went to UGA or not, or any other school, it should be based on past performance, with character and work ethic right at the top. we are building a team, like we should, without ignorant, arrogant and selfish scum like DeAngelo Hall and Michael Vick, regardless of potential talent!. this guy needs to talk to Jerry Jones or Al Davis.

By Regal1_Got 1

May 20, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

IF Atlanta wants to be a sports town and not only a sports town but a winning sports town, it has to do several things. The chief of these things is to not be led by the average fantasy league football fan. Management has to be willing to field the best players available to them. Even those with presumed character flaws. Truth is, if you can sign Thurman or anybody else, they have to win the job to start and almost win the job to even stay. In either case, if injury occur or character issue occur then you have a replacement. Whether Thurman is the replacement or the one being replaced doesnt matter if he makes the team. Secondly, our players feed off of our energy. We should support our teams whole hearted. We will never like all of the decisions made by management but our warriors on the field need our support regardless. Dont think that players dont read blogs and dont think they feel all of the racial tension and negativity that goes on with the fans here. Support our teams is the bottom line. To shorten this opinion, I will call this lastly though there are several side issues attached. We need good PR but that should not be the end all. Even choir boys “do dirt”. Dallas Cowboys were not exactly a boys club of america when they were championship team(s). No one can accuse the old Oakland Raiders of being deacons of the usher board either while they were champions. Brett Favre, Randy Moss and Ray Lewis are classic examples of men to have adversity attached to their names but have been standup football citizens when given the right chance. If the Falcons sign Thurman, then it wont be the worst thing. Even if they bring back our incarcerated brethern, as insurance, it too wont be the worst thing. To continue losing to the point of relocating our football team, that will be the worse thing. All men/athletes who play for an atlanta team should be examined on a case by case basis. PR is important but again, not the end all. Fielding a winning team is what I am sure most Falcon Fans truly care about.

By Mr. Morgan

May 20, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

My brother played with Odell at UGA and he remembers Odell’s relationship with coach VanGorder being almost like a father/son relationship and I think it would be a great fit for him and the Falcons. The young man is not a bad kid at all. He has had a rough past and just gets himself in difficult situations. A family atmosphere like the Falcons would be a great situation for him.

By JD Keiss

May 20, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

It would be a very good idea to try and sign Udell Thurman. He has demonstrated his ability to atone for his actions, he has proven his ability as a defender, and bringing him under new coach Smith would prove valuable to his further development as a defensive player. “Hope is a good thing, sometimes the only thing” as stated in The Shawshank Redemption.

By JoeFann

May 20, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

I think this is a VERY tough call.

First of all, this is NOT a second chance. As are most Dawg fans, I’m aware that Odell has had issues for many years, including the years at UGA. Those that think reuniting him with Van Gorder will keep him in line should also remember that Van Gorder was unable to keep him in line at UGA. No reason to think that with millions more in his pocket, he’ll suddenly become a model citizen.

However, I believe cases like this have to be evaluated on individual bases, not lumped together, because each individual is different. Cincinatti may be the only NFL franchise with more character-related bad publicity than Atlanta, so it’s no surprise that they’d take the opportunity to dump Odell. While I can’t ignore the thug mentality, I also recognize the competitive advantage Odell might provide. I take Goodell’s reinstatement with a grain of salt. If Odell performed as he needed to, to be reinstated, Goodell probably had no choice. There’s no way any of us can know whether or not Odell has truly changed his ways.

That said, I think I’d leave it up to the defense. I’d make him interview with the entire defense, since he would become their teammate. No question about his on-field abilities, just his conditioning. If he can convince them, including the ones he might cost a job, that he’s capable of contributing without becoming a spectacle, then I’d sign him to a low round draft choice’s contract heavily laden with incentives and opt out clauses.

Let’s hope he’s a new man.

By ChicagoPOW

May 20, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Lemme think about this a minute, uh… NO! I get the impression that Dimitroff and Smith are not trying to stock up on choir boys or goody two shoes as much as they are trying to build a quality football institution - a place where players EARN the privilige to play based on their character as much as (not instead of) their numbers. They are building that reputation and that pride as an organization, but until it’s very well established there is no need to gamble on a player with this kind of history. Maybe in a couple of years, but not while they’re still pouring the foundation.

By Carole Adams

May 20, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Yes I say - give him a chance! I knew him back when he played for Monticello high school, here in Georgia. I worked for the school system and got to know him. He was a good kid then and I think he plays with a lot of heart. Think of how much more he might strive to win, playing for his home state. Sure he has had some ups and downs, but who hasn’t ? I say give him a chance here !!

By MJM

May 20, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Hey Chris the Falcons have a big character issue it’s Brian Van Goober

By Willie Coyote

May 20, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Why not sign him? Lengthy suspensions without pay have a strange way of curing character issues in most cases.

By SICEM

May 20, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

NO!

By Jere

May 20, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

suit him up! we need all the help we can get. just make sure he keeps all his aggression on the field, and earns it, which i think he will. good luck Thurman, keep it clean off the field!

By NOWAY HOSAY

May 20, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

There are enough problems on the atlanta team as there is.

By DAWGS

May 20, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

I say sign him. It could only help and it’s not like were going to get any worse. Hell, if it was possible we could just send the current UGA squad out there and win more games. Atleast we have the Braves.

By vw

May 20, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Yes, he deserves a second chances, thats why they reinstated him

By Jack G

May 20, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Get him cheap——who do you think you are kidding——This guy is going to attract a lot of teams. Everyone needs linebackers and Thurman is worth the risk

By Birdsdon'tgetit

May 20, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

You falcon fans are hillarious. Let me set something straight for all of you. No top flight nfl player wants to come and play in atlanta anymore. they can come and visit during the offseason. O’dell wants nothing to do with the ATL fans recovering from constant disappointment. No one in this organization on this squad has won a SB.

DImiwhatever his name is was a glorified gopher for the Pats

By larry

May 20, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

After being dumped at Georgia, he came back and was a star. The price is too low, as is the risk. The Falcons should absolutely sign him with the assurance to him that he must not step out of line of he is gone. It’s a no brainer.

By Tim

May 20, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Yes they should as long as he is cheap.

By Torpedo

May 20, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

YES!