Falcons

By atl

January 6, 2009 12:35 AM | Link to this

first

By SQUAWKER

January 6, 2009 1:36 AM | Link to this

FALCONS NEED TO SIGN ALBERT HAYNESWORTH THIS OFF-SEASON!!! HE WOULD BE A PERFECT FIT TO ADDRESS A HUGE NEED. WE CERTAINLY HAVE THE CAP ROOM TO SIGN ONE SEMI-HIGH-PRICED FA. HE IS FROM THE SOUTHEAST (HAVING STARRED AT TENNESSEE) AND YOU KNOW MIKE SMITH IS FAMILIAR WITH WHAT HE CAN DO, HAVING PLAYED AGAINST HIM TWICE A SEASON WHILE AT JAX.

THE REST OF OUR HOLES CAN BE ADDRESSED IN THE DRAFT (LET DIMITROFF WORK HIS SCOUTING MAGIC). IMAGINE HAYNESWORTH LINING UP NEXT TO ABRAHAM ON THE RIGHT SIDE! THAT WOULD BE A DUO, MAN.

PLUS ALBERT COULD TUTOR JAMAL ANDERSON (IF MARK BRADLEY’S REPORTS THAT HE COULD MOVE TO DT ARE TRUE) SO THAT WE CAN SALVAGE SOMETHING FROM THAT #1 PICK.

IF WE SIGN ONE FA, IT NEEDS TO BE HAYNESWORTH. I WOULD ALSO BE OPEN TO KEEPING LAWYER MILLOY IF HE WILL SIGN FOR A REASONABLE PRICE (AND IT SOUNDS LIKE HE WANTS TO BE HERE).

THE ONLY WORRY WITH HAYNESWORTH IS THAT HIS ATTITUDE MAY BE A RISK TO ROCK THE BOAT. WE DEF DON’T NEED ANY ME-FIRST PLAYERS - NOT REAL SURE ABOUT HAYNESWORTH EITHER WAY BUT THERE ARE DEF CONCERNS, I THINK.

By Supes

January 6, 2009 1:45 AM | Link to this

What the Falcons need on Offense: Depth in the O-Line, pass cathing TE. Big 12 is loaded with TE, most of the attention will go to the guys from Oklahoma State and Oklahoma, but the “Jason Witten/Dallas Clark” type TE is Chase Cauffman.

If somehow the Falcons can get him on day 1 it’ll be a major steal.

That way Matt Ryan will have 2 legit WR in White and Jenkins, Douglas in the slot and Chase Cauffman at TE to work the middle of the field.

O.D. as far as the Defense, there are a LOT of holes to fill.

Let’s not kid ourselves, Coach BVG did it using “smoke and mirrors” this year.

Starting with the D-Line. Need a dominant DT to eventually “take over for Grady Jackson”, who needs to be brought back! Even for 2 days “per stand” against the run, Grady still does a good job and draws double teams.

Need a Pass Rushers to go opposite of Abe, or when Abe is resting to take his place. Maybe Thomas Dimitroff and the scouting department can work their magic and find a steal in the middle to late rounds?

Need at least 1 impact LB. We are set in the middle with Lofton (who gained invaluable experience as a starter and will only get better).

BC has a pair of LB worth looking at, as well as ANY of the 3 starters on USC. Brian Cushing is a best, Ray will be gone in round 1, so that’s a pipe dream, but 43 may still be around. He put on a show in the bowl game against Penn State.

Infact, any USC defensive players that you can get in the draft would be a major victory. That’s basically a pro defense!

I’d love to say Taylor Mayes somehow ends up in ATL! Guy is a fierce hitter with freakish size and big play ability. With all due respect to “the law dog”, Taylor would be a huge upgrade (long term) and the franchise player in our secondary.

I would also look for any CB that come out of the SEC that are draft eligible. Need someone who is physical and has the speed but also isn’t afraid to get in there against the run.

and please, NOBODY bring up anyone from VT. That experiment I hope has ended. So no, don’t bring in Macho Harris talk! No more VT “standouts”.

Let’s see…MV, MeAngela and Jimmy worked out “so great”, I don’t see the need to ever go back there again!

By tbhawksfan

January 6, 2009 4:04 AM | Link to this

In FA: Look for young bargains in FA; CB, LB, DL. We keep the OL, Foxworth, Koenon and Boley. Milloy can stay if he’s not too expensive. He’d be perfect to break in our first pick;

DL, TE, OLB, CB and OL are our areas of need, depending on FA.

By Doug

January 6, 2009 6:50 AM | Link to this

To Mr. Artie Blank,

We have for Sale: Promising Hockey Franchise needing good leadership. Previous owner showed some negligence, but we feel like you can turn them around. Please submit all inquires to the Phillips Arena!

Thanks The Fans!

By Terrible Truth

January 6, 2009 8:24 AM | Link to this

UGA fans aren’t skewering Brooking’s numbers, he needs to go. I heard a Fox ANALyst say earlier in the year how Brooking was “always around the ball.” Idiot, he may be “around the ball” but most of the time he gets there 2-3 seconds after the whistle blows. Thanks for your services, Keith, it’s time for you to become a high school assistant.

By mountain_jim

January 6, 2009 8:52 AM | Link to this

Agree with Terrible Truth. I am a GT grad and I voted that Keith had to go. I imagine it was 3rd and 16 and there goes our season, not college fanship that determined that vote. Well that play on top of all the other uncovered backs out of the backfield plays that Keith whiffed on this season. His legs are gone.

By Poor McKay

January 6, 2009 9:18 AM | Link to this

Falcons need to upgrade virtually every defensive position (Lofton, Abraham, Babineau & Coleman are the only ones who have earned their jobs next season) and they should definitely explore a TE capable of blocking/receiving. Also, time to cut Olvie loose (it looks like Snelling could become an effective FB along the lines of Justin Griffith, especially if Thomas Brown returns as the team’s 3rd tailback).

Since the team seemed to have amazing chemistry, I’d prefer going with either draft picks or fairly young free agents to fill the gaps. No need to bring in too many old heads who may disrupt the locker room (with the HUGE exception of Mr. Haynesworth).

What’s the status of Trey Lewis? Is he healthy enough to “pencil in” at NT? And I’m looking forward to seeing Thomas Brown returning kicks/punts next season.

By **Frederick (Bailey) Douglass**

January 6, 2009 9:24 AM | Link to this

What took you so long team?

Dog…you are starting to sound like a Brooking apologist. Its not just the GT Fans (they are more concerned with LSU)…its obvious that #56 needs to go. I have been saying this ALL year. This is the NFL: You can hide deficient parts for only so long. Eventually they get exposed…and in this case, it was at 3rd and 16 with our season on the line.

Biggest problem is this: BROOKING IS ON THE FIELD FOR VETERAN LEADERSHIP…in other words…THIS IS THE PLAY THAT HE IS OUT THERE TO MAKE (it was funny to see #50 the rookie look at HIM like he was the damn rookie).

Moving on…and I hope that we do, far away from #56…there were other observations from Saturdays disappointment:

1) Ryan did what he does…which is absorb the experience, learn from it and get better. He was not prepared for the noise because…he had never been there before. By the fourth quarter he was smoking. Had #56 covered the damn TE, he would have led us to victory. Point Blank.

2) #36 is 35 and 35 year old safetys have a hard time covering crossing patterns man-to-man in the NFL. Keep him for run support and to teach Decoud and Fudge how to play. His mistake was physical in nature, not a bone-head miscue like…

3) We need a TE. Pollard was a joke on Sat. and Peele is a nice back-up but not a starter. Rader is…well you saw the TB game. THIS SHOULD BE YOUR BIG FREE AGENT SIGNING. Any ideas D-Led?

4) We ended last year with wondering how to get #32 more involved and we end this year with the same thought. 4 carries when the Burner was ineffective says something.

5) Our coaching staff did not prepare the offense enough to vary the snap count. Simple. Its too late to start hiking on “3” in the middle of a damn road playoff game. Takes preparation.

6) These boys are resilient. Bad game, hostile environment, quirky factors working against them…and they are still a 3rd and 16 away from driving the ball for the win. A testament to the coaching staff.

7) Priority Free Agent signings form this team: Koenan, Milloy, Davis, Foxy, Dahl and maybe Boley. I could see a LB corps next year of Boley at weakside, #50 in the middle and #54 at strong side. We become instantly better if #56 is not around. Even more, go out and hire Romeo Crennel to be your D-Coordinator. I bet the LB-DB pass coverage mesh improves then.

Great season…THANKS BIRDS!!! We should have won in Arizona, because the Cardinals are about to get drilled (like we did to the Rams a few years ago). Next season will be tough. Dimitroff!!!: Identify the weaknesses and bring in YOUNG talent to replace. We don’t need Tony Gonzalez, Marcus Pollard, Dre Bly or Albert Haynesworth.

Happy New Year to all…

FBD

By fordcobra

January 6, 2009 9:25 AM | Link to this

Congratulations Falcons on a Great Season! Far exceeded all my expectations. I trust coach Smith and Mr. Dimitroff to put together a really strong team though it may take a little time.

By C-Town Falcon

January 6, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

Secondary: re-sign Foxworth and add a SS and a CB. Maybe re-sign Milloy for one more year if it’s not too expensive. Houston needs to be replaced.

D-Line: If the staff is still high on Lewis then re-sign Big Grady for one more year to give Lewis time to work himself back into the rotation. If not then a big guy with speed is a need. Haynesworth has talent, but don’t think he has the character Smitty is trying to build this team with. Anderson will be given another year because he was drafted so high, but there needs to be a plan B just in case.

Linebacker: God Bless Brooking! May he go in peace along with Boley. Speed and more speed is needed here. We need some game changing plays from this position. Lofton looks like a keeper, but need to flank him with linebackers that play with the same speed and intensity.

O-Line: Played their hearts out, but imagine what the position coach could do with with more talented lineman. Still not sold on the Baker pick. I like Dahl’s attitude, but would rather have that big RG that can push a pile for Turner. Future replacement for Mclure needs to be addressed. I love his IQ, but he lacks the strength for our power running game.

TE: Sure, why not?

Overall: Great core on offense. Ryan, Turner, White and Norwood are playmakers. Jenkins and Douglass are role players that can change a game as well. Ovie is the perfect FB for Turner, but is breaking the bank for that position. A tall athletic TE would certainly help Ryan. The defense has only a couple stable positions. Abe, Babs and Lofton. I think Chevis could be solid. Foxworth is decent and should stay. Coleman will do for now. Everything else on D needs to be flipped upside down. Special teams is the least of our concerns.

By Drago

January 6, 2009 9:39 AM | Link to this

Watched replay of the Falcons-Cardinals game last night. Except for first INT Ryan played exceptionally well in the first half (converting third downs with no running game) and kept the Falcons in the game. Not getting the running game going in the second half really hampered their ability to move the ball. Why didn’t they throw more screens? Had two very successful 2nd half screens with Norwood and Turner. Oh well. Great season. Let’s beef up the D and hit the ground running (again) in 2009…

By MoonlightGM

January 6, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this

The Dimitroff/New England PROCESS says never go for big names. Go for the potential that played behind big names (Turner, Foxworth). We need a DE and a safety and another OL. Draft the OL with our 1st pick, and start looking around the league for that TE (why’d we let Crumpler go again?) and DE. Any suggestions on who has potentials behind the superstuds? Anything in NY once Humanurine returns? They should be battle-tested after playing this year.

By Bill

January 6, 2009 10:01 AM | Link to this

* I trust Dimitroff & Smith to make the right decisions. Wish I could say the same for Wrens and Cox with the Braves.*

By im4ball

January 6, 2009 10:02 AM | Link to this

I would do very little to the Falcon’s offense other than to shore up the line. Those who say we need a tight end should know that the Falcons rarely threw to the TE and that in this offense, the TE is primarily a blocker and that who they have performed very well in that function.

As with most here, I think it is time for Brooking to go. Offenses today try to set up mis matches…that is someone fast on someone not so fast. This usually means a flanker or running back against a linebacker. In these situations, you need a linebacker who is quick and can run. Broooking never was fast and given his age, has slowed some.

On top of a linebacker, the falcons need a DE to replace Jamal Anderson who is clearly a bust.

If the Falcons can get him, I would draft Laurinaitis from Ohio St. This is a smart, hard hitting linebacker who can cover the pass.

I would also draft DT Ndamukong Suh from Nebraska.

By typical bulldawg fan

January 6, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

Crumpler was overweight and not dedicated. Why didn’t Norwood get the ball more this year??? Seems to be a recurring question.

By ArmchairGM

January 6, 2009 10:08 AM | Link to this

Moonlight, You are correct, sir! NE process calls for focus on the TEAM over individual so players who demand big $ (deservedly or not ; remember D Hall? remember Deion Branch?) are removed. It’s all about setting up the process so players can be replaced like cogs in a machine but are willing to stay for less $. Has worked in Philly as well where they focus on locking up promising young players before value peaks. It might seem impersonal but its a business and winning cures everything. The anti-process is Dallas - and what has it brought them? Dissension and no playoff wins since 1995…

By SeminoleWarrior

January 6, 2009 10:13 AM | Link to this

I like the idea of a overhaul on the defensive side of the football. The FIRST major change that needs to be made is the replacing of Brian VanGorder as DC. And why not shift to a 3-4 defense. I would like to see a 3-4 because there are some excellent LBs out there in the draft this year that would be great in the scheme. We could also use them in improving our pass coverage schemes. GO FALCONS!!

By Joe

January 6, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

Personally i think the falcons should resign Clabo,Dahl,Foxworth,Koenen and Davis. They are solid players that performed very well this year. Some of the free agents i would like to see in a falcons uniform next year would be (1)Karlos Dansby, we all know he’s a playmaking LB that can either replace Brooking or Boley and he’s still young too.(2)Julius Peppers,if carolina doesn’t resign him, heck go after him. he is athletic and a passrusher that would help John Abraham on the other side.(3) Either Dawan Landry or Sean Jones, Erik Coleman had a great year at FS now its time to get younger,faster and more athletic at the SS position. One of these guys could fit the bill. I would draft a cornerback,DT,LB,OL,and another TE in the draft, not in that order perhaps, but those are positions we need to fill with playmakers in the draft.

By kudzu

January 6, 2009 10:49 AM | Link to this

No, No, No, Do not sign any player with an attitude. Don’t do it…ever. STOP…let (them) not be mentioned on this blog again…It doesn’t matter if a free agent want to play for the Falcons for free, please steer clear…we have purged the system already.

The Falcons have turned the page… into a new chapter…don’t regress. Sign character first.

Avoid the temptation…Why do you think Abe kept his mouth shut all season…?

There is a new sherrif in town…

C-mon man…

By Daltonboy

January 6, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

The first order of business should be to make sure nobody steals Mike Mularkey!!!!

By D.Ellis

January 6, 2009 11:09 AM | Link to this

Would very much like to see Laurinites the LB from O-State roaming the field for our birds next year. Dude is a ball player with a nose for tackles much like Lofton. Those 2 together in a couple of years could be nasty.

By SirReal

January 6, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Get real guys. Do you actually think we have a shot at Haynesworth? TEN will probably lock him up quicker than a jackrabbit can dart. Vanden Bosch. MAYBE. It’s evident that Jamaal Anderson isnt DE material. Biermann came in and matched his total in his rookie season with LESS snaps!!! Chauncey Davis too!!! I suggest he move to DT to save his career. We definitely need new backers. You go after Suggs if you can. Scheme fit my foot. An athlete is an athlete. He’d adjust under Smith and Co. Offensively, all we need is a TE that can actually catch. One thing Ryan didnt have was that safety valve. The secondary is crying for help too. Keep Foxworth, reevaluate Houston, and grab a strong safety in the draft who can be groomed by Milloy if we keep him. This will be an interesting offseason. I am still proud of our overachieving birds.lol We’ll need to retool with both east divisions on our plate next year!

By D3

January 6, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

Couldn’t agree with you more Joe. No need to go after the big money agents that break the bank. Resigning Foxworth, Dahl, Clabo, Davis, Koenen, and maybe Milloy for 1-2 years on the cheap.

I think the top FA priority should be Dansby. He’s young, from the South (Auburn), and would make a perfect fit with Lofton for a long, long time. I also don’t think he’d demand absolute top dollar like say, Bart Scott, or Terrell Suggs(assuming the Ravens don’t re-sign). And draft a LB either second or third. It looks to be a LB talent-laden draft where you could get good value. Let Boley go. He either didn’t gel with the team chemistry, or just had a one year fluke last year.

Use the first round to draft a SS or LB, only if you couldn’t sign somebody like Jermaine Phillips. Hometown boy (Roswell & UGA). Dimitroff has shown a knack for getting good value (Douglas 3, Jackson 4, & Biermann 5 or 6). But I think we’re going to need at least 2 FA’s on defense. No big name guys, just hard-nosed football players, Dansby & Phillips would be perfect. SS, LB, & DT/DE highest needs depending on what they do with Anderson.

By Hawes

January 6, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this

There are several players who could help in free agency, but I imagine they will be franchised. In order: Asomugha, Peppers and Haynesworth - any one of them would make a hugh difference. Carlos Dansby would be a decent addition at LB. Bo Scaife maybe at TE.

But in the draft, I think the top two picks need to be LB and DT. You’ve got to stop the run, and if Mount Cody of Alabama comes out and is available, you take him. Maybe even BJ Raji. If not, Clint Sintim or Sean Weatherspoon are fast, athletic LBs.

I’d plug holes on the offense (OL depth, TE) through mid-level FAs and restock the defense through the draft.

By Danny Stephens

January 6, 2009 11:30 AM | Link to this

WEAK SCHEDULE?

Some perspective on the “weak schedule” you referenced, D-Led.

Played Carolina 2x Played Tampa 2x Played AT Minnesota Played AT Green Bay Played AT Philly Played AT San Diego Played New Orleans 2x Played Denver Played Chicago

That’s 75% of this past season, right there.

By D3

January 6, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

Great point. The schedule is only weak in terms of the previous year. The NFC South was arguably the toughest in the NFL. Philly, San Diego, and Minnesota were playoff teams. Denver and Chicago were one game away from being in playoffs. Rams, Chiefs, and Lions were cake but thats it.

By FanSince1980

January 6, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Offense- A TE that can block and catch would be nice for the offense-but it’s not our biggest need. We had a blocking tight end to sure up a line that was not as consistent as they should be. We should move Clabo back to his original position, guard, and find a true ROT in FA. We don’t have time for a rookie on the end, again.

LB- bye-bye Brooking hello Cushing (USC-LB). Also pick up either Karlos Dansby (AZ-LB) or Bart Scott (Balt-LB).

SS- we need one really soon. I like Milloy but he has maybe one year left in him.

DL- I know everyone is saying Haynesworth but I don’t need attitude problems after what this organization went through in 2007. We should draft one in the first or second round and hope Trey Lewis gets back to his disruptive form. I’m willing to give #98 one more year. This year was his first year with real NFL coaches. Last year he was getting coached by college coaches.

By KEEPING IT REAL

January 6, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

Laurinites the LB from O-State

Second coming of Keith Brooking Sr. OVERATED

Most of the Big Ten football players are Too Slow and Not Athletic enough to keep up in open space. All Big Ten players should stick with OLine,TE,Special Teams type positions, unless they have proved that they can keep up and play with the best (e.g. Heisman type quality play outside of the Big Ten) They are just not physical enough. Did you see Texas slash OSU defense last night.

*Please Keep Laurinites the LB from O-State * No Thank You

By Space Mountain

January 6, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

Taylor Mays from USC looks like a good safety prospect. He has the mindset of total dedication to his craft I believe the birds are looking for.

By Jimv

January 6, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this

The only thing “skewing” Brooking was his horrible play allowing Arizona the first down and victory to end the season.

By D3

January 6, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this

Assuming things fell into place, any of the following would be great 1st round draft picks and they’re all from USC

-Maluega (LB) -Cushing (LB) -Mays (SS)

D*mn they really did have a good defense!

By SeminoleWarrior

January 6, 2009 12:15 PM | Link to this

2009 Atlanta Falcons Starting Defense: (Implementing a new 3-4 scheme)

DE: Jamaal Anderson NT: BJ Raji (R), Ron Brace (R), Trey Lewis DE: John Abraham

OLB: Marcus Freeman(R); Clint Sintim (R) ILB: Clint Sintim (R); Brandon Spikes (R) ILB: Curtis Lofton OLB: Karlos Dansby (FA)

LCB: DeAngelo Smith (R) or Brent Grimes RCB: Dominque Foxworth or Chris Houston FS: Courtney Greene (R); Erik Coleman SS: Otis Wiley (R) or Emanuel Cook (R)

GO FALCONS!!

By JuliusCesaer

January 6, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

I have read where a lot of people have blamed Lawyer Malloy and Keith Brooking for the breakdown in coverage on the 3rd and 16 play against the Cardinals in the playoff game against them. I know someone is responsible for that mistake but I dont know if I could pin it on one or two people. I do know for sure that it was a team loss and those two players WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE for Matt Ryans TWO picks and the fumble by Turner which resulted in a defensive touchdown for the Cardinals. I know that the Falcons have NOT been consistent at running their offense. I heard that in the Minnesota game in which Minnesota was in the giving spirit by fumbling 7 times, in the second half of that ballgame the Falcons had one stretch where they had 8 consecuive drives which resulted in 3 and outs after their offensive received the football. They couldnt move the chains in that game. They have the same problem in stretches of the game against the Rams and in the game against the Cardinals in the second half. The Falcons were not playing consistent football throughout the entire game. I believe that the Falcons should go out and interview Mike Shanahan as an offensive coordinator for the Falcons. He would do wonders with the Falcons talent and they would NEVER, EVER HAVE A PROBLEM SCORING THE FOOTBALL AGAIN. Call Shanahans agent immediately, sign him to a contract and watch the Falcons start winning superbowls.

By CTfalconfan

January 6, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

D.O. One thing needs to be clarified is your statement that Atlanta played a last place schedule and while that is true you imply this was a huge advantage for ATL. This isn’t the case. When there were 3 divisions the last place teams played one another resulting in 4 “last place” scheduled games out of 16, now with the new 4 divisions there are only 2 last place games. We have 6 in our div, 4 from another NFC Div and 4 from an AFC div this leaves two games. This year we did play St. Louis but our other last place opponent was PHILLY and I don’t think they are a loser team. So I think it’s time we move past making excuses or giving reasons regarding playing a last place schedule. Thanks

GO FALCONS

By Greg

January 6, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this

Falcons need TE>Look at all other good teams that are successful with TE…Gonzalez, Clark, Whitten…etc

By ArmchairGM

January 6, 2009 12:36 PM | Link to this

Julius C.,

Back away from the bong. Shanahan as our OC? What makes you think he would take a step back after being a HC for 15+ years and winning 2 SB’s? Plus you don’t want him or his ego here. Mularkey is fine as OC. Just hope we can keep him.

By deac

January 6, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

In Dimitroff we trust. Though I imagine we amateurs will spend a lot of time stumbling around the mock drafts, debating whether we should draft Cody, Raji, Orakpo, et al, first, there’s really no use trying to look into a cloudy crystal ball to figure out who we ‘need’ to draft, or sign. Dimitroff has proven that he has “it” (whatever that is) and is able to use “it” to see talent, potential, and fit where others do not. …and then Smitty and his staff translate those elements into wins. I think there’s about one person in the world who would have thought that Kroy Biermann, Coy Wire, and Dominique Foxworth would be valuable role players in our defense, and that one person is Dimitroff. Are any of those three guys going to the hall of fame? Nope. But look back at the Patriots over the last 10 years, and see how many of their defenders you can name off the top of your head. Samuel, Vrabel, Adams, Bruschi, Colvin, Harrison. But can you name them because they’re individually that good, or because they play for the Patriots and they’ve been on TV every other Sunday for the last 10 years. Think about it. You think any of us would have any idea who Mike freaking Vrabel was if he had been with the Chiefs or Bills—or, in that case, if he’d even have lasted more than 3 or 4 years in the league? Nothing against Vrabel, who I’m sure is a good guy, but he’s a perfect example of a guy who doesn’t have all the talent in the world, but is a good ‘team’/’fit’ guy. Sure, some of those other guys are probably pro-bowlers on other teams, but there are definitely guys on that team who are better on that team by a factor of three than they ever could be with any other. Somehow, by some stroke of karmic, cosmic luck, all of the sudden the lowly Falcons have someone who can find those players in Dimitroff, and another who can put them together in Smitty. Again, I have no idea how someone could look at otherwise mediocre talent and see those elements and get them to play above themselves, but Dimitroff and Smitty have that ability. I’m not trying to put the jinx on him, but I’m betting Dimitroff has a list of 4th-7th round/FA guys who are finishing up their last semester at Eastern Podunk State A&T right now, three or four of whom will be starting games and making plays for the Falcons by October 09. Let teams like Dallas spend millions on big names on the wane, and be comfortable with the knowledge that the Falcons will likely enter the next season with some question marks surrounding some of the positions on the field. …heck, would you have believed it a year ago if I told you you’d be comfortable with knowing that Kroy Biermann and Coy Wire were going to play 20-40 snaps per game?

By deac

January 6, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this

oh, and by the way, D-Led, though it’s fashionable (and appropriate) to criticize teams for playing the “prevent” defense, save that criticism for where it’s appropriate. Ohio State was rushing the passer with six or seven on each of the last few plays of the Fiesta bowl. They lost not because they were passive, but because they were in man coverage with db’s who couldn’t tackle UT’s wr’s. If they had, indeed, been in a “prevent”, there would have been two safeties standing at the 10 yard line tackling Cosby before he could streak into the endzone. Ohio State didn’t lose because they were passive, they lost because they couldn’t tackle one on one.

By Rich McKay

January 6, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this

I hear Ed Hartwell wants to come back. He would be a great addition.

By ttough44

January 6, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Jamal is a bust in my opinion, I hate to say it, but, its a fact….Houston gets burned all the time. A huge liability. Brooking, poor guy is slowing down and gets faked out all the time, and cant catch an interception right in his hands. He hit the QB for the vikings in the backfield (a linebackers dream) and slid off him….go figure…Trade um all quick… We gotta improve to accomplish a super bowl. And, damn it, thats what us fans here in the ATL WANT!!!!!! (in this lifetime too!) I wanna see it happen!!!

By Muahahaha!!

January 6, 2009 1:26 PM | Link to this

Keith Brooking, it’s been fun but it’s time to go. Well he shouldn’t be the starter next year. He KILLED us on that 3rd and 16 play!!!!!

By glorydays

January 6, 2009 1:29 PM | Link to this

I am wondering: How many last year thought Matt Ryan was the best pick. Minus all the Vick BS, I wonder if the Falcon brass would have still selected him. Did anyone really see this coming, the character and Brady comparisons (Tom not Mark) bestowed on Ryan. I think a lot of it was we just got real lucky. We had a bad taste to get rid of and Ryan was the best guy available at the time. Who knew that he was the best guy that has been available since Peyton Manning?

By Dan

January 6, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

I’VE GOT A QUESTION ? Mike Vick when does he come off the books salary wise? How does he affect our salary cap? I know technically he is still on the team. Are we able to trade him? Would there be any takers? Do we just release him? If we are able to trade for draft pics what round is worthy in exchange for him?

By Joey Porter

January 6, 2009 2:33 PM | Link to this

Hey Arthur send Jamaal Anderson to Chuck Smith’s Camp. Afterwards he will be a sack master.

Chuck Smith knows his stuff.

Or Send him to my camp. I’ll break that WR into a real man.

By Dylan w/o the dead

January 6, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

I think the most pressing needs all come on defense we need a new dt haynesworth would be a good fit if he can stay on the field and out of goodell’s doghouse. The linebacking core was bad last season I wonder about micheal boley he lead our team in tackles last seasona nd was really a pro bowl snub at the linebacker position he has the tools there is no doubt the question is how does he fit into the new schemes if he does leave dont be surprised to see him shine with a new team under a different scheme. I would like to see 2 new outside linebackers next season keep foxworth who has the ability to be a solid #2 cornerback and find a top notch corner to go with them this would allow us to keep milloy and use him more on the blitz leaving one corner on an island. make no mistake the falcons chances next season at this point look a little bleek the defense has alot of holes to be filled we will need the same wise decision making that changed our offense last season to work its magic for the next season. I wonder if when we face the patriots we will be seeing brooking in a new uniform?

By houston dawg fan

January 6, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

Brookings is garbage, not because he palyed at TECH, everyones sees that he gets run over by most of the backs in the league and not to mention he cost us a chance to get the last possesion in the Ariz playoff game. I have wanted him to leave since Vick was here. He is not dominating enough to play linebacker in the NFL.

By JudiasIscariat

January 6, 2009 3:30 PM | Link to this

Okay folks, why dont you just admit it that the Falcons were EXTREMELY LUCKY to make the playoffs. Think about what had to happen for the Falcons to get into the playoffs. First of all Tampa, Minnesota, Dallas AND New Orleans ALL lost on the same weekend. In addition, when the Falcons beat Minnesota, Minnesota Christmas gift-wrapped the ballgame by turning over the ball four times (7 fumbles in all). I bet if you pull the records and check the last time the Minnesota Vikings fumbled the football seven times in a single game, I’ll bet you that was the first time that that has ever happened in Minnesota history and it took ALL of those fumbles for the Falcons to win. The Falcons BARELY hung on to win the Minnesota game. In addition, all those teams that I mentioned had to lose, which they did. The stars lined up in heaven for the Falcons to get into the playoffs so no one was expecting them to do much. The Falcons were a better team than Arizona and should have beaten the Cardinals and advanced to the second round at least.

By K.Street

January 6, 2009 3:33 PM | Link to this

D. Orlando Ledbetter,

Why is nobody talking about Nnamdi Asomugha??? He is the best CB in the NFL and his stats aren’t the best only bc teams are terrified to throw the ball near him! He also isn’t well known bc he plays for the Raiders lol. If the falcons sign any BIG FA’s this guys has to be one, even if the only one. Don’t you agree?

By K.Street

January 6, 2009 3:38 PM | Link to this

Why is nobody talking about Nnamdi Asomugha??? He is the best CB in the NFL and his stats aren’t the best only bc teams are terrified to throw the ball near him! He also isn’t well known bc he plays for the Raiders lol. If the falcons sign any BIG FA’s this guys has to be one, even if the only one. Don’t you agree?

By K.Street

January 6, 2009 3:40 PM | Link to this

Why is nobody talking about Nnamdi Asomugha??? He is the best CB in the NFL and his stats aren’t the best only bc teams are terrified to throw the ball near him! He also isn’t well known bc he plays for the Raiders lol. If the falcons sign any BIG FA’s this guys has to be one, even if the only one. Don’t you agree?

By Vick Supporter

January 6, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

January 20th, 2009……………….

By CTfalconfan

January 6, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

Haynesworth is trouble and we don’t need his negative energy in the locker room. - Regarding Grady Jackson, love the guy, but remember he will be out the first 4 games due to his suspension that he keeps appealing and will eventually lose..

To the person asking about M Vick, he is on the roster as the Falcons are still owed money from him and are being charged a portion of his salary against our cap. There would be no way to trade him as we would trade his contract and no team would be willing to pay him anything more than league minimum if there’s a team brave enough to face the PR nightmare of signing the guy. - With that said I wish him the best of luck when he gets out of prison..

By The Anti-Vick

January 6, 2009 4:29 PM | Link to this

Plus it will most likely be the same scenario as trying to trade Pac Man when he was suspended. Besides the obvious Vick still has to deal with the fact he failed a drug test right before he went to prison (which is a mandatory 4 game suspension). Tank Johnson was suspended after he got out of jail. Who knows if Falcons can dump him in 2009…

By CK

January 6, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this

I know very little about football, but, I do know we need a Hawaiian with long curly hair sticking out of his helmet. They’re always great on defense. :-)

By Raddad

January 6, 2009 4:36 PM | Link to this

Can Anyone tell me what happens to Mike Vick contract when he is re-instated in the NFL? Will that play a factor in the Falcons off season moves? How In the world can the Falcons trade Mike Vick with that contract?

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

January 6, 2009 4:54 PM | Link to this

Vick has not been available to serve a suspension. he’s been incarcerated and has not been available to play. I believe he will be suspended, by Commissioner Goodell, for one year for illegal gambling, a failed drug test and for lying to the Commissioner, directly, about his involvement with dog fighting. Once he is re-instated and is free to play, the Falcons will, in all probability, release him. If anyone signs Vick it will probably be to a minimum salary contract. No team is going to be willing to risk much on him. Further, Vick will be monitored very strictly by the NFL if a team does acquire him. Any transgression of the rules and standards of the NFL will result in his receiving a lifetime ban!

By The Anti-Vick

January 6, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

He won’t be able to run fast if he’s wearing an ankle bracelet…

By AGTfan

January 6, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

It is funny, watching all the UGA haters blame everything on Brooking and then claim that they’re not skewing the numbers. Still, it might be time for Keith to hang um up.

By Mike

January 6, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

The Falcons this offseason need to sign A cornerback,linebackers,defensive lineman,and safty.Keith Brooking time in atlanta should be up its obvious hes lost a step and some,hes a little rusted up,im sure the falcons realize that I see that game against the Cardinals being his last game in a Falcon uniform if not a back up or practice squad.Anderson also needs to be cut,Boly also needs to be let lose.Houston also need to be droped on the depth chart.

By gdg73

January 6, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this

Vick hasn’t serve any suspension?? What about the 2007 season? You fools are crazy. If Goodell deems Vick’s prison term as suspension enough and allows him to play, watch how many teams will line up to sign him if Atlanta cuts him. I get sick and tired of you idiots on here talking about a “PR Nightmare”. Stop regurgitating stuff you here on 680. Roger Goodell views a PR nightmare as being in jeopardy of not being able to sell out the Metrodome for a PLAYOFF GAME. This league is all about money and filling up stadiums. You think Minnesota would have been threatened with a blackout Sunday if Vick was taking snaps from Matt Birk instead of Tavaris Jackson? Love him or hate him, Vick has too much star power. Goodell knows this and so does the 32 NFL owners (except Blank, lol). Vick will end up in Dallas in that shiny new stadium next year and will be starting by mid-season (bye-bye Romo). Jerry Jones has too sell those luxury suites and make that note at the bank on that $1,000,000,000 stadium. Mark my words.

P.S. D. Orlando Ledbetter, why is it so hard to see that your boy Keith Brooking is done. Did he loan you some money or something? Who cares were he played college football? These people might be jacket and dawg fans on Sat., but they ALL come together on Sunday as FALCON FANS! Stop insulting peoples football intelligence. Anybody watching the Falcons for the past few years could see that the guy is washed up. It took a major blunder on national T.V. for anyone at the AJC to point out his shortcomings. You still haven’t said anything about the 3rd down gaffe. You would rather talk about John Abraham having one tackle and no sacks and Roddy White dropping a pass on a drive we eventually scored a TD on. What a joke you appear to be!!!!

By dave

January 6, 2009 5:40 PM | Link to this

Gotta keep Brooking.

dave

By Great Falconi

January 6, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this

You’re right, K.Street.

CB Nnamdi Asomugha is the one FA out there that would seem to make the most sense for the Falcons. He’s big, fast, smart, and is a shutdown corner. I get the feeling that the secondary will be where Dimitroff invests some cash, so Asomugha would have to be at the top of the list.

By The Anti-Vick

January 6, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this

January 20, 2009 = Inauguration Day for President Obama…

By let it go

January 6, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see what happens to Vick; I’d assume that the commissioner would suspend him for a year or maybe two; but who knows; personally I think he ends up in one of the lesser franchises like Detroit or Seattle; that’d certainly be the best for him; Oakland has it’s QB, so I doubt they’re a prospect; maybe Buffalo; St Louis might also be a fit, they’ve got to decide on ownership before they take on a project like Vick;

By deon

January 6, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this

How about #80 from the browns…I means its a huge risk but I see potential in him…he is a true pass receiving te….what could we do to lure him here…I know he is still under contract but can we make it happen

By The Anti-Vick

January 6, 2009 6:07 PM | Link to this

Don’t think Mora would want to reunited with Coach-Killer…

By deon

January 6, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this

How about #80 from the browns…I means its a huge risk but I see potential in him…he is a true pass receiving te….what could we do to lure him here…I know he is still under contract but can we make it happen

By The Anti-Vick

January 6, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this

Absolutely not regarding Kellen Winslow (#80 from Browns). He is the opposite type of player/attitude we want here. Plus he gets hurt too easily, whether on or off the field (remember his dumbass motorcycle accident?)…

By 74dawg

January 6, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

D.Orlando ain’t speculating and Dimitroff ain’t talking. Anything Dim says now is misdirection-think where he came from. You guys can yap all you want, but you are just going to have to sit back and watch it unfold. If they do half as well as last year,that would be pretty good. Who thought those moves were as great as they turned out? Not me.

By crabapplejoe

January 6, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

Yeah, we sure needs to get rid of the cracka’ Brooking. He be going around making all those team leadin’ tackles and more solo tackles than all the brothas playing LB. Move brotha Boley into his spot….i knows i knows he done got 40 less tackles than that cracka’ Brooking and he dropped that sure int. against NO (hey we’d still be in the playoffs coming off a bye week) but it just ain’t right having that slow white boy on our defense. We need more speed like brotha Milloy shown us against those Cardinal receivers…sure a couple of them got into the endzone…but surely it was Brookings blown coverage…or sumpin like dat.

By Yulee Chief

January 6, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this

Grady is about done, knee wise. Jamaal Anderson is one season away from being a bust. I don’t see Brooking starting next year if he is still with the team. I definitely am weary of bringing in Scott from Baltimore. I think his play is inflated by the great defense he has played in. We have to have a corner to shutdown one side of the field and to post against the likes of Smith, Bryant, and Colston.

By NFL fan

January 6, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

On the bright side, Atlanta has moved up from 31st to 29th on the Forbes market/team valuation list for 2008. It’s not your fault you’re in one of the countries smallest markets though. Thank god for profit sharing or your team wouldn’t even exist.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 6, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

Asomugha is a realistic possibility for the Falcons in free agency, as he has expressed frustration with the direction of the Raiders’ franchise and might want out at the end of the season. But the Titans would have to be complete buffoons to let Haynesworth walk. He is arguably the best defensive tackle in football.

I wouldn’t put anything past Goodell, but if he is willing to let Pacman Jones back in the league, I don’t see why he wouldn’t be willing to let Vick back either. Jon Gruden’s Buccaneers would be a fine landing spot for him. As long as it’s not Oakland or Seattle it’s fine with me.

By Cali DirtyBird

January 6, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Brooking (can’t believe I’m saying this) it’s about that time….

As for needs - DEFENSE, DEFENSE, and some more DEFENSE. Sure, we can put points on the board, but 3rd & 16. COME ON!!

In the draft we get a late round pick, can you say Taylor Mays of USC. Instint Impact!!! He’s Troy Polu’s second coming. All stud DLs will be picked by that time (Cody), but we could pick up a great one in the second. It’s a deep class this year.

By Rob

January 6, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

Cut wide out H. Douglas. He is a bust and a terrible return man. We ARE set at wideout with NO Robiske! We need a linebacker, a defensive end and someone one offensive line who does not get blown up in the backfield so Ryan can alter the cadence and hand the damn ball off! Honeymoon over but grateful.

By Birdy

January 6, 2009 9:52 PM | Link to this

I see D. Orlando Ledbetter has learned the lessons of Matt Winklejohn well. Winklejohn dared run afoul of the Falcons PR machine and was subsequently “reassigned” from his beat writer position. Can’t say I blame D-Led for playing the role. He watches the games like the rest of us. He hasn’t seen any big plays from Brooking lile the rest of us. There’s no Georgia bias. Keith just simply has not made any plays in several years.

Ask D-Led when Brook last forced a fumble. ask D-Led when Brook last made an INT. Brook jumps on the pile and makes tackles in a gingerly fashion. That’s not Georgia bias, that’s what the tape shows. And apparently he doesn’t even know his coverage responsibilities, even though he is an 11-year vet.

By darrell starks

January 6, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

Denfense wins championship point BLANK PERIOD 2009 DEFENS julias pepper DE, jonathan b DT, jamal anderson DT, j abraham DE, lofton MIDDLE LB, wire OUTSIDE LB , stephen nickolas WEAKSIDE LB, fox CORNERBACK, champ bailey CORNERBACK , coleman STRONG SAFETIE, move chad jackson to FREE SAFETIE,

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 6, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this

THE FALCONS NEED TO….

PUT LEAF ON WAIVERS TO MAKE SALARY CAP SPACE.

By Klstreet

January 6, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

D. Orlando Ledbetter

Why is nobody talking about Nnandi Asomugha??? He is the best corner in the NFL! The only reason his stats aren’t the best is bc teams are scared to throw near him. This is the one person that Falcons should definitely be making a strong attempt to sign. Althought it will take a big time commitment money wise. Don’t you agree that this would be a huge chip for our defense?

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 6, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

Nnandi is going to cost a lot after the Nate Clements, 8-year $80 million deal that San Francisco gave him two years ago. He’d take up too much cap space.

By Klstreet

January 6, 2009 11:21 PM | Link to this

Great Falconi

I think you’re right too. I think Dimitroff will definitely invest in the secondary. I think the reason Asomugha doesn’t get talked about much is bc people don’t know who he is.

Sorry everyone for the repeated messages, my computer was kept messing up and sending them

By monty

January 6, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

WE need a pass rush. Without Abraham we had to have been at the bottom for sacks.But Abraham is really only a pass rusher and too small to play the run. THose huge tackles for Arizonas made him look like a little kid. We definetley need more speed and tenacity at Brooking’s position. He plays with a lot of heart but that seems to be all he has left. He doesn’t strike fear in anyone. We need some guys that make receivers short arm their catch attempts..And another hard hitting safety.

By richbrave

January 6, 2009 11:50 PM | Link to this

Sorry guys, but Mr. “Clean-my-cleats” HAYNESWORTH is a REDSKIN. Bag-man CERRATO has been instructed to get the best FA DT in the league by UNCLE DAN, and they’ve decided. So give it up FALCONS fans.

Don’t be surprised to see MV7 as a ‘SKIN by next year also. Home-boy makes good. That sort of thing. Kinda’ like MeANGELO. DANNY-boy does like to “OUT JERRY JONES” JERRY, you know what I mean.? Gotta’ sell those t-shirts what with the economy faltering and all.

By crabapplejoe

January 6, 2009 11:58 PM | Link to this

Birdy wrote: “Ask D-Led when Brook last forced a fumble. ask D-Led when Brook last made an INT.” While your asking all these questions, why don’t you ask when was the last time Curtis Lofton or Michael Boley forced a fumble, made an int. or caused a sack. I think if you look back over the season there was one sack and no int. in our LB corps. Isn’t it curious that only KB gets called out…I know why. And by the way KB put more pressure on Warner than any of the LBs or John Abraham combined….but its all Brookings fault. ROTFLMAO. And I don’t hear anyone calling out Milloy for getting beatin’ like an old rug on the clothes line for two TDs against the Cardinals…”its all Brookings fault we need Milloy back”…and don’t forget Michael Turner was no where near that game changing fumble…its all Brookings fault.

By bravefalconhawk

January 6, 2009 11:59 PM | Link to this

IM WELL OVER THE LOSS BUT THE CARDINALS WAS OFFSIDES NUMEROUS TIMES SATURDAY WITH NO FLAGS INCLUDING THE FUMBLE/TOUCHDOWN PLAY

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 7, 2009 12:04 AM | Link to this

Pretty good stuff although I can see VS2 is warming up.

Bailey: Thanks for stopping by and dropping some football knowledge on the folks.

They can take care of TE in the draft. Good crop of TEs, this year.

Smitty told us on Monday that the Falcons were in a silent count at times, definitely in the shootgun. They could have pulled the line up and put them in a two point stance so they could at least see Dockettt et al coming.

The coaching staff is talented, no doubt.

Dalton Boy: Agree, Mike Mularkey must stay.

gdg73: Don’t need a loan from Brooking!!! I brought a PowerBall ticket in Arizona. I wrote about his Brooking’s plight extensively in Tuesday’s editions.

Birdy: You’re way off on my man Matt’s situation. And you obviously don’t have a copy of my book: “Ledbetter at Large: Uncensored and off the hook.” My reputation is not of the kissing ring variety and the PR staff knows that.

I’m not a Keith Brooking apologist. I just give the veterans the benefit of the doubt. I see the hard work they put in everyday. Jeff Schultz made a point to me that four coaching staffs over 11 years have stayed with Brooking. Could they all be wrong? This staff will make a football decision.

By row3

January 7, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

Who in their right mind thinks that Mount Cody drops to #25 in the draft order? I know we’re not normally picking that late in the draft.

By crabapplejoe

January 7, 2009 12:17 AM | Link to this

Birdy wrote: “And apparently he doesn’t even know his coverage responsibilities, even though he is an 11-year vet.” And please pray tell me who was Lawyer Milloy supposed to be covering on that 3rd & 16…he was the closest DB to the tight end who was 23 yards downfield….was Milloy supposed to be covering the tuba player in the endzone? And did you notice that Lofton also came up to cover the RB. If Brooking had stayed back and the RB had picked up the first down it would have been “why did KB stay back when Milloy clearly had the deep receiver”…it gets old. Thankfully KB is the most class act on the team and ain’t gonna hang anybody out to dry. He’s made his money and his five pro-bowls and doesn’t need to prove anything to the ingnorant, racist fans in Atlanta. He’s moving on to a better place. Someone else will have to replace is team leading tackles and most solo tackles by the LB corps….if you’re counting on Michael Boley don’t be placing any wagers.

By richbrave

January 7, 2009 12:27 AM | Link to this

The D.C. plan is to release ANDRE CARTER, “Dance-master” TAYLOR and CORNELIUS GRIFFIN. This frees up mucho dinero for ALBERT HAYNESWORTH. They sign DEMETRIC EVANS of UGA fame and bring back PHILLIP DANIELS from injury, draft a DE at #13, and try developing the youngsters WILSON and JACKSON. Sounds like a plan. Money will also be coming from not signing SHAWN SPRINGS, but I’m hoping this doesn’t happen.

By Sly Ty

January 7, 2009 12:35 AM | Link to this

Well as a fan I have my wishes for our Falcons; Albert Hayneworth through Free Agency, and Draft the OG Duke Robinson with our 1st Round Pick. This year’s draft is loaded with pass catching tigh-ends, which means we will get a good one in the 2nd round. Getting Hayneworth upgrades and makes the Cornerbacks better, in that his presence disrupts offenses. Resign the following player: Punter Michael Koenen, CB D.Foxworth, RT Tyson Clabo, Lawyer Milloy (No Rookie should start at either safety possition.

By darrell starks

January 7, 2009 1:12 AM | Link to this

Everybody says haynes worth I say julius pepper to go with abraham move jamal to DT BACK UP trey lewis and grady jackson AT DT CHAUNCY AND BIERMANN at DE. LOFTON NICHOLAS AND WIRE AT linebacker back up i dont no cornerback champ baily and fox back up chris houston and grimes. AT SAFETIE MOVE CHEVIE JACKSON TO SAFETY TO PLAY WITH COLEMAN back up milloy. and NUMBER ONE DRAFT PICK IS JERMAINE GRESHAM TE FROM OKLAHOMA. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By dallasdawg

January 7, 2009 3:49 AM | Link to this

if you are not a keith brookin apologis then you are bashing UGA readers and backers for what reason ??? then you should sell all of your newspapers to ga tech readers and backers !!!

By Casey Hodges

January 7, 2009 4:49 AM | Link to this

My Falcons should stay away from Haynesworth, he is injury prone, expensive, and his best season is behind him. He needs two more years of high quality seasoning before I believe in him. He has fool’s gold written all over him. Jamaal Anderson should’ve been gone in the middle of the season. As much as I love Keith, goodbye. He lost 3 steps 2 years ago and is well below average at shedding blockers. Milloy has a fraction of the history in Atlanta as Keith, so good riddens. I am not a Boley fan, so so long. Terrell Suggs has character issues. Champ is a medicine case. Peppers is overpriced/ overrated. Many criticize Houston, but I enjoy his scrappiness and resilience after bad plays. If we were to get Asoumgha (I’m sure his name is butchered all the time), I wouldn’t care about much else. He sweeps a multitude of shortcomings deep under the rug. Our needs at WR, pass-catching TE, SS, DL, LBs (plural) should be addressed in the draft, because none of the free agents mentioned impress me. I don’t see the lofty praises for Lofton: nice in the trenches, but I saw very few open-field stops and intermediate pass coverage/ defends. I like Wire. Down the stretch he saved tons of yardage that would have been surrendered under Boley’s watch. If Grady can stay on the field, how can you not be a fan. Koenen should be signed first of free agents, outstanding. Robinson showed promise last year, clearly skilled, but fans cannot take another season of him on the sideline. We also need a better kick returner, Norwood is soft at times. The secondary is shaky, but Grimes, Jackson, and Fudge alL have shown me promise and confidence in their play. I like Coleman and Foxworth, although I agree that experience is paramount at the strong safety position. This is my most concerning void to fill back there. I’m sure Dimitroff and Smith will place a fine product on the field next year. I want more Snelling, as I am not the biggest fan of Turner, as he should see no more than 300 carries: poor backfield elusiveness, a little too tentative in the open field, too many no-gains and losses for a back of his size. At any rate, let’s go Falcons!

By SQUAWKER

January 7, 2009 5:46 AM | Link to this

Totally forgot all about Nnamdi! No one even dares throw his way. Sign one of him or Haynesworth and do the rest in the draft!

By Singletary

January 7, 2009 6:20 AM | Link to this

Good insights, K Street.

One thing that no one is bringing out is the effect of playing with only 6 days separation (4 nights at home) on the road. Both Colts and Falcs lost. I’d recommend Gregg Easterbrook’s analysis on Tuesday Morning QB as he looks at football through the eyes of an (amazing in my book) science writer.

I cannot believe TD would bring the face-stomping A. Haynesworth to ATL character-based team.

By Realist

January 7, 2009 7:25 AM | Link to this

What “character-based team” are you talking about Singletary? The one with Babineaux, Boley and Michael Turner on it? The one where last year you was calling Grady Jackson a rogue playing cancer…but now you praise him? LMAO! You hypocrites are too funny!

By Former STH

January 7, 2009 7:51 AM | Link to this

You better tell’em gdg73! The television ratings for the Falcons-Cards game was dismal, but the Chargers-Colts game was the highest rated playoff game, equal to (drum roll) the Falcons-Packers playoff game in 2003! Goodell doesnt care about 20 people protesting outside of the Metrodome, he cares that its full and people across the country wanna see the darn GAME! There’s a reason Vick’s creditors saw that “plan to get reinstated” and said “OK! We’re ON BOARD!” Goodell has already spoken, Vick is back in somebody’s training camp in late July.

By jeanE

January 7, 2009 8:45 AM | Link to this

Your suggestion for the 4 wideouts sounds good for next year!! Laurent Robinson obviously is made of glass, can’t count on him & his “potential”. Brooking is under contract for 2009, right? So do you cut him, b/c he cannot be a starter, that is for sure! Boley is a shell of his former self, don’t know what’s up with that but I cannot abide wife beaters anyway. I had sympathy for him b/c I have an autistic son, too, but you don’t hit women! I say go for Haynesworth!! I like a mean guy, we need that badly & paired with Abe, a dream come true!! I think Chris Houston can play, I like his hustle, he’s just young & inexperienced. Fox is a definite keeper, pay up! The “beer man” came on late in the season, a keeper, too. I agree, let’s concert Anderson to tight end, perfect! His size would be a nightmare for defenders, if he was a wide previously, obviously he can catch. Then draft defense, defense, defense!!!

By Rob

January 7, 2009 9:01 AM | Link to this

You’re the beat guy, Orlando—you’ve got to do better. How on earth can you use the term “last place schedule”? The NFL schedule is the same for the last place team (in this case the Falcons) as the first place team (Bucs) with two (2) exceptions: the Falcons played the last place NFC East Eagles and the Bucs the 1st place Cowboys (note: the Eagles had a better record than the Cowboys this year); and the Falcs played the last place NFC West Rams, while the Bucs played the first place Seahawks (Seahawks were a couple games better this year). Otherwise, both the last place Falcs and first place Bucs played an identical schedule. The concept of “last place schedule” has been made defunct since the NFL changed its scheduling system in the early 2000s. So please, stop making it seem like a last place team has an easy go of it the next year because it has a last place schedule, which only affects 2 games!!!

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 7, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

Rob: Thanks for your point. But I still like using the old terminology. THE LAST PLACE TEAM — GETS THE LAST PLACE SCHEDULE. We get to thank Pete Rozelle for that. You can sugarcoat it your way. I understand that.

Perhaps we can find some common ground by looking at the strength of schedule. The Falcons had one of the weaker ones.

[http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d809fbfa9&template=with-video&confirm=true]

The Falcons had the 24th “strongest” schedule and used it to their advantage. (THAT’S MY POINT!!!) They played only 6 teams with .500 or better records in 2007 and just 4 playoff teams (one of them was a weaker and Favre-less Green Bay team.) Comparatively, Pittsburgh played 12 teams with .500 or better records and 8 playoff teams. Don’t think the Falcons would have gone 11-5 with that schedule.

By Supes

January 7, 2009 11:17 AM | Link to this

Top Priority in the NFL draft…

Taylor Mays from USC…he had the freakish size and speed, and be moved over to SS to take over for Milloy.

Chase Cauffman (who can be Matt Ryan’s version of Dallas Clark, or Jason Witten). Not as heralded as Gresham or Pettigrew from the big 12, so maybe he can fall into the 3rd round and the Falcons can snatch him up there.

If we do go with a DE in the draft, I’m hopeful it’s Raji from BC. The man is a beast and dominated many O-Lines in the ACC, including FSU on national TV saturday game, pretty fraking impressive.

If there is a chance to draft any of USC linebackers, huge upgrade over Bolley and Brooking!

Something else, Falcons need to make up their minds on what to do with Nicholas and Wire, do they give them a shot at LB on a full time basis or not?

By BYE BYE BROOKING

January 7, 2009 12:01 PM | Link to this

get rid of this sorry lb wanna be brooking

By **Frederick (Bailey) Douglass**

January 7, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this

No doubt that we had a weak schedule this year…good point. Will not be the same for next year. We MUST get better to compete.

As for #56, I do understand that he puts in hard work and that coaching staffs have stayed with him. Heck, I grant the fact that at one time he was a very SERVICEABLE LB…probably first 3 years of his career. However, the witching hour has been upon us (remember the play in NO last year when he knocked his teammate off the tackle at our 1 yard line). 3rd and 16 and you leave a receiver running a 20 yard route? Adios amigo.

It seems like routinely good NFL teams invest in quality coaches and these coaches “coach up” moderate talent at key positions…on the cheap. Think about our line coach: these are the same guys from last year…minus a rookie (who was hurt for half the season) and a journeyman free agent (Dahl). Our WR coach is a veteran as well as the offensive coordinator (previous head coach). Same players…and all of our success can not be attributed to Ryan. Hell, he was coached up too. There is no cap on paying for good TEACHERS. If you think back, our ‘98 team had a slew of veteran coaches as well (e.g. Reeves, Thomas, Shell). Keeping good coaches around may be the secret to fielding a annually competitive team with a managable budget.

With that said…I think we need a veteran Defensive Coordinator. Someone that has experience in dialing up sophisticated blitzes. Again…this is the NFL: sitting back in base defense will not work in the playoffs. We need to be scheming on defense on almost every play. Would we be willing to make a change? Would we consider Crennel? Anybody else available?

FBD

By STH

January 7, 2009 12:15 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me? Haynesworth? I wish he would never be allowed to play again. It is one thing to hit someone hard and to stomp their face after the play is dead just to cause trouble. He is great at dt but a piece of sh*t person. Now we all know the Panthers wont let him get away but having Abraham and Peppers and Jackson and Bab would suffice just fine. We need speed on defense defintley at olb, leave bruiser mlb’s in there like Loftin. I love Lawyer but he one year from a brooking a player that just doesnt have it anymore. Heart is a great thing lets find it in young players, brooking has to go as much much as I love what all he has done has a Falcon, but he is history for sure, he sucks. We need a SHUT DOWN corner from fa or draft. Our o line has done well we ran the ball well and threw well and that is a direct effect of o line not Ryan or Turner who are great but ourr line has done very well.

By set

January 7, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

Regarding Brooking He should should be brought in as an assistant linebackers coach or something so that the Falcons can save face.

Draft We should pick up a LB like Laurinaitis if he falls that far… maybe trade up.. if not Draft a TE. Overall the falcons are missing “Meatheads” on the team. We need these brand of players and you can get them in the draft.

Free Agency I think we are better severed shoring up the secondary with proven talent. Rookie CB’s are meant to be nickle CBs. Maybe pick up a tight end here to if the available draft talent blows.

By TruthSpeaker

January 7, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this

Stick with grit and character. That is what matters and what wins.

By Vick Supporter

January 7, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this

Can’t wait until the 09 season. Vick will be back and football will be fun to watch again, not some boring Matt Ryan throwing floaters 5 yards down the field.

By Russ

January 7, 2009 1:30 PM | Link to this

VS - Ah, yes it will be exciting in the ‘10 season with all the fumbles and misguided laser throws.

By Supes

January 7, 2009 1:47 PM | Link to this

Typical VS comment, has NOTHING to do with the current blog topic or the FALCONS.

Missed one thing though, your failed hero will be suspended for at least a year.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

January 7, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

VS: Vick has to get out of jail first and THEN get re-instated. He is suspended “INDEFINITELY” by Commish Wyatt Earp. It’s not a given that he’ll be re-instated next season. INDEFINITELY sounds like a “very long” time.

FDB: I agree with the coaching ‘em up method coupled with some FIVE-STAR BALL PLAYERS! SMITTY said you need players to win BIG in the NFL. Rod Marinelli is a great coach. He was awesome at Tampa Bay with Dungy. Goes to Detroit, doesn’t have any players — well he had one player, BIG CALVIN — and he’s 0-16.

There are a lot of good coaches. Just by the sheer amount of time they spend working, they are experts at what they do. But sometimes you can only squeeze so much lemon juice out of that dang lemon.

By Dixie Dawg

January 7, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

Even if the Falcons had won the Super Bowl, you would still have the Vick Supporter trash on the blogs running there cake smashers!

By Falcons are Losers

January 7, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

Even if??? Falcons will lose at least 6 games next year, going winless in the NFC South. Remember, other teams are adjusting too. They will pick Ryan apart. Glad to see he has an O-Line to protect him. Next year, that won’t be good enough.

Georgia is just a dumb state.

By JuliusCesaer

January 7, 2009 2:45 PM | Link to this

Shanahan should be hired to replace Marlarky as the OC. Malarky has allowed the Falcons to have too many stretches where they were 3 and outs on offensive drives. The Denver Broncos under Shanahan hardly ever had 3 and outs. They ALWAYS march down the field and get points, which is why Shanahan won two superbowls in Denver. I have seen countless seasons under Shanahan where the talent in Denver was mediocre at best, yet somehow, miraculously, Shanahan has continually guided the Broncos to playoff appearances. When Shanahan retires from coaching eventually, he will be an absolute certain guaranteed first ballot HALL OF FAME coach. Shanahan will be hired by this weekend so I would recommend for the Falcons to get his agent on the phone quickly and try to wrap up a deal for him to come here within the next 24-72 hours. If not, ESPN will announce over the weekend that Shanahan has a new head coaching gig with someone. Ok I have given my 2 cents and I know that I will be right.

By bigeasy830

January 7, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this

I hate to bring up MV7 since it is obvious he will never again be a Falcon, But, Roger Goodell suspended vick before he went to prison so that time should count. Plus the NFL is a businees and MIke Vick means money for the league. No way gets suspended.

By U-WAY

January 7, 2009 3:35 PM | Link to this

Julius Cesaer:I agree that Shanahan is a great coach. He would make one hell of an OC for the Falcons. It ain’t happening. You said it yourself, ESPN will announce over the weekend that Shanahan has a new head coaching gig.BTW, John Elway and Terrell Davis were also the reason they won 2 Super Bowls, not just Shanahan. What has he done since they retired? Good coach, but bad GM and definitely not an OC anymore. I think he’s graduated from that title. Sounds good if you play Madden though.

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 3:37 PM | Link to this

Tank Johnson went to jail and the Commish did NOT count that time in assessing suspension after he got out. Johnson did get his 8 game suspension reduced to 4 games since he kept his nose clean. But Johnson always had a clear number of games he was suspended - not “indefinitely,” which is much worse. Johnson went to jail for gun charges. Vick went for dog-fighting and gambling plus he failed a drug test (minimum 4 game suspension), and he also lied to the Commish. Smells like a 1 years suspension to me during which time Vick can grovel to PETA to ease his return as a punt returner and/or wide receiver…

By Vick Supporter

January 7, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

@D. Orlando Ledbetter

I believe 2 years in prison would be enough punishment. He was OVER-PUNISHED. He derserves to back in the league

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

Shoulda, coulda, woulda. And I’ll bet you didn’t get a pony for Christmas. Too bad.

By Vick Supporter

January 7, 2009 4:13 PM | Link to this

@The Anti-Vick

Why don’t you STFU sometimes? Damn.

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 4:27 PM | Link to this

Just here to provide balance.

Matt Ryan. The Present. The Future.

The Anti-Vick has spoken.

By Vick Supporter

January 7, 2009 4:45 PM | Link to this

@The Anti-Vick

Thats fine. Do your thing. I just know that you hate Vick for other reasons besides dogfighting

By Vick Supporter

January 7, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this

@D. Orlando Ledbetter

Whats your personal opinion about Vick as a player? Positive or negative, I would like to know your thoughts.

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 4:54 PM | Link to this

You know nothing. Your life is one comprised of assumptions and baseless accusations. Quit playing the victim and accept responsibility for your actions.

By Birdy

January 7, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this

D-Led - I just ordered your book and will check it out! Regarding the “4 coaching staffs” that kept Brooking, one was Reeves who drafted him. The second, Mora, was just a fan and gushed all over all over-hyped players. Petrino did not know NFL talent. And Smitty had to keep him, no doubt due to an edict from A. Blank. Now Smitty and Dimitroff have obviously seen enough.

Crabby Joe Don’t go getting in a tizzy because folks are calling Brooking out. He has been stealing from the team for years and just now finally had the light shined on him by the national media. The team paid him $4.9 million this year. Second behind Ray Lewis for NFL LBs. You know he doesn’t deserve that kind of cash.

The guy has not forced a fumble in several years. He has no INT’s this year. (You mentioned Boley. Well, Boley DOES have an INT — a key one to seal the Green Bay game.) Keith has not sacked a QB this year, yet Stephen Nicholas does. And you accuse people of being racist for merely pointing out these simple facts?

Brooking blew his coverage assignment. Yes it does hurt to know it. His teammates were hurt badly by it, no doubt.

Why wasn’t Brooking voted team captain? The players know. and really, so does Smitty and Dimitroff. Dimitroff has seen LBs like Vrabel sack QBs and earn ALL-PRO designation. He has seen Bruschi literally take a ball from a Colt in the playoffs. He has seen McGinnest dominate. Dimitroff knows real LB play when he sees it. You probably do too. You (and D-Led) probably just don’t want to admit it. I can understand D-Led for reasons of cash . not sure your motivation for blindness.

By Paddy

January 7, 2009 5:26 PM | Link to this

I CONCUR NO VPI PLAYERS FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS. WE HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF THAT SMACK TO LAST A LIFETIME. Deangelo Hall was the worse example of a team player I have ever witnessed. Williams could not play because he was fat. And I won’t even mention the VPI qb.

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 5:57 PM | Link to this

This just in:

Matt Ryan was voted by his teammates on Sunday as one of the team’s permanent captains for the season — a rare honor for a rookie. “Of all the individual awards, this to me is probably the most prestigious,” Mike Smith said Monday. “I told Matt, ‘You’re rookie of the year, Pro Bowl first alternate, but to me this is probably the biggest honor. Your teammates, the guys in the locker room, voted you a team captain your first year.’”

Matt Ryan. The Present. The Future.

The Anti-Vick has spoken.

By richbrave

January 7, 2009 6:48 PM | Link to this

PADDY:

Oh boy, now you’ve done it. The wrath of the HOKIE NATION is upon you. One heartbeat baby. DeANGELO is now a model of decorum here at home. MV7 will soon be taking JASON CAMPBELL’s place - 2010. WIL MONTGOMERY is already on the roster for the ‘SKINS. Your birds will lose to the mighty REDSKINS in the ‘09 season. Get ready to rumble as the invaders from the north once again take ATLANTA. VPI&SU rules.

By Casey Hodges

January 7, 2009 7:01 PM | Link to this

I think Vick is one of the greatest football players and talents in the history of the game, hands down. His football I.Q. was extremely high, something he doesn’t get enough credit for. He rarely threw picks that were solely his fault and could read defenses well. It seems as if Alge fell off the face of the Earth in Tennessee, once considered arguably the best overall TE in the league for 1.5 years with Vick. True, Vick threw lasers unneccessarily to WR, who for the most part, could never grasp his ball flight. Roddy needed time to develop, Jenkins is and always has been slightly below average, and Peerless was simply pathetic and soft. Vick had a good repore with Finneran, who would be dependable with any quarterback. Didn’t get enough credit for his toughness. An above average leader, on the field. The best open-field runner I ever saw (sorry, Barry.) With that said, he was a great thrower but very poor passer, which happens to be the primary function of a quarterback. A player of his stature (barely 6 feet) simply cannot work in the NFL. He couldn’t see over the top of the front seven, combined with a funky side-arm delivery, along with countless other flaws in his plant, weight distribution, arm-angle, grip, follow-through, release, etc, etc. I will take Ryan over Vick 8 days a week, but will always miss the theatrics that Atlantans were treated to every Sunday. The guy was pay-per-view for free, making 10 yards out of a busted play with blitzing spies coming from 9 random positions on the field with WR who couldn’t get into their routes and Alge being double-covered. It takes an awesome talent to process that much info and still move the chains on 3rd and 8 by himself. Most of the time, as past Offensive lineman have stated, they didn’t even know what was going on, where Vick would go, nor where or who to block. After watching Vick, it was a stark contrast when watching the rest of the league Sunday evenings, nights, and Monday, if the Falcons weren’t in that spot (how great was the guy on Monday night, for that matter?) While you saw most other quarterbacks complete passes to recievers who could catch them regularly (what a novel concept!), it looked like a different brand of sport because there was no one on the field who was so athletically superior. I miss the guy, hope he has learned more about life and the people he chooses to associate with, and wish him success in whatever path he takes, NFL or otherwise. Hell, the guy was and still is a career winner with a questionable coaching staff and iffy mix of talent, personnel, and characters. What more can you ask?

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 7:04 PM | Link to this

MeAngelo is laying low after eating some serious humble pie due to (lack of) performance against the Falcons this season. I cannot wait for that idiot to come back to the dome next fall and have Ryan > Jenkins make toast of him yet again. And you know T.O. is licking his chops at lining up against him twice a season. He was exposed as the fraud he is this year.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 7, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this

JOE FLACCO

….IN PLAYOFFS

RYAN LEAF

……OUT OF PLAYOFFS

72 MILLION

VS

30 MILLION

———YOU DO THE MATH———

72-MILLION DOLLAR BUST

YOU CAN FOOL SOME PEOPLE MOST OF THE TIME…..

YOU CAN FOOL MOST PEOPLE SOME OF THE TIME….

BUT ONLY IDIOTS GET FOOL ALL OF THE TIME

——LEAF FOLLOWERS ARE———

YOU KNOW WHAT THE ANSWER IS :)

——-JANUARY 20, 2009————

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 7:36 PM | Link to this

And ladies and gentlemen, the BIGGEST BUST of ALL TIME. I can barely hold my excitement. The envelope please… at $130 million, you know what the answer is…

By crabapplejoe

January 7, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this

Birdy wrote: “The guy has not forced a fumble in several years. He has no INT’s this year. (You mentioned Boley. Well, Boley DOES have an INT — a key one to seal the Green Bay game.) Keith has not sacked a QB this year” And then Boley does have that one dropped int. against New Orleans that cost us a win and a bye in the playoffs not to mention 40 less tackles than KB. Neither Boley nor Lofton sacked a QB this year either, but you single out Brooking, who has more tackles and more solo tackles. Boley and Lofton don’t have any FF and only the one interception between them…but its all Brookings fault. Not to mention Brooking put more pressure on Warner than any of the other LBs plus Abraham combined….but its all Brookings fault. So lets recap, the LB corps has no sacks, no forced fumbles, one int. for a win and one dropped int. for a loss (both Boley) and Brooking has more tackles and solo tackles….but its all Brookings fault. ROTFLOL at your “closet” racism. You notice in the poll that KB is the only Falcon that the fans voted to get rid of…certainly not that outstanding safety and “fast” 35 year old Lawyer Milloy. Even Dan Reeves today on the Buck & Kincaid show said that Milloy had to go (not Brooking)…but hey, he’s only been to about 20 SuperBowls as a player and a coach….what does he know. We fired him because he ‘couldn’t relate to the young black QB who was changing the position of QB in the NFL’…remember him?

By The Anti-Vick

January 7, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

This just in:

From Don Banks of SI.com, 2008 All-Disappointing Team:

For those of you who wanted to draft Glenn Dorsey: Glenn Dorsey, Chiefs — Dorsey was expected to be a play-making force for Kansas City this season, but the No. 5 overall pick barely registered on the impact radar screen. His season totals of one sack, one forced fumble, and one pass defensed used to be a good quarter for him at LSU. What happened to all that explosiveness that we saw from him as a Tiger?

For those of you who wanted to draft Darren McFadden: Darren McFadden, Raiders — We thought about just retiring this position in Larry Johnson’s honor — the Chiefs running back was our pick in 2007 — but at least L.J. led his team in rushing. As opposed to the over-hyped McFadden, who was billed as the next Adrian Peterson but wound up a distant second on the Raiders rushing charts behind Justin Fargas, and just ahead of the late-charging Michael Bush.

For those of you who whined when MeAngelo was traded: DeAngelo Hall, Raiders/Redskins — The mind boggles at the fact Oakland gave Atlanta second- and fifth-round picks for Hall last offseason, and then handed him a seven-year, $70 million contract that included $24.5 million of guarantees. He got torched so routinely this season that the Raiders released him after just eight games, for which he was paid $8 million. He then signed with the Redskins and resumed his underachieving ways.

And from the home office: Dishonorable mention: Jamaal Anderson, Falcons — The No. 8 overall pick in the 2007 draft got the first two sacks of his career this season. Need I say more?

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 7, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Hilarious news from Seattle:

The Seahawks have announced the hiring of Greg Knapp, who was Oakland’s offensive coordinator the past two seasons, as their new offensive coordinator Wednesday afternoon. The 45-year-old Knapp served as the offensive coordinator for the Falcons under new Seahawks head coach Jim Mora in 2004-06 prior to joining the Raiders.

Some people never learn.

Of course, for us Vick fans anticipating where he will end up when he returns to the NFL, this is quite ominous if the Seahawks choose to pursue him as a free agent, what with Hasselbeck’s back problems and Seneca Wallace’s mediocrity.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

January 7, 2009 8:38 PM | Link to this

ONE MORE TEAM FOR MV7

http://www.suntimes.com/sports/football/bears/1363326,CST-SPT-carol06.article

HAVE A NICE DAY :)

By JOE FLACCO

January 7, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Just wanted to stop by and let my Vick Supporting Crew know the truth - We are winning b/c I have a superbowl caliber defense that can force turnovers and score points. I’m only asked to complete 10 passes per game for about a 150 and hand the ball off.

So there you have it folks.

Matt Ryan is better than me right now and in the near future. Maybe someday I can be as good as him.

Anyways, didn’t want you all to fight with VS2, he doesn’t have a FRAKING clue, b/c he is just a racist person pretending to be a Vick fan so he can get a rise out of people, then again…he could be crazy!

By Alpo

January 7, 2009 9:15 PM | Link to this

MIKE VICK will also be busy this NFL Offseason -

• spreading his STDs to as many other men as possible.

OBAMA-VICK 69 !!!

By richbrave

January 7, 2009 9:53 PM | Link to this

HEY ANTI-VICK:

Pull your shorts up baby. You’re embarrassing yourself. We’ll take HALL and love it.

By Alpo

January 7, 2009 10:02 PM | Link to this

I LOVE MIKE VICK. THATS WHY I BOYCOTTED THE FALCONS 365 STORES WHEN THEY STOPPED SELLING HIS MERCHANDISE…AND THAT’S WHY BOTH STORES CLOSED ON DEC 31ST

By Falcons 365 ?

January 7, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

FALCONS 365 Stores Closed?????

For Real?

By jim n buckhead

January 7, 2009 10:55 PM | Link to this

so mora doesnt learn his lesson…..knapp sucks…he sucked with the niners and he sucked with the falcons an then the raiders…..in two years mora will wish he had taken the UW job……

By andy

January 7, 2009 11:34 PM | Link to this

One name Ray Lewis!!!

By andy

January 7, 2009 11:35 PM | Link to this

One name Ray Lewis!!!

By Singletary

January 8, 2009 12:10 AM | Link to this

Did ya see this? Gregg Easterbrook, one of my favorite science writers posted this on TUESDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK.

Sour Play of Wild-Card Weekend No. 2: Things were going well for Atlanta — the Falcons led Arizona 17-14 at intermission, and got the ball to start the second half. On Atlanta’s second snap, a second-and-7 from its 30, something really odd occurred. Typos right tackle Tyson Clabo lined up way wide of right guard Harvey Dahl, leaving three times the normal “split” between offensive linemen. This wasn’t planned, just a pure blunder. Rookie quarterback Matt Ryan should have noticed the line was set all wrong and called timeout. Instead an unblocked Cardinals defender came through the weird mega-gap and hit Ryan as he was attempting to hand off; Antrel Rolle of Arizona snatched the fumble in midair and ran for six. The Falcons never recovered.

By BravesFan79

January 8, 2009 12:46 AM | Link to this

Smoltz to Boston??? WTF…. FIRE FRANK WREN NOW!!! Worst offseason in the history of the Braves!

Damn you AOL/TIme Warner for running my team into the ground! It will be a cold day in hell before i ever support your products again!

By AlphaDog

January 8, 2009 9:10 AM | Link to this

1st - Brooking wasn’t the only linebacker to bite on the fake at the end of the game, oh and that 1 play didn’t lose the game for them, but Brooking should go if he doesn’t renegoiate his contract, he’s not worth his paycheck, though he is still a servicable LB.

2nd - get some experinced LB/DT in free agency not sure about Haynesworth(to much of a knucklehead off the field)

3rd - They have many holes to fill, they should take the best available player in the 1st round as long as its not a WR or QB, then draft for need

4th - just to reiterate NO KNUCKLEHEADS, the risk / reward just isn’t worth it.

By AlphaDog

January 8, 2009 9:12 AM | Link to this

1st - Brooking wasn’t the only linebacker to bite on the fake at the end of the game, oh and that 1 play didn’t lose the game for them, but Brooking should go if he doesn’t renegoiate his contract, he’s not worth his paycheck, though he is still a servicable LB.

2nd - get some experinced LB/DT in free agency not sure about Haynesworth(to much of a knucklehead off the field)

3rd - They have many holes to fill, they should take the best available player in the 1st round as long as its not a WR or QB, then draft for need

4th - just to reiterate NO KNUCKLEHEADS, the risk / reward just isn’t worth it.

By otisfirefly

January 8, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

1. Draft Mount Cody DT 2. Draft Michael Johnson DE 3. Draft Draft Draft

By gdg73

January 8, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

AlphaDog,

Tell me again what Haynesworth has done OFF THE FIELD that makes him a knucklehead. And the only place Brooking would be serviceable is at a service station pumping gas.

By jc_dawgs

January 8, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

We need to upgrade our OLBs and DL with at least 1 new player for each position.

Brooking should be released and we would need a new SS if we let Milloy go.

FA obviously costs a lot of money and there will only be so much that TD can do. That said…I hope they can improve the front 7…with at least 2 or 3 new talented starters for next year.

By Vick Supporter

January 8, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Falcons. The Cleveland Browns of 08. Guranteed

By The Anti-Vick

January 8, 2009 5:04 PM | Link to this

Michael Vick. Most Valuable Dishwasher in 2009. And it’s spelled “guaranteed.”

Matt Ryan. The Present. The Future.

By BH

January 8, 2009 6:04 PM | Link to this

Brooking is a great guy, but he has got to go.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 8, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this

The reason why Brooking gets more criticized for the end of game gaffe than Lofton is because Lofton is a rookie who is expected to make rookie mistakes and Brooking is a veteran who has been to multiple Pro Bowls.

It’s really that simple.

If you are inexperienced and you make a stupid mistake, it is always more understandable. Always.

By crabapplejoe

January 8, 2009 9:28 PM | Link to this

Forget Brooking and Lofton….it was Lawyer Milloy’s man….just like on the two TDs earlier in the game….he’s lost three steps and needs to go to assisted living.

By crabapplejoe

January 8, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

Singletary wrote: This wasn’t planned, just a pure blunder. Rookie quarterback Matt Ryan should have noticed the line was set all wrong and called timeout. Instead an unblocked Cardinals defender came through the weird mega-gap and hit Ryan as he was attempting to hand off; Antrel Rolle of Arizona snatched the fumble in midair and ran for six. The Falcons never recovered” Dude, your anti-white racist bias is showing. The man who was hit, that you left out of the equation, was Michael Turner (funny, isn’t it that you left that part out…is it because he is a “brotha”). Arizona got an unbelievable rush (some say off-sides) and Ryan put the ball in Turner’s hands… he fumbled. Quit hating on the white man.

By crabapplejoe

January 8, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this

Mr. Poop wrote: “Brooking is a veteran who has been to multiple Pro Bowls.” That’s simply not true…according to most idiots on this forum Brooking has never made a play in his life and should be executed immediately…for Lawyer Milloy’s mistakes. ROTFLMFAO

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 9, 2009 12:39 AM | Link to this

crabapplejoe @9:34PM, the quote you posted in bold is from an article on ESPN.com written by Gregg Easterbrook, not exactly the beacon of anti-white bias in the sports media. Next time you spew your racial allegations you might want to make sure you are targeting the right person. Imbecile.

By crabapplejoe

January 9, 2009 8:24 AM | Link to this

poop wrote: “the quote you posted in bold is from an article on ESPN.com written by Gregg Easterbrook, not exactly the beacon of anti-white bias in the sports media.” I don’t give a dam* who the quote was from…to talk about the fumble without mentioning Michael Turner’s name is a friggin’ joke and shows and obvious bias. How can you talk about a fumble without talking about the person who fumbled the ball. To blame Matt Ryan for not calling a timeout on the second play of the half because the “line was set all wrong” on a running play is absurd. Coach would have killed him for that.

By HGN

January 9, 2009 4:02 PM | Link to this

The Falcons signed one significant free agent last year, Micheal turner. And they will sign one(1) significant free agent this year. I think that signing should be either DT Haynesworth or DE Peppers , or DB Asomouga. Haynesworth has size, talent, experience and is known to tie up 2 blockers. And is a player. Character-wise, take a chance on him. One mistake makes not a lifelong felon. As for Asomouga, his shut down ability speaks for itself….DRAFTWISE : Round 1) DB , if you sign Haynesworth/Peppers. Mays of USC would be nice in this spot, if he last that long . 2) DT if you sign Asomouga . 3) LB , and 4) Offensive Lineman. And 5) TE…

By Birdy

January 9, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

Crabby Joe, I must remind you (again) that Curtis Lofton did in fact have a sack — against McNabb in Philly. You do remember that game, don’t you? That’s the game Brooking got out-muscled by McNabb at the goal line on a QB draw. Brooking just couldn’t seem to make a significant play this season, it seems. tsk, tsk, tsk.

The guy is just long past his prime and they shove him down the fans throats with all the interviews, etc. when his game is worthy only of obscurity. Therein lies the reason for fans discontentment — not that he happens to be White. You don’t have to make this something it isn’t.

By JuliusCesaer

January 13, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

I know the Falcons would love to get Julius Peppers. One sure way to get Peppers would be to trade Mike Vick straight up for Julius Peppers and that would bring Julius Peppers to the Falcons. Vick is expendable since we dont need anyone to fight dogs for us we could ship him to Carolina and get a hall of fame player in return for a dog-gone loser.