Falcons

By Jay Stiltner

February 13, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this

Testing…

By BlawgDawg

February 13, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

No wordpress for this blog? We know who the red-headed stepchild at AJC sports section is don’t we. (just teasing now)

By uga_b

February 13, 2009 10:44 AM | Link to this

Quarterbacks that are high picks should never work out at the combine. Throw to your own receivers whose speed and route running you know. Unlike other positions, a lot of how a qb looks at the combine is based on receivers and their combined timing. I really think Stafford will have one of those pro days where he is zipping the ball around the field and no one will see a dropped ball. Without pressure and setting his feet, he can put the ball in there.

As a Dawg fan I am glad for the representation, but honestly, would a GM take a DE from last years team? They were awful. Corvey played pretty well and may get a 2nd day look.

I think we let Brooking go since this is a strong LB draft. The harder question is Milloy because the last few drafts have been safety thin. We should sign Chauncey; he should have started over Jamaal. Move Jamaal inside and see if he can earn his money. Should be an exciting Draft!

By Mel Kiper

February 13, 2009 10:46 AM | Link to this

Oh Yeah…I am sure that Stafford has been checking the ajc daily to see what advice draft expert Orlando has to offer him….And the do the OPPOSITE…

By Robert M

February 13, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

Here’s hoping that the Falcons go after T. Suggs in free agency too. What do you think the chances of that happening are?

By Mac

February 13, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Mel, I think that’s Darryl.

By Howie in Augusta

February 13, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

Sorry all K Brooking fans but despite the many loyal yrs. for the Birds and some pretty good yrs. at that I’ll remember Brooking mostly for blowing his assignment on 3rd and 16 - coming up to cover the short man??? Of course the pass was completed for a lst down and we never got the ball back - Arizona became destiny’s darlings because of it and we were reduced to a ‘good story’

By Ravens' Fan

February 13, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

To Robert M., the Falcons can make an attempt but Suggs will never leave Baltimore. It would take a miracle. If they don’t sign him this year, they will use the franchise tag again while they work on Ray Lewis’ deal.

Wishful thinking doesn’t hurt though!

*By Robert M

February 13, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

Here’s hoping that the Falcons go after T. Suggs in free agency too. What do you think the chances of that happening are?*

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this

Very excited about NFL coming back up. Its been too long…ha.

I beleive Brooking should be willing to sign for a very minimal salary with the understanding that he has the earn a spot….He is a good vet that can teach.

I liked what i saw in Coy Wire and Davis this past season - Wire sure was a surprise wasnt he??

I see we signed that Michael Butterworth kid again - hard to call him a kid - the guy is HUGE!

I dont see the Falcons going after Peppers either D. - and after the story this morning about Mr. Haynesworth, im not so sure thats going to happen either.

Food for thought: How would it look having Boldin and White at the corners?

I do have NFL Network and WILL be watching as much as i can.

Till then - GO FALCONS coaching and SCOUTS!

By STUCK IN SC

February 13, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

Why would you work out if your the concenus #1 QB in the NFL draft? Matt Ryan made out pretty good getting picked at # 3 last year and he didn’t work out at the combine, so why would you expect any different from Stafford. You can only go down when your #1.

By GATORZONE

February 13, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

TheManMike, I agree with everything you said except the Boldin post. We need to focus on Defens this year and put most free agent $$ on that side of the ball. Plus, has Boldin ever played a full season? I love the guy, but think he would command too much $$.

By Kaye

February 13, 2009 1:05 PM | Link to this

Brooking should be done….Milloy can come back as a reliable back up, he should return…in free agency, we should take a look at Big Albert, but with his indictment, im not sure they will now….and that cornerback from Oakland should peak our interest alot, we can depend on Von Hutch coming off injury and D. Foxworth not yet sign. and talking to boldin would not hurt….ill go SS and LB and DT and OT in the draft and in that order

By Halsey

February 13, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this

Stafford has the same agent as Matt Ryan, the Mannings and Tomlinson. I imagine he’s getting good advice. If he’s being advised not to work out, there’s probably good reason.

By English, please

February 13, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this

Kaye, it’s pique, not peak. Thanks.

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this

GatorZone - Good point on Boldin. The money he will want is probably too high - but it was just food for thought.

Agreed that a huge majority of our cash needs to stay on the D side of the ball. I really like that CB from Oakland as Kaye pointed out - hes young. Anyone know what he may be asking for a deal? If he gets franchised again, it wont happen, for sure.

Halsey, agreed to an extent. When Stafford started playing for UGA, i was not sold on him, and to be quite frank (and yes i understand the numbers) i never saw him as being much in the NFL stage. David Greene type of NFL career? Lets hope not. Either way, hes in Detroit, so no worries.

On O - I say get some backup OL and nice handed TE and your golden.

Lets get this blog rolling again - maybe then they will switch over to the new Wordpress format like David Obrien has….its great, but there are not enough posts here for it to really matter.

How can we GET THE DENIZENS BACK??!?!?!

By Navigator

February 13, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

With the Falcons offering up Vick, I wonder if any other team will make a run at him. They gave two first rounders to get him, I wonder if he will even bring a third rounder. More teams might be interested, but of course he said that he is unwilling to play any position except QB. It’s obvious that he’s learn nothing with his stay in prison (making demands already), but the owners in the NFL have always proven to be less than intelligent about what they do.

By Kaye

February 13, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

theMANMIKE….question or a scenario for you….we both and all like the corner from Oakland…how would all this work when we have Houston (who needs to be in the nickel) Foxworth, GRimes, Chevis Jackson, and Von Hutch coming back….something has to give….but our secondary cannot play like they did last year

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

Kaye - Exactly. Could not agree with you more. Cut the fat. Bring in the worker bees.

Grimes did well for his ability, but who are we kidding if we beleive he is a starting CB in this league? Also, i would think that we could possibly use one of those extra fellows to assist in getting the Oakland CB over here.

We have too many small value corners…..again i say, cut the fat.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

February 13, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

Where’s VS2? Story is up on Falcons trying to trade Vick’s rights.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

February 13, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

BlawgDawg: I have my WordPress deal, too. My plan was to breakout with it from the NFL Combine next week after I figure out all of the new bells and whistles.

Mel Kiper: Nice hair, dude.

STUCK IN SC: You workout like Calvin did. If you’ve got it… Show it!!!

By Kaye

February 13, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this

ok ManMike….so give me what you would like to see happen or what will happen…remember Dimitroff will make non-emotional moves (which is good). who would you leave and/or bring back or move? tell me something…lol. and since D. Led just put up something on my boy Vick rights being traded…whats a fair value in return for him. if i was the Lions, i would also trade that first pick….and get more. one person will fix that team….and ill bring in Vick….but hey, thats me. they have about 8 or 9 picks already

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

Come on D! - Dont ensue a riot here, please. VS2 and alike are a big reason many have left this blog. Lets not encourage him to spew.

I think this is the best route for the Falcons to take. Im rather confident some other team will purchase his rights. D.O.L. - What exactly would that fully mean for us, Vick and the team who buys the rights?

This could mean a change for Mr. Stafford too, if Detroit is the team to purchase the rights to Vick. Hmm…more food for thought.

I agree with Vick though, he should be a QB. Seeing him as a Receiver or Running back or Return man whatever, would be not only weird (As the ball flip flops thru the air in Vicks erratic hands) but would also be a dis-service to Vick. I think, with the proper coaching, Vick can make a HUGE comeback in this league. He could quite literally become the feel-good story of either 2009 or 2010 - depending on how he acts when he’s completely done serving his time.

And on that note - when he is released - I hope people leave him alone. When someone gets in trouble, and is sentenced to Prison time and get out - They have served their debt to society in Prison and should be given the chance to change. If he can come back, and prove to be a man, on and off the field, then let the man do his work.

either way, Matt Ryan is the man, im glad he is here and i back him 100%. The future is bright in ATL.

By TheManMike

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

Well Kaye - its hard to say what WILL happen, of course. What i see happening is exactly what T.D. has done and said he will do - not make emotional decisions. I say Brooking stays unless he retires. I say that only becauase of the tackles hes had the last few years - though not for loss or anything, you cant hide that production. BUT - Like i said in another post, i think he comes back with the knowledge that he must WIN the job. If we make moves to get some LB’s to compete with him, and he beats them out, literally beats them out and not emotionally, then i say we need him. this is looking past the final play that ended the 2008 season. I think Milloy is the one who walks or is let go, we need speed back there - we need youth.

(Side Note: To avoid a Bravesque PR disaster, Brooking stays and has to earn his spot, if he cannot earn it, he becomes a coach assistant of some type - his presence cannot be denied and i dont see him in another uni.)

But - i should end everyhting with, we are now talking about a new era - T.D. and Smitty are unpredictable in their moves - so, who really knows?

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this

D.O.L. - The WordPress format is really nice. It is definately not as easy on your end as this format was, but its easier for us and QUICK! Its as fast as instant message chatting. Nice.

If anyone wants to take a looksi, go check out the Braves David O`Brien blog….SORRY D.O.L. for promoting DOB, its just that blog goes nuts year round. I cant wait for this blog to get as professional as the Falcons have become. Its not you though, its the Bloggers.

Im excited you are back, and blogging and giving us more to read. Im a braves fan reading Braves blogs daily, but my first stop is always the Falcons page - exciting to see some movement.

CANT YA FEEL IT COMING?! :)

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this

D.O.L. - The WordPress format is really nice. It is definately not as easy on your end as this format was, but its easier for us and QUICK! Its as fast as instant message chatting. Nice.

If anyone wants to take a looksi, go check out the Braves David O`Brien blog….SORRY D.O.L. for promoting DOB, its just that blog goes nuts year round. I cant wait for this blog to get as professional as the Falcons have become. Its not you though, its the Bloggers.

Im excited you are back, and blogging and giving us more to read. Im a braves fan reading Braves blogs daily, but my first stop is always the Falcons page - exciting to see some movement.

CANT YA FEEL IT COMING?! :)

By Navigator

February 13, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

It would be better for Stafford if he could go to a team that hasn’t already self destructed. However, I believe that Detroit craves a team that can win even a few games, they will take Stafford #1. I only hope he survives the ordeal. Michael Johnson isn’t large enough to play defensive end in the Pros, so whoever gets him will immediately have to create a linebacker position that he can rush from.

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

February 13, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

TheManMike: Thanks for the kind words. The next one will be on WordPress!!! Don’t mind you shouting out the DOB, he’s one of the leaders in the industry on the digital front.

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

DOL

Maybe you have already made your predictions in another forum, but i’m wondering who you feel Moreno will do in the NFL… Seems to me he will be quite exciting, like a short Adrian Peterson maybe. The way he will drive his shoulder into a pile and have it actually move forward - Its a quality only certain players possess. Troy Polamalu also comes to mind…..you know? - That sense they seem to have of their surroundings. The awareness and willingness to lay it out there to make get their man. Moreno seems to be this type of player to me - exciting days are ahead in the NFL.

Too bad we Falcons cant have him. I know we dont need him, i just think he will be exciting to watch.

Thoughts?

By tryanx

February 13, 2009 4:20 PM | Link to this

Hey “TheManMike” I think we already have one of the better receiving cores in the game. I agree we need to look at the cb from Oakland. What if we get him and sign foxworth and move Huston to safety.

I also think that the big money needs to go to Haynesworth. The d-line could use a little work although it was not horrendous last year.

I think that in the draft we need a TE to complete the receiving core and then offensive line help.

I would love to trade the Vick rights for a few more picks but that won’t happen before the draft.

What a year, I can’t wait.

By Ted Striker

February 13, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

Orlando — Nice column, thanks for the great info, as usual. (Still, I’d forbid Stafford to work out if I was his agent)

Most unsung hero of the 2008 Falcons: Michael Koenen

Most unlikely contributor to the 2008 Falcons: undrafted Brian Finneran, waived by the Seahawks in ‘98 and with the Barcelona Dragons in 1999.

Detroit Lions: If I’m them, I’m trying like mad to see what I can get for the # pick. Detroit drafting a franchise QB is like seeing a guy buy a Ferrari just before a hailstorm – when he doesn’t own a garage. The Lions desperately need linemen, linebackers, secondary help. They probably need lungs, kidneys and a pancreas but nobody is keeping track. Their best bet is to get more draft picks, more able bodies. At QB, they have stopgap options. Let the QBs with the dents and dings take the hail damage.

If I’m the Jets, 49ers or Panthers: I’m trying to trade up to #2 or below for Sanchez. (Yes, I’d prefer Stafford but the price for #1 might be too high) On the flip side, we are talking about the dysfunctional Lions.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 13, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this

CAROLINA & TAMPA

———YOU ARE ON THE CLOCK————

VICK THE RETURN HAS STARTED

By bartow dawg

February 13, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this

We can post on something other than Stafford. WOW

By D. Orlando Ledbetter

February 13, 2009 6:06 PM | Link to this

VS2: Ur welcome back so long as you keep it clean. Come on, you can do it!! Falcons won’t trade him to a division foe. Where else would you like to see MV7 go? Dallas? St. Louis? Seattle?

TheManMike: I’ve talked to Moreno when he was being recruited by Georgia. Looking forward to see how he handles the media and his workouts. Haven’t completed my draft research yet. Pointless until we get all of the combine info and networking up there. But I compare him to Ahmad Green, sort of a hard-charger, who can go the distance. In the Mocks, I’ve seen him in the late first round.

(Haven’t done anything about V-Day with the Vick and Koenen stories breaking today. Think I’m going to breakdown and get those LaBelle tickets)

By Great Falconi

February 13, 2009 7:24 PM | Link to this

“Adam Jennings opened the season as the Falcons punt return. He took a risk-averse approach to the job which eventually got him waived.”

Clever wording there, DOL.

“risk-averse”

That made me laugh, man. Adam Jennings is the type of guy who would see $5 on the street, look around for ten minutes, slowly make his way over, pick it up, and then get hit by a truck. I’m glad we got rid of that dude.

By TheManMike

February 13, 2009 7:33 PM | Link to this

I’m hearing some stories about Haynsworth going to Tampa. Hmm…

tryanx - I hear ya on the receiving corp. we have in place, but i guess you can never have too many good receivers. But i do agree that D is the priority 1.

People saying now that now team in the league is going to take a Trade on Vick - Thoughts??

Also - I would like to commend Roger Goddell for not taking his MANDATORY pay raise. Good to see some temperance in a world of wastefulness.

By Halsey

February 13, 2009 11:03 PM | Link to this

The Falcons would trade Vick to any team dumb enough to trade for him. Nobody will trade for him, however. Why would a team want to take on that contract to go along with the public relations issues without even knowing if he’ll be suspended by the league. Vick will be released by the Falcons eventually.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 14, 2009 5:48 AM | Link to this

There will be plenty of demand for Vick around the league as a quarterback, but I would be shocked if anyone wants to trade for that contract of his when it’s a foregone conclusion that the Falcons will cut him, especially since there is no guarantee yet that Goodell will reinstate him immediately. I’m surprised the poll on the front page even suggests that the Falcons keep Vick on the team — as big a fan as I am of Vick and as much as I want to see him succeed in the NFL again, the controversy that would create would destroy any chance they have of maintaining a productive environment in training camp and the preseason.

By tryanx

February 14, 2009 7:48 AM | Link to this

Vick will be reinstated, there is already a president set for it. The question is does a team like Detroit pay Stafford 40-60 million with out even seeing him on the field or take Vicks contract knowing what you will get. I am a huge Stafford fan and I do not think that Vick is that great as a quarterback but the truth is he is exciting and does put people in the seats. He will take a team to a higher level but unless he has an offensive line that will give him all day to pass he will still make bad decisions on the field. The Detroit scenario is just an example because I would not give up the first overall pick for him, but I would trade it for more picks if I was going to make that trade to get lineman around him.

Whether I agree with it or not, Vick will play in 09.

By hop

February 14, 2009 7:52 AM | Link to this

who the hell is orlando ledbetter? i think matt shafford and his agent know far better what is bestthan this bun writer from the ajc

matt shafford has been on display for three years playing in the best league in college football.

everyone knows matt has a gun for arm,big and is very bright.

what else does the nfl need to know.

what else is it to know?

By Kevin

February 14, 2009 9:39 AM | Link to this

Maybe Vick be traded to detroit lions and be there starter n be with a crooked mayor also….he fit in fine there runnin over throwin his receviers n give the bird to the fans at detroit be great….of course if did after a 0-16 season where detroit became the first un-dewinless in NFL history…could lead detroit to 8-8 ha ha…just kiddin.

By Supes

February 14, 2009 9:51 AM | Link to this

The Falcons will trade the rights away, it makes the most sense. Why just take a huge salary cap hit and hurt the team in restraining it financialy?

I’m sure someone will take a flier on MV…after all the drama circus that is the Dallas Cowboys took on Adam Jones before he was re-instated by Roger Goddell…I can see someone doing the same with Vick once convinct boy gets out of the slammer this summer. It’ll be training camp for someone to sign him as a 3rd string QB until he “gets back into football shape, learns their system, whatever they run, etc”

Meanwhile, if the Falcons can get a 3rd round pick in the deal, I’d be happy with that. That’s where Chase Chauffman aka Matt Ryan’s Dallas Clark will be waiting to be drafted. It’ll be a good trade for the falcons.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 14, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

WHERE MV7 SIGNS

———-DOESN’T REALLY MATTER—————

THE RESULTS WILL BE THE SAME….PLAYOFF CONTENDER…….

REMEMBER 1998

LAST TIME A QB OTHER THAN MV7 THAT HAS ACTUALLY WON IN THE POST SEASON…….

—————-DESTINY CAN’T BE DENIED—————

MV7 WILL BE RELEASED AND AFTER THAT, THE FALCONS LOSE ALL RIGHTS TO WHERE HE GOES……

————GUESS WHAT PEOPLE—————-

CAROLINA OR TAMPA WILL PICK HIM UP…..BUT I HEAR CHICAGO JUST RELEASED REX GROSSMAN AND MV7 WITH A REAL DEFENSE & OFFENSIVE LINE…..DEVIN HESTER & MV7 ON OFFENSE…….S C A R Y

———ONE QUESTION————-

WITH THE 4TH TOUGHEST NFL SCHEDULE COMING UP - WHO IS GOING TO BE BLAMED FOR THE FALCONS DEMISE…….

WITH THE COMBINATION OF THE CAP HIT & NOT ABLE TO LAND A TRADE + THE 15-MILLION DUE THIS SEASON…..LOOKS LIKE MV7 IS THE ONE WITH THE UPPER HAND :)

2009 - BACK TO 1967 :)

By Flappin Falcon

February 14, 2009 12:56 PM | Link to this

For all those who think Davis should start for Jamal, just look at our rush defense when Jamal is out of the game. When Jamal is out of the game other teams are salivating because they know it is much easier to run on us. (Great example is the Philly game. We held Philly’s run game in check until Jamal’s injury, afterwhich they ran it down our throats). Davis is good but he is a back up. Davis is not nearly as good against the run…he gets mowed over. When Davis enters the game he is fresher and going against linemen who are fatigued. The Falcons slow procees with Jamal is perfect. Last season Jamal played mostly DE but they used him some times in the interior line. This will continue next year. Last year he showed flashes of very good football. So he will get one more chance to see if this staff can elevate him to the next level.

By bigeasy830

February 14, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this

By Najeh Davenpoop, I understand your point of view of why trade for MV7 if the Falcons are going to cut him, but why hope to get him in a bidding war if you can have the rights to his contract. There is no rookie salary cap so a first round QB or the #1 pick at QB will get around 30-35 million dollar signing bonus and more money than Vick is owed on his current deal. So actually if Detroit or any team in the top 10 get Vick they are acutually getting a proven winner at a discount. You never know what you will get from those Rookies. I am happy the Falcons are trading him or cut him which ever one they choose to do. I will watch his games on the NFL network. I would not cheer for the Falcons if my Grand Daddy played QB for them. So good luck to MV7 and whatever team he happen to go to. To the Falcons, the 08 season is over, back to life, back to reality to a team that has never had back to back winning seasons and a QB that showed his true colors the last 4 games of the season. Plus, a much tougher schedule than the soft a cotton candy schedule that the NFC south played in 08. That is why both play-off teams from the NFC south was one and done. No more than 5 wins in 09 for you chumps. Then in 2010 you will be sreaming, we need a QB….hahahahahaha

Fresh for 2009, You Suckers!!!!!!!!!

By TheManMike

February 14, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this

BigEasy

TD and Smitty and the new office are smart. This decision to announce this now, there’s obviously some thought behind it. Is cutting him the only option? - hmmm…..I think they would know a little better than a Saints fan still hurting from being last in the division last year. That never feels good, does it?

By bigeasy830

February 14, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

By TheManMike, I am not a Saints fan. I was born and raised in South Ga. My blog name have nothing to do with the Saints, even though New Orleans is one of my favorite cities, even before they built the casinos. Most figured after they drafted Matt Ryan that MV7 was done and then after the 11-5 record it was a done deal. So announcing it is just a formality. Why do so many believe that MV7 will never play in the NFL, after all, Goodell reinstated Pac Man. The NFL is a business and MV7 generates millions of dollars for the league. Just because some card carrying PETA supporters don’t like it, many football fans want to see the best athlete on the field. I think the Jets will make a run for him,they have to. They have a new stadium opening up in a couple of years and say what you want to about Favre, with him as QB it showed that the Jets are very close to being a contender. With Thomas Jones at RB and Coles at Receiver they have some very nice pieces and they have a decent line, but they need the QB. Vick would be a great fit also the Vikings and a few others are very close. Look at what Randall Cunningham did when he returned to the league after being out for a couple of years, he took that 98 Vikings team to 15-1 and the NFC championship game that if the kicker who had not missed a field goal all year would have made that kick the Falcons would not have made their one and only Super Bowl. So, to those who think there is no interest for MV7 in the League, keep listening to the bias media. those teams don’t want to tip there hands, But Vick is the best QB available and can be got for a disount. Blank paid most of the money. It is kinda like that Mike Hampton deal with the Braves a few years back, the Rockies had payed most of the money for that huge contract. I say a second or 3rd round pick gets it done. Maybe the jets give up that 17th pick, who knows we will see. Also By TheManMike, it is time to start getting ready for the draft, the combine is around the corner. Why would they not announce it now.

Fresh for 2009, You Suckers!!!!!!!

By Ken Strickland

February 14, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

TED STRIKER-good points. Isn’t it funny how one Detroit franchise, the Pistons, are expertly run, while the Lions have been a joke. While it’s true Matt Millan was a total incompetent as their GM, Detroit was a mess long before he arrived. In fact, the only thing the Lions have been known for, besides being perennial losers, is their past tradition of playing the Packers on Thanksgiving day.

With the return of DT Trey Lewis, will GJackson be offered a contract? If so, will he accept the fact he will likely be a backup to Lewis. At 323lbs, Lewis is a wide body, like Jackson. The difference is he’s younger, has more stamina, quickness, speed, lateral movement, and pass rushing ability. TLewis would definitely be an upgrade over GJackson. If we ue FA to sign a pass catching TE, we’ll draft a DT with one of our 1st 2 picks. I think DT Jerry of Ole Miss would be a better fit than DT Boston college’s Raji. Like Raji, Jerry dominated the line of scrimmage, but he produced better overall stats. He accomplished all of this playing in a superior conference, the SEC, while recovering from in season surgery and missing only one gm.

Placing a DT like Jerry next to TLewis could turn our DL into a dominate force, especially if DE’s KBeirmann and JAnderson progress to the next level. I’d also like to see us pursue a trade for Oaklands CB NAsomugha. Offering them CB CHouston, and a future pick or two, should get the trade done. Having that kind of talent opposite Hanesworth would allow us to play a lot more man DEF. That would also allow us to use our SS, or a LB, as an additional pass rusher.

By YO

February 14, 2009 3:42 PM | Link to this

More than half of what big Easy has posted on this blog is wrong….like Redman being the best qb on the Falcon roster hahahahahahahahhaahhaha

or te Falcons losing 12 in a row hahahahhaha

By country boy

February 14, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

Concerning Stafford… why am I too often reminded of Jeff George ????

By JJatl

February 14, 2009 6:45 PM | Link to this

Hey BIGEASY830 - After you predicted 2-14 last year (11-4 with out your super hero), we should do really well next year now that you predict 5 wins! Great Insight!!!

Fresh for 2009, YOU SUCKER!!! lol

By Truth or Consequences

February 14, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this

I see where BigEasy830 and VS2 have returned to continue their joint venture in exploring the bathos of insipidity. Once again I have tried to see things from their point of view, but try as I may, I am unable to get my head that far up my arse.

By Ken Strickland

February 14, 2009 10:37 PM | Link to this

TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES-with these 2 clowns, it’s not a matter of them having their heads up their anus’, because the truth is, their Anus’ and their heads are one in the same. This VS2 clown is extremely narrowly focused and repeatedly posts the same crap, in the same manner, for the same childish purpose. Only a childlike mentality could spend an entire football seaon, and find so much joy out of such a childish endeavor.

As far as this BIG EASY is concerned, his comments speaks volumns. Is it possible to measure the sheer IGNORANCE and STUPIDITY of an individual that predicts a team will go 2-12, and the team goes 11-5 and makes the playoffs, and he predicts only 5 victories the next yr, without any explanation? IF IGNORANCE AND STUPIDITY WERE BUILDINGS, THESE TWO CLOWNS WOULD BE CONDEMNED.

Based on what I’ve read, it looks like neither Brooking and Boley will be resigned unless they accept serious paycuts, or accept contracts ladened with performance incentives. MGT seems more interested in resigning Brooking than Boley. Wouldn’t it be something if Demitroff and Smith decided that drafting a playmaking LB with our 1st pick would benefit the DEF more than drafting a DT? After all, DT JBabineaux didn’t do badly last yr, and having a more athletic DT like TLewis playing next to him would benefit the play of the overall interior DEF. It’s nice to know this draft is deepest at the positions the Falcons need to address, TE, DT, SS and OLB.

By darrell starks

February 14, 2009 11:09 PM | Link to this

Stafford entering the NFL combine will automatic MAKE HIM the number one DRAFT PICK JUST ON ARM STRENGTH alone. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!

By darrell starks

February 15, 2009 12:38 AM | Link to this

If the falcons doesnt decide to go after haynesworth and not spend to much MONEY I WOULD LIKE TO SEE DAUNTA ROBINSON CB FROM HOUSTON TEXAS IN A FALCON UNIFORM and use the 1pick on LB LAURINAITIS OF OHIO STATE OR LB CUSHING USC 2PICK CB OR SAFETY SEAN SMITH FROM UTAH BUT I WILL play him at safety with coleman he will be a beast in the NFL 3pick DT DORELL SCOTT FROM CLEMSON TIGER. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Dirty Bird in Dallas

February 15, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this

Hey Orlando, I know the Birds aren’t looking too hard at receivers, but give us some scoop on Derrick Williams from Penn St. He is family and it would be good to have an opinion to read about from a familiar journalist as yourself. If you talk with him, tell him his cousin’s (initials MW & BW)are wishing him well!

Make sure to check out Nicky Blaine’s while you’re in Nap Town too.

Keep up the great work!!

By "Uncle Tom K Strickland"

February 15, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this

I know everything - you know nothing. I was allowed to stay in the house, therefore I am a good “boy”. Therefore I am stupid. I make all these long observations but really have my head up my butt.

Remember that first prediction the first time we faced Tampa? Boy did we shut those guys down :)

I am a worthless excuse of my father’s sperm :)

By Joe Flacco

February 15, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this

Should have drafted me fools. Now with all that guaranteed money on your boy Ryan and the 15-million cap hit on Vick, you will not be making any free agent upgrades.

Did you like watching me deep in the playoffs :) But there is good news…..2009 season brings you the 4th toughest in the league.

When the teams spend the whole summer watching Ryan film, looks like a long season and with no Vick on the team - good luck boys :)

By ray

February 15, 2009 8:02 PM | Link to this

D. Led,

Isn’t it fun to look back at who’s posting to your blog, and see the same IP address for someone who posts regularly (like VS2 or bigeasy), then posts under another name (like Uncle Tom K Strickland)? What’s funniest about it is that they can post a different Email address, but they IP address tells the truth…not that VS2 or bigeasy would do anything remotely like that, the upstanding citizens and Falcon fans that they are….

I think Stafford should definitely work out. But if he doesn’t, oh well. Some team will take a shot at him, no doubt. It may not be the one he’s hoping for though. As long as he doesn’t pull the crap that Eli Manning and his dad did when he got drafted. That was downright shameful.

The fact that Dimitroff and Co. are planning to trade Vick’s contract pretty much tells you that he will be reinstated to the NFL. It’s not a guarantee, mind you. But it’s likely.

And he should be a help to any team that gets him. Having said that, chemistry is everything. There is no guarantee that adding Vick to your roster makes you an instant contender. If that were the case, then we should have won and made the playoffs every year he was here and reasonably healthy. Sorry, but no one man wins in football. No matter how great he is.

Any team that wants Vick has to have a plan to either integrate him into their present plan of attack, or change their present plan to fit him. You can’t just plop him in there and expect him to save the day all by himself. Coordinators and their defenses eventually figure things out, as they did when he played here. That, and even supreme talent cannot overcome extreme idiocy for long. Which is why I’d hate for Vick to get stuck in Seattle with Moron and Nap Attack. Wherever he goes, I wish him well.

I don’t see him going to a division rival, though. Rarely do you see a move like that made. One more thing about Vick: it will be interesting to see if he still has that speed and elusiveness that he’s known for. Being away from the game for two years couldn’t have helped. I’m sure he’s still got some of it. But he’ll need more than that to make it. Ask Warren Moon and Randall Cunningham, two runners/scramblers of the past. Or Steve Young…that fella could run too.

By Ken Strickland

February 15, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

RAY-excellent observations. Have you noticed how those who anonomously post under someone else’s name always have something negative to say about those of us who contribute regularly, but never contribute anything themselves. THE ONLY PERSONS THAT WOULD COMPLAIN ABOUT THOSE WHO APPEAR TO THEM TO KNOW SO MUCH, ARE THE IDIOTS THAT KNOW SO LITTLE. EVEN AN IDIOT WOULD PREFER TO BE THE ONE BEING CRITICIZED FOR KNOWING TOO MUCH THAN THE ONE SHOWING THE DEPTHS OF HIS STUPIDITY BY DOING THE CRITICIZING. WHOEVER YOU ARE, REMEMBER, IGNORANCE AND STUPIDITY ARE VOLUNTARY CONDITIONS.

I’ve been under the impression our braintrust wanted a more athletic playmaking DT that could rush the passer. After reading an AJC article, I understand what they may be after. I thought TLewis would be used to replace GJackson at nose tackle, but the DT we draft would fill that position. TLewis would fill the other DT spot. A DT tandum of Raji(6’3” 340lb) and Lewis(6’ 3” 323lb) would be formidable indeed. If DE JAnderson doesn’t excel during this yrs training camp, he will likely be replaced by CDavis, who outperformed him overall in far less playing time. I’m really interested in seeing the reports on this kid from little known Stillman college in Tuscaloosa, AL. He could end up being another obscure small college find like GJackson(Knoxville college), or TLewis(Washurn college).

By ray

February 16, 2009 9:45 AM | Link to this

Ken,

I see your point. What perked my ears up is when Dimitroff said they couldn’t wait to see Lewis healthy again. A tandem of him and Raji would be devastating, I think. And you are absolutely right: if Jamal Anderson doesn’t begin to justify his draft status soon, Chauncey Davis is the man to replace him. I’d rather they keep Davis as insurance anyhow.

Either way, I’m not very worried about what happens. Dimitroff, Smith, and crew seem to really know what they’re doing, and aren’t afraid to make tough decisions. Personally, I expect to see a significantly stronger defensive unit next season. Don’t know exactly what it will look like, but I’m betting they won’t be the same unit other teams are used to seeing. It all starts with the front 4. Dimitroff will get what he wants, whether it’s a Raji, Haynesworth, Perry, or otherwise.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 16, 2009 10:27 AM | Link to this

MV7 ON TRADE BLOCK

MV7 PLAYING FOR ANOTHER TEAM

ONLY WAY HE CAN START

THANK GOODNESS HE DOESN’T HAVE TO COMPETE WITH MATT RYAN

CUZ WE ALL KNOW HOW THAT WOULD END :)

NO SNAPS FROM CENTER SINCE 2006 AND COUNTING

By bigeasy830

February 16, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

I think that in order for me to enjoy watching the Falcons in ‘09, I need to stay off of VS2’s dk. I haven’t posted in so long, but the second I saw VS2’s post, I started the band up again. I go back and forth with how I feel depending on who I talk with. If it’s a Falcons fan then I say Matt Ryan is the best QB for the Falcons. If VS2 is bloging then Matt Ryan sucks and the Falcons will win no more than 5 gms next season. I predict that in ‘09 my mouth will be balls free.

Fresh for 2009, I’m done sucking!

By MountainDawg

February 16, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure about Stafford’s combine participation. I don’t think he absolutely “has” to, but it show some work ethic/commitment (to GMs) if he did.

Physically, Stafford needs to drop his weight to 220-225 (max) & cut his bodyfat %. In addition, work on improving speed & strength (via plyometrics, etc.). To improve QB play, he needs to fine-tune his passing accuracy & thoroughly study the playbook (be it the Lions or whichever team drafts him) & dedicate himself to studying NFL defensives, so he can improve his reads & adjustments. No doubt he has the talent (arm, etc.) & potential to be a big time NFL QB.

By hu??

February 16, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

Why are you mentioning Antonio Smith as a possible free agent at defensive tackle in your story on defensive lines? He is a defensive end…6’4 285. Dockett and Robibson are the tackles.

By Rod

February 16, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this

Orlando is the AJC NFL reporter - and he DOESN’T HAVE THE NFL NETWORK???

It’s amatuer hour again! If you want to be the NFL reporter, you need access to NFL information, duh!!

Yeah, I’m a stockbroker but I don’t have access to trade stocks. Makes sense.

By Ken Strickland

February 16, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this

RAY-I wouldn’t be surprised if Dimitroff didn’t try to steal a DT, like the kid from Stillman college, in the 2nd rd. With the pressure we can bring off the edges with DE’s JAbraham and either CDavis or a much improved JAnderson, all we need is a pair of DT’s that can hold the line of scrimmage against the run. In passing situations, all our DT’s need to do is collapse the pocket enough so the QB can’t step up, like they’re trained to do to escape outside pressure.

With that kind of DL play, our LB’s would have more time to read before reacting, which would make us less vulnerable to playaction. We all know how much Smith favors strong DT play, based on his success using that approach as the former DC with the JAGS.

We sll saw how quickly HC Smith and GM Dimitroff used FA, the draft, and good coaching to make a bottom of the pack OFF into a force. Don’t be surprised to see them duplicate those results with this yrs DEF. We can save a lot of money and cap space by signing a FA TE, instead of a FA DT. Then use our next 3 picks to draft the DT, SS, LB we need, bui not necessarily in that order. The Falcons, along with a number of other teams, have been very successful getting quality LB’s in the lower rds.

The 08 Falcons won 11 gms despite all of the changes, question marks and uncertainty going into the season. But, by mid season, most of those question marks and uncertainty were answered. The Falcons will start the 09 season playing at a level that will at least be equal to, if not exceed, the level they achieved the 2nd half of last yr. We could very easily go from an NFL joke, like we were in 07, to a Superbowl contender, and possible participant, in 09. LIKE YOU SAID RAY, I TOO HAVE COMPLETE CONFIDENCE IN SMITH AND DIMITROFF, AND THEIR ABILITY TO GET THE JOB DONE.

By Schedule Strength

February 16, 2009 12:44 PM | Link to this

15-million cap hit & 4th toughest schedule

HAVE A GREAT SEASON :)

By Schedule Strength

February 16, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/12/29/09-opponents.ap/1.html

enjoy :)

By ray

February 16, 2009 12:55 PM | Link to this

15-million cap hit & 4th toughest schedule

HAVE A GREAT SEASON :)

We will, thanks!

By bigeasy830

February 16, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

It’s not the number of post but the quality that matters. I was the first to post about Joe Flacco, I was the first to post that Matt Ryan has a weak arm and I still stand by that. Unlike VS2 I do not equate Matt Ryan with Ryan Leaf. Ryan Leaf had all the physical tools but did not have the heart or discipline to be a successful NFL QB, like Vince Young ( A former ROY). I equate Matt Ryan with Danny Werfull, all the intangibles but no arm. Before you start screaming about the 11-5 record against a weak schedule, look closely at his performance in the last 4 games. If the Falcons go 8-8 next year and Matt Ryan matches his performance in 2008, I will stay off your blogs, because simply I use to be a Falcon fan, I am not anymore, but until then, My opinion is Matt Ryan and the Falcons will suck. Falcons fans Suck, they are happy with a team that goes to the play-offs every 3 or 4 years and now all swear they predicted the Falcons were play-off contenders before the season started, LIARS. The schedule next year will be brutal. The Falcons better improve their defense and they better make changes to that college offense they ran last year. The other teams have seen enough and started to shut it down at the end of last season. Your QB better work on his arm, those DBs were waiting for those soft throws at the end of last season. Don’t equate me with VS2 he stole most of his material from me. I actually gave credit to the Falcons for a job well done last season. But most of the credit should go the the coaching staff and Michael Turner not Matt Ryan. I still say Redmand could have done just as good or better than Ryan last season, that is my opinion. The Falcons made the play-offs inspite of Matt Ryans performance those last 3 games not because of it. Michael Turner carried them into the play-offs, but even he could not bail them out from Ryans mistakes in the play-offs. But anyway it’s the NFL, all of this will be settled on the field, the season will be upon as before we know it. But until then, the dream 2008 season is over.

Fresh for 2009, YOU SUCKERS!!!!!!!

Falcons, The NEXT CLEVELAN BROWNS OF 2009

Free Mike Vick

HOLLA IF YOU HEAR ME, SAY AMEN IF YOU FEEL ME!

By bigeasy830

February 16, 2009 3:59 PM | Link to this

What I fail to realize is that while my posts usually sound informative, they’re basically just full of crap. Matt Ryan, a fresh out of college rookie QB in the NFL, ran a fresh out of college offense that he only ran for one year at BC against what was supposed to be the best of the best in the NFL. So let me get this straight, a rookie QB comes into the NFL and runs a college offense and wins ROY playing against NFL defenses. A rookie QB in college offense playing against NFL defenses and he wins ROY. Sure one could say the Falcons played a weak schedule, but isn’t that the same schedule I predicted the Falcons would go 2-14 against? Especially if Matt Ryan is starting QB. They went 11-5 and made the playoffs and I say they suck. Imagine if they had gone 5-11, what would I say then? That they suck? Again, read my opening sentence of this post!

My prediction for 2009!!!!!!!!!!

bigeasy830, my mouth will be balls free in 2009

HOLLA IF YOU HEAR ME, SAY AMEN IF YOU FEEL ME!

By Artie Blank

February 16, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

Where would I like to see Mike Vick go? Straight to hell, right where he belongs.

By Truth or Consequences

February 16, 2009 4:14 PM | Link to this

Bigeasy830 I’d like to leave you with one thought, but I’m not sure you have anywhere to put it!

By ray

February 16, 2009 4:31 PM | Link to this

The schedule will be tougher, no doubt.

I wouldn’t worry. Do people think Ryan’s arm is the weakest in the NFL or something? There are other guys who can throw no harder. I saw him fling some down field that didn’t look weak at all. And I saw a guy who is a good learner. He does not repeat his mistakes very often. I also saw a rookie QB who made some rookie mistakes. This happens, as it does to all rookies. Playing against NFL defenses after playing against college defenses is different (duh).

Turner definitely helped the situation, but why is this a surprise? Why do people insist on talking about him “bailing” Ryan out, when Dimitroff and Smith established the FACT that they intended to RUN the ball. Run, run, run. That was announced before the draft, and before Turner was acquired. So the argument that Turner carried the Falcons, while Ryan failed them, is a straw man argument at best. That was the intention from the start. Turns out that Ryan was better than advertised sooner. The idea of Redman playing just as well is flat out strange. If that’s the case, then why didn’t he start….a single game? Hmmmmm.

I have every reason to believe that our defense will be much improved. Why? Dimitroff is driven, determined, and smart. Everything Rich McKay was supposed to be. Okay, a couple of other reasons: Blank will spend the money, and Mike Smith and his staff will demand no less from this team.

I find it interesting that so many people want to say that Atlanta will falter during a “true” test next season, and they link that to Ryan. Enter former NFL quarterback great Steve Young, who rarely doles out praise for quarterbacks, and the guy just gushes about Ryan. Hmmmmm. I wonder what he sees that us armchair geniuses can’t.

The Falcons will again establish the run. The defense will be better. And so will Ryan. It will all come together. I believe it, tough schedule or not. I don’t know if we’ll go 11-5 again, or better. Or maybe not as good. But I expect to see a winning team on that field. And it helps that the organization sees it that way, from top to bottom. I don’t see this as an organization that is happy with winning once every 3 or 4 years. I see this as a totally different situation altogether.

By VICK SUPPORTER 2

February 16, 2009 6:14 PM | Link to this

A ROOKIE QB

RUNS A COLLEGE OFFENSE

AGAINST NFL DEFENSES

AND WINS ROY

AGAIN

A ROOKIE QB

RUNS COLLEGE OFFENSE

AGAINST NFL DEFENSES

AND WINS ROY

LOVIN IT!! :)

IMAGINE IF HE RAN A PRO STYLE OFFENSE

SCARY TO THINK

By Ken Strickland

February 16, 2009 6:31 PM | Link to this

BIGEASY-If arm strength is the attribute that determines a QB’s ability, then we need to remove QB’s Ken Stabler, Joe Montana, Fran Tarkenton, Bart Starr and Len Dawson from the record books and/or HOF.

MRyan, with weak arm and all, had 434 pass attempts to Flacco’s 428, an 87.7 RATING to Flacco’s 80.3 and 3440 total passing yds to Flacco’s 2971yds. He threw 16TD’s with 11INT’s to Flacco’s 12TD’s with 12INT’s and he had a completion percentage of 61% to Flacco’s 60%. TELL ME, WHAT WERE THE ADVANTAGES OF FLACCO’S STRONGER ARM, AND HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN THE SUPERIOR STATISTICS AND OVERALL PERFORMANCE, IN EVERY PASSING CATEGORY, OF A SO CALLED WEAK ARMED MRYAN OVER YOUR STRONG ARMED FLACCO?

Flacco came into a winning organization with an established OFF/DEF and coaching staff, and MRyan came into a situation that was the complete opposite. Yet, he excelled and took the NFL’s most disorganized, fractured and embarrassed franchise to a 11-5 record and the playoffs, despite his so called weak arm. I also made an issue of Flacco possibly being a better choice than Ryan because of his superior arm strength. But, like Falcons GM Dimitroff and HC Smith, I now realize that poise, maturity and accuracy were more important to this team and it’s OFF, than arm strength. You suggested we look at MRyan’s preformance over his last 4gms. Even if his performance was below par, it didn’t stop him from outperforming Flacco in every category, for the season.

ONE THING IS CERTAIN. MRYAN’S ARM IS A WHOLE LOT STRONGER THAN YOUR JUDGEMENT, AMONG OTHER THINGS. DO YOU REMEMBER THAT ESPN COMMERCIAL WHERE THE GUY WHO DIDN’T LISTEN TO ESPN APPEARED TO BE TALKING OUT OF HIS ANUS? WELL, BIGEASY830, THAT GUY APPEARS TO BE YOU.

By Truth or Consequences

February 16, 2009 7:00 PM | Link to this

VS 2/BE830 Both of you are free to disagree with all of us but please don’t stop thinking entirely.

By falcon21

February 16, 2009 7:23 PM | Link to this

Bigeasy. one more time. Why are you not fan of the Falcons anymore? A true fan will stick by his team no matter what. AB stood by Vick until Vick made him look like an idiot. So why look at Vick as a hero? He was a fool, he may have changed by now. AB gave him every chance in the world and Vick screwed it up. So don’t blame AB or the Falcons, it was Vicks choice.

By JJatl

February 16, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

Attn: Ken, Ray & other TRUE falcons fans - I really enjoy you guys( ya’ll) football knowledge and how/where do you find these college guys your recommending? Would love to research myself with out paying to be an insider. Can you guys recommend a good free site? Everyone talks about haynesworth, peppers and raji? Do not think Dimitrif will go with the first 2 FA (too expensive, not the new england way) and this raji guy will be long gone. But the others, I never heard of them and would love maybee a top 5 for de, dt, lb and te. Then I (and other f.fans) can research them and help (or at least be intelligent) in future blogs. I would ask DLED but he has abandon this blog for some time now, except for a quicky. We have blogs going for weeks and weeks with out change/new info from the ajc columnist!!! Our spring training reporting in 2008 was pathetic, pathetic! Not pointing you out DLED, just ajc in general!Thanks in advance, fresh for 2009, cannot wait till the draft!!! Barry - luv ur emotional blogs but wait till sept. for the one heartbeat thing!!! Go falcons - vs2, bigidiot830 and michael - wish you the best in the nfl and hope you get to play this year (you’ve paid your price and we all deserve 2nd chances)- just not in our division! Your blogging buddies would never shut up if you do!!!lol Life is short guys, enjoy it and lets try to get along! Peace!

By JJatl

February 16, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention : falcon21, truth and consequences and I remember some blogger earlier in the season named charles or original charles. I didnt mention crabapple because you seam to be brookings press agent and jean - the same with fannigan? (wr, mispelled-dont get p** jean - i like him, hope we keep him)! GO FALCONS!!!

By Ken Strickland

February 16, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this

FALCON21-you can’t place all of the blame for the demise of the Falcons over the last few yrs. Owner ABlank made some poor personnel choices, like thinking McKay, not TRuskell, was the brains behind the Bucs, and hiring him as GM. He made the decision to hire one flake as HC in Jmora, and followed McKays advice and hired another flake as HC in BPetrino. Try as you might, you can’t blame Vick for Petrino abandonment of the Falcons during the season to accept the HC job as Arkansas.

You can’t blame Vick for those moves, or the fact that both HC’s were total incompetents. Mora, not Vick, hired GKnapp, another incompetent, as OC. After TRuskell, the true talent that McKay got credit for, left for Seattle, McKay was exposed. Vick wasn’t responsible for that either.

There’s a lot of blame to go around and a lot of different people to blame. MVick was just one of many.

By falcon21

February 16, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

I am not blamimg Vick for all the moves the front office made. I am blaming Vick for where Vick is now. He made that choice. Me,you,Ab nor the falcons and other fans had anything to do with it. No one but Vick. Yeah Vick was a talent and AB made mistakes as a new owner but Vick is where Vick is because of Vick. And i am not being a smart a$$, I respect all you true fans. It is just what I think.

By JJatl

February 16, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, thanks form ignoring my post!

By falcon21

February 16, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this

Hey JJatl, you are cool man. Keepum coming.

By JJatl

February 16, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this

falcon21: top 3-5 de top 3-5 dt top 3-5 lb can i research them on youtube if i have their name? thanks, jeff or jjatl

By falcon21

February 16, 2009 10:32 PM | Link to this

No Jeff, not gonna happen. But Ken will let us know. He has football knowledge. I am not on his level or several other bloggers level. But I try too make my point and more times than not I get blasted. And it’s my fault but who gives a dang, it’s fun!!!

By JJatl

February 16, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

thanks 21, isn’t that dominiques AND prime times’ number? I just dont follow college football and some of our fellow falcon fans know so much!

After researching this blog and espns (pats), I agree with interior def line first, then lb, then de,then dbackfield. I cannot give any names. I went to ga. state (go concrete campus) back in early 90’s. I follow uga and gt, but not religiously.

Mike n’mike in am, espn pat (south nfc) chats and the fish wrapper (ajc) are my daily sports nutrition, besides this blog when I can stomach the vs2 & bigidiot830-no disrespect! peace

By darrell starks

February 16, 2009 11:29 PM | Link to this

WHY do we continue to talk about vick thats in the past SO LETS MOVE ON.DONT GET ME WRONG VICK WAS my favorite player BUT THE SOW MUST GO ON. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Schedule Strength

February 17, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

Which teams do we beat in 2009?

@CAROLINA

@NEW ORLEANS

@TAMPA

@DALLAS

@GIANTS

@NEW ENGLAND

@JETS

@SAN FRANCISCO

vs CAROLINA

vs NEW ORLEANS

vs TAMPA

vs PHILLY

vs WASHINGTON

vs CHICAGO

vs BUFFALO

vs MIAMI

(All had winning records except sf/no)

By falcon21

February 17, 2009 5:14 PM | Link to this

Based on last seasons team only without upgrades I would say 6-2 at home losing to Philly and Miami. 3-5 on the road losing to Carolina, NO, Dallas, Giants, and New England.

By tyger

February 17, 2009 5:25 PM | Link to this

Falcoons 2009 Easy Button Update

1.24 Jerry Peria, 6’2, 290, Ole Miss, DL, Playmaking pocket pusher with above average speed and motor.

2.47 Clint Stintim, 6’3, 254, Va., DE/OLB, another high-end edge defender gives us options, depth and young legs on either side.

3.73 Nic Harris, 6’2, 233, Okla, SS/Robber adds another young striker and former teammate of Chris Lofton.

4.98 Dominique Johnson, 6’1, 192, JSU, CB, HBCU stud; 4.3 speed and big play ability.

5.112 Fenuki Tupou, 6’6 325, Oregon, OL, Road-grader, Another Pac-10 product to bookend or provide depth behind Sam Baker.

5.122. Brandon Jennings, 6’5, 245, Tx. Tech, DE/OLB; undersized playmaker; good metrics and production; 13 sacks 2008; very young.

6.145 Jackie Bates, 5’11, 185, Hampton, CB, another HBCU flyer clocking in at 4.39; adds sizzle to secondary.

Plus, Chauncey Davis, Jon Babineaux, DT, DE, Stephen Nichols, OLB, Trey Lewis, DT, David Irons, CB and Kroy Bierman, DE, Thomas Decoud, SS; all still in the mix and ready to play.

By JJatl

February 17, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this

Thanks tyger, all easy buttons are appreciated!

By ray

February 17, 2009 8:19 PM | Link to this

JJatl,

Sorry, didn’t mean to ignore you. I’ve been looking all over the place for different information. Tyger pointed out an easy button, as you saw. I’ve also looked at NFL.com, and different NFL draft sites, as well as college sites. Get those names to you later, or you can just google 2009 NFL draft, 2009 NCAA football prospects, etc. Lots of things work, and you don’t have to be an ESPN insider (it’s rarely worth it).

Hang around. Anybody who wants to talk football (and more specifically Falcons football) is appreciated.

By Phillip

February 17, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this

Ledbetter,

you are the Atlanta Falcons NFL beatwriter and you don’t have the NFL Network? That is unbeliveable! The AJC should pay the upgrade on the cable bill for you to watch every night. I would think that would be part of your daily routine. C’mon Daryl!

By falcon21

February 17, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

Just got back, thought I would get slammed for my 5:14 post.I guess you guys do have a heart. Just kidding, what do you think about next seasons schedule with last seasons talent?

By The Grinch

February 17, 2009 10:42 PM | Link to this

Ryan does not have a weak arm. It isn’t a “rocket” arm, but it isn’t weak. He puts a little air under the deep throws, but HE’S SUPPOSED TO. It’s a rare example of a rookie doing what he’s taught. He also throws well on the run, and has made some sharp throws across his body, which he couldn’t do if he was weak. We may not go 11-5 again next season but it won’t be because of Matt’s arm. That sked is absolutely brutal. Hopefully with a new TE and improved D we can at least go 9-7 or 10-6 and get that back-to-back monkey removed. I have great faith in this organization to keep us in contention from here on out.

Agreed with all the Ruskell/McKay comments, but McKay’s still a good man to have around because of his committee position. He just doesn’t need to be in charge of personnel.

In case J. Anderson doesn’t improve this year, anyone know what kind of cap hit we’d take if we cut him in the off-season? He’s a nice guy, but he’s obviously overmatched. Given Dimitroff’s businesslike approach, I can’t see him continuing to get paid top 8 money and backing up Chauncy Davis.

By The Grinch

February 17, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

One major advantage the Falcons have is coaching continuity. With all the turnover in staffs going on around the league, having the same core group will benefit us greatly. Having everyone on the same page is greatly underrated. It’s the reason we went to the playoffs and Dallas stayed home despite much greater talent.

By live and let live

February 18, 2009 12:04 AM | Link to this

There are 2 things that I would like to comment on, one the Falcons and two Mike Vick. I do not believe that the two will ever be one and the same again. I cannot see how this would ever happen and be a good thing for either. The Falcons have evolved into a formidable team over the past year and I believe they will continue to do so. They do have a tough schedule next year but isn’t that how you become a good team, by the beating other good teams? We may not win as many games as this year, but who knows for sure? If we can hold our own against the best teams isn’t that what good teams do? I say let’s field the best team we can and let the results speak for themselves. As for Mike Vick, I do not believe that he can ever play for us again, so let him go play and be the best that he can somewhere else. He paid his due to society if the courts agree, and I for one say let’s live and let live. Vick brought some of the most exciting play to the Falcons that I have ever seen for any team and cannot believe others did not see the same. I will never forget what he brought to this team and I think no one else who is a true Falcons fan will either. We as a society believe that people who break laws should be punished, we also believe that once the punishment is served they should be free to live their lives again, maybe we should give Micheal that chance.

By Ken Strickland

February 18, 2009 4:17 PM | Link to this

In 08 the Falcons started the season with a new GM, coaching staff, rookie QB and LT, a new RG, TE and RB. We still managed to overcame all of that to become one of the NFL’s strongest OFF’s. In 09 we’ll start the season with none of that hanging over our heads, and there will be at least one upgrade at TE.

On DEF, we will upgrade our DL, especially at DT and LDE, OLB and SS. DE JAnderson will not be waved. He’ll either be traded or used as a swingman in the DE and DT rotations. The amount of money we’re paying won’t matter, if he continues to have trouble outperforming his backup during training camp. With this coaching staff, a players status is determined by performance/production, not salary.

We defeated 3 playoff teams, 2 teams with winning records, that didn’t make the playoffs, and 2 teams with 500 records. Our losses to Philly(a playoff team) and Denver(a 500 team) were last min losses. Our schedule will be stronger, no question, but so will we. Our OFF, which was one of the NFL’s best overall, will be much improved based on familiarity alone, and you can bet our DEF will be very much improved. WHY WOULD ANYONE THINK WE’LL HAVE DIFFICULTY DEFEATING TEAMS WITH WINNING RECORDS NEXT YR WHEN WE DID IT LAST YR? THE ARIZONA CARDINALS ALMOST WON LAST YRS SUPERBOWL BY WINNIMG GMS AGAINST TEAMS WITH WINNING RECORDS. AND DON’T ANY OF YOU LIE AND SAY YOU SAW THAT COMING. Next yrs schedule won’t determine the outcome of our season. The outcome will be determined by how well our improved OFF/DEF plays against the teams on next yrs schedule, regardless of their records.

GRINCH-it appears ABlank agreed with your assessment of McKay, since he retained him, but in a different capacity.

FALCON21-I totally agree with your last response on MVick.

By Son

March 22, 2009 6:59 AM | Link to this

Hello everyone. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. I am from Estonia and , too, and now am writing in English, please tell me right I wrote the following sentence: “To london is a reasonable on american airlines mdash; until you add taxes, fees and fuel surcharges.”

Regards :p Son.