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Home > Jeff Schultz > Archives > 2008 > April > 23 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFalcons should ignore Ryan temptation
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Given that people like Thomas Dimitroff can hear terms like “waist-bender” and “hips-and-turns” and realize its only two scouts talking about football and not, like, tryouts at the Cheetah, far be it for me to dictate what he should do in the NFL draft this weekend.
(Except maybe the obvious: Stay the heck out of Blacksburg.)
But there is growing speculation that Glenn Dorsey, the LSU defensive tackle, is not going to be there when the Falcons pick third Saturday. Miami already has signed offensive tackle Jake Long with the No. 1 pick and perceived concerns that Dorsey will go second overall to St. Louis are complicated by the fact the Rams are run by former Falcons personnel assistant Billy Devaney, which means the usual pre-draft disinformation campaign has even more arms and legs than usual.
No Dorsey would leave the Falcons with two choices: 1) Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan; 2) Anybody else.
Just a thought: Anybody else is looking pretty good and, at the least, a whole lot safer.
Ryan may seem like the easy choice. He’s the tall, good-looking, strong-armed, quarterback a franchise loves to throw its marketing arms around. If the Falcons are now like a stained dress shirt, Arthur Blank must look at Ryan and think, “Eureka! Spray and Wash!”
The problem is that the Falcons have so many problems other than quarterback — and if they make a mistake at quarterback with the third pick in the draft, it will set them back several more years, which, given their current state, would be about 12 B.C.
Ryan has been a terrific college quarterback. But think about it: Is he any more highly regarded now than David Carr, Ryan Leaf, Rick Mirer, David Klingler, Akili Smith, Joey Harrington, Andre Ware, Tim Couch, Alex Smith, Heath Shuler, Kerry Collins, Cade McNown or Trent Dilfer were in the same time frame?
Ryan looked really good against Georgia Tech. He threw a lot of touchdown passes in the ACC.
Sorry. I need more.
NFL teams have a long inglorious history of overreaching at quarterback. The position is viewed as the quickest fix for a team deemed a pathetic mess. Fans get impatient. Sponsors don’t return calls. Owners get antsy. Media — well, we have our moments.
Dimitroff would do well to live by his own words when he first got here from New England. “I’m kind of a quarterback snob,” he said. His former team, the Patriots, took Tom Brady with the 199th pick.
If he is really that sold on Ryan as a franchise-changer, then he should take him. But given the backdrop, that seems unlikely. If Dorsey is gone, the Falcons would be better served using the pick on another defensive tackle (Sedrick Ellis) or trading down to pick one later.
Football hasn’t changed that much. Even if there are four receivers on one side of the ball and six defensive backs on the other, games still usually hinge on one team punching the other in the mouth.
The quickest way for the Falcons to get respectable and competing is by building the defense. A strong presence on the line inside would create more room for ends John Abraham and Jamaal Anderson (if we are to assume Jamaal Anderson will still have a career).
The advantage of the Falcons having so many early picks — six in the first three rounds — is there will be plenty of time to draft offensive linemen and a quarterback later (noteworthy: Brian Brohm will be available long after the third pick.)
New head coach Mike Smith was a defensive assistant in Jacksonville and Baltimore. He said he is trying to take a “more universal view” of the team and the draft now, given his new responsibilities.
“You have to change your mind-set,” he said.
But Smith’s mind-set with the Falcons still will be old school: tackle, block, run the ball. Spending the third overall pick on a quarterback who might be less than extraordinary seems a colossal risk.
If the Rams pass on Glenn Dorsey, the Falcons’ decision is easy. If they take Dorsey, it should be just as easy. Stay on that side of ball.
The stain will come out eventually.
Permalink | Comments (129) | Categories: Falcons/NFL
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By Bk Hawk
April 23, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
Agree, don’t take Ryan. Stay with Dorsey or Ellis, Chris Long, McKelvin and Brohm.
By Craig
April 23, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
The best option for the Birds is to get the first 11 picks over the next 3 years…
The Falcons need to select the best QB in the draft. Still not sure who that is…
By skeptic
April 23, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
I hope the Falcons are able to make some decisions in this draft that set them up for the long term, rather than something just for the ‘flash’. It sure would be a nice change!
By Jay Black
April 23, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
Rodgers-Cromartie………..
By HIGHPOWEREDOFFENSE
April 23, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
DORSEY! DORSEY! DORSEY! NUFF SAID!
By Dawg in AR
April 23, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Does anybody see the same moronic decisions that the Falcons continue to make as I do??? For the sake of media publicity, not results on the field, the Falcons stuck with Vick and they will most likely do by taking Ryan. They should have delt Vick to the Raiders a couple of years ago in order to draft Calvin Johnson and we would have had a stable QB in Matt Shaub. We continue to blow it by offering a second-string RB top money (Turner is good, but not that good), instead of taking the best talent in the draft - D Mac. This is why the Falcons have sucked for years (remember Aundray Bruce?). Can we not just put money in quality athletes and not in media hype???
By Brill
April 23, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
I like Chris Long or Dorsey. Defensive linemen make the quickest impact. Then start looking at O-Lineman and maybe Henne, or the kid from Delaware later on. I liked in the paper where it said Smith and Dmitroff where watching practice and said “we need more than 11 picks”
By Bojack
April 23, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
I believe for the first time in many years the Falcons Management will make the right decision. Mr. Dimitroff please don’t take Ryan.
By Brill
April 23, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
D Mac is awesome, however Falcon’s can’t even touch anyone with questionable off field issues right now. They have been thru a PR nightmare already…to state the obvious.
By DIRTYDIRTY
April 23, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
MAN I KNEW THE FALCONS IS GONE DO SOMTHING STUPID WIT THEY 3RD PICK!!!!!!!!!!!
By Craig E Fresh
April 23, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
AMEN. Please don’t waste number 3 on Ryan. He’s a great kid and talented, too; but NOT what the birds need. Linemen, linemen, linemen! Besides, the “Tom Brady” pick will be there in the second round-Joe Flacco. HE’S the pro quarterback the Falcons need. Big, strong and a lightning quick release. Here’s hoping they make the right pick for the first time in a long time.
By D.Bell
April 23, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
Darren McFadden is nothing but hype. Build a defense.
By J-Rod
April 23, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
Michael Vick has made cowards of Atlanta fans. You people are running from a high QB pick like a dog with its tail between its legs … running from Mike Vick.
Ryan should be the pick. He might be great. He might be a bust. But you can’t let fear of failure dictate what you do. Plenty of wide receivers (Charles Rogers) offensive tackles (Robert Gallery) and every other position imaginable can be a bust. The Falcons would be smart to take Ryan now, to let him learn from the bench for a year. That way, after all the rookies we draft at other positions this year have had a year to develop, and we get another batch in next year’s draft, Ryan will have had a year to grow and a better group of players around him.
And please, for crying out loud Jeff Schultz, stop making the Tom Brady with the 199th pick reference.
It was a fluke. If you want a great signal caller you’re much better off going for a Manning or Palmer type high in the draft.
Don’t listen to the cowards Dimitroff, take Ryan.
By paulie
April 23, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
I think if it was up to me, I’d go for Dorsey if he was there at 3 or Chris Long. If we got Long, I’d throw him into the DE mix (here we come, Jamaal) and see who ended up being our best LDE. I bet you Long would end up the year with at least 5 sacks.
By athenstiger
April 23, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
What does everyone see that is so bad about Matt Ryan. As a Clemson fan, I have watched this guy develop over 4 years at BC and he is something special. In his first career start, he came in to Death Valley and took one of the worst hits that I have ever seen on a QB (via David Dunham). He not only stayed in the game but managed to lead the Eagles to victory in OT. Each season, he managed to make the BC team even more special. His late game heroics last year against Virginia Tech and Clemson were something to behold. He made the players around him better and took that team farther than they ever should have gone. Ryan is a winner, a leader, tough-as-nails and a future NFL star. It seems as people in Atlanta just can’t see that past the fact that he doesn’t play in the mighty SEC.
By Kris
April 23, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
DirtyDirty… Take an English Class!
By Nique
April 23, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
The Falcons should trade down to 8th because the Ravens covet Ryan & are in desperate need of a QB with McNair’s retirement. A trdae would still allow tthe Falcon to draft either the 2cnd best OT in Clady or Williams, the best CB in McKelvin or DRC or the 2cnd best DT in Ellis. Also it would net the organization an additional 2cnd or 3rd rounder in this years draft which would could use to fill another hole & preferably draft another O-Lineman. But i agree no Ryan, get Hennie, Brohm, of Flacco in the 2cnd round
By Ken
April 23, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
With the loss of Patrick Kerney and the chance to get an absolute freak athlete, why are we not looking at Chris Long? I agree with Ryan. I’m not sold either.
By Cliff
April 23, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
Glenn Dorsey will be great for the Falcons - for five years or so. He’s a warrior, but the big men break down fast. Their bodies give out on them sooner rather than later no matter how much heart they have. Just ask Shaun Alexander.
Ryan could be a great QB for 10-12 years. Dorsey will sit on our bench for most of a 5-year span before he’s gone.
By aaaetc
April 23, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
Jeff, agree with you for once. Dorsey’s the pick if available. Ellis, maybe, C. Long, not a need, but I would probably take him. Definitely not McFadden. Go for Brohm or Flacco later.
By SC
April 23, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
To the guy above who thinks Michael Turner is not that good. You obviously haven’t watched much football. He is exactly the perfect fit for this offense. Taking a RB like Mcfadden is actually the stupid move. Picking a RB high is just not done anymore
By Greg
April 23, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this
Best of all: trade down, perhaps to Baltimore, for their first-roung and a third-round. Boy this would be sweet. If trading down won’t work, it ought to send a signal that Dorsey’s got some injury issues. So I’d go Chris Long. Then O-line, O-line, O-line. If we get the O-line right, any decent quarterback will look pretty good. I wish we had been given the chance to get Jake Long, but you had to lose all but one game to have that honor.
By athensdawg
April 23, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
Athenstiger, He won in the ACC.. enough said. Beating the Techs and Clemsons of the world is not enough to be considered a great QB. The ACC makes great QBs out of any average Joe.
By R
April 23, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
King Aurther wants Ryan so the falcons will suck for decades. Auther had Thomas Dimitroff neutered right before the draft.
By Sly Ty
April 23, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
If Ryan is taken, that tells me that we are not expected to win for at least 3 years. Also, look at the 49ers, Alex Smith isn’t in prison, but he is a terrible Q-back. Take Dorsey if he is there, and if not then take Ellis. Build the D-line, fix the O-line, and trust the current QBs with a good line before making any changes.
By fox noise
April 23, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this
what has Matt Ryan done ? Look at his body of work! no way this guy should go in the frist round. The media has push this guy to no end 19 take a ways in a weak ACC last year now he god pure bias and hype! woodson played in the sec and lead in passing . Hype
By Tim
April 23, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
If Dorsey is gone, and only if he is gone, then… Jets are rumored to want to trade up for McFadden. Swap #3 for Jets #6, and pick up an additional 2nd rounder. Then package TWO 2nds for a trade up for Brohm. We could pick up Sedrick Ellis, Brohm and still have TWO 2nd rounders left.
By RA
April 23, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
Oh Lord! I must be comming down with something. I actually agree with Schultzie! Somebody get me a Tylenol, extra strength!
By you might want to watch some games
April 23, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
Dawg in AR your comments about Matt “wonderboy” Schaub tells me you did not catch too many Texans games. As a matter of fact, the backup for Schaub played better than Matt “im only hyped up because im the back up and the fans dont like Vick”.. The Texans played better without Schaub who could not stay healthy and looked like a very very very average qb at best when given the opportunity. I guess he is not the hall of famer guys in Atlanta thought he would be. Might want to look at a player without bias next time. Schuab is not very good and will never be very good. It is ironic that people in Atlanta wanted him to be the starter, got mad when he was traded, yet he was outplayed by his backup… Gotta love Atlanta fans lmaoooooooooooo
By Brian
April 23, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
Teams have won the Super Bowl with less than stellar quarterbacks. You MUST have a defense, you must have an offensive line
By Ken
April 23, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
As far as McFadden goes, there is NO WAY that will happen, post-Vick. There is a 50-50 shot that McFadden will become an unmanageable ego like Clinton Portis or worse. He is an excellent candidate to be another PacMan Jones or Chris Henry if he isn’t careful. Not to mention, I have a problem paying a guy that isn’t a great human being $50 million in salary, which we FANS get to ultimately pay for.
By Ken Strickland
April 23, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this
Ryan hasn’t done a single thing in his entire college career that makes him a better QB prospect than Brohm, Flacco or Henne. All 3 have better career and senior yr stats than Ryan. Brohm comes from a QB family and knows the position inside out, much like the Mannings. Flacco was coached by former NFL QB Jim Harbough. Why be stupid enough to use the #3 pick on a QB that’s not rated a franchise QB, with questionable stats? It would be specially stupid considering at least one of 3 other QB’s will be available in the 2nd rd that have better stats and might have more long term potential.
When a team has as many needs as the Falcons, you don’t waste your top pick on a player that will only end up carrying a clipboard. You draft an impact player that can start, like DT Dorsey, and let your 2nd rd QB pick carry a clipboard. Dorsey improves your pass rush, which was the worst in the NFL, eliminates the double and triple teams on DE JAbraham, and improves our near bottom of the league interior rushing DEF.
A strong pass rush, especially from your front 4, can make a below average pass DEF, like ours, above average. No matter what QB we draft, or what rd, he’s definitely not going to start the season as the starter, and likely won’t start this entire season. It would be equally stupid to draft another DE since we’ve already used our last 2 first rd picks on our current starting DE’s.
By Najeh Davenpoop
April 23, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
LINE
I agree with the premise of the column, although most of the reasons given for passing on Ryan are bullsh-t.
DRAFT LINEMEN PLEASE THANK YOU
By ChicagoPOW
April 23, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Number 91 at Defensive End Chris Long is starting to sound better and better.
By Saul
April 23, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
If Dorsey is gone I dont see that as doomsday. Id take C. Long and move Jamaal inside. He played 2 years in college at DT. Or Id be happy with Clady. You can plug him in right away on the right and hope Weiner can get 100%
By BOBBY BOWDEN
April 23, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
athensdawg——How many great QBS every came out of University of GA and played in the NFL Other Than Fran Tarkenton? I beleive you have to be a desent QB in the ACC as well as the SEC to compete.I just don’t think i would use my first pick on Ryan I would go OL Or DL and than go after a corner to replace big mouth hall and then a safty and if the QB at kentucky is avalable go after him he looks to be pretty darn good.
By TNgizmo
April 23, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this
I whole heartedly agree. If the Falcons draft Ryan he will end up just like Steve Bartkowski,no protection, hammered constantly,and spend most of his career on the bench or the training room nursing injuries. Talent and potential means nothing when you are running for your life or laying flat on your back. Atlanta must get bigger on both sides of the line. If Dorsey is taken the Falcons should forget about Ryan at #3 and pick Sedrick Ellis or Ryan Clady and build from there. Or Chris Long would be a good pick because John Abraham has a hard time staying healthy.
By Hokies
April 23, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
Stay the heck out of Blacksburg? Why were Vick and Hall good guys in Blacksburg and bad for the Falcons? Other Hokies in the NFL are class acts. Maybe pathetic management folks like Blank and Jimmy Mora are to blame? Dan Reeves had control of the team. I think it is the Falcons, not Blacksburg.
By Harry Rand
April 23, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
WELL SAID
By TechFan
April 23, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Priority 1: Take Dorsey. If he is not on the board why not take Ryan? Everyone brings up the fact that Brady was picked 199th. Great, but he had a little time to develope behind an experienced, decent quarterback (Bledsoe). Ryan has the intellegence, intangibles, and skills of another known QB that went to a team with no support (P. Manning) and guess what, there was no clear cut between Peyton and Leaf, and Leaf was said to have better physical skills (like Brohm). Point is, don’t be scared to take a smart QB at 3, with the plethura of picks they have for the draft and the consistency and similarities OL-men have up and down the draft, smart thing to do is invest in the future and start with a leader, who knows maybe then we can see some consistent playoff apprearences in about 3-4 years.
By Bill
April 23, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Teck FAN——Well Said.
By leo
April 23, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
dorsey, another lazy bust. pick ryan in the shadows of many early picks like manning, rothsburger. we need a qb.
By Rozier
April 23, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
If Dorsey is not available at 3 trade the pick!!!! Trade with the Jets or the Ravens. We can still get Sedrick Ellis and add picks. We would definitely add 1-3 picks with that trade down to 6 or 8 and we need all we can get!!
By Wesley Wallace
April 23, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
Ellis would be a fine number one pick. If St. Louis is not smart enough to draft a position of need, then we should not make the same error. Although I really think Brian Brohm has great marketing value, I have seen film on him, and he is not worth trading up for in this draft. You might be better off not drafting a QB this year.
By Navigator
April 23, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
The vast majority of players in the NFL came in the 2nd round or later. The Falcons should trade all of their #1’s for a bunch of lower draft picks, especially 2’s and 3’s.
By Truefalcons
April 23, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
Everyone that is saying they should pick C. Long, D Mac, or trade down, just don’t get it. You draft Chris Long, what in the world are you going to do with 3 DE’s but only 2 starting positions? Pay 100 Million dollars for 3 DE???? And D Mac, please… He’ll be gone in a couple years after punching some chick in a bar. Now let’s look at Trade down. Sure that would be nice, but someone else is going to have to want to trade with you. If there are no takers, then what. I agree, I’m not real comfortable drafting a QB like Ryan 3rd, but if that’s the best option, make the pick and live with it. Go Falcons!!
By country boy
April 23, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Nice article Jeff and I agree that birds should take Dorsey or try to trade down a few picks.
BOTTOM LINE - I think Dimitroff is compentent, able to evaluate a draft, and knows the Falcons needs. Lets enjoy the weekend draft and I think we will be posting positive comments on Sunday night and Monday. This is fun - I enjoy the falcons having a number of high picks to work with.
By joe
April 23, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
please, no ryan. take dorsey, long or even the bus mechanic before you take him. I say don’t even waste a second round pick on a QB. build both lines Try Erik Ainge in the third…tall, strong and was a beast in the SEC when he was healthy. He’s a much less risky pick.
By Doug
April 23, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Doesn’t anybody get it? Dosen’t anybody listen to the coach? We are now 3 yards and a cloud of dust, then stop the run. That is the prevaling philosophy now. The quarterbacks we have will run the new offense. We need OL and DL and that is what we will draft.
By Willie Taylor/Turner
April 23, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Let Dimitroff, Smith, and the scouting department do their jobs. They are the professionals. What ever decisions they make I will support them. Go Falcons…..
By asdfasdf
April 23, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
i agree jeff, don take ryan. they should take colt brennan at three
By Falcon4Life
April 23, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
Jake Long is offically off the board and if Glen Dorsey is gone at 2 then we should take Matt Ryan!!!!
Everyone keeps saying that he cant be successful behind our O-line and that would be true if we expected him to be. First, we have 3 picks in the second round. We can trade back into the late first for a LT then take a RT with our other second or third rounder to help our line tremendously.
This year is going to be a year of growing pains for our o-line so you dont play Ryan at all this year. Let the line develop, go into FA next year and fill any holes left then have Ryan ready to go with a year of learning under his belt.
I know that most Falcons fans dont want us to draft Ryan but I do. I watched him play a lot this year and the kid is a winner. Falcons fans may boo the pick much like Philly fans did when they drafted McNabb, but they will cheer in the end.
I cant wait until Saturday!!!!
By Frank Beamer
April 23, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
I don’t care who the Falcons draft, just as long as they are homies from Va. Tech….yeaaahhhhhdaaawwwwgggggg
By destin
April 23, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
PICK — RYAN, RYAN, RYAN, RYAN, RYAN
By ReggieP
April 23, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
Matt ryan is a good qb……but in order 2 HAVE a good qb we need a superb OFFENSIVE LINE also we would need 2 work on the DEFENSIVE LINE i.e. interior line {look at the cleveland browns} with joe thomas..jamal lewis career was revived and almost made playoffs…im not saying we’re gonna have a good season but in order for future success build the LINES first
By Casual Observer
April 23, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
My draft options would be in order; Dorsey, If he’s not on the board look to swap with Jets (they want to jump ahead of the Raiders for McFadden) and also get additional 2nd rd pick. Also definitely dangle the pick in front of the Cowboys they want McFadden as well and have two late 1st rd picks to work with. If push comes to shove (and it will) take the plunge and get Ryan or Ellis (I’d prefer Ellis). Either way you will still be able to address the remaining needs with your other picks. I’m not sold on Ryan but you’ll need a QB at some point and the kid is a bonafide Leader (very hard to find). I’d stay away from Long. The falcons already have 2 DE’s that are costing mega-millions, just doesn’t make financial sense.
Regardless of everything else they have to draft for the OL and DL. Depth. Skill players make commercials. The trenches win CHAMPIONSHIPS.
By Bill
April 23, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
I for one are not leting the falcons off the hook. I want a winner this year.If the falcons use the draft right and get the right free agents in here anything is posable.We the fans deserve better than what we’ve been geting fot the last 40 years.Give us a winner are get out of town.
By RaySkee
April 23, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
There is no way the Falcons will select Ryan at #3. Coach Smith said, he was gonna build this team inside out and I think that what needs to be done. If Dorsey is available, take him. But I really think trading down a few spots and taking Ellis from USC and add a few more pick would be the best bet. If our interior lines are sured up, the qb situation is not that bad. Even Harrington plays well if he’s protected. So any one of those dudes will do. Go DT, OL, CB, QB, S
By Zeb McKluskey
April 23, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Falcon4Life, plese shool me. I heard that the Dolphins signed Long, but I just don’t know how that works. I’m an idiot when it comes to the draft and their rules. Please bring me up to speed dude. How does that affect us and could the Falcons have offered someone early????? I don’t get it.
By The Grinch
April 23, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Y’all, the value of an unstoppable D-line was demonstrated the first year we had Abraham. We had Kearney, Coleman, Jackson and Abraham on the D-line for the first game against the Panthers (who were the chic pic for the Super Bowl that year). The first time four guys with double-digit sacks the previous year were on the same line in the history of the NFL. Four guys who all commanded double teams, and absolutely wreaked havoc as we won 20-6 with not much on offense. The score didn’t reflect how badly we whipped their @$$es; it wasn’t even a game. It was a clinic. Abraham was left in too long and tore a groin at the end and that was that for the season (no backup to step in). However, that doesn’t change the fact that it all starts with a killer D-line (look at the Superbowl; the Giants were average at best in every other area). And a good O-line can conversely make any QB talented enough to get drafted (see Dilfer, Rypien, etc.) look good, especially in a run-oriented offense like ours will be, and the obvious seems obvious. BUILD THE FREAKIN’ LINES FIRST.
By Mike
April 23, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
Casual Observer, I really like the possibilty of a trade. The Jets are a candidatefor trade, also the Ravens would be. The Jets could want to jump ahead of the Raiders for McFadden, or the Ravens may want to go ahead of the Chiefs and Jets for Ryan. Either way maybe get an extra second rounder and still land Ellis. I say if St Louis snags Dorsey, and no trade offer comes from the Jets or Ravens, Maybe look to the Bears who may be willing to give up a 2 and 3…or 2 and 4 for the chance to land ryan or McFadden. Then the Falcons could hope that Ellis falls in their laps, if not then take Clady and address DT in the second…maybe even take 2 in the second with the possibilities of Balmer and Sims. QB should be addressed in the 2nd round, not with the 3rd overall pick. I would also like to see picks used to secure a future ILB (Connor, Mayo, or Lofton) secondary upgrades (Chevis Jackson in the 3rd round…and if they are able to swing another 2nd round pick maybe a FS) If by the 2nd 3rd round pick they have only secured one DT, I think Dre Moore out of Maryland is worth looking at. Even though they signed Elam, I would consider Coutu late in the draft. I would also be looking for a punt returner, seeing how Jennings does not seem to be working out. This years draft is deep in talent…even though there aren’t any Calvin Johnson’s ou there this year. Atlanta is in a good position to get some difference makers for years to come.
By Michael
April 24, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this
Considering that DJ Shockley is pretty much an unknown, using such a high pick would be a semi-waste on Ryan. Shockley could turn out to be awesome once he gets a shot, but who knows at this point.
The Falcons have plenty of other holes to fill. In fact, anybody who doesn’t catch the ball, kick the ball, or run with the ball would be good with the 3rd pick.
By Ross
April 24, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Don’t be stupid. The real issue here is to erase the stink and stain of Vick. Having Ryan on the field, no matter how well he does, will flush the pseudo-Snoop out of our doggy minds. And he may be really good (I have watched QBs since I was knee-high to a football and I can spot a good one from Mars. Ryan’s beyond good.)
-drl
By Casual Observer
April 24, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
Mike Excellent post. I’d forgot about the Bears and there QB/RB needs. The Ravens are the dark horse. They really need a QB. Of all the scenarios other than Dorsey at 3 I like trading down. No real value other than him at that pick. They can get everything else they need (with any/all your suggestions in the 2/3rd rd). Also, Punt Returner has to be addressed at some point. I would however stay away from Coutu.
By TechFan
April 24, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
The Falcons are in position to branch two ways for the future, and I believe the GM can see that. If Dorsey is still on the board then expect to see a Warren Sapp-esque player and a TB Buccs mentality for the future.
However, if ST. Louis takes him, the Falcons will take Matt Ryan, and gear their future with a smart, Peyton-esque player taking the snaps. He has the same outlook as Peyton did, he studies the game, can read a defense, and is fast at recognizing coverages during a game. Look at the combacks last year. He doesn’t have the arm strength, or stats that Brohm does or even Henne, but Ryan Leaf had that one over Peyton in ‘98 and we all see where that went.
If Dorsey is gone, Ryan will propell the Falcons to a bright future.
By fanothebartster
April 24, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this
Too bad a Bartkowski type QB isnt around to be picked this time. He would be the obvious choice. He was the man. He still is the man.
By fanothebartster
April 24, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
I agree with me.
By Dr. Warren
April 24, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this
No one can EVER predict how a player will turn out. Period.
By DanR
April 24, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this
If Dorsey’s gone at three, I trade the pick to the Jets or Ravens and acquire an additional draft pick. I for one like our quarterbacks; however, one name that intrigues me is San Diego’s Josh Johnson. Johnson finished his career as the NCAA’s all-time leader in passing efficiency at 176.7. He also threw for 43 TDs and one interception his senior year! The guy is also fast and athletic; yet, he’s not a “running” quarterback by any stretch. What else - humble, smart, great mechanics, “player of the game” in the East-West Shrine game - need I say more. Another kid I like a lot is Central Florida junior RB Kevin Smith. Smith ran for 2,567 yards last season including 217 yards against NC State and 149 against Texas! I know running back is not a need, but if this kid is still available in the third round … just check him out on youtube.com. Aside from those two, OL and DL are obvious needs, with depth in the secondary and at linebacker also in need.
By Najeh Davenpoop
April 24, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this
|
That’s a line.
Make it better.
By LA Dawg
April 24, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this
Since we’re dealing in the hypothetical, here is my absolute best case scenario. Move down with the Jets from 3 to 6 so they get McFadden. We also get their #36 pick. Then TD tells Baltimore, “Lookit, we’re taking Ryan at #6 but we have SOOO many needs that we’ll trade him to you for your #8 and #38.” This isn’t completely out the realm of possibility since Baltimore doesn’t have very many needs and have always been searching for a quarterback.
That leaves us with #8 (OT, Clady or OT, Albert), #34 (QB, Flacco), #36 (CB, Cason), #37 (OT, Sam Baker), #38 (DT, Pat Sims), #48 (ILB -maybe Connor or Lofton is available), #68 (TE, Finley).
Hey, this is hypothetical but not COMPLETELY out of the realm, right?
By Lil E
April 24, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
Trading down with Dallas (or the Jets) sounds real good if Dorsey is gone. Either way, we have got to draft a LT with one of our first two picks.
By LA Dawg
April 24, 2008 2:45 AM | Link to this
BUT if the brass is hell bent on taking Ryan if he’s available then they have to “slot down” and let Oakland pick ahead of them and take Ryan with the #4 pick and save $10 million dollars.
By surfrider
April 24, 2008 3:33 AM | Link to this
The Falcons have so many picks and needs that this is bound to be a pretty good pick. I would take the QB Ryan though and here is why. Qb’s are the leader and much of a teams chemistry streams from the leader and we have to look at what we have and what the future holds. The Falcons probably won’t pick third next year so this may be as high as we get for sometime. The 49’rs picked Joe Montana in 1979 before they really started their roll and fillin with all the all pros. In the 1980 Championship game with Dallas it was Montana who made it happen on the last drive. He scramble and bought some time and hit the receiver in the endzone who made a nice catch as well. Basically what I’m saying is the QB is a playmaker on any given play and an OL is not eventhough they are important. The Falcons have lacked a Qb maybe from day one who was accurate, did’nt lock onto one receiver, had a quick release, etc..Ryan is the prototype NFL QB if there is one. But for that high of a pick one has to think a playmaker in terms of being able to make it happen on any play. Now if they go with an OL/DL it’s not going to be bad. Now if they are thinking this next year the QB may not playout but if the coaches have 3 to 4 years to win and show improvement then this is the year to get one or two qb’s in the draft.
By WILL
April 24, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
I KEEP SAYING CHRIS LONG HOW STUPID ARE YOU PEOPLE HE IS BETTER THAN PATRICK KERNEY WHO WE GAVE AWAY,OUR CORNERS ARE NOT WORTH A PLUG NICKEL SO GO WITH 3DEFENSIVE ENDS JUST LIKE WHO THE WORLD CHAMPS GIANTS,HE WILL BE THERE AS LONG AS 10 YEARS, HE IS THE ONLY CHOICE IF HE IS ON THE BOARD MAYBE IT WILL MAKE THAT JAMAL CHARACTER WHO WE CHOSE LAST YEAR TO PLAY HARDER CHRIS LONG WILL MAKE PLAYERS PLAY HARDER IREAD THESE BLOGS AND MOST OF YOU PEOPLE ARE STUPID AND TO THE IDIOT THAT SAID WE WONT DRAFT ANY HIGHER THAN 3RD IN THE FUTURE GUESS AGAIN THIS TEAM WIILL NOT BE ANYGOOD TILL 3OR4 YEARS DOWN THE ROAD SO I SEE ATLANTA GOING 4-12 THIS NEXT SEASON BUT AFTER THE NEW COACH SMITH IN 3YEARS LOOK OUT WITH OUR NEW GM WECAN PLAY FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP IAM AVIETNAM VET AND I APPROVE THIS MESSAGE
By kdubatl
April 24, 2008 6:42 AM | Link to this
If Dorsey is gone, then the Falcons should trade the pick to the Ravens, then pick either Ellis, McKelvin, or Rodgers-Cromartie. We need immediate starters and have too many holes to pick up a QB, who will try to be a pocket passer behind a bad O-Line.
Stop with the Peyton comparisons. We don’t know how well he reads defenses, and no QB, not even Peyton, can read defenses as well if he doesn’t have time(see Pittsburgh game a couple yrs back, San Diego, etc). Besides, does anyone recognize that Matt Ryan threw 19 interceptions this past season? What QB have you seen drafted in the top 10 after throwing 19 int’s their senior season? You haven’t.
Ellis would provide an immediate starter on the DLine, and McKelvin or Cromartie would provide an immediate starter at CB. Regardless of how good you thought DHall was, he’s better than what we will be forced to start now if we don’t draft one.
By WILL
April 24, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this
TOM- CHRIS LONG IF HE IS ON THE BOARD NO-MORE DISCUSSIONS I HOPE YOU READ THIS MESSAGE HE IS THE FUTURE OF THIS FRANCHISE IF YOU SELECT RYAN YOU NEED TO BE TAR AND FEATHERED AND SEND YOUR SKINNY CARCAS BACK TO BELECHICK THIS FRANCHISE HAS BEEN THE LAUGHING STOCK OF THE NFL FOR YEARS TO COME UNTIL DAN REEVES CAME ALONG AND WE ALL KNOW WHAT HAPPENED GETTING RID OF THAT MAN WAS THE STUPIDEST MISSTAKE THEY EVER MADE NOW TOM-ITS YOUR TURN YOU ARE BEING PAID ALOT OF MONEY TO DO IT RIGHT SO DO IT RIGHT THIS DRAFT NEEDS TO BE A CB, LB ,SAF,3-OL 1DE,2DT-AND SINCE THIS DRAFT IS FULL OF GOOD RBS GET ONE GUYS GET HURT IN THIS LEAGUE THERES 10 GOOD ONES THIS YEAR, AND TAKE A QB IN ROUND 2 MAYBE THE MAN OUT OF MICHIGAN HE IS GETTING BETTER AS HE IS GETTING OLDER ,IAM A VIETNAM VET AND I APPROVE THIS MESSAGE
By WILL
April 24, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this
THIS IS GREAT THE DRAFT SATURDAY, THE KENTUCKY DERBY NEXT SATURDAY, AND WATCHING THE BRAVES LOSE ALL THE TIME THE FRANCHISES IN ATLANTA ARE PATHETIC, OH YEA BIBBY WHAT ABOUT THE BOSTON FANS AGAIN.
By ttown one
April 24, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this
Dorsey or Ellis. We do NOT need a DE. We could use a CB, Safety, or LB, but any of those would be a reach here. We need OL, but our best option is gone with Long to Miami. Draft DL with the first pick, then use your 2nd picks for QB (Flacco or Brohm) and CB / LB. The third round will be the round to get the OL and TE we need. Use the rest of the rounds for quality depth.
By Mac Daddy
April 24, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this
12 B.C ? Beautiful!
By vitaman
April 24, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this
To the people who say trade down, I have 3 words. Saint Louis Dispatch. The Rams fans want their team to trade down to get more picks too. In fact most NFL teams would like to trade down not up. It would be great but to plan on that scenario is folly. It was not that long ago that C. Long was the probable Number 1 pick. He would also have the most trade value down the road if you decided it was too crowded at DE.
By jeanE
April 24, 2008 8:02 AM | Link to this
Amen, amen, amen!!! Could not agree with you more, Jeff! I really don’t think Dimitroff will go the QB route, he seems pretty smart & we need to rebuild the foundations of this team, the lines!!!
By alchemist
April 24, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this
two words….Tony Casillias
By #10
April 24, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this
They better build the OL and plug some defensive holes - period - or this franchise is going nowhere. For all you guys touting Dorsey, I watched a lot SEC games and I tend to remember Dorsey having to play through continual injury. I see a player with a lot of heart, but injury prone. I think we have seen enough of those type players with Abraham and Hartwell. I think Brohm and Flacco are going to get snapped up before the Falcons can get a shot at them in later rounds too, so I would take Ryan and use the later picks on the OL and defense - priority being the OL. Falcons fan since 1980 and I approve this message.
By Blaze
April 24, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this
I AGREE!!!….GLENN DORSEY SHOULD BE THE PICK @ 3 IF AVAILABLE If Dorsey goes @ 2, we need to trade the pick. Baltimore might want to move in to take Ryan. Nothing against Ryan but it’s too big of a risk when he have multiple needs to fill. I love Ellis but picking him @ 3 is quite a reach & Dimitroff stated that he will not reach to pick a player based on a need. If we trade the pick to Baltimore @ 8, we can pick DT Sedrick Ellis, CB Leodis McKelvin (if the Pats don’t pick him up) or OT Ryan Clady!!! I have confidence in Dimitroff/Smith that they will make the right decisions
By abear
April 24, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Dimitroff’s playing it smart buy pretending he still sees value in the 3rd slot. The Falcons will be trading down for more ‘line’ bodies and with the Vikings / Chiefs trade the Falcons will get more serious bidding from the Jets for the no.3 unless the Rams who lost Long, oblige NY first. And now the Vikings are another strong swap partner.
By falcon30901
April 24, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Dorsey at #3. Then 3 offensive linemen in round 2. Then linebacker or cornerback help in round 3. John david booty in round 4. Then continue to fill in the gaps. We arent winning anything in 2008. Ryan threw 19 interceptions last year. In college. He was the sole reason that they lost 3 games. If that talent would of had a DJ shockly or John David booty at QB then they would have played for the national championship. Not the champs bowl where he threw another INT against the stingy Michgan St team. A team that may not have a Defensive player taken this year. Ohh i forgot 2 INTs against ARMY. Think of the position we would have been in this year if we drafted quality linemen early the last 3 years.
By Dan
April 24, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
There is no need to take a QB at all in this draft. This team has to many holes if they do maybe Andre Woodson in the third round. Face it the Falcons are going to stink for awhile and they need to do like the HAWKS and they will be picking at the top of the draft for the next few years. I am not a homer I am saying just wait till Stafford comes out the John Elway reincarnation. If UGA wins the national championship this year he probably would come out I would think or so we wait till he is a senior thats only 2 years away whats the difference we still wont be super bowl contenders.
By Tron
April 24, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
If the Falcons only had, say, 7 or 8 picks in the draft, I might agree with not taking Ryan at #3 (I would trade down). But since they have 10 picks in rounds 2-7, that’s a good amount of picks to address O- and D-Line, TE, WR, CB and LB. I take Ryan at 3 and flesh out the rest of the roster with the other picks.
I was at the GT-BC game when Ryan absolutely shredded a really good Tech D. I watched as many BC games as I could on TV, since I knew the Falcons would need a QB and I wanted to see what Ryan had. The kid can make all the throws and reads; the only reason his INTs were as high as they were is that he had no talent at receiver to get separation from the D. And you guys remember the comeback against VT, right? I mean, that was all Matt Ryan, and it was all amazing.
He’s got the physical tools to be a great success at the next level, but his mental makeup is more impressive to me. The kid’s a winner, he wants to win and he knows how to.
I agree with others that Brohm may not be there when the Falcons’ 2nd pick comes around. Some have suggested trading back into the 1st round for him. Well, if you’re going to do that, it’ll cost you at least 2 picks. So now you’ve traded into the 1st to get Brohm, but you’ve left yourself with only 10 total picks. Why lose a pick? Just take Ryan at #3 and keep your other 10.
It’s hard to advance far in the NFL without a top-flight QB. I think Ryan will be the best of this group, so I snag him if I can at #3.
Some have also made statements similar to, “Well, we need O-Line or else Ryan will be on his back all game and he’ll never get to make a throw.” Ryan’s not going to start this year, though. So you take 2 O-Linemen in rounds 2-7 (preferably 2 & 3). The Falcons will likely have a high pick in the 09 draft, so you can take an O-Lineman there. Ryan will likely start in 09, so you take 2 OL this year and a stud with a high pick next year. Boom, there’s your O-Line and your top-flight QB.
By Iceman
April 24, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
Linemen! Linemen! Linemen!
Take linemen in the draft. Matt Ryan is as overhyped as anyone has ever been.
By richbrave
April 24, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this
JEFF SCHULTZ:
You are as right as Mark BRADLEY was wrong. And that’s pure rain - man!!! Draft OL and DL first, then special needs. Frankly, I would go two deep on the OL, maybe one a TE. Then DB’s. Falcons are gonna’ need them. Take Joe Flacco in the Second round, or third if you get lucky.
By Chains
April 24, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this
Ryan will cost way to much if taken that early. I’m betting he won’t be an impact player in the short term. Chad Henne or Brohm are much more appealing considering this will not be a pass oriented offense.(Like Michigan) Henne will prob be available in the 2rd or 3 rd round. Same applies for Brohm.But anything Petrino has touched may be a bad omen.
By Supes
April 24, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
Draft lineman!
Dorsey, C. Long, C. Ellis would do just fine with the first pick, it doesn’t matter how it happens, what the Rams do, or if the Falcons trade down with the Jets from 3 to 6 to get Ellis and an extra pick in the second round.
Chris Long will be just as good if not better than Patrick Kerney…and we know what he can do when he’s 100% healthy and on the field. Anderson may never turn out to be a top tier DE, he played 2 years at DT in college, move him there. Draft Chris Long, a young man with excellent character, well spoken and awesome work ethic.
He said the one thing his father kept telling him all the years in football is he could only control showing up on time, always being there and working as hard as possible.
Wouldn’t you want that in your draft pick?
Plus he could be trusted with 1st round draft money…unlike a Mike Vick or Packman Jones…and he’s not a diva like Chad or TO.
Draft Chris Long Falcons…Please do not make a mistake. If Dorsey is gone at 3, draft Chris Long.
The other thing, as much as big 55 is hurt for the Falcons, we do need a DE, just as much as we need a DT. So it doesn’t matter. Get lineman period.
Chris Long is the best lineman on defense after Dorsey is gone.
Draft Chris Long from Virginia!
Say no to Matt Ryan!
By bb
April 24, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
There is one franchise player out there and the Falcons should jump all over Darren McFadden with the number 3.
By Gold standard
April 24, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
Jeff are you all right? I agree with you it’s a first. If you really care about the falcon you know the offensive line and defensive need real help. a QB now in the frist would be nuts . we need a middle line backer and a safety. I like Woodson he played in the SEC and he lead in passing. Ryan he play in a weak ACC this year! The media is selling this guy he is snake oil.
By Regal1_Got 1
April 24, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
Good morning,
Glad that we all can come together once again and give opinions, ask questions and offer passion about our falcons.
I would like to say that I like J-Rod’s comments. You just cant be afraid to draft a certain position high in the draft for fear of failure. It’s alarmingly amusing how names of highly drafted qb’s that were unsuccessful are used to dissuade or make an argument to not draft a qb (namely Ryan) that high. However there were unsuccessful players at all position(s) that were drafted that high. However there are a few qb’s that were drafted high and were quite productive in the NFL and there is no reason to believe that Ryan, a young man who proved that he can win without having a great supporting cast around him, will not be very successful in the NFL.
Now I personally believe there are only three reasons why you dont draft the best qb in the 2008 draft according to most of the scout rankings including the guru’s who has the most inside knowledge. Reason number one, Glenn Dorsey is still available to you. Defense wins championships! If you have a terror in the middle, that may help J. Anderson and with a health J. Abraham, that should improve your secondary because of the pass rush.
Second reason would be alarming to some Falcon fans but a possible reality is if the falcons have a plan to bring a certain qb back into the fold once his other responsibilities are in order. With that said, the pick that most are slating to take a qb can be used instead to fill another hole or to add depth to a partial hole.
Third and final reason to not draft the best qb in the draft would be if someone offers you more picks for the number 3 position. However, if you take the picks, my suggestion would be to not draft a qb at all. Use all of the picks to bolster the roster and to trade away for better picks in the 2009 draft. I am a firm believer that at the qb position that you do not take the second best, third or fourth best in the draft. Only way that I dont take the best qb in this scenario was if we were splitting hairs between number one and number two but from last I check and from (not throwing credentials around) my peers, its not really a close second on all of the list. Just an occassional,”well this guy fits system X better than Ryan”.
Hopefully Dorsey is there at three so that there is at least some drama to the first ten picks of the draft.
By dawgfan
April 24, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
Most of the comments are relative but everybody is forgetting that we have a good qb in DJ Shockley if we can get an o line that will protect him. We definately need all the help we can get on the OL and DL before we can expect to keep any QB healthy. I say we need dorsey or long with the third pick.
By Oh my God
April 24, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
I guess most of the people on here only read AJC sports where the Falcons beat writers are clueless. SI.com says Henne’s going in the first round to Baltimore. They want him more than Ryan. He’s got their playbook now and has been worked out by them more than once. Also, many are now also expecting Brohm to be back in first round play. So, second round, you’re probably looking at Flacco, Woodson, Ainge, Dixon, etc. Of those I’d take Ainge. Flacco bailed to a small school when he couldn’t win the starting job at Pitt. I think he may have a million dollar arm and a 10-cent head. Woodson’s stock fell in the postseason workouts. Dixon could be another Randall Cunningham, or he might be a glass stick. Ainge was a three year starter at an SEC power and put up great stats. Of the three I mentioned, he has the best chance to have a strong NFL career. But, if Brohm or Henne are available. Grab ‘em. It would be a bonus.
By toshie
April 24, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DON’T TAKE A QB WITH #3 PICK. OL OR DL PLEASE, PLEASE.
By tommy
April 24, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this
Take Dorsey so that Aundray Bruce and the Falcon tradition will live on.
By realist
April 24, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
I think A Blank should pay Dan Reeves a consulting fee and let him access the qb crop. Elway turned out fine and that MAGGOTT vick had special skills in football but no brain. TAKE DORSEY ellis is on the ground alot in the pac10 he will be a ragdoll in the NFL. We still need recievers too michael jenkins sucks. We need lineman.
By gabuldawg
April 24, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
I don’t see this as a good draft for quarterbacks at all. I would be happy to see us take Dorsey in the first round, and then take OT Collins, Cherilus or Sam Baker with the 34th pick. With 37, I’d take Aqib Talib or Antoine Cason for a Cornerback. Then with pick 48, we could hopefully still grab Curtis Lofton. We’d lock up our major needs for years to come with the picks in the 1st & 2nd rounds. In round 3, I’d still keep buidling our O-Line with somebody like Mike McGlynn out of Pitt. With the last pick in the 3rd round, see if Josh Johnson is still around. If not, grab Zbikowski to shore up the Safety spot. After that, O-line and D-line depth. That’s my dream draft. I don’t think QB is our issue, it’s the rest of the team. The Ravens won the Super Bowl with a barely serviceable QB.
By Joe Stalls
April 24, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
I agree we need some beef on both sides of the ball if Dorsey is gone find some more BEEF.
By Joe Stalls
By Frank Beamer
April 24, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
Va Tech, Va Tech, Va Tech, Va Tech!!!!….Just keep drafting my homies!!!! Hokies, Hokies, Hokies!!!!
By david
April 24, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Dorsey should be the pick, if the rams take him thne i would draft chris long and move j anderson to dt he’s 6’6 280 make him gain 20 or 30 pounds. he was very good against the run last yr so dt would be perfect for him. Then take brohm with pick 34. if he came out last yr he would have been picked in the top 5, whats changed nothing.
By FanMan
April 24, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
I thinks Vernon Gostein is the man. He has the speeds to makes a present in this league. I dont thinks either of the longs or dorsey will be there when we picks. Defense are what win in the NFL. I alos like Shedrack Elston. He could be another Sapp. I thinks our new owner will makes the right decesion. I would like to see Vick come back next year so dont picks a QB.
By Ken Strickland
April 24, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
DOUG-there are others of us that get it, just not that many seemingly. I’ve posted many times recently about considering the new HC and GM’s philosophy of employing a power rushing OFF. I’ve also asked people to consider earlier statements about getting stronger up the middle being their top priority. Yet, in spite of all this, we still get individuals recommending we use our #3 pick to draft QB Ryan, RB McFadden or DE CRyan, even though we’ve already used our last 2 1st rd picks on starting DE’s.
It’s also been stated this is the strongest draft for OT’s in the last 2 dacades. Since our new OFF philosophy will primarily feature the power run, instead of the pass, run blocking ability will take presidence over pass blocking ability. Most OT’s are rated based on their pass blocking skills at this level. Therefore, we can get the OT’s with the skills we need in the 2nd and/or 3rd rds.
The same holds true for QB. Our new OFF philosophy will not be QB dependent, although it will require a quality QB to run it. This seems to be a system that Redmon can do well in. Any QB we draft will be a QB of the future consideration and will be required to carry a clipboard and learn his 1st yr or 2. We need to draft a QB with talent and potential and we can get that in the 2nd rd. What we aren’t likely to get after the top 10 picks is a pass rushing, playmaking DT.
This yrs draft is weak at only 5 positions and that’s DT, safety, TE, ILB and WR. We need all of these except WR, but mostly as backup and future replacements. The only one of these positions we need a starter now is DT and we need a playmaking DT that can rush the passer. There are only 2 DT’s rated with that kind of ability, Ellis and Dorsey, and they are top ten picks.
IT DOESN’T TAKE A LOT OF COMMON SENSE AND/OR FOOTBALL KNOWLEDGE TO FIGURE IT OUT, BUT MANY STILL DON’T SEEM TO HAVE A CLUE. IF DORSEY IS AVAILABLE AT #3, WE DRAFT HIM. IF NOT, WE TRADE DOWN AND DRAFT ELLIS. THEN WE USE THE EXTRA PICK TO TRADE UP, IF NECESSARY, TO GET THE CB/KR WE NEED. WE THEN USE OUR REMAINING 2 SECOND RD PICKS TO DRAFT A QB AND OL. IF WE TRADE DOWN THAT WOULD LEAVE US WITH 7 PICKS TO FILL OUT THE ROSTER. IF WE DON’T, WE’LL HAVE 6.
GOOD LUCK TO OUR NEW HC AND GM IN THE UPCOMING DRAFT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Eric
April 24, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
If Dorseys not there at 3 take Ryan. He was a leader and made a mediocre team look good
By jarvis
April 24, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Lame column! While reading those old names did bring back some humourous memories, a smirk was about all the satisfaction this article produced.
You could make a list of early first round busts at any position.
Complete crap!
By George P Burdell
April 24, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
You Dawg fans are ridiculous. We either go with Shockley or hope we can get Stafford in a year or two? Ryan has, so far, done more than Stafford on a team with less all around talent. If the Falcons take any QB in this draft, there is a good chance DJ won’t even be on this team come September. You’ve had success, no doubt, but quit being such homers when it comes to the NFL. There are a lot of very good players out there and they don’t all wear the “G” on their helmets.
I don’t know if the Falcons should draft Ryan or not, but he is the real deal. The Falcons right now have so many needs that it is going to take several drafts to cover the problems. Matt Schaub and Phillip Rivers were both very good college players, but they had nothing on Ryan. He commands the field and has better touch on his passes than anyone I have ever seen in college. At this point, I’d rather he play for us than against us, but without an O-line, I don’t think it really matters who you put back there.
By Regal1_Got 1
April 24, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Here’s a thought……..
Most offenses claim to be a physical smash mouth football team but they all tend to get to third and long. Most offenses claim to be a physical run first offense but they all have 3 and 4 wide receiver sets built into their offense and not their ‘just in case we need it’ play book. Most offenses that claim to be run first oriented still need an above average qb to seperate them from a superbowl winning season like the giants and their physical run first mentality and the disappointing Chicago bears and their physical run first mentality.
However, I will say that nothing is 100% because the Baltimore Ravens won a superbowl despite having Trent Dilfer as the trigger man. Atlanta just dont have that kind of defense to have a serviceable qb. A better than serviceable qb is what the Falcons need. If serviceable will work then why are we even talking qb’s. Let’s just roll with Redman, Shockley and Harrington and if we find that we are shopping for a new coach in two or three years then at least when the offensive philosophy change, we wont be stuck with a good qb, we will just have serviceable qb’s to continue loitering in flowery branch. At least then the discussion on whether or not to draft a qb high wont be an issue. A winner at that.
By MJM
April 24, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Heath Schuler? He’s my congressman leave him out of it even though he is a donk.
By Dawg4Life
April 24, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
I think that the O-line is the most pressing need. Now that the best player at those positions is off the board, it puts the Falcons in a quandry. I don’t know that there is necessarily a right way to go in the fans eyes. It is split. I guess we are just going to have to leave it up to the experts. My choice would be Dorsey, then try to pull off a trade to get Brohm or Woodson.
By CobbGOPer
April 24, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
Personally, I think we’re not going to take a QB because we’re going to wait for Mike Vick to get out of prison.
Makes sense: rebuild the O-line, beef up the D-line, new RB, maybe sign some free agent DBs? All in preparation for Vick to return and take the helm at offense?
Why else would Arthur Blank continue to maintain contact with Vick? If they were moving on, why would he bother?
Just a thought.
By BigWood
April 24, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
Dear Falcons Please take a D-tackle “Dorsey or Ellis”. If Ellis you could trade down gain a couple picks. Come back in Rnds 2&3 and pick a Off-linemen, another D-Tackle because (Def wins Championships). With Young CB’s lots of presure on the QB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pick a QB and a ILB. Rnd4 look for a small school DB and Saftey that will make you pay for catching the ball. By the way I am interested in the Asst GM job.
By Lee
April 24, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Don’t get no QB we already got one..FREE MIKE VICK !!!
By mcdawg
April 24, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
no more Corner backs or safeties-i would take a QB well before a CB-a bit concerned about Dorsey’s injury from last year
By mark
April 24, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Who’s Ryan going to learn under if we take him?? Redman, Harrington, Shockley????????? PUUUULEEEZZ!!! We signed a great RB in the offseason and we have the worst OL in the league, one of them at least. The game starts and ends up front. This is a no brainer. Stack up on the big men on both sides and snag a late round QB!
By Nookah
April 24, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Jeff, you are spot on, you the man for today!!! No Ryan!! We can get a good QB down the draft. Furthermore because we have so many needs we need to shore up all our holes before we go QB.
Grinch I like your post of yesterday…you win with defense in the NFL (see the Giants of 2007). That’s what gives you a chance in every game.
LA Dawg I like your scenario but if wishes were horses beggars would ride!!!! It would be a dream draft if that really came to fruition. Then we would really be in good stead.
I myself like Dorsey at #3. However if he is gone why not Chris Long? We can play Jamaal inside. For all the naysayers of Jamaal, in the indomitable words of the great Bob Marley…don’t worry about a thing, every little thing is gonna be all right. He’s a smart kid and will do much better this year.*
TD & MS will do the right thing this year. I sense a renewed vision and another thing I think we seem to forget, Arthur Blank has also learned his lesson. Look for him to be less involved in personnel decisions. Don’t forget he was new in this business too. It may have taken him a few years to learn but he is a smart businessman and he wants to be succesful. The Falcons will soon produce a winning product, you mark my words!!!!
Go Falcons!!!!
Nuff respect!!!
By Gold standard
April 24, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
we need a QB in the Draft to groom him for the next five year. But Vick is still better than any QB in the draft and he is all ready paid for.
Mike is a super player the guy won at lest 5 game by him self and had 20TD passes and 1039 yard rushing the same year nobody has done both in the same year no one in the NFL ever( check the Facts of all QB in the NFL in one year) and with the rebuild team look out. We need Dorsey Bar none he and mike Vick on the same team maybe dream do come true.
Please get some Tackles on offense. good offense and defensive linemen are hard to come by. I say draft woodson he is just as good as Ryan with out all the hype and money. All I need to know is what Dorsey number Is, NFL shop here I come. With all the hurt and pain I see light .
To the GM ” IF you want to win for years to come get your defense and offensive linemen in the first second and third round and get woodson QB in the third this team will be set please please get linemen the frist two rounds! Blank help is on the way. Let’s have a great Draft. If they draft a QB in the first round Mike is gone If not He will be Back! I am looking see what the GM does and a lot of season ticket holder are Too! way to GO Falcons!!!!!!
By Gold standard
April 24, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Matt Ryan has had foot problem last year all the Hype you don’t hear that because the media is pushing him . Fools gold!!
By bali
April 24, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
so what if dorsey is gonae when the falcons draft number 3. I really do not knw what the fuss is about this guy. I agree that i would not take ryan if dorsey is gone. with so many problems the falcons face they need to make sure the player they select is going to play and not be injured for over half the season or is somekind 0f headcase who thinks outside interesets are more impotant than football.
By Dumbing Down
April 24, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
Yeah don’t go for the best… continue to go second best (cheap) and shoot for mediocrity. No outcry when we went for Vick was there? Insanity…
By Manny
April 24, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Even if Matt Ryan is the second coming of Joe Montana and Dan Marino freak of nature, you still shouldn’t pick him. And it is because of Mike Vick. Not because Mike Vick is coming back, but that I can remember as fast as Mike’s feet and athletic ability- without an offensive line, sacks will abound!
Go and get great linemen and serviceable QBs. You win or lose on the line!
By Ramblin Wrecker
April 24, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Agreed. If laymen look at Matt Ryan and say “I’m not sure” then the Falcons should run screaming into the night before picking him. Lots of other QB’s seemed to be certainties to experts and laymen alike that turned out badly. And if you can’t look at Ryan in comparison to Brohm, Henne or Flacco and be absolutely convinced he’ll be better than that trio, then you can not pick Ryan with all the holes the Falcons have and with the bevy of second round picks they have to make sure they get one of that trio. Let’s hope St. Louis takes Chris Long so the choice will be simple.
By LC_Northside
April 24, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
I hope the Falcons let everyone in the world know they want Matt Ryan and forces the Ravens to trade up with the Rams to get him. Then Dorsey falls right into our lap.
By chemdawg
April 24, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Take Matty Ryan and bring back Vick as a wide receiver/return man.
By BC Grad
April 24, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Please don’t pick Matty Ryan. Falc’s QBs will be running for their lives for the next 3-4 years and Ryan deserves a nice, long career.
By Tron
April 24, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Sometimes I wonder if the people who post here actually watch football, or if they just watch Mel Kiper’s draft board on ESPN.
I mean, half the people here are functionally illiterate; surely they have to watch TV since it’s not like they ever read a book or anything.