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DEL.ICIO.USAbout D.J., father knows best
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Terence Moore
Yeah, yeah, yeah. The Falcons ended their historically silly habit of ignoring impact players from the University of Georgia by snatching D.J. Shockley at the end of this year’s NFL draft. That’s fine and everything, but here’s the deal: Let’s see if they continue to do the right thing by keeping him and grooming him and allowing him the chance to become better than the other guy.
Some guy named Vince Young. Just take it from somebody who thinks that he knows the ultimate potential of Shockley’s arm, legs, mind and guts before we get to somebody who really does.
Did you hear what former NFL scout Russ Lande had to say? Even before teams were on the clock last weekend, he mentioned on his draft site called GMjr.com that Shockley, who spent his only season as a starter for the Bulldogs doing all sort of wonderful things to win 11 of 12 games and an SEC title, will finish as a more dynamic quarterback in the pros than Young, the miracle worker for Texas last season along the way to a national championship.
Whatever Lande discovered about Shockley came through film study, the media and word of mouth. Don Shockley actually lived with the 6-foot-1, 213 pounder. That’s because Don has been D.J’s father for 23 years.
“Me, personally, it’s just like what I told you that day in the stands, right before D.J. started his first game as a starter for Georgia last season against Boise State. Remember what I told you?” said the older Shockley, referring to how he told me back then at Sanford Stadium that the younger Shockley was on the verge of doing what he eventually did, and that is evolve into one of the college game’s premier players. As for the younger Shockley rivaling or surpassing Young as a pro, the older Shockley chuckled, before adding, “As was the case last year, remember what I’m going to tell you now: I think D.J. is going to tear the league up. Vince is a great athlete, but I just believe in D.J.’s skills.”
The older Shockley is biased, of course, but he also is perceptive. (See our chat at Sanford Stadium). In other words, listen closely when he compares and contrasts two quarterbacks who spent their final collegiate seasons as accurate passers, swift runners and prolific winners.
“Everybody talks about Vince’s unorthodox throwing style, and you also have folks who talk about D.J.’s unorthodox throwing style, but they both get the job done,” said the older Shockley. “I’ll tell you the big difference. I see Vince operating now where I thought D.J. was a couple of years ago, where he would take (the ball) down in the pocket and run real quick when things aren’t there. I’ve seen D.J. advance to the point where, last year, he was going through his progressions to the point where he was almost holding the ball too long. I don’t know Vince, because I only see on TV what he’s capable of doing, but I know what my son is capable of doing.”
No question there. The older Shockley has spent the past dozen years as the head football coach at North Clayton High School. That’s where he turned his son into one of the top prep quarterback in the country before D.J. defied common sense by agreeing to put stardom on hold for four years as a backup at Georgia. “We’d rather deal with the future, not the past,” said the older Shockley, who nevertheless told me last year that the younger Shockley had chances during his Bulldog career to transfer and start at North Carolina State, Maryland and North Carolina.
Whatever the case, D.J. will enter the Falcons’ training camp this summer as their fourth quarterback behind Michael Vick, Matt Schaub and Bryan Randall. Odds are that D.J. won’t have the opportunity to rise in a hurry such as Young. After all, Young already is crucial to the Tennessee Titans’ game plan after becoming the third pick overall in the draft and with the Titans trying to ship incumbent Steve McNair to Baltimore. Odds are that, with Vick and maybe Schaub continuing as the favorite sons of the Falcons’ hierarchy for the long run, Shockley will have to do what he eventually will do in small chunks.
That is, the younger Shockley eventually will make folks see that he was better than the other guy. So says the older Shockley, and so says a former NFL scout. And, maybe, so says time.
Permalink | Comments (92) | Categories: Falcons / NFL, Terence Moore
Comments
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By Dale ATL
May 1, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this
I hope that DJ catches on and stays. He will gain even more knowledge under Bill Musgrave. He is definitely a complete package of head, heart and hands (arm). I hope to see him in a real game for the Falcons doing his thing in a few years as a solid number 2. We will eventually trade or lose Shaub.
Go Birds!
By Bill
May 1, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this
Good luck, DJ! You are one class act and here’s hoping you go all the way with the Falcons. Wouldn’t it be a great story, local high school and college football hero takes the local pro team to the Super Bowl? Heck, Hollywood wouldn’t even touch that story so go for it DJ!
By Brad
May 1, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this
D. J. hope you have agreat run with the Falcons! They made the right choice and I hope they will take the time to help you develop as a great pro!
By JACKIE
May 1, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this
WAY TO GO DJ JUST KEEP YOUR HEAD UP AND REMEMBER TO ALWAYS KEEP GOD FIRST AND EVERYTHING ELSE WILL FALL INTO PLACE
By Jay
May 1, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this
I hope he makes but regardless he’ll always be a great Dawg.
By uno
May 1, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this
So Vick is the third best QB on the team now, right?
By Bubba
May 1, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
Another article to get attention and stir controversy. Your act is old. Every one of the NFL scouts were arong about Vince huh? A player chosen at the bottom of the 7th is going to be better? WHATEVER. Homer.
By Mike
May 1, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this
D.J. has been a Bulldog for 5 years, and now he is a Falcon. Will someone please tell me what his real name is?
By Runner
May 1, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
The only Quarterbacks taken late in the draft that ever amount to anything are smart quarterbacks. That leaves Shockley out. He’ll never start a game.
By Jim Bob BullDAwg
May 1, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
You’ve got to be kidding me on this one, Terrence. Eat a d!cK.
By Nathan Gibson
May 1, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
My son played against DJ while a senior at Fayette County High. I watched DJ with just a flick of the wrist on a roll out hit his target sixty-five yards down field for a game winning touchdown. That throw hushed the crowd and I think everyone felt that greatness was on the horizon.DJ has demonstrated that patience and a solid education is a valued commodity with or without football.Success to you Mr.Shockley! By the way; my son Charles J.Gibson will enter Medical School in the fall.
By Richard
May 1, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this
Goodluck DJ Loved watchin you kick butt for the Dawgs WOOF WOOF SIC EM!!!! Hope will do something in the Pros man goodluck!!!! Would love to see you as the next starting QB for the Falcons!!!
By doyle lilly
May 1, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this
D. J. better than Vince Young?
Just like all the writers said Ryan Leaf was better than Peyton Manning.
We all know how that turned out. Moore, you need to quit…………please.
By Mark
May 1, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this
Vince Young is a great talent, but the difference between Vince and DJ Shockley is in the character department. DJ is the ultimate team player, and that will carry him a long way in the NFL. Just look at Hines Ward as an example—it’s all about the team. DJ is also a student of the game. He reads defenses better than any Georgia QB since Eric Zeier (and that includes his immediate predecessor, now with the Seahawks). People talked about Vince Young’s low Wonderlic score. DJ’s will be very high (he made over 1200 on the old 1600-point SAT), which gives him a much better chance to excel in the more cerebral world of the NFL.
So here’s to DJ and his unabashedly biased dad, Don. Mr. Shockley, the Bulldogs love DJ, too! I hope he starts for the Falcons and leads them to the Super Bowl. Even if he doesn’t, Georgia fans will NEVER forget DJ’s self-sacrifice. It will pay off dividends ten-fold in the future. Doors will open throughout Georgia for the rest of DJ’s life because he put the interests of the team above his own. Mark my words on that one.
By JT
May 1, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this
I’m glad to see that D.J. was given a chance by the Falcons. If he makes the roster, that would give us arguably the best depth chart in the NFL at quarterback. Vick is a winner, Schaub could start for a bunch of other teams in the NFL, and Shock is a diamond in the rough. Hopefully he can beat out Randall for the 3rd spot and make the roster. That would be a great story.
By WHOPPER DAWG
May 1, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
I really think that DJ has a good shot at the NFL. Great physical tools and I think the mental capacity to be an great pro QB. I am concerned however if Atlanta is the right fit for him with their commitment to Vick and Shaub (rightly or wrongly), and quite frankly, I have seen NO ability of the current coaching staff to develop QBs. None (maybe unfair due to Vick’s flaws?).
He has a window of opportunity in the NFL that may pass him by due to Atlanta’s situation. Hard medicine for someone that has paid his dues. If he had started for two to three years, he would probably have an opportunity to prove himself professionally. Here is hoping that he gets that chance with the Falcons.
By truedawg
May 1, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
D.J……dont listen to these retards on here…..you did more in one year at georgia that a lot of these other retarded schools couls do in 10…..you will have your chence and you will show everybody how much talent you have!!!! GOD BLESS
By truedawg
May 1, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this
D.J……dont listen to these retards on here…..you did more in one year at georgia than a lot of these other retarded schools couls do in 10…..you will have your chence and you will show everybody how much talent you have!!!! GOD BLESS
By truedawg
May 1, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
sorry….that was could and chance…. i got all worked up
By Playboy
May 1, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this
His real name is Don Shockley Jr.
By Olin A
May 1, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this
What’s up man…you’re my boy Shockley. It’ll be like old times with you playing in Atlanta. Go DAWGS!!!!
By waggle
May 1, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
It will be a nice competition for the third QB spot. Might be some practice squad time for DJ this year.
By T
May 1, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this
Shockley could be a good NFL quarterback and I think he is better than V. Young. Titans made the worst decision of anybody in the draft. Heck, I’d rather have Shockley (or even Young for that matter - well, just about anybody) than Vick, but that’s a whole other topic…
By Hotchkiss
May 1, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this
Shockey Top You’ll Always Be Home Sweet Home TO Me…welcome to Atlanta…this UT fan is glad you’re a Falcon.
By huck from marietta
May 1, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this
i wonder why terrence moore is a writer, rather than the GM of the Falcons or even a scout, maybe because he has as much talent scouting football players as my left testicle does… SHUT YOUR BLABBERING PIE-HOLE, TM!!! if you think DJ is as talented as Vince Young, then you didn’t watch one minute of the national title game…
By KCarlton
May 1, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this
You go DJ! Good things come to those who wait. Look what all you did at UGA your senior year. Hope you knock em dead for the Falcons! :)
By d fog
May 1, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this
DJ, if you’re a sharp dresser like me then the ATL is the place for you. Let’s go on a shopping spree together with your signing bonus.
By UTVol 4 Life
May 1, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this
As I watched Forrest Gump for the 100th time last night, I am reminded of the line, “Stupid is as stupid does”…. TM you’re STUPID….
By JWilliams
May 1, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this
You got to be kidding me? DJ Shockley proved nothing at UGA. He showed many times over that he couldnt handle it when the pressure is on, and to think the pros will just sit back and let him pass? PLEASE…. There have been many African American QB’s that had it in the brains and in the body….SHOCKLEY does not!!!!!
By gordongeko
May 1, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this
DJ is an athletic QB. I don’t believe he could read a defense if his life depended on it. Every time he was pressured he screwed up. NFL QB….get real!
By gordongeko
May 1, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this
DJ is an athletic QB. I don’t believe he could read a defense if his life depended on it. Every time he was pressured he screwed up. NFL QB….get real!
By TotheRetards
May 1, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this
To those who are saying Shockley isn’t intelligent, you must have him confused with Quincy Carter. A stupid quarterback would not have had the forsight to see LSU’s weakness in the secondary and use that weakness to light them up in the SEC championship. A stupid quarterback would not have been able to mount a helluva comeback against WVU and save his team from an embarassing blowout. The kid’s got talent. Barring an injury, he probably would have lead the Dawgs to an undefeated season (which is more than I can say for Reggie Ball you Tech invaders - obviously the ones supplying the anti-shockley banter) Vince Young is a one-trick pony. The first game he meets an NFL defense will be the worst day of his life. He’s as dumb as an ox and will be this draft season’s Ryan Leaf. He can’t read defenses effectively enough to get around a smart secondary and he also has an ego to get over. Shockley will listen and learn from the coaching staff and Michael Vick and become a great quarterback. Good luck to you DJ and thank you for a great Dawg season - wish you were playing for three more.
By Skydawg
May 1, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this
JWilliams..you are an idiot..lets see what DJ didn’t prove at UGA..here’s a list to enlighten your ignorance.
Division-I semifinalist for Draddy Trophy, given to a top college football player who has at least a 3.0 GPA and has completed significant community service.
Named as 1 of 7 finalist for Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, which is given to the nation’s top senior collegiate quarterback.
Named as a semifinalist for the Maxwell Award, which is given annually to the collegiate Player of the Year.
At conclusion of his career, had set several Georgia records including Career Pass Efficiency Rating (142.86, 2002-05), Most TD Passes in a Season (24 in 2005, ties Eric Zeier), TD Responsibility in a Season (28 in 2005), TD Responsibility in a Game (6 vs. Boise State in 2005), and Most TD Passes in a Game (5 vs. Boise State in 2005, ties mark by David Greene vs. LSU in 2004).
Named first team All-SEC by the Associated Press and second team by the SEC Coaches.
Winner of 2005 Bobby Bowden Award which recognizes a Division 1-A player who epitomizes the student-athlete by conducting himself as a faith model in the community, classroom, and on the field.
Winner of the team’s Vince Dooley Most Valuable Player Award for 2005.
Part of class that earned 44 victories—most by any senior class in Georgia history.
Elected by teammates as permanent team captain of 2005 Bulldogs.
SEC Academic Honor Roll.
IDIOT
By Skydawg
May 1, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this
And once again DJ bashers..which to me is most likely the same people who are Vick bashers which leads more accurately to racists. Tell me here where DJ didnt perform well under pressure. 24 TDs and 5 INTs..doesnt sound like he cracked to much to me. If it were not for the defense letting UGA down for once (since Richt era began) in the Auburn and WVU games, the Dawgs were very close to winning alot more than the SEC. Let alone the Dawgs would’ve won the Cocktail Party if DJ werent injured, thanks to the “D” shutting down the Lizards in the 2nd half. So let’s take a look and see where DJ cracked under pressure.
And remember AU and UT defenses were both nationally ranked at the time we played them. So lets break it down here.
Boise State……….. 24 16 0 66.7 289 5 56 0-0 236.57
South Carolina…….. 17 8 2 47.1 112 0 27 1-1 78.87
La.-Monroe………… 20 13 0 65.0 246 1 37 1-1 184.82
Mississippi State….. 36 21 0 58.3 312 2 35 3-14 149.47
Tennessee…………. 27 16 1 59.3 207 0 32 1-1 116.25
Vanderbilt………… 30 15 1 50.0 298 3 53 2-6 159.77
Arkansas………….. 10 6 0 60.0 74 1 17 1-4 155.16
Auburn……………. 36 20 0 55.6 304 2 33 2-12 144.82
Kentucky………….. 31 17 0 54.8 159 4 21 2-16 140.50
Georgia Tech………. 34 15 1 44.1 198 1 25 3-19 96.86
LSU………………. 12 6 0 50.0 112 2 45 1-6 183.40
West Virginia……… 33 20 0 60.6 277 3 43 0-0 161.12
TOTALS……………. 310 173 5 55.8 2588 24 56 17-80 148.26
Once again.. IDIOTS and ignorance is not bliss.
By John
May 2, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this
DJ had an outstanding season in the toughest conference in college football. He led UGA to many big wins under tremendous pressure and his touchdown to interception ratio last year was one of the best in the nation.
A lot of people had their doubts after the 04 GT/UGA game but I told all of the “nay sayers” then that he kept us in the game (while being blitzed every play) and DID NOT THROW AN INTERCEPTION.
I say trade Vick, get as much as you can now for him (his stock will probably never get higher), and go with Schaub and Shockley.
I don’t always agree with Terrance, but he did a good job with this article.
By Bubba
May 2, 2006 12:44 AM | Link to this
Yea, he was so good he only played one year at Georgia. Falcons made the “Homer pick”. He would have been a free agent my friends. As far as the Florida game goes “woulda Coulda shoulda”
By vet
May 2, 2006 12:46 AM | Link to this
Vince young blew the competiton the likes we may never see again. He is the ultimate weapon. the hate is grate and change is not to late.
By Brad
May 2, 2006 01:18 AM | Link to this
Bubba:
Typical Fl fan; where did Fl finsh in the SEC and nationally last year, the year before, etc? By the way, how did it feel to get spanked by Spurrier and the Cocks?
By FALCONZ 4 LIFE
May 2, 2006 05:07 AM | Link to this
GO DJ/ CUT BRYANT AND PLACE DJ ON 3RD STRING QB
By Bubba
May 2, 2006 06:49 AM | Link to this
BRAD,not a Florida fan at all. Don’t even like anyone in the SEC. Is that the best you can do?
By Eric
May 2, 2006 06:57 AM | Link to this
Totally agree… if they want to make any improvement over last year..
1 Trade Vick 2 Schaub #1 Quarterback 3 DJ #2Free up some $$ and get a lineman
By nunnayo biznezz
May 2, 2006 08:00 AM | Link to this
LOL..Some of u nuts are still nuts..U try to switch this around and make it into a “vicks days are numbered,lets make it schaub and shock”..No!! Matt Schaub day are numbered.The workout that we saw showed us that D.J. can make the plays,and has a stronger arm than matt,and picks up the offense well..Plus,if Vick goes down,we won’t miss a beat when D.J.goes in,or even Randall goes in..Schaub will be traded because other teams believe in his hype.Mr.Pre-Season!! Vick goes into the game,even in the Pre-Season,and gets blitzed and blitzed..Then,Matt comes in,and the 3rd stringers come in on defense,and he looks like the 2nd coming of Farve.Why didn’t he do that in college??He is all hype people.I’d love to see matt start for someone for a season,and u will see,he is all hype..QB depth chart:1)Vick,2)Shock!,3)Randall,or my favorite,Bruce Eugene out of Grambling..The days of the pocket passer are almost over!!! GET OVER IT!!
By GW
May 2, 2006 08:26 AM | Link to this
D.J. may or may not become All-Pro but he is one class act. Like Vick, I’m not sold on the running QB in the NFL so Young may have a tough go. Vick and Young can both win a single game on one play all by themselves though.
By Mart
May 2, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this
Get real, the Falcons did a cheap favor for a local boy. He has no chance.
By John
May 2, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this
D.J. Shockley a great role model for the Falcons and Mike Vick which he is not.
By gdg73
May 2, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this
You rednecks read what you want to read. Where in this article did Moore say Shockley was better than Young? A scout made that assessment, not Moore? The article about this one scout’s assessment was in the AJC last week. One ignorant fool makes a stupid response and twenty follow. If you don’t like Terrance Moore and think he is so stupid,don’t read his articles. Evidently, you don’t understand him or what he is trying to say.
By Draft Professor
May 2, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this
Shockley has a chance to become a weapon the Falcons can use on offense. He has the physical and mental talent to become another Randel El. Why not pick him with a draft choice instead of letting another team call him and give him up to 50k as a signing bonus. 7th round choices don’t garner much for salary so we get him cheap. Also if you folks are trying to evaluate his worth now you’re crazy. Let’s see what happens in camp this July. I’m betting he gets a roster spot.
By Timothy
May 2, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this
Congratulations DJ on a great senior season at UGA, and thanks for being a class act. Here is to you having much success on the NFL level.
Now to those who have proven to be Shockley haters. First, to JWilliams, that was real stupid to bring up the fact that DJ is an African-American quarterback. No one in this blog, whether he or she likes DJ or not, brought up that fact. Go to a Klan meeting. Next, to the one who said that quarterbacks that are taken in late rounds do not amount to anything… what about Joe Montana (3rd round) or how about Tom Brady (6th round)? Do your homework.
DJ will be find. Many Blessings on you DJ!!
By TheRoss
May 2, 2006 09:26 AM | Link to this
You have got to be freakin’ kidding me? It’s things like this that make people question your integrity, and ability as a journalist. Why you still write for a major (albeit horrible) newspaper is beyond the comprehension of myself, and many people in Atlanta.
By Jason Johnson
May 2, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this
Hey Buddy, Just wanted to let you know how proud I am of you. I always knew you were going places. Stay strong man and trust in god to guide you. Hollow at me when you can.
By John
May 2, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this
Boy do I hope DJ makes it. He deserves a chance and, if given one, will shut the naysayers up. It would be a shame if his loyalty to UGA ended up penalizing him. Why, however, have the Falcons routinely passed on a dozen other superb UGA players over the years who were available in the draft, went elsewhere and excelled? The miserable record of the Falcons in the draft, over the past 40 years, has never been equalled by another NFL team.
By Cuz
May 2, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this
DJ will make the team. And once again he will confound the nattering naybobs of negativity. Just follow your heart DJ. It has carried you this far and will carry you further. Keep your faith in God and in yourself and you will get all you want.
By Andrew
May 2, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this
Don’t forget that Tomy Brady was a sixth rounder that so called “experts” said would not amount to much, I think shockley will have plenty of time to groom himself and be a great quaterback for the NFL. He won’t be thrown into the fire like others have! Go Falcons!
By TheRoss
May 2, 2006 09:30 AM | Link to this
You have got to be freakin’ kidding me? It’s things like this that make people question your integrity, and ability as a journalist. Why you still write for a major (albeit horrible) newspaper is beyond the comprehension of myself, and many people in Atlanta.
By Jason Johnson
May 2, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this
DJ…Proud of you man! I always knew you were going places. Stay strong and let God guide you. Jason Johnson
By John
May 2, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this
Good luck Mr. Shockley . D. J. represents all that is good about college football .
By Lane4411
May 2, 2006 10:04 AM | Link to this
Thought Georgia was 10-3
With losses to: Florida Auburn WVA
Bulldogs were within a heartbeat of being 13-0. If Shockley had 2 yrs. starting, comparable to or better than Young- with ease.
Good article anyway.
Additionally, thought Derrick White would be drafted or at least signed as a free agent-comments anyone.
By Doc Reem
May 2, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this
Hey Skydog great evidence of just how good a player DJ Shockley is and can be. It’s stupid for anyone to think that this guy does not have a legitimate shot at being as good as Vince Young or better. That’s all Terrence is saying the guy has a chance to be the same type of player or better. It amazes me how people like Bubba, Gordongeko and JimbobBulldog won’t give the guy credit. DJ showed heart, a strong arm, accuracy, nibble legs, leadership, football intelligence(look at interceptions), and don’t forget this guy was the top rated #1 QB coming out of high school. Say what you want but if he had of played more or done exceptionally well at the combine he would have been no less than a third round pick. Stats don’t lie so shut up haters and give the guy the credit he deserves. He AURGUABLY had a better season than any other GA QB (ever) and if not for the 3 point comeback loss against West Virgina where he played his a$$ off he would have no question had the best season ever! The guy is a BALLER simple as that!
By purpledog
May 2, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this
The apparent NFL groupthink on Shockley was a problem with accuracy. Hitting receivers in the hands doesn’t count when they drop the ball five or six times a game, particularly on deep throws. He’ll have more college wins in 2005 than Leinart when USC has to vacate all of those wins. Clearly a better player than Cutler or Brodie Croyle. Better hair too.
Personally, I figure Vince Young will be good, but he really needs bodyguards if Tennessee’s treatment of McNair is an indication of the franchise’s idea of loyalty. And Leinart has Ryan Leaf written all over him.
The sort of creativity it would require to put Shockley and Vick in a game at the same time is too much to ask of pro football lifers, but that would sure be fun, and I really think Vick is more Slash and DJ more QB.
By MARK
May 2, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this
I don’t feel that DJ will be a QB in the NFL but he will for sure make a statement as a reciver or defensive back,or maybe a great return man!Good luck and great success for all you ole Clayton Counties boys.
By tre mac
May 2, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this
Hey, I have a son named DJ and hopes he grows up to be just like you. Good luck man! GOOOO! Dogs. WOOF!
By just a woman
May 2, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this
I know very little about football, but I know class when I see it and DJ showed class by the decision he made. He was also a true leader at UGA.
By BOBO
May 2, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this
SWEET
By 2N4YEARS
May 2, 2006 11:29 AM | Link to this
I can’t really believe some of the posters on here. ‘Bubba’ & ‘Runner’ make complete fools of themselves. TM is writing something worth reading and all you guys can do is take stabs at Shockley?? WTF? Just to enlighten you ‘Bubba’, there have been plenty of late-rounder’s to make big impacts at the pro-level, and PLENTY of early-round selections to be flops. Maybe you should catch one of the ESPN’s ‘Biggest Flops’ episodes. And, incase you didn’t know ‘Runner’, Shockley actually graduated from College, w/ a 3.8 GPA— probably better than you did —so if he’s “not smart”, wonder what that makes you??
By just a woman
May 2, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this
Bobo are you the no talent quarterback who had to run the concession stand until they gave you a coaching job????
By just a woman
May 2, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this
Bobo are you the no talent quarterback who had to run the concession stand until they gave you a coaching job????
By Bill
May 2, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
DJ over Vince Young. You have to be on drugs to even get close to that thought.
By Maurice Freeman
May 2, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this
Good luck DJ… Even though you should have been a Rattler like your Dad and myself. I do think that you are going to be a great QB. Keep your head up and remember this… You are eather heading into a storm, in a storm or leaving a storm behind. Yours in Sports… Coach Freeman 17 SIGMA
By Stan
May 2, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this
TM…..Why dont you act like a responsible journalist and quit writing feauture articles on late round, homer,draft picks like DJ Shockley, go write for the Red and Black if you wanna do that….How about articles on draft picks that matter, like Jerious Norwood and Jimmy Williams…
By brent
May 2, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this
I love DJ and all, but I will not pay to attend any more Falcons games ever. Mr. Blank needs to turn off those between-play commercials, and turn down the volume on the Black Eyed Pea songs they crank out every 10 seconds. A game at the Georgia Dome is truely an artificial experience. Sanford Stadium and Grant Field are the real deal…and in that order. Woof.
By Elton
May 2, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this
DJ you will be fine and the loyalty you left at UGA will pay off for you. To all of you racist and it is very evident by your comments. Please give it a break we are beyond that. It is obvious that the QB position is moving toward the more atheletic player as soon as someone is giving the chance all the GM’s will jump on the bandwagon.
By Flybird
May 2, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this
DJ, I hope the Falcons keep you around long enough for you to reach your potential. Can’t wait to see you dressed out in the red and black of the Falcons. Good luck to you and the Birds in 2006.
By eddy t
May 2, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this
TM, pull your nose out from under dj’s back pad long enough to realize that he’s only an ok qb. we all know how bitter you are that he rode the pine behind green but for all of our sake, give it up!
By Ukon-7
May 2, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this
Ok….I have heard enough of this crap. DJ is a good QB. Vince Young is a good QB. So WTF? Lets see what the season will bring!You all know that Vince will be in the starting spot quicker than DJ because of the departure of “Air” Mcnair. So …reserve judgment unitl the season ends…good luck to both!!
By Ukon-7
May 2, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this
Ok….I have heard enough of this crap. DJ is a good QB. Vince Young is a good QB. So WTF? Lets see what the season will bring!You all know that Vince will be in the starting spot quicker than DJ because of the departure of “Air” Mcnair. So …reserve judgment until the season ends…good luck to both!!
By Mart
May 2, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this
Just to let you people know, only in a very small area centered around north central Georgia does anyone mention V. Young and DJ Shockley in the same breath.
By mike ramirez
May 2, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
I “USED” to call d.j. “LITTLE VICK”….but I personally know d.j. is better than vick(and I dont care who anyone thinks is the best. not now, or ever). not only did he show us that he was a great leader, but also a great team player, and a superb quarterback. I have a feeling he will be in the pro-bowl very soon (mark my words!!!)
By mike ramirez
May 2, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this
by the way….david greene was a good quarterback, but had d.j. been the starter from the get-go, we would have been the national champs at least twice.
By Gumbo
May 2, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this
From a Diehard Tech Fan. Good Luck, D.J., I’ll be pulling hard for you. Nothing against B. Randall, but I hope to see you in a Falcons uniform on Opening Day!
By dirk
May 2, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this
Ok I like D.J I,ve watched him at Ga. and he is everything that is good about college sports and he can play football . Now will he get a fair shake at a spot on the team lets not forget that Randel is a back up on this team and he is another QB that can play . I say trade Schaub what has he proven nothing so lets get rid of him now while someone else wants him and get a line backer that can tacklel someone at the line instead of six yards up the field aka Keith Brooking. This deal makes a lot of sence look you have three QBs whit the same type of game I know this is going to sound crazy but you could run some wishbone plays with out fear of lossing your QB I did say some wishbone plays you would give some teams fits with this offince. you know it,s past time to let the black QBs play the game has evolved to this point if you can,t move in this league your not going to be around long DJ I wish you all the luck in the world you are where you are because you have pronen that you are a big time player with all the presure you had at UGA this will be a walk in the park it,s your time baby lets go
By dirk
May 2, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this
Ok I like D.J I,ve watched him at Ga. and he is everything that is good about college sports and he can play football . Now will he get a fair shake at a spot on the team lets not forget that Randel is a back up on this team and he is another QB that can play . I say trade Schaub what has he proven nothing so lets get rid of him now while someone else wants him and get a line backer that can tacklel someone at the line instead of six yards up the field aka Keith Brooking. This deal makes a lot of sence look you have three QBs whit the same type of game I know this is going to sound crazy but you could run some wishbone plays with out fear of lossing your QB I did say some wishbone plays you would give some teams fits with this offince. you know it,s past time to let the black QBs play the game has evolved to this point if you can,t move in this league your not going to be around long DJ I wish you all the luck in the world you are where you are because you have pronen that you are a big time player with all the presure you had at UGA this will be a walk in the park it,s your time baby lets go
By gilbert renfroe
May 2, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this
SHOCK IT !
By rod
May 2, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this
DJ has my support. If the falcons are smart, they’ll keep him. If people really think that Matt Schuab will be here next year, they are seriously mistaken. Bryan Randall was in camp last year so he has a feel for what the falcons are looking for. DJ is a top rate backup (2nd position) right now. I apologize for my bluntness, but if Vick does not start to perform, he’ll be in Oakland with his cousin Aaron Brooks. He has been in the league four years and every year there is an excuse. NO MORE EXCUSES!!! RUN THIS OFFENSE LIKE YOU ARE CAPABLE OF DOING!!!
By samiam
May 2, 2006 06:08 PM | Link to this
Why all of the hating on Vick. When he took us to the playoffs, you could hear a rat Pee on cotton. Man, you guys are fair weather fans. He’s better than half of QB’s in the league. Ask a real player who they hate to see and he would be in the to three, because he do more than sit in the pocket like sitting target. Get over it. Not all qb’s are going to be like Bledsoe. I never heard such comments about Steve Young during his first six years he was a running QB. Hmm! Elway was the same way. Let’s be fair about this. I know, this is America and it want happen in my life time. If he looked like you, it wouldn’t be an issue.
By Skydawg
May 2, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this
For those mindless idiots who think RM selected Shockley as a “sentimental” pick obviously haven’t watched him over the years with Tampa or Atlanta. McKay doesnt throw away picks. He is reknown for finding sleepers in late rounds who turn out to be above average NFL players. That’s why he’s considered to be one of the best in the business, if not THE BEST. To think he would throw away a pick to keep the UGA fanbase happy undermines his credibility. Get a life people. He selected DJ because he believes he can play in the NFL. Now its up to DJ. And to DJ (not that he’s reading this or anything) Just keep doing what you do. You’ve always proved them wrong before. I don’t expect anything less now.
By Skydawg
May 2, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this
Furthermore..this was a dayum NFL draft…not some sandlot pick-up game. Get real people. Nuff said!!
By Tommy
May 2, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this
DJ showed alot of heart playing behind David Greene for four years and then shinning when his time came. I wish him sucess with the Falcons as for as being better than # 10 for the Horns … Vince improved in his time at Texas, his skills were lacking as a freshman but before he left he won a National Championship. It is going to be a struggle living up to the hype going into Tennessee, DJ don’t face that in Atl … no pressure on him … not even to make the travel sqaud.
By Dreama Pilcher
May 2, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this
I think DJ will be a great talent with the Falcons. He is bright, a gifted athlete, unselfish and dedicated. He has all the tools to go all the way to the top. He now has the support of the state of Georgia behind him as he starts in his new career. Go DJ! You deserve all the success in the world!
By LONG LIVE THE HYPE
May 2, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
ROTFLMAO. Better than what other guy? Joe T?
DJ will be coaching QBs for his dad next year. Good Lord have mercy
By titothebear
May 2, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
I hope Vick can take DJ and educate him in the fine art of the fumble and show him how he overthrows his receivers. Shockley is a quick study and I’m sure he will get the knack of throwing interceptions just the way Mike does. Now, patience Foulcons fans, though Vick was terrible when he got here, it may take DJ a little while to sink to the level of the twenty-fifth best quarterback in the league. Let Vick bring him along slowly as only he can. Remember, we’re talking about a master of mess-up. He has the ability to turn DJ into the same sort of ineffective and under achieving quarterback we’ve come to expect and revere here in the ATL!
By BT
May 2, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this
When Vick gets hurt again the wisdom of drafting Shockley will be more apparent.
By Bubba
May 2, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this
AMEN TITOTHEBEAR. Someone said Vick is one of the best Qb’s in the league! Must have missed that Chicago game where he was throwing to row 6 and was sitting on the heated bench wrapped like a pig in a blanket. Quite blaming the receivers, offensive co-ordinators,the system,the hot dog vendors etc. You were ranked near the bottom of the list Mikey.