AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2008 > March > 20 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFalcons must draft Jake Long
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Terence Moore
It’s a no-brainer, really. Come the NFL draft, the definitive choice at No. 3 overall for the Falcons isn’t any of those quarterbacks with potential, especially since this is a franchise that needs players of now instead of tomorrow.
You also could have Glenn Dorsey and Chris Long sitting there next month as wonderful defensive linemen, but here’s the problem for the Falcons: Dorsey and that Long aren’t wonderful offensive linemen.
Two words: Jake Long. The Falcons should draft the nearly flawless Michigan man of 6-foot-7 and 313 pounds, stick the guy at left tackle on their offensive line and then move on with the rest of their lives for the next decade or so. Just to make sure that neither the Miami Dolphins nor the St. Louis Rams snatch Long at No. 1 or No. 2, the Falcons should trade up or do whatever they can to make this happen.
It’s got to happen.
Here are two more words: Cleveland Browns. By drafting Long, the Falcons would have a decent chance to evolve into a Cleveland franchise that went from nothing to something in a hurry. That’s because Browns officials had the foresight to use their No. 3 pick overall last year to draft Joe Thomas as their nearly flawless Wisconsin man of 6-foot-6 and 313 pounds. They stuck Thomas at left tackle, and then they watched all sorts of splendid things happen.
With Long, the Falcons could have Thomas-like results.
“Hey, you know. I could not agree with you more on that,” said Thomas Dimitroff, showing considerable wisdom with such a comment after barely two months on the job as the Falcons’ general manager. “I know [Browns general manager] Phil Savage well, and I’ve lauded him on his approach last year, because what he did with Thomas was really help the quarterback [Derek Anderson] out who was sort of still in the growth process.
“An offensive lineman can really set the tone. You can continue to build, and [we could] sort of refine what we have along the offensive line, and I think it could open up a lot of possibilities.”
Glad that’s settled. So, is it OK to tell the world right now that the Falcons definitely will use their first pick on Jake Long, a noted perfectionist who was associated with only two penalties and two sacks in his four seasons at Michigan?
Dimitroff replaced his answer with a hearty laugh, before saying, “He’s definitely a heckuva talent.”
For one, Thomas solidified what was a ghastly offensive line. The Browns went from ranking among the worst NFL teams in sacks allowed two seasons ago at 54 to one of the best last season at 19. In case you’re wondering, the Falcons spent last season ranking among the league’s worst teams in sacks allowed with 47.
Thomas also helped the Browns discover the run when Jamal Lewis woke up his dormant career to become only the second 1,000-yard rusher for the Browns in 23 seasons. In case you’re wondering, the Falcons ranked among the NFL’s worst rushing teams last season after leading the league for three straight years.
There was the Browns’ shaky quarterback situation, too. Since the talented Brady Quinn was just a rookie, the Browns were forced to use the unheralded Anderson. It didn’t matter. He stayed erect long enough behind Thomas to become a Pro Bowl alternate. In case you’re wondering, the Falcons also have a shaky quarterback situation. They have career backup Chris Redman, former Georgia star D.J. Shockley, who is recovering from a damaged knee, and Joey Harrington, a flawed veteran.
Mostly, there was Thomas operating last season as the Browns’ main catalyst along the way to a 10-6 finish after they had four victories the year before.
In case you’re wondering, the 2007 Falcons also had four victories.
Need we say more? With Long, the Falcons could have their Thomas and instant hope. Said Dimitroff of Long, “Not only do you have his skills and his ability to be both a left and right tackle, but also what he brings to the table as far as his intelligence and his intangibles.”
They’ll draft him.
Well, they better.
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By dwayne
March 20, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
Hey Terence, Great Column you are a 100% we must draft Jake Long, hopefully he doesnt have Mckay and Blank whispering in his ear to draft a widereceiver. We need people in the media to push the fans agenda to the team. This guy can shore up the line for years.
By TD
March 20, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
That would be great if he makes it past pick number 2. Which he wont…
I hope you know something the rest of the NFL does not. No one has him dropping below pick number 2.
By Dog-hatin' Jacket
March 20, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Right on. TM is mostly useless but this time he got it absolutely right. All the talking heads saying “draft Matt Ryan” are nuts. Ryan would get killed and would be a useless pick. Start from the ground up. Thomas-D, repeat after me: “O-line, o-line, o-line”. Biggest no-brainer in the history of Falcon’s draft picks.
By Mobodini
March 20, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
Not that I totally disagree, but there’s a flaw in Terence’s logic: Joe Thomas was much more athletic than Jake Long. Jake Long has undeniable skill but he struggles with speed and there’s plenty of speed in the NFL. He’d be a better fit for a right tackle and I don’t know if it’s smart at this juncture to draft an RT at number 3. We already have plenty of LTs that can get beat on a regular basis that are far less expensive than the third overall pick. That said, better Long than Matt Ryan.
By Singletary
March 20, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Yeah, TM. Jake Long isn’t wrong.
P.S. Mobodini — do you have access to times at the Combine? Joe Thomas has done so much for CLE. The two games I saw with JLong on the line, he looked pretty nimble for a big guy to me.
By Flee Hound
March 20, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
I think Miami will draft him. We may have to trade up to get him.If not dorsey would make a great pick.
By Flee Hound
March 20, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
I think Miami will draft him. We may have to trade up to get him.If not dorsey would make a great pick.
By Greg
March 20, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Perfect, Terence. Except for one small thing: if Jake is going to be gone before #3 (and I doubt that he will be), don’t give up something like two picks to move up to get him. That would not be prudent. Instead, signal the umpteen teams drafting below us who are thirsting for Dorsey that they can have him (if Jake is gone by #3, Dorsey will be available at #3), but he will cost them two high picks. Then do that deal. Believe me, there will be offers.
By Najeh Davenpoop
March 20, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
(stands up and applauds)
The only reason the Falcons shouldn’t take Jake Long is if he is already taken, in which case they should trade down to 7 or 8 and pick Ryan Clady.
It has been 15 years since the Falcons picked an offensive lineman in the first round. I think it’s about time that streak came to an end.
By morris
March 20, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
Thomas is head and shoulders a better athlete than Jake Long. Ask any talent evauluator out there. And some think Jake Long will project better at right tackle in the NFL. The reason Dimitroff was laughing was because he couldn’t believe how dumb you are terrence. The falcons might be better off trading down a few spots and picking up a guy like sedrick ellis or ryan clady. Dorsey is injury prone and has had a stress fracture since his sophmore season. I don’t think there will be a “can’t miss prospect” at #3 so we may as well trade down a few slots. I hear K.C is enamored with matt ryan and they hold the #5 pick. And you know the raiders will take DMAC at #4 so it would be a slick move to trade with K.C and pick up an another extra draft choice.
By long time falcon
March 20, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Adam schefter of NFL network is reporting that the raiders and hall have finally reached a contract agreement. Meangelo gets 24.5 million in guaranteed money. Al Davis has lost his freakin mind! Dude ain’t worth that kind of cabbage. Anyhow, the falcons get the raiders 2nd rounder this year and next years fifth rounder.
By david
March 20, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Terrance is the same talent evaluator that demanded the Falcons sign Byron Leftwich midseason.
By keep it real
March 20, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
long will be gone ! DORSEY WILL BE THE 1 DRAFT PICK! NOW THAT HALL IS GONE WHO IS THE NEXT OUTCAST FROM OUR CLUELESS FANS AND ajc. WHO WILL WE WHINE ABOUT NEXT!
By RED and BLACK
March 20, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
But Terrance he is not black….then you will be bashing them 2 years down the road for not drafting enough blacks. Thats just what you do.
Yeah I remember that David but Long is the real deal.
By TobyD
March 20, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Terrance
youve been reading too many mock drafts again. Face it you dont know who the Falcons should pick.
your just guessing
By country boy
March 20, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Yes Mr. Moore I believe you are correct in saying Jake Long is a good start for our latest rebuilding effort. However I agree with you and other bloggers that he will probably be gone when we draft. I think that on draft day our GM will get several good offers for our #3 pick so maybe we should move down a few spots and pick up something like a 3rd round pick. This draft has 4-5 top flight tackles that can play and we need players. I hope to hell this new GM can evaluate a draft.
By RaySkee
March 20, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
I think if Dorsey’s health checks out, the Falcons should select him. This guy was a beast, causing many problems for teams, and I believe this I what the team needs. Jake Long has his positives too, but I think Dorsey will have an impact, because if Keith Brooking is gonna stay at middle linebacker, I’m really hoping for Dorsey to be drafted. Since everyone praising the departures of so called THUGS from the team, add Brooking name to the list. He’s been stealing money from the Falcons for quite some time. Falcon fans need to realize that you can’t see where you’re going by looking back. Everything that happened can’t be blamed on one person. Just have hope for the future.
By Rick
March 20, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Tm, you are dead-on. This guy can be like Mike Kenn was. 10-12 years of intense play, and both from Michigan. Now you have 3 #2’s after that. You could not ask for a more perfect situation for a team that was decimated. I re-upped today and cannot wait to see what might happen. Man, can we just quit the racial crap everytime?
By Jeff
March 20, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Once again, Terence Moore shows his ignorance. Good lord man, have you never heard of TONY MANDARICH??? He was THE ultimate offensive lineman in college… he was an NFL BUST! You can find decent linemen in the 3rd, 4th, 5th round, or in free agency. The Falcons drafted linemen like Bill Fralic high before… where the hell did that take them? And you know what? I don’t want to be the Cleveland Browns! Everyone knew they were smoke and mirrors last year. And no professional expert I’ve heard this off-season predicts big things from them. Atlanta NEEDS to draft Chris Long! Read the SI article on him from last week. The kid is smart, athletic, strong as heck, a warrior and has great character. He is Patrick Kerney or Michael Strahan, except younger, bigger and faster. Those in the know have compared him to Lawrence Taylor. If he is still there, we need to GET HIM! We need to improve our seive of a defense. Our offense is going to suck anyway - with Redman at QB and Roddy White catching (I mean, dropping passes) and no Alge Crumpler, we’ll average 12-13 points a game. I just want the defense to give up 15 or less, then maybe we’ll get lucky and win some games on late FGs 16-14. The bottom line is this: Chris Long is a five-star NFL prospect. So is Matt Ryan, and probably Darren McFadden. We could easily pick one of those 3, then trade them, or maybe trade the pick or a late 1st round and 2nd rounder. So we DO NOT need idiots like Terence recommending to the Falcons brass to draft a god dXXX offensive lineman! How do you propose to sell that to our fans? “Come see the Falcons - we give up points like crazy, our recievers can’t catch, and our QB was selling insurance last year - but we’ve got a darn nice offensive tackle!” Sheesh!!! Gimme a break - we are not one OL away from the playoffs. We’re several years, so why not get a player who can help immediately and scour the free agent wire for good offensive linemen? You can’t tell me the O-lines of Dallas, Green Bay, New England or the NY Giants were filled with top-five picks…. they are just smartly built units from good football people. We have that now - don’t waste a pick on a OL that high! “Decent chance to evolve into the Cleveland franchise”… gimme a break TM!!!
By william
March 20, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
it’s possible this is the dumbest thing you’re ever written
By william
March 20, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
it’s possible this is the dumbest thing you’re ever written
By Falcons stink
March 20, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Yes, draft Dorsey so he can sit on injured reserve for most of his career. Dorsey would be a wasted pick NOT Matt Ryan.
This is why the Falcons are pathetic, pick a dime a dozen defensive lineman in favor of a franchise quarterback.
Hopefully now that Thomas Dimitroff is in place he will correct the idiocy of picks past.
Please pass on Matt Ryan so that poor kid doesn’t have to play in loserville Atlanta for another 4-12 team. Let DJ Shockley QB the 4-12 team, at least the idiots in UGA land will be happy.
By Finchdawg
March 20, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Draft him, yeah, but don’t move up. We need more picks, not less. A CB, a DT, an OT, and a QB are all significant needs, we can’t give one of those second-rounders up just to move up one pick.
By hump
March 20, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
they shouldn’t draft matt ryan. the best 1 round qb thats worth something today is peyton manning remember who san diego picked that year? RYAN leaf and where is he today, anyway i just wonna see what the new gm is going to do. he knows talent so i think he knows who he wants. if your a true falcon fan how about ya’ll and non true falcon do like everybody in the world wants arthur blank to do, let them do what they’re paid to do
By hump
March 20, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
they shouldn’t draft matt ryan. the best 1 round qb thats worth something today is peyton manning remember who san diego picked that year? RYAN leaf and where is he today, anyway i just wonna see what the new gm is going to do. he knows talent so i think he knows who he wants. if your a true falcon fan how about ya’ll and non true falcon fan do like everybody in the world wants arthur blank to do, let them do what they’re paid to do
By ATLplayer
March 20, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
TOBYD Everyone that says anything about the draft picks are guessing. No one knows at this point who is going where…so people are making their educated guess.
I whole heartly agree. Take Jake Long if available, if not take Dorsey. Do Not trade down. This team needs a front line player. The ones we had were cut or traded. The Fans need some kind of hope…a bunch of NO Names drafted on a hunch won’t do it.
By hump
March 20, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
they shouldn’t draft matt ryan. the best 1 round qb thats worth something today is peyton manning remember who san diego picked that year? RYAN leaf and where is he today, anyway i just wonna see what the new gm is going to do. he knows talent so i think he knows who he wants. if your a true falcon fan how about ya’ll and non true falcon fan do like everybody in the world wants arthur blank to do, let them do what they’re paid to do
By Tom Trojan
March 20, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Trade the #3! We need a damn site more than a left tackle! Never seen a defensive tackle make a team great either! We need bodies, several good bodies not some high priced ‘Star’! I think Dorsey is damaged goods! Hurt a lot at LSU, what do you think the pros will do to him? Seen Ellis play a lot and he is good, but he ain’t going to make a team ‘Great’ either! We have a chance to get several players here, lets take this chance!!!
By ATLplayer
March 20, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
One other thing people!! We didn’t get the Patriots GM…we got their director of scouting! Our NEW GM didn’t run the Patriots draft. He is inexperienced and this will be his first big dance in the war room. Their is NO guarantees he will pick the right player with our stock pile of draft picks. As a Falcons fan I pray that he get all right, however we won’t know for a few years. Prepare for the Falcons to continue to suck for at least 2 years.
By Rick
March 20, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
Man, some of you are either drunk or just an idiot. Tom Trojan, Hump do you know anything about football?
By Grady baby
March 20, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
The 1978 NFL draft we selected Michael Lee Kenn A 6’7”, 275-lb. offensive tackle from the University of Michigan,Kenn played his entire 17-year NFL career with the Falcons from 1978 to 1994. Often history repeats itself.
By kris in alpharetta
March 20, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
I’m still trying to understand why they kept Joey Harrington. And Deangelo Hall is gone. He had a big mouth but he got things done. I guess I’ll be doing what many of you will be doing when the Falcons season kicks off- Holding my breath, and waiting for a miracle. In the meantime, Mr. Moore is right again: Draft Long.
By Ken Strickland
March 20, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
I hate to be a spoil sport, but I disagree. It certainly wouldn’t be a mistake to draft Jake Long at #3, just not the best way to go. The draft is rather deep in OT’s, and the Falcons intend to employ a power rushing gm. If you check JLong’s scouting sheet, you’ll see that power blocking isn’t a strength. Other than that, he’s an excellent choice. Of the 3 DT’s that started last yr, 2 have been waved and the other is recovering from the reinjury of a previous injury.
To say Cleveland’s turnaround was due solely to the acquisition of an OT is a major over statement and over simplification. If you know anything about football, you’d know DEF wins and our DEF needs more help than our OFF at this point. We’re minus both DT’s, a starting CB(DHall) and a starting OLB(DWilliams). We were already near the bottom of the NFL in sacks and we’ve released our best inside pass rusher(RColeman). DE JAnderson didn’t have a single sack last yr and JAbraham is injury prone. Do you really think these DEF issues can be resolved by drafting OT JLong?
After Dorsey and Ellis, there seems to be a big dropoff at DT. There are several OT’s rated right behind JLong, and a couple are rated as stronger power run blockers. After losing our top cover CB, we need an inside pass rush more than ever. Think about it TERRENCE.
By Jase
March 20, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
I agreed with you Terence, until you suggested trading up to draft an offensive tackle. Nice try though.
By bravesnfalcons
March 20, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
I live in Idaho and have been an Atlanta fan for 26 years. Idaho has no sports experience excecpt for Boise State. Now we all now how that turned out. That was the greatest upset of all time. But I have no where to go to get my Pro sport “off”. So I choose Atlanta. And all yall Atlanta sports fans p** me off. I wish i could pay 20 bucks even if it were for upper deck seats to watch the all time greats like John Smolts or Chip, no I have to travele across state and pay hundreds for rooms, tickets, plane tickets, yall spoiled mother,
By Jorja Thrasher
March 20, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Jake Long would be a great pick if available, but not to trade up and lose picks. The OL definitely is the greatest need and with the addition of Stepanovich, it will be a big help. Face it, the Falcons still need a QB of the future, and he needs to be drafted this year. With a dearth of QB’s in the folowing draft, they need to pull the trigger.
By GT Guy
March 20, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Adios, D Hall.
Take the QB if he is available and while they are at it, please do something about our wussy uniforms, the logo is awful and the jersey isn’t much better.
By shane
March 20, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
I could stand behind the decision to pick Long. We still have Foster from the Petrino disaster who could be the other bookend once he heals. There is a lot of tallent at QB in this draft. Who knows what prospect could drop down?
We also need to address our center position before McClure gets banged up. That kid from CAL could move to the second round. I not saying…I just saying.
Go Birds.
By SC
March 20, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
We are not trading up. There are people who feel long will end up as a right tackle in the NFL. Dorsey is the best player in this draft and if he’s there we should thank god and run to the podiun
By saint
March 20, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
TM, the article was better than usual, but I am not sure Jake Long is the chosen one. We certainly need a protecting OL, to preserve our QB from all those sacks, and to keep the defense off the field. I think Redman is vastly underrated, as he was really good with a thin OL; think of what he would do with a solid OL. A LT is needed to protect the QB’s backside, but need not be such a high pick. Wasn’t Brady picked at 157 and A.Bradshaw as the last RB in the draft? With the injury prone Falcons do we want Dorsey with the chronic leg problem? If Thomas D. is talking about Jake Long possibly at RT, I’m thinking he might not go for him at #3. The think tank will have to get the most bodies they can. One not to overlook is Trevor Laws at D-end second round.
By Ryder
March 20, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
You piece of sht fanboys are stupid! It wouldn’t matter who the Falcons drafted you would just btch about it anyway! Why don’t you leave and become Panthers fans or something.
I trust in this regime to get the job done right. If they draft Dorsey, I trust that they have checked out his injury history. If they are lucky to have Long available, that means the line is set for years. If they draft Ryan, that means their franchise QB is set for years.
Atlanta has 11 draft picks and an offensive philosophy already in place, which is a far cry from what they’ve had since Dan Reeves was here. Whatever they do I’m confident it will be with the team philosophy in place.
By michael
March 20, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
yeah but orlando pace wasnt too bad of a pick just ask st louis. Im sure the browns are happy with thomas. Jonathan ogden wasnt too bad for teh ravens either people don tforget that. We need to take a chance on jake long he once had lloyd carr run mike hart beind im 11 plays in a row and that drive went for a TD. Crazy huh?
By michael
March 20, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
yeah but orlando pace wasnt too bad of a pick just ask st louis. Im sure the browns are happy with thomas. Jonathan ogden wasnt too bad for teh ravens either people don tforget that. We need to take a chance on jake long he once had lloyd carr run mike hart beind im 11 plays in a row and that drive went for a TD. Crazy huh?
By michael
March 20, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
yeah but orlando pace wasnt too bad of a pick just ask st louis. Im sure the browns are happy with thomas. Jonathan ogden wasnt too bad for teh ravens either people don tforget that. We need to take a chance on jake long he once had lloyd carr run mike hart beind im 11 plays in a row and that drive went for a TD. Crazy huh?
By Shamus Thacker
March 20, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Defense first, then offense.
Have a nice day.
By Cwag
March 20, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Draft Jake Long…Please!!! Start with the offensive line and the defensive line, then work on the quaterback.
By Bk Hawk
March 20, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
Red and Black cut the race BS. TM you are 110% right on this one. I’ve been saying for weeks JAKE, JAKE & JAKE. Keep up the good work Mr. Dimitroff.
By jp
March 20, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
I’m not sure if Matt Ryan isn’t the best player in this draft. If Parcells passes on him, the Falcons will have no choice but to take him. There are questions about everyone of this top players with the exceptions of chris long and vernon gholston.
So my choice is to take Ryan or if not there than trade down to 8 to 14 and take Leodis Mckelvin or Ryan Clady.
By michaelgee
March 20, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
FWIW, TM, why should we draft a number 1 pick who is over 5 seconds in the 40? Jake Long is big yes, but he uisn’t fast enough for the NFL. Does Lincoln Kennedy ring any bells?
Sure Long is a mammoth guy, but in coolege that works, BUT in the NFL DE’s will run right around him.
Jake Long at #1 will blow up in your face TM, he does NOT have NFL speed. Besides, if we draft a white guy #1, you will use that point for the next 3 years to blame TD and Blank. The only times you ask for a player to be drafted is simply so you can blame the owner for it later. Obviously, you are just playing to the Madden/Playstation knowledgeable fans. Now, go check the 40 times on the guy you just said should be drafted number 1. Size is not everything.
By Sam Maister
March 20, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Recent talk is that DOrsey will go #2 to St. Louis, and im pretty sure Chris Long will go to Miami. If Dorsey is on the board, I’d take him, DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS, and it all starts upfront by pressuring the quaterback. But since he won’t be there, the Falcons should take the other Long, Jake.
By C. Evans
March 20, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
See, this is why Terrence Moore is and forever will be considered an idiot regarding the Falcons. He doesn’t follow the team closely enough to be allowed to write about them, as everything he’s ever said is idiotic. You do not understand the concept of the NFL draft, nor how it will transpire.
First, Jake Long is not going to be available at #3 when we pick. And, even if he is, it’s a really stupid move to pick him. Why is it a stupid move? Because the dropoff in offensive linemen after him is not very significant. The dropoff after the top 3 defensive linemen (which should all go top 5) is a very significant dropoff. Chris Long, Glenn Dorsey, and Sedrick Ellis are all three can’t miss picks, as is Jake Long. The problem is, with the exception of possibly Vernon Gholston, there are no true elite prospects along the defensive line in this draft.
Terrence, perhaps you should move over to the editorials column and write about happy trees and global warming. Because the Atlanta Falcons are not your forte’. We’re used to it by now, because you, as well as 90% of the people in this city are merely fair weather fans. When we’re good, you’re on board, but when we are struggling, you want to kick more dirt in the hole. Don’t you dare say you’re a fan of this team, you merely cover them because it pays good.
By Scott
March 20, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
It seems like either Jake Long, Chris Long or Dorsey would be a good pick. Doesn’t seem like Matt Ryan is really worth the third pick in the draft. And since we signed Turner, we don’t need McFadden.
By Chuck
March 20, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
Jake Long is probably going #2 to St. Louis. They’ll need a replacement for the aging Orlando Pace.
The best lineman out there is Sedrick Ellis of So. Cal. That’s who the Falcons should take at #3.
By kg
March 20, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Gosh, according to your article, once the Falcons draft Long, they don’t need to draft anyone else. All of a sudden its a one man team. What you didn’t say was the prior year, many writers had projected that the Browns were going to make the playoffs. That year, they lost a lot of close games, had a lot of injuries and ended up with a very poor record, allowing them to draft Thomas. Point is, they had a lot of pieces in place before they drafted Thomas. Sure Thomas was an impact rookie, and he made the team better, but it still takes more than one left tackle to keep a quarterback upright. Long would be a great pick, but your analysis and comparison to the Browns is too simplistic. The Falcons are not in the same position talent wise as the Browns were prior to their selection of Thomas.
By Flee Hound
March 20, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
You people keep saying mike kenn was drafted out of michigan but i think it was ILLinois but i could be wrong.I am sure the falcons will draft the right people this time they can’ afford to make any more mistakes.Bad decisions equal empty seats. I don’t think we the fans will settle for another discount team that gives all its money to one player.No more VT players please.
By leftcoastfan
March 20, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
tm,
i agree with you, draft long to shore up the shoddy oline, then draft chad henne(hardly throws a pick), then go get MLBs, corners, safeties, another guard, another tackle, hell, we have ten picks, lets see what Thomas D can do, he has the world on a platter.
nuff said
By joe
March 21, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
WRONG……Jake Long isn’t a franchise left tackle. He’s a really good player, but I wouldn’t take him at # 3 as I think he’s more suited for RT.
By joe
March 21, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this
WRONG……Jake Long isn’t a franchise left tackle. He’s a really good player, but I wouldn’t take him at # 3 as I think he’s more suited for RT.
By PHIL
March 21, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Championships are made on the O line. Period.
By terrence is a racist
March 21, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
in case you were wondering, how many times can you say “in case you were wondering” in one article? the answer is three. you suck as a writer.
By Foose
March 21, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
While drafting Long might be a very good move for the Falcons, it’s not gonna be enough on its own.
In 2007, the Browns signed Eric Steinbach to a huge deal to play LG next to ex-Falcon Kevin Shaffer. Then they signed some “washed up” RB named Lewis.
Oh, and they got some guy named Chudzinski to run the offense. Apparently, he knew a little something about how to use that Winslow kid…
THEN Phil Savage did what he does every year and went with the best player available, and he decided that Thomas would help the team more than Quinn. Then just to be sure, he got Quinn, too (ha ha, stupid Dolphins!).
And THEN luck sprang from disaster when Derek Anderson stopped playing like a sixth round pick. And Shaffer turned out to be pretty good at RT. ALL of that, plus the high draft picks the Browns finally used WELL combined to make the team what it is now.
Offense or defense, build the lines first and everything else will follow.
By Son of a Gun
March 21, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
Great article Mr. Moore. Jake Long has the ability to be a major impact right away and the potential to grow into an even better all around franchise lineman. He’s our best option.
DRAFT JAKE LONG
By Big Brown and Green
March 21, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
Umm.. Which way is the bathroom?
By GHunt
March 21, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
TM, y0u should not continue the hyperbole of one player js the only choice Atl franchaises should draft. The facts say the Faicons could move in several differnt directions that would improve the team. For example: The team needs to get better up the middle on defense, therefore Dorsey or Ellis makes a better argument. A CLong or Ghoston jumbo linebacker-defense end makes sense.
Moving down and picking up more picks would help since the team ras lots of holes to fill. Additionally, moving down could help the salary cap.
By barfly
March 21, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
Hey, Mr. Dimitroff, and Mr. Blank, if you read this, you are off to a wonderful start in re-building the Falcons.
Getting rid of MeAngelo was brilliant. And Mr. Moore is right: Get Jake Long if he is still there at #3. But don’t trade up: Falcons need bodies. Get Flacco for franchise QB in the 2nd round if he’s still there.
And please, since this is a do-over, let’s change the uniforms back to what they were originally in 1966: RED helmets and Black jerseys. That’s classy! No need to change back to the old Falcon logo (which was classier however), but at least go back to the red helmet and black jerseys.
Most people think the original colors were red helmets and red jerseys. The first few years in the 60’s it was red helmets and black jerseys. It’d be nice to see that again with the new start!
By Joebrave
March 21, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
Kris in Alpharetta,What part of Deanna Hall DID NOT WANT TO BE HERE do you not Understand,that Sorry Sonsabitch was never going to suit up for the Birds again,He said So,not the Team,What part of He,Meaning Deanna Hall,worked out His OWNFRIGGIN TRADE,Godamn Idiot,you are about as dumb as a box of Rocks,Get aGrip,NO MORE WHINY @SSED THUG LIFE HEROS WILL PLAY HERE EVER!!!! Damn Stupid sonsabitches!!!!
By 1966 Falcons
March 21, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
That’s right, barfly. I’m an old timer, and most people forget about the original Falcons colors:
From the first season in 1966 through the end of the 60’s, The home jerseys were black, and the helmets were red.
Then in the 70’s they changed the home jerseys to red with the red helmets (away jerseys were always white, of course).
When the badda$$ Jerry Glanville days of the early 90’s came around, they went to all black: both helmets and jerseys.
And when Michael Vick started, they brought back the red jerseys but kept the black helmets, essentially reversing the original 60’s color combination.
With the new start in 08, it would be a swell idea to go back to the original color scheme of red helmets and black jerseys. This IS classy (just look at the Bulldogs special uniforms for the 2 games last season: those were exactly like the 60’s Falcons scheme of red helmets and black shirts).
No other team has this combo and it is very nice looking!
As for the draft, yep, gotta take J Long at #3! And I also agree with barfly, Joe Flacco is very impressive! Just check out the highlight reel of him on YouTube. Man! He’s a big strong Roethlisberger-like kid who could wrap up the franchise QB spot for the Falcons! This is a no-brainer!
By Conner
March 21, 2008 1:40 AM | Link to this
Last I checked most teams winning Super Bowls have franchise Quarterbacks. Matt Ryan is a franchise QB. We do not need the player of today we need the foundation for champioships. If Matt Ryan is there thank God and draft him. You don’t want to be the team that says I wish we had drafted Farve, Marino, Roethlisberger,etc. You cannot pass on Ryan and hope that Flacco,Brohm,or Henne pans out. The Falcons’ future is Matt Ryan.
By michael
March 21, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this
remember dan wilkinson was drafted 31 overall remember courtney brown when he cam out of penn state? or what about ryan simms whom was drafted #6 by kc? how did they work out none won a championship. Dorsey is gettin just as much as hype but it isnt a given he will turn things around. so dont be so quick to hate on jake long.
By surfrider
March 21, 2008 2:53 AM | Link to this
Long is excellent no question but the Falcons need a QB/leader. This Franchise has been in need of that from the get go. Yes there was Bart, and remember we drafted Kenn 1st round but guess what we missed on Joe Montana and many other QB’s. The 49’rs were not that great until Montana showed up. They drafted well top to bottom. I would look hard at Ryan as the top rated QB in the draft. Why? Pin point accuracy, quick release, etc…However, if we get Long that’s not going to bad either. We still need plenty of other players but a playmaker is one thing we need now to put points on the board and move the chains. We have some decent QB’s but to me they are backup material until proven otherwise. Tom Brady as our GM knows was what 6th draft choice but had similar instincts coming out of college as Ryan does now. We need a lot of help that’s for sure.
By tony
March 21, 2008 3:21 AM | Link to this
let’s be realistic! the falcons was 26th in the league against the run, we cut coleman, release grady jackson and i’m not sold on trey who petrino drafted. if dorsey is on the board at 3 we must take him but if he’s not then i have to agree with tm that we should take long only if he falls to us.
By jonathan
March 21, 2008 3:23 AM | Link to this
I feel so much better knowing Demetroff is consulting with Terry! It is obvious that we have found a sharp GM-it took him less than 3 months to figure out that Terry is the biggest tool on the planet, that he knows nothing about football and that he will shamelessly echo whatever disinformation he wants to put out. Then again, that description fits pretty much everyone at the AJC except maybe Schultz.
By marko
March 21, 2008 6:42 AM | Link to this
Terrance I’d love to have Jake, but the problem as I see it is that Miami and St.Louis pick in front of us and Mr Long is’nt exactly off their radar screens. In other words he might already be gone. If that turns out to be the case I’ll consider Dorsey more than adequate as a consulation prize.
By marko
March 21, 2008 7:04 AM | Link to this
Terence, I’m sorry I missed the part where you suggested we should trade up to get Jake. After your logical carefully written piece on MeAngleo I feared that were getting soft on us. Trade up to get Jake? Good Old Terence crazy as ever.
By Jeff Carter
March 21, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this
i dont agree with trading UP, it will cost us our 1st round and a 2nd round pick to move up “ONLY ONE SPOT!!!!” You have Chris Long, Jake Long, and Glenn Dorsey (and maybe Matt Ryan) That means with the 3rd pick overall 2 of them will be on the board…..take the best one and dont give up anything.
By Blaze
March 21, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
Great Column!!! We should definitely pick Jake Long if he falls to 3 (which I don’t think he will). However, trading up shouldn’t be an option. We have tooooo many needs to fill & trading up will require at least a 1st & 2nd rd!!! I don’t think it’s worth it.
By Rodney McRodderson
March 21, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this
Our first round pick, plus the Oakland second rounder and Joey Harrington for Miami’s pick. Hey, two seasons ago, Harrington was the only Miami QB to win any games.
Got to get Jake Long. Mike Kenn did for the Falcons what Thomas did for the Browns. Bartkowski got killed until Kenn was drafted.
By Don
March 21, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
Build the lines first with the best talent available, then the defense. Take a QB next year when Stafford is available
By Mugsy101
March 21, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this
Draft Ryan and then use those top 2 picks in the 2nd round to grab 2 offensive linemen who you can put in from the get-go and you’ll be on your way. The Falcons can get 1st round talent with these 2 picks.
By David Cutcliffe
March 21, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
Write it down. Erik Ainge will have a better NFL career than Matt Ryan.
By RA
March 21, 2008 8:02 AM | Link to this
Now, I’ll be honest Terrance, for a long time I thought that you were just a hack with the intellectual development of an ameba, but you’d written some things lately that made me think that you were well on your way to becoming a multi-celled organism, intellectually speaking… This is not one of those articles. Listen, when you’re as thin as Atlanta is everywhere, you need quality players. You cannot just say, “Well, this is our area of need and if we don’t get this player or that player, it’s make or break. There is no make or break player for the Falcons at this point. All they can do is fill holes and keep filling them and pray that they get to the point where one player could be make or break. The sad part is that this column puts you in a position that if they don’t get Jake Long, the poor kid that they do draft will have come in as an all-pro just to keep you from riding him and the team about how they should have gotten Jake long. You’re just one of those really sad people that’s always planning ahead about what to grip about, even when there isn’t anything to gripe about yet… Sad!
By I'm So GLAD for Hall
March 21, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this
I’m glad for Hall I wish him all the best, I hope his career get’s even better, in fact I wish every former Falcon they let go, have a HECK of a season on their other teams. I hope the FALCONS lose every game, this year and the year after.
By Boodro
March 21, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this
I agree that if Jake Long is still available by all means select him, if not I’d go for Dorsey. Build the lines and a strong running attack and I think even Harrington would do a very good job. Something he has never had in his carrer is decent protection, give him or any of our QB’s that and I believe you’ll see a marked improvement in the passing game.
By Mark Richt
March 21, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
When the 2009 draft comes around, Matthew Stafford will be looking forward to his senior season at UGA.
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
Defense wins championships. its players like Dorsey that can have immediate impact in his rookie year. jake long will not start this year. Dorsey will. Falcons just signed offensive experienced linemen and drafted one last year. and made position changes.
they will not draft OL. they are developing what they have. Besided the two team ahead of the Falcons will draft for thier higher needs. they made no developments on their OL.
Falcons will pick Dorsey in the first round, select in the second round an OL, Linebacker, and Dennis Dixon.
By Ellis, not Dorsey
March 21, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this
Write it down. Dorsey is going to be the NFL version of Sam Bowie. Take Ellis or Gholston.
By Ellis, not Dorsey
March 21, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
Write it down. Dorsey is going to be the NFL version of Sam Bowie. Take Ellis or Gholston if neither Long is available.
By What's Real
March 21, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
WE NEED TO TRADE WHOEVER WE PICK IN THE FIRST ROUND FOR CHAD JOHNSON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Matt
March 21, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
I would love to get him, but he won’t be there at #3. I do agree that Ryan is a foolish pick that high in the draft. It needs to be Long, Long, or Dorsey.
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Harrington is still mediocre with a strong OL. All the top teams with excellent OL had pressure more in the past 2 years than any years before that.
movement is now a requirement due to the advanced speed of DE, OLB, MLB and DL. this is standard accross the league now.
Brady has been rushed more last year than ever, but they ahve been successful due to the presence of Randy Moss. The heave and catch with Moss is so dynamic, other passing option became routine.
Harrington has limited capacity to throw with respect past 30 yards, then moderate protection, with developing WRs. He will not be effective at all.
Redman has a sense about him that offers direction and confidence. he is new to the game and there are no scouting gameplan against him now. So he has the advantage to get out and play.
By The Coach
March 21, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Everybody take a knee and listen up!
On offense, 5 of your 11 are Linemen who will block on every play…6 if you have a tight end on a run set. Common wisdom is that you want those guys to be big, mean, athletic, and capable of beating people up in the run game and walling them off in pass protection. HALF YOUR OFFENSE IS LINEMEN.
Defense needs BIG GUYS up front to fight and clog running lanes to free up linebackers to get to backs on running plays, and penetrate and push the pocket on passing plays. Size people, size….as a friend of mines once said Fast people get slower over a season, but big people don’t get smaller . Dorsey is a little light in the shorts to fight with 320 lb guards and tackles who will not be afraid of him.
Draft BIG GUYS in the early rounds…they make life easier for the smaller, faster people who orbit around them.
By The Coach
March 21, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Everybody take a knee and listen up!
On offense, 5 of your 11 are Linemen who will block on every play…6 if you have a tight end on a run set. Common wisdom is that you want those guys to be big, mean, athletic, and capable of beating people up in the run game and walling them off in pass protection. HALF YOUR OFFENSE IS LINEMEN.
Defense needs BIG GUYS up front to fight and clog running lanes to free up linebackers to get to backs on running plays, and penetrate and push the pocket on passing plays. Size people, size….as a friend of mines once said Fast people get slower over a season, but big people don’t get smaller . Dorsey is a little light in the shorts to fight with 320 lb guards and tackles who will not be afraid of him.
Draft BIG GUYS in the early rounds…they make life easier for the smaller, faster people who orbit around them.
By Huh?
March 21, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
Jake Long would not start this year? For the Falcons? As Bubba’s mama said in Forrest Gump, “Are ya crazy, or just stupid?”
By RA
March 21, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
Hey I’m So GLAD for Hall,
I’m glad for Hall too. He finally gets to go to that winning team that he’s been dreaming about. Oh, wait a minute, he’s off to the Raiders. Now, last time I checked, they had a much worse record over the last four or five seasons than Atlanta… Darn it!
Oh well, you still got Alge Crumpler. He’ll have a great season for the Titains. That is, if his knee holds up… Darn it!
Hey, Rod Coleman is one of the premier interior linemen in the game. He’s sure to have a great season with whoever he lands with. Oh, he hasn’t signed with anybody yet? Gee, I wonder why that is. Oh yea, he’s injury prone too… Double dog darn it!
I wish Dunn all the best and I’m sure he’ll have a great season with Tampa, if they have enough beef up front to move the pile and open up holes for him to run through…
Well, I’m sure Vick will do fine. Oh yea, he’s still in stripes…
Well, gee, I’m So GLAD for Hall. It just doesn’t look too good for all those former Falcons that you’re hoping will have career years with other teams. Cheer up though, they may very well lose next season, but I’ll bet you they end up with a better record than the Raiders.
By Tre
March 21, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
Olineman are not always guarantees. Need i say more than Robert Gallery and Tony Mandarich.
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this
Dorsey will be ok due to the players around him. if he was going to texas or another team without marqui player at the defensive ends and LBs behind him that is a different story. he will either make plays or create opportunities for abraham and anderson who is still developing.
By cnote
March 21, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
I belive Terrance is corect. If Jake Long is available, the Falcons should snatch. Have you guys not paid attention to who the Falcons new coach is. He wants a power running game. In fact, the last two years the Falcons have drafted O lineman. Its time for those guys to go to work.
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
chad johnson would be good, but he needs a Qb with a strong arm to get him the ball. redman his capable 30 yards at most. the falcons would rely more on chad being a catch and run reciever in the flats than a heeve and catch threat that he is.
the offense last year in terms of the passing game tailored towards hitting the flats, catch and run. the falcons gameplan may not fit chad style of play.
i see him getting a fresh start in oakland with a new QB that has strenght and talent. , but they just signed 2 WR with large contracts.
that would be hot!!!
By Carroll
March 21, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
Long most likely will not be there at #3, and if he is not, then I would try to trade down to a lower pick if possible. Nobody else really warrants a #3 pick—Dorsey is close, but from what I hear he has attitude/hussle/effort issues and that is exactly what we are trying to get rid of!! Plus, you develop a winning franchise by accumulating a bunch of above average guys, which we can do with more lower picks than one high pick. I agree that Jake Long is definitely a keeper, but beyond that, please get rid of that pick!!
By What's Real
March 21, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
THIRD PICK TRADE FOR CHAD JOHNSON!
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
Hey Carroll,
it is comments like that makes bloggs sickening. you heard he has an attitude/hussle and effort. Man please!
Did you know of all the aclcolades and awards he won last year and the year previous?
he would not even been considered those awards if those oy what you heard was an issue.
A player in any sport would not get awards and notifications as what dorsey has gotten with positive aggressive attitude at the DL position with with effort and hustle.
So please, i bet your matt ryan has pretty roses coming from under his underarms, huh?
By TDG
March 21, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
Long will anchor the line and help take pressure off of the other players. Why don’t you ask our free agent running back who he prefers? Quarterback pool is deep in this draft. Didn’t get much for a Pro bowl cornerback did we, even though he needed to go.
By Carlton
March 21, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
As a close personal friend of Jake’s, I can tell you he’d be EXTREMELY excited and thrilled to play for the Falcons. He’s had solid interviews with each of the Top 5 teams on the draft board, and he came away impressed with 2 teams, the Falcons as one of them. Let’s hope he is available….
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
hey carroll,
why do you say get rid of the third pick? that would be foolish. The raiders pick 4th, clearly they did not want to give that up in the HAll trade.
so you want to relinquish the 3rd pick and give the raiders the opportunity to obtain the 3rd, pick, retain the 4th pick and get D. Hall? that is crazy.
The raiders only have one pick in the draft that is meaningful and that is the 4th pick. they gave up the early second round and the 3-5th in last years draft and the sixth to the falcons falcons.
but you want them to have the opportunity to get 2 first rounders -back to back? that does not equate to smart tactics.
By Me
March 21, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Quarterbacks win Superbowl’s not linemen!
By robo
March 21, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Thomas D. and Falcon leadership are quietly bringing the birds back to being competitive; I’m confindent no matter who we draft that it all fits in the plan and a year or two from now we will commend them for their efforts.
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
i am not apposed to jake, i think the falcons will select him over dorsey, especially when there is a defensive coach at the head. they just re-signed clabo and made adjustments to positions on the OL with what they ahve already, plus they drafted a OL last year. plus they can still get a above average OL in the supplement draft in the early summer. so i just dont see the equation of selecting a OL.
I see Dorsey, because its a visable position for a defensive coach at the DL position. Coleman is gone with another standout hurt with a ACL with a probable return come the start of the season. i just see dorsey fitting the equation better at this point.
By drmaryb
March 21, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this
Hey Terrence
You can’t go wrong - If you pick LONG! Is he Howie Long’s son? I hope he is still there at three - if not what about Chris Long on the Defensive side?
Should we stay of the O-Line at 3? I think so - Who is the second dream pick at #3 if not Jake? Puh-Lease don’t say a QB! We can get a sleeper at QB
(e.g. Tom Brady was picked in 6th?)
With Loud-Mouth Gone - We really need to focus on our lines. No more SEXY BUSTS please. Great Wide Receivers are developed not drafted. Look at how long it took T.O. to pop? He was quite humble when he came out and had Jerry take him in and teach him the tools of the trade.
It takes time to learn the speed and nuances of the game at this NFL Level.
Let’s build our house from the Foundation Level and then worry about the window-dressing later on down the road.
This beautiful city deserves a - WINNER!
By Mickster
March 21, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
If anyone would like, I’m willing to trade Keep It Real for no more than a cup of coffee and a full tank of gas. Now, if that is just too much to ask for, then I’m willing to give you the cup of coffee and tank of gas just to take him away. Far away!
As for the Falcons, there are so many options for them at this point, that this is all sheer speculation. I’m just thrilled that our team is in such an envious position, and has so many directions to go in. It should be fun to watch anyway. GO BIRDS!
By AFan
March 21, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
It doesn`t matter who the Falcons draft….they will still suck the “hairy root” for years to come….lol
By alibaba
March 21, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
now that meangelo is gone so are the falcons chances of making the playoffs for the next three years. That is three years of getting your rear end kicked on Sundays. enjoy watching the dawgs and routing for michael turner
By CTFalconfan
March 21, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
Obviously OL is very important but what we need to talk about is the complete lack of a franchise QB here. We certainly shouldn’t draft Ryan with the 3rd overall pick. We should approach ClE and trade for Brady Quinn. CLE signed Anderson to a big contract and CLE doesn’t have a pick on the first day of the draft - their first pick isn’t until the 4th round. We now have 3 2nd round picks so why not offer one up for Quinn??? (We could toss in a late round pick if needed to seal the deal) We get a good quality QB and we still maintain our 3rd overall pick plus 2 second round picks.
By What's Real
March 21, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
Hey “ME” it takes a good line to have a good productive quarterback. Please stick to tennis!
By Kevin
March 21, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
Im just glad Deangelo Hall is gone…HE WASNT VERY GOOD!!!HE ISNT VERY GOOD!!!HE NEVER WILL BE ANY GOOD!!!HE GETS BURNT BY EVRY GOOD RECIEVER IN THE NFl!!!
By Kevin
March 21, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
Im just glad Deangelo Hall is gone…HE WASNT VERY GOOD!!!HE ISNT VERY GOOD!!!HE NEVER WILL BE ANY GOOD!!!HE GETS BURNT BY EVRY GOOD RECIEVER IN THE NFl!!!
By dan reevese
March 21, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
I say draft a tight end. You can never have too many tight ends!
By Ramblin Wrecker
March 21, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
AMEN!!! Any offensive lineman who commits 2 penalities and allows 2 sacks in a 4 year career at one of the biggest programs in the nation is a no-brainer for a franchise that has had THE absolute worst O-line for years now. (Sure they led the league in rushing a few seasons, but that was with a gimmick blocking scheme that was one-dimensional and didn’t translate well into pass blocking.) It’s time to build a pass blocking line. Jake Long is the pick, no doubt about it.
I think TM forgot to mention part two to the Browns draft last season. Move back into the first round to get a future QB. The Falcons may not have to trade that far up, but they could and should to secure Brian Brohm. Or if they LIKE another QB, such as Chad Henne, then they can likely stay put to nab him. But that’s what needs to happen.
By mars
March 21, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
drmary, Chris Long is Howie’s son, and plays defensive end, just like his father. Jake Long is the offensive tackle, future franchise player, and Plow that we need to clear the road to the Superbowl, no matter what the appropriately named “Me” says. I’m not criticising you for the confusion, Doc. We all get confused sometimes! However, some of you out there need to understand that Tony Mandarich is the exception to the rule! Offensive linemen who are early draft picks have the least rate of failure than any other position on the team. If you want to experience failure (YET AGAIN), then gamble on something other than an offensive linemen.
By Nathan
March 21, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
I don’t understand why so many people are complaining about Jake Long’s slow 40 time. When is the last time you saw an offensive lineman do anything 40 yards from the line of scrimmage? Long’s 3-cone drill, which measures change of direction ability and body control, which is what matters in pass blocking, was excellent I think the man can play left tackle in the NFL.
By myrtle beach
March 21, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this
Everybody knows J jones wants Mcfadden so we trade number 3 to Dallas for 2 1st and 2nd.
Baker - LT Blaylock -LG C - Stepanovich RG - Alberts RT - Claybo until Weiner is back If Forney comes to play this year then mover Alberts to RT until Weiner is back then to Center.
QB - Redman until Woodson is ready Rb - Turner Fb - Muqhulli TE - Hartsock WR - White WR - Robinson
Anderson Simms Laws Abraham Brooking Mayo Boley Flowers - CB Houston - CB SS - Milloy FS - Coleman
It will take the 4 to 6 games for the young players to get they’re feet wet but then watch out. By then Woodson should be ready to take over. With all the DT free agents we signed and with Lewis comming back by mid season we will have a nice rotation to keep everybody fresh in the middle. With my wisdom as a GM we are set with a young base on both sides of the ball and should finish out the year with a winning streak we can take into next year to be a force to take the southern crown for many years to come and be able to choose “Best available” in the draft from here on out.
Wow i hope the brass in Flowery Branch reads this…..
By mars
March 21, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Now, Mickster has stumbled onto an interesting scenario! A cup of coffee would be so much more enjoyable!
By Marvin Giggsley
March 21, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this
Where has Byron Leftwich signed?
The Falcons should have signed Mark Brunel instead of Harrington.
By Matt
March 21, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
I don’t agree with Terrence much, but he nailed this one….
By mlrspwr
March 21, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Jake Long is the safest pick and therefore the best pick for the Falcons, who have been plagued by destructive personalities like Vick and Hall. Plus, the O-line is a big need for the Falcons. Plus, the “Joe Thomas” effect. Ryan might have potential but so does Alex Smith. Dorsey can be dominant, but injury-prone? Go safe. Go BIG. Go Jake Long.
By mlrspwr
March 21, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
Jake Long is the safest pick and therefore the best pick for the Falcons, who have been plagued by destructive personalities like Vick and Hall. Plus, the O-line is a big need for the Falcons. Plus, the “Joe Thomas” effect. Ryan might have potential but so does Alex Smith. Dorsey can be dominant, but injury-prone? Go safe. Go BIG. Go Jake Long.
By Ron
March 21, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
T-I agree with you on this one 100%.
By WILL
March 21, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
JAKE LONG OR SELL THE STUPID A* FRANCHISE AND MOVE IT OUT OF GEORGIA,THEY HAVE BEEN STINKING UP THE CITY SINCE 1966.
By scottpriest
March 21, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Best article yet on what the Falcons should do. nothing happens on offense without a good line. a good line can make a Joey harrington suddenly look like a pro bowler. a bad line can make Tom brady suddenly look like Joey Harrington. come on Falcons, don’t pass on the next great Tackle coming into this league!
By P
March 21, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
You Guys are crazy O-Lines dont win championships DEFENSE DOES Thats why Dallas and NewEngland dint win and they have 2 of the best O-Lines in the league but since Brady couldnt stay of his back long enuff for the winning drive because N.Y front line stayed in his face the whole game draft a high quality D-Linemen so you can atleast give us a chance to outscore the other team by not giving up to many f*** points.
By malik
March 21, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
the man is right. they must draft jake long with the 3rd pick. but also with the departer of d hall and the 38th pick . dont be surprised if the falcons take CB Brandon flowers out of virgina tech. hes quick , aware and he hits like bob sanders. Go falcons
By P
March 21, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
What alot of you guys dont understand is if you watched alot of the Falcons games last year like real fans do yes we got beat up front last year alot by giving up alot of sacks but on the flip side of it if we had a better Qb we would have made more plays but once Harrington got rattled he couldnt pass the ball to himself and plus on the other side we were still in alot of them games last year if our defense would have held up so we need to draft a good D-Linemen in the 1st round to help our L-backers out and take a offensive line with 1 of those 2nd round picks are maybe the 3rd.
By Regal1_Got 1
March 21, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
KG and Ken Strickland make sense. Mostly because it is true. Long would not be a bad selection but the drop off in offensive lineman is not so great that you have to take him with your first pick. Everybody wants to point to Brady when talking about a low round qb that can be a franchise qb. With spygate and great talent, I’m not so sure if Brady would have been anything more than a career Matt Hasselbeck or even lower like a career Greise. Sure there were a lot of early round qb’s that were bust but most of them were drafted by the wrong team and were forced into a system that does not utilize their strengths. Since it is said that you know who will not be back as a falcon, and even if the possibility was remote, a franchise qb should be Atlanta’s first pick whether with the number three selection or whether they trade down a few picks to gain more, the first pick should be a franchise qb. Only other option would be Dorsey. In selecting Dorsey, it would only make sense to sign Grady Jackson immediately after the draft. The rest of the draft can be spent on improving the o-line, d-line depth, secondary depth and perhaps trading some picks for better positioning in next years draft since this draft appears to be weak outside of qb’s and o-linemen. It’s just we have become so accustomed to making a crappy draft class special by ranking the mediocre as good and listing the rest of them as 2nd best, 3rd best and so on. With that said, the falcons wouldn’t do so bad using all of their second day picks to bolster their 2009 draft status.
By EastBeast
March 21, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
No need whatsoever to waste high draft picks on Dorsey or anyone else on defense. Have you seen the seondary, Houston, Hutchins, Grimes, and Irons? The D will be shredded for more than 30 a game with or without Dorsey. May as well try to generate some offense and work on D next year. After all we’ll have a pick in the top three again next year!
By Jesse
March 21, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Good points Terence, but Jake Long might go to St. Louis at #2. Personally I would be happy with Jake Long, Chris Long, or Glen Dorsey. And for the record, Jake Long isn’t the end all. Vernon Gholston got the best of him quite a few times in the Ohio St. Michigan game.
By SP
March 21, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
I’m surprised Griffey, jr. didn’t come up as a prospect.
By T
March 21, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
If we look at our weaknesses, I think our O-line is the biggest. We need to addess this with the higher picks. I think trying to parlay our 3rd pick into additional picks may be a better idea. I do not think anyone would bite. The draft is deep in O-line and we could get 2 for 1. We NEED a o-line. If we want to get a QB next year and not ruin him we need the o-line this year.
That being said I think Jake would be a solid pick. I like Chris better as an athelete but whe already have 2 decent DEs. We have already invested there. Where would be move one of the DEs to. Could long be moved to LB? Did not work with Kerney.
Dorsey is also great. But I think we can get slighy less athelete for a lot less of an investment. Perhaps trade down for Ellis and pick up another draft pick later.
Truthfully it is a crap shoot—- many players have not lived up to the hype…..
Bottom line is our D-line is not the WORST… but our - O-line is…. Build the team at the lines.
By kev
March 21, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
I definitely hope Jake Long falls to #3, but I don’t think the Falcons should trade up in order to get him. We need lots of players, and those three 2nd round picks will help tremendously. Getting Long would be great, but “settling” on Dorsey and picking up a lineman or two in rounds two and three won’t be too bad.
By Gus
March 21, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
Where are you people getting this “Glen Dorsey is injury prone” stuff? They guy played in 52 games and started 31 in his college career for crying out loud. He didn’t miss a single game last year even after the dirty chop block from Chaz Ramsey.
You people obviously have internet access if you posted a comment here. Using it for a little research may help you not look foolish.
By Nathan
March 21, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
For the first time every possibly, I agree with T. Moore.
By hump
March 21, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
rick do you know anything about football because you didn’t say anything about football you one those retard that wants matt ryan. prove what i said was wrong dck head
By Gray Mule
March 21, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Whether we take an offensive lineman 1st or trade down for more offensive linemen, you who are all for shoring up the defense, remember this— Sometimes, the best defense is a good offense! When you can hold on to the ball and continue to drive, instead of the three and out, you keep the other team’s offense off the field and THAT’S the best way to stop the opponent from scoring!!
By Veteran Fan
March 21, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Trade the #3 to Dallas for their two first round picks so Jerry Jones can swap football stories with Razorback McFadden and use all of our picks to draft offensive and defensive linemen. Use the cap space to fill inthe skill positions. Linemen are cheaper and like long term deals so they rarely leave. We need to become the Steelers of the Southeast Division, big and physical and it will not matter who is the QB! We will win the division for ten years! If a QB develops or is traded for, we will win the Super Bowl within three years.
By chris laster
March 21, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
if he is there take long he is a great offensive tackle but teams are desperate to get mc fadden so let them give picks to acquire him we have norwood and we will have 2 picks to get a tackle we should get a good one with two picks whats the chances on picking 2 busts lol really we need a left tackle we signed some pretty good dt as free agents & matt ryan hes no better than brady quinn why over pay the falcons have the keys to the car finally dont just hand them over unless you recieve compensation i feel they will b smart smarter than cutting alge crumpler with out tradeing him for a draft pick what a dumb move but u learn as you grow ? i live and die a falcons fan but i will b devasted for the falcons to pick in the top 3 this year trade down we need so much or prepare for next year as well its not like we are superbowl contenders lol
By Nolan School
March 21, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Every body shuddup…Terence nailed this one.
Amen!
By Nolan School
March 21, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Every body shuddup…Terence nailed this one.
Amen!
By Ty
March 21, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Speaking of knowing football, if you can’t move the football on offense then that means the defense stays on the field most of the game. Then come the end of the third quarter or the start of the fourth quarter you have a tired defence and the other team has a mostly fresh offence, so we better draft some OL first. On the Chris Long debate, I wish they would get him some how but the Falcons have two high priced and over pay DE’s already ( still wondering about the HOGS kid they drafted first last year) plus Abe can’t stay healthy. The Dorsey guy, I wouldn’t pick him if he the last player in a backyard football game. He’s injury prone and takes to many plays off (not 110% all the time). Falcons, lets go OL, DT, CB, QB, then LB. They have some great picks coming up in the first part of the draft.
By morris
March 21, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Gus, I think you’re the one who needs to do a little research. At the scouting combine an xray taken of dorsey showed a hairline fracture in one of his legs. When pressed about the injury Dorsey admitted that the injury dated back to the summer of 2006, when he was injured in a weight room accident. Then add to that a knee injury that hampered him all last season. Now unless you’re completely braindead, thats a huge red flag for a team who might invest over 20 million in guaranteed money. Aside from the injury concern is also the fact that he is on the smallish side for an interior d-lineman by NFL standards. He measured in at 6” 1’ 297 at the NFL combine and had a small wingspan for a man his size. Yes there are some serious concerns about this player.
By What's Real
March 21, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
TRADE #3 PIC FOR CHAD JOHNSON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OCHO CINCO would help the quarterbacks!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Kevin
March 21, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
DO NOT listen to TM when it comes to any draft. What was it he said the last time? that the Hawks MUST DRAFT Mike Conley. Duh! The Hawks got the BEST player in the last NBA draft. I think that is a first for the Hawks, with the possible exception of when they got Dominique. What the Falcons need most is to get multiple picks & trade down. The Falcons need so many lineman it makes no sense to pass up on an opportunity to get multiple picks.
By Kevin
March 21, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Also, Long is a RIGHT TACKLE!!!
By Hasavior
March 21, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Glenn has nick and scrapes ans any player in this draft in all position types.
If there was an hairline fracture indicated in his MRI, for medical purposes he would be in a cast and insured.
point is he would not have worked out last week on pro day, nor continue to work out every day with professional laden trainers.
All that hype during the press conference he had a few days ago is just tactics to lower his value for other player to get picked higher or lower in the draft. Which is not happending for Matt Ryan.
If anything was learn from the superbowl is that defense wins championships and the consensus starts on both sides of the ball on the OL and DL. period.
By morris
March 21, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
So you’re calling NFL officials and team doctors liars concerning Dorsey’s yet to completely heal stress fracture? Do the damn research, NFL doctors found a stress fracture in dorsey’s tibia at the scouting combine. And no you don’t have to wear a cast when there is a stress fracture dumba$$. Goggle or go to yahoo, every major sport publication out there has reported the story.
By velvet jones
March 21, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
hey terrance, hope you know something mel kiper doesn’t because he doesn’t think long is a great tackle and he would know a lot better than you. draft a stud d-takle and anchor the d-line for a decade.
By make
March 21, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
falcons have to draft him whatever it takes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
March 21, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
If Long is a right tackle that’s even better, he can protect Vick’s blind side.
By Hasavior is stupid
March 21, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
Hasavior is one of those guys who tries to sound intelligent, but is really stupid. To wit, what pray tell is a professional laden trainer.
Laden: carrying a load or burden
How does that accurately modify trainer?
Then, there was this gem:
“If anything was learn (sic) from the superbowl (sic) is that defense wins championships and the consensus starts on both sides of the ball on the OL and DL.”
Consensus: general agreement; group solidarity in sentiment and belief
How does the word consensus fit and make sense in that sentence? I speak English and write professionally and don’t get it.
STFU Hasavior. You are dumb.
By joe DiNicola
March 21, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
Good comments. Nothing happens without an Oline. As far as the falcons leading the NFL in rushing that was smoke and mirrors as almost 1,000 yards were from broken plays that Mike Vick srambled for big chunks of yardage and the threat he posed. As for the cuccalone that said the browns were smoke in mirrors he’s all wet. Great protection enabled the QB all the extra time to spot open recievers and blow holes for the running game. I am a browns fan and they have been Horrid since their return because you do NOTHING if you can’t block.
I did not understand the falcons release of talented young DT Coleman and dumping DeAngelo hall for a 2nd pick. He’s a very talented corner and the raiders got him firesale. Also the falcons have stinko recievers and you release Crumpler? If they Falcons offer the Raider second pick and their own they may get Long and trade for derek Anderson and have BOTH a talented LT and a QB veteran. To whistle past the graveyard with their signalers I see another top pick next year.
By Section 207 Row 10
March 21, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
See the Michigan game. Watch Vernon Gholston and you’ll pass on Jake Long.
By Mike
March 21, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
If the Falcons Draft Jake Long they could have a primtime OT for the next decade. Glen Dorseys looks to questionable and we signed a bunch od Defenseve Tackles to. Matt Ryan is a good Quater back but is not worth the third pick take either Broham(if he falls that far)Henne or Joe Flacco who has the strongest arm in the second round.Trust me the safest pick is Long if hes’avablie
By Mike
March 21, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
If the Falcons Draft Jake Long they could have a primtime OT for the next decade. Glen Dorseys looks to questionable and we signed a bunch od Defenseve Tackles to. Matt Ryan is a good Quater back but is not worth the third pick take either Broham(if he falls that far)Henne or Joe Flacco who has the strongest arm in the second round.Trust me the safest pick is Long if hes’avablie
By Mike
March 21, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
If the Falcons Draft Jake Long they could have a primtime OT for the next decade. Glen Dorseys looks to questionable and we signed a bunch od Defenseve Tackles to. Matt Ryan is a good Quater back but is not worth the third pick take either Broham(if he falls that far)Henne or Joe Flacco who has the strongest arm in the second round.Trust me the safest pick is Long if hes’avablie
By Question
March 21, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Should the Falcons trade down and try and get Dallas’s two first round picks (22 and 28)
By long time falcon
March 21, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Davenpoop, are you being serious or trying to get a rise out of the mike vick warmongers? Nothing about the moves made under this new regime would lead me to believe they would bring back vick. Dimitroff is in the process of erasing the past, not reviving it.
By Danny
March 21, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
ESPN is resporting that the Patriots (and the Cowboys and Lions)are attempting to trade for Pacman Jones. First Randy Moss. Now Pacman. I can’t wait to see how you people, including Schultz, are going to try to spin this one.
All of you who say character wins over talent, please get a clue. Getting rid of DeAngelo Hall was a mistake, as was signing a career backup at RB.
Bring back MV7.
By morris
March 21, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Did the Patriots win a superbowl with randy moss? NO. They won all three superbowls without any prima donnas on the roster. Besides, Moss has never been convicted on federal charges and done time in the federal pen. You’re just wasting space with the bring back MV7 tirades. Dimitroff and company are cleaning house and plan on building a team with unity and cohesion. Forget the past man and move on. Hopefully, Vick will get a chance to play again but it will be for another franchise. A new era has been launched in falcon history and it’s very evident by the moves made thus far in flowery branch.
By Larry
March 21, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
Hey Morris,
Were the 2007 Pats much better than they were pre-Moss? YES. Did the Pats get to the Super Bowl with Moss? YES. That certainly beats what the Falcons have to offer.
By George Holman
March 21, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
Mr. Moore, you are right on!
By catinhotlanta
March 21, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
I’ve listened to Mike Mayock rave on about Ryan during the Senior Bowl and combine and if there were ever a person going out of their way to be a homer, he’s doing it.
As a BC graduate, Mayock’s devotion to Ryan is commendable; unfortunately, his anointment of him as the best QB in the class borders on ridiculous. However, he may be the third best. Let’s compare his numbers against another of the top 5 QBs in this year’s draft.
2006
Ryan had 426 attempts, 263 completions, (61.7%) ten INTs, 2942 yards AND 15 TDs.
The other QB I’m comparing him to -
419 atttempts, 264 completions, (63%) 7 INTs, 3515 yards and 31 TDs.
2007
Ryan had 654 attempts, 388 completions, (59.3%) 19 INTs 4507 yards and 31 TDs.
That “other” QB –
518 attempts, 327 completions, (63%) 11 INTs, 3709 yards and 40 TDS
Ryan had 29 interceptions with 46 touchdowns in the two years. The “other guy” had 18 interceptions with 71 touchdowns in two years.
Ryan played his schedule in the ACC; the other guy played his in the SEC. Whose schedule do you think was the toughest? I bet by now you know who the “other” QB is and he’s been the best in the SEC for the last two years – Andre Woodson. There really isn’t any comparison.
By Mike
March 22, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this
I Like the thought of getting Jake Long, but not trading up to do it. This team has to many holes to fill to give up any picks. If long is not there then take Dorsey or Ellis, and use the first #2 pick to get Cherilus out of BC 6’6” 314, or Sam Baker out of USC 6’4” 309. With the 2nd #2 I like Flacco a 6’6” QB with a cannon, and more accurate then Ryan or Brohm. The 3rd pick in the 2nd round I like Connor ILB…or Mayo from Tenn if he is off the board. Brooking is not getting any younger, and I think this will be his last year as a Falcon. Rd 3 Chevis Jackson CB LSU. He is probably the most under rated corner in this years draft.
By Eddie
March 22, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this
Prediction: Redman will be on the squad for the next 10 yrs as starter, backup and QB coach. Falcons will draft good bodies and 2-3 yrs from now will be division champs.
By mc
March 22, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Sorry but Jake Long got used by Gholston in the final game of the season. Very suspect against agile speed rush. Do not see this as wise. They should trade down and get some second round picks. Nothing this team can do will work, they just have too many needs.
By crazybuck
March 22, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
Browns fans tried for years to get a OL and they finally listened, It all starts in the trenches from running to set up the pass and vice versa.
By coleman
March 22, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
The falcons need to draft jake long with the 3rd pick. Then in the 2nd round 34th overall pick draft curtis lofton the mlb from oklahoma. They then can get a cb with one of the two other 2nd round picks and use the one remaining pick in the 2nd round to get a qb like woodson or henne
By Gordon
March 22, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
Hey Jeff. you think the Browns were smoke and mirrors last year? You are an idiot. Cleveland has most of the pieces in place, and will be a good team for the next few years, unlike the Falcons, who are starting from scratch. You dont know anything about football, but I will bet that you think you do. Unreal. GO BROWNS!
By Najeh Davenpoop
March 22, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Long time falcon: a little bit of both.
Yeah, it was mostly to get a rise out of the Vick-haters, but I also don’t think a Vick return to Atlanta is completely out of the question. Unlikely, but not impossible.
By DUB
March 22, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
I CERTAINLY BELIEVE IN THE OLD “BEAR BRYANT” ADAGE THAT SAYS “YOU HAVE TO STOP THEM BEFORE YOU CAN BEAT THEM”. REMEMBER THIS WHEN YOU DRAFT.
By DUB
March 22, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
I BELIEVE IN THE OLD BEAR BRYANT ADAGE ” YOU’VE GOT TO STOP THEM BEFORE YOU CAN BEAT THEM. REMEMBER THIS IN THE DRAFT.
By michael
March 22, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
if we take jake long with the number 3 what will we do with the next 3 picks.
By Bert Rodriguez
March 22, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
the problem with the falcons was McKay draft picks was never what the falcons needed at that timewhen he was the GM,So dont BLAME the Gmfor his decisionnow.You can blame Mckay and Blank foe the mess that the falcons are in now
By rfgh
March 22, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Mr. Moore, Could not agree with you more. This is by far the way to go. get a q-back in 2nd round. Def tackle with next pick, and Atl will win 7-8 games next season. Thank goodness Meangelo is gone! Does anyone know why Falcons didn’t trade Crumpler for at least a draft pick rather than giving him away? Agree with getting rid of him and any other player who was taking up for Vick. just should have gotten something.
By richbrave
March 23, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this
Falcons have four in the top 48. Would trading down net seven in the top 50? Probably not. MAYBE 6. I would keep the pick and get a top notch q-back IF A FRANCHISE TYPE IS AVAILABLE IN MATT RYAN or some other college QB. Not having a top q-back is like the Hawks with a power forward playing center. The rules in the NFL have been subverted over the past 25 years to guarantee scoring. This to the detriment of the defense. Now if there is no true top tier quarterback, then consider trading down and get some offensive AND defensive linemen.
By Veteran Fan
March 23, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Yes trade the three for Dallas’ two in the first and draft the best offensive linemen available! There are many quality linemen in this draft and farther down the draft will assure less money used in up-front bonuses! This is the formula Dallas, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh none of whom has had high draft picks have used to stay in contention for years. Also, defense does win championships as has been said by others, but OFFENSE puts people in the stands and allows the defense to rest and be good! Do not forget, until this season, for three seasons the Falcons with a halfback/quarterback running the offense did not have a passing TD in the fourth quarter of any game! The O Line is the key!
By Ken Strickland
March 23, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
I don’t understand the obcession with wanting to draft OFF players. As of right now, our OFF is all but fixed, except for LT. RT-TClabo, RG-KForney, LG-JBlalock, C-TMcClure, RB-MTurner, FB-OMughelli, QB-CRedmon, WR-RWhite, FL-MJenkins/LRobinson and TE-JRader.
I want someone to tell me who we have right now to start at both DT’s, CB and OLB. Where is a team with one of the fewest sack totals in the NFL going to rush the passer without it’s 2 best DT’s, RColeman(waived) & TLewis(injured)? With JAnderson getting zero sacks last yr, JAbraham with certainly get double teamed.
Someone made a rediculous comment about drafting OFF players and worry about the DEF next yr. Some people just don’t have a clue. The Ravens won a Superbowl with an outstanding DEF and little OFF. The Bears have made it to two Superbowls, winning one, with strong DEF’s and little OFF. No team has ever won a Superbowl without good DEF play.
By andrew
March 23, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
To show you what a bust Tony Mandarich was, the Green Bay Packers picked him #2 over Barry Sanders, Broderick Thomas and Deion Sanders! That was the 1989 Draft! See, It isn’t always the Falcons !
By richbrave
March 23, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
KEN:
If you can’t get a franchise quarterback, trade down to Dallas for two 1st round picks. With six in the top 48 of a deep draft, start with a LT. Then a defensive player. Alternate and take linemen O and D, linebackers and a wide receiver or tight end.
By Najeh Davenpoop
March 24, 2008 3:56 AM | Link to this
Ken, the Ravens had an outstanding offensive line that sprung Jamal Lewis and Priest Holmes for nearly 2000 yards combined. Controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball won the Ravens a championship. The key to their defense, other than Ray Lewis of course, was the two fat-asses at defensive tackle eating up blockers. The Falcons need linemen, on both sides of the ball. None of those O-linemen you mentioned is a cornerstone player — all are decent, but none is spectacular. Jake Long or Ryan Clady would not be a bad pick at all.
By Tony
March 24, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
I agree with you 100%. I live in Jake’s hometown of Lapeer. If the Falcons do draft Jake, then two of Lapeer’s own (other being Jim Slater)will be playing for Atlanta pro franchises.
By mars
March 24, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
There is no franchise QB’s available, period! Nor do the Falcons need to waste picks or money on any QB in the draft (either this or next year), free agency, or returning shamefully from prison. Offensive and defensive line, plus MLB is where we need to concentrate. Build a “steel curtain” type defensive line, and Sid Bream would be a successful corner.
By Workinlkeadawg
March 24, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Trade the #3 pick no one player is the Falcons Messiah. The falcons need players.How many that are drafted high (by the Falcons) last more than 2 or 3 yrs? The sleepers thats who will make or break this draft, unless Dimitroff is convinced about somebody the falcons need many new faces.
By Ken Strickland
March 24, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
The need for a franchise QB is directly related to the style/type of OFF you intend to employ. Off’s like the one’s employed by the Cowboys, Patriots, Colts, etc, requires franchise type OB’s, or outstanding passer. Look at how long it took the Mannings, both of whom were considered franchise QB’s when drafted, to get to a SB? Look at how long it took Chicago and Baltimore’s no name QB’s to get there?
If the Ravens OL was so good, why didn’t the team make it back to the SB or at least come close? Their demise was directly tied to their DEF, which suffered a series of injuries and retirements, not their OL. Yes, an OL is important, but no team is going to a SB without a strong DL. The Colts have been an OFF powerhouse for yrs with PManning at the controls. But, they didn’t get to the SB until Dungy got his DL together with the final acquisition of DT AMcFarland. Look at what happened to them when their DEF lost DE Sweeny.
For the next couple of yrs, Redmon will be more effective than any QB we can get out of this draft. So why waste the #3 pick on a QB that will only carry a clipboard. We need starters at other positions(DT, OT, CB, OLB)so badly. OT is a much deeper position in this yrs draft than DT. LSU’s Dorsey and USC’s Ellis are considered the only impact DT’s in the draft with pass rushing skills. There are 4-5 OT’s rated capable of being good LT’s. Some are actually rated higher than JLong at run blocking, and aren’t we employing a power rushing OFF?
Do we really need to draft the best overall rated OT or QB at #3? Or would it make more sense to draft the best rated DT available at #3, and then draft the best rated OT and QB for us and our style of OFF in the later rds. IT MAKES SENSE TO ME. TOO MANY OF YOU ARE BUYING INTO THE MEDIA HYPE OF NEEDING TO DRAFT A FRANCHISE QB OR OT.
By tb
March 24, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
3: Long DE 34: Bulmer DT 37: Cherilus LT 48: Tribble CB 68: Zbikowski SSAnother OL and DL pick, maybe a FS and ILB.
that’s the kind of draft we need
By FACTS OF LIFE
March 24, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
TB-Considering we need help at multiple DEF positions, expecially DT, why suggest we draft another DE with our top pick(remember DE JAnderson)? It just doesn’t make sense, especially since we’re minus all 3 of last yrs starting DT’s.
Most teams with the top 5-8 picks need to draft someone with enough talent to start. Why neglect other needs just to waste the #3 pick on someone you know will warm the bench or carry a clipboard?
By David Duke
March 24, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Queen Ken Strychnine, nice job of illuminating the obvious b***! Dimitroff doesn’t need the help of a gay hack such as yourself. Spare us anymore of your fantasy picks you goober eating sack of dung.
By David Duke
March 24, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
The Bears have made it to two Superbowls, winning one, with strong DEF’s and little OFF
More spurious Queen Ken Strychnine garbage! In 1985 the Bears scored 456 points for an average of 28.5 per game. The defense allowed 198 points. That defense was great and the offense was pretty damn good too.
By Joebrave
March 24, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
LittleFaggyStrickland is just Belching his same Moralistic BULL$HIT!!!! And Najeh DavenSquirts,Mike Con-Vick is gonna Rot right hwere he belongs!!!Somebody should dip that Scumbag Thug,in a Vat of Alpo and throw his @ss in a pit of Fighting Bulls,Let him Know what those dogs are Going thru!!!!
By Joebrave
March 24, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
And Where is my little pet Monkey, Neckville Rednecks???
By Scooter
March 24, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
R4. DT R5. ILB R6. OLine R7. K
By Ken Strickland
March 24, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
TB-while I disagree with your choice of DE Long with the #3 pick, I think OT GCherilus is an excellent choice. He’s rated higher than Jake Long athletically, and he’s considered a much better run blocker. Long is considered a better pass blocker, technique wise. In a power rushing OFF, run blocking is a priority. He would likely be available in the 2nd rd.
After DT’s Dorsey and Ellis, there is a tremendous drop in talent, especially in pass rushing skills. I wouldn’t pick a QB with our 2nd pick. There are a lot of excellent QB’s in this draft, but not one that really stands out enough to start for a team looking to win right away. Two yrs from now, several QB’s taken in the lower rds might surpass Ryan. Ryan might be more polished now, but several more talented QB’s, but less polished, might turnout to be better 2yrs from now. And that’s when you’ll need them most. Besides, you don’t need a lot of polish to sit on the sidelines.
By Mike
March 24, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
1-Dorsey or Ellis 1st #2 Cherilus out of BC 6’6” 314 2nd #2 Flacco 6’6” QB w/ a cannon and much more upside than Ryan 3rd #2 Mayo ILB (or Connor if he is taken) 3rd round Chevis Jackson CB LSU (most under rated corner in the draft) then add depth to the DL and Secondary.PLEASE DO NOT DRAFT MATT RYAN…AND PLEASE DO NOT TRADE VALUABLE PICKS TO MOVE UP TO GET JAKE LONG!!!!!!!
By Kevin Dotts
March 25, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this
I agree, start wit the O line. I’ll be praying on draft day that we don’t get Ryan. We can get a QB in the second round who will probably be just as good as him
By tb
March 25, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
Deep draft. Trade down with Dallas and get something like Baker OT and Rodger-Cromartie instead of Long or Dorsey.
Here’s my latest Falcon’s mock draft (after Dallas trade).
Baker OT; Rodgers CB; Bulmer DT; Flacco QB; Henderson MLB; gooden OLB; Schuening OG; Nicks OT; Okam DT; Campbell SS; Velasco C.
By richbrave
March 25, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
I saw FLACCO in the 1-AA semi-final game against Richmond. The dude is real. Needs some work, but great upside. Not a #3 pick and second round probable. Get him. You won’t be sorry. Trade down with Dallas. Take offensive tackle with the first round pick. Take defense with the other. Should start with a tackle. Go from there.
By josh nation
March 25, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
what are the chances of the atlanta falcons trading their number 3 and a 4th round draft picks to cincinnati for the number 9 pick and chad johnson? this would allow the bengals to select to draft darren macfadden, and give the falcons a big time weapon to help with the quarterback situation, also chad johnson would give “hot lanta” the personality to finally get rid of the vick situation. with the number 9 pick the falcons still have a great chance to select matt ryan at a discount or select glenn dorsey which most mock draft have the falcons selecting anyways.
By Sam Maister
March 25, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Here are the Falcons first 6 picks: 1) OT Jake Long (Michigan) 2) LB Dan Conner (Penn State) 3) DT Trevor Laws (Notre Dame) 4) QB (all of them are the same) 5) Either a DB, DT, or WR 6) TE JerMichael Finley (Texas)
By Ken Strickland
March 25, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
MIKE-you have obviously taken time to look at what we need most and what the draft is offering an abundance of. We can’t finding anyone that comes anywhere close to approximating the penetrating and/or pass rushing talents of DT’s Dorsey and Ellis. However, we can find talent that approximates that of OT Jake Long that will definitely be available in the 2nd rd. In fact, there will be OT’s that are a better fit for our power run blocking scheme than Jake Long, who’s better suited for a passing OFF.
At any rate MIKE, your list sounds good to me. It gives us what we need most, a quality pass rushing DT, a power run blocking OT and a talented, if less polished, QB.
TB-I wouldn’t be upset if the team decided to follow your suggestion.
By Tron
March 25, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
I like the idea of drafting Thomas. However, are we absolutely certain that he will be an All-Pro at LT? I’ve heard more than 1 “expert” say that his footwork isn’t the greatest, and that he may be a better NFL player at RT. If this is the case, I don’t think you use the #3 pick on him, unless you have a left-handed QB, which the Falcons do not.
If he is as good as advertised at LT, though, I think you seriously have to consider him.
By Mike
March 25, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
Thanks Ken…I said last year, as did you if I remember right draft Okoye…because we lacked depth at D Tackle then… There is no substitution for a D tackle that takes 2 lineman and can open up the ends to pass rush and line backers to come up in run protection… look at Tampa’s D a few years ago…all of the havoc was created by McFarland and Sapp…since their departure Tampa has been just a bit better than average. I think Flacco has more upside than Ryan anyway. I think Ryan is another Tim Couch, or Ryan Leaf…I would not draft a QB at #3 unless his last name is Manning and I have an O line in place already.
By jaime
March 26, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
offensive and d line is where you start90’s cowboys went with the line then the tripplets. the probowls had all cowboys helmets in front. thank the line 4 all those rings. tom brady and peyton manning hardly get touched. yeah their great players but the oline makes a big difference. on atlanta those two would be a pinyata
By Ken Strickland
March 26, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
JAIME-the Falcons OL hasn’t done a good job the last few yrs that’s true. But it’s not all the fault of the individual linemen. Under Mora and friends, predictable, conservative, one dimensional play calling by Knapp put them at a constant disadvantage. Approximately 80% of all plays called by Knapp on 1st and 2nd downs were rushing plays. Our QB’s weren’t allowed to change the plays, which made it very easy for the DEF and very difficult for our OL.
Petrino tried to use the system that worked for him at Louisville. He simply lined up 320lb+ OLinemen and used straight ahead drive blocking to physically drive the DL off the ball. Size and brute force definitely doesn’t work in the pros on a consistent basis. Individually, our OLinemen aren’t that bad.
MIKE-the yr the Colts won the Superbowl, they had the worst rushing DEF in the league. Dungy knew his team would again fail to get to the SB without being able to stop the run. So, he engineered a trade with his old employer, Tampa Bay, and acquired Anthony McFarland. With his addition they stopped the run all the way to becoming SB champs.
By DONALD HECTOR
March 26, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
True that Mr.Moore. All we need is some blue collard ,lunch pail toatin, ready to eat somebodies lunches in the trenches. I just LOVE those big uglies. On both sides of the ball. LETS EAT !We in the DIRTY BIRDS FLOCK are HUNGRY for a winner.After getting our beaks wet in 2004, if been tough to swollow these past few years.
By CASHMERE
March 26, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
T.MOORE
**ANY WORD ON THE FALCONS COWBOYS TRADE? THE FALCONS TRADE THERE 1ST ROUDER FOR THE COWBOYS 2 1ST ROUNDERS N THERE 2ND?
ID LOVE THIS TRADE SINCE IT WOULD MAKE US YOUNG INSTANTLY AS WELL AS GIVE AS DEPTH, I MEAN 6PICKS IN THE 1ST 2 ROUNDS GOES ALONG TOWARDS REBUILDING. WE COULD USE THE 3RD - 7TH ROUND PICKS ALL ON O/D-LINEMEN AS WELL AS BACKUPS.**
By Workinlkeadawg
March 29, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Terrance you are right. But I dont think The Rams are gonna pass on him. Trading up is a mistake. Taking Clady wont be popular but I hope the new regime is above the fan’s and press’ opinions. Turner aquisition will be wasted w/o some help. We’ll end up with the best QB in the 2nd round. Yeah Dorsey, Gholston and DE Long are great athletes but Atlanta’s prior sexy picks were poor choices. I for one hope Dimitroff goes O line all the way. Atlanta needs to be re born not re built. It starts with the O line and we’ll be surprised by leftovers in later rounds. Good colunm, I hope your talk with Dimitroff bears true feelings of the GM.