There is no “Free” in Free Agency
Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff promised that the team would not be emotionally driven when making some tough decisions this offseason.
The team’s laser-focused evaluations have pushed several players into free agency including longtime local legend Keith Brooking.
Also, out on the free agency market are cornerback Domonique Foxworth, safety Lawyer Milloy, linebacker Michael Boley, defensive end Chauncey Davis.
The team is clearly planning to rebuild the defense.
Milloy and Foxworth must be replaced in the secondary.
Brooking and Boley, both of the outside linebackers are exploring other opportunities.
On the line, nose tackle Grady Jackson is also a free agent.
That’s five of the 11 starters. However, linebacker Coy Wire, who started for Boley late in the season is set to sign a two-year deal on March 1st.
The good news on offense is that they have the “Bruise Brothers” – right guard Harvey Dahl and right tackle Tyson Clabo – back. Both were restricted free agents.
Here my list of five possible free agent targets for the Falcons:
RON BARTELL, CB, Rams: Could be a nice replacement for Foxworth. He went to Howard University, so we know he’s smart.
MIKE BROWN, S, Bears: Savvy veteran who could stabilize the unit.
L.J. SMITH, TE, Eagles: A decent pass-catcher, but would have to get reacquainted with blocking. (My man PhillyDawg told me that the next block he throws will be his first. That won’t flow well with offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey.)
DRE BLY, CB, Broncos: The veteran cornerback market could be a nice option.
SEAN JONES, S, Browns: Former Georgia Bulldog is the type of combo safety the Falcons covet.
Also, we’ll check on defensive end PAUL SPICHER, 33, who spent time with head coach Mike Smith and defensive line coach Ray Hamilton in Jacksonville.
So do you like the Falcons’ moves? Where is Brooking going to land? Would you welcome him back if the free agency thing doesn’t work out? How can they let Foxworth go? Share your list of free agents you’d like to see the Falcons pursue.
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198 comments Add your comment
Sarah B
February 27th, 2009
9:44 am
Brooking needed to go, sorry to see Foxworth go he did a great job last year. If free agency doesn’t work out Brooking could come back at a very reduced rate and be a good back up. I’m already ready for OTA’s.
Brett Johnson
February 27th, 2009
9:54 am
I think Brooking will be back after the market puts a price on him. He’s not going to garner a lot of big offers but maybe several short, small ones. Losing Foxworth would be a big loss, unless they are expecting Houston and Jackson to be CB’s 1 and 2. I would like to see the Falcons add Sean Jones to play along side Erik Coleman and maybe pick up a veteran defensive lineman on a small deal. Everything else will be up to Dimitroff’s draft magic.
Pi$$onaDAWG
February 27th, 2009
9:59 am
Keith I love you and I think if you don’t play next year would you consider coaching at Ga. State with Bill Curry? Signed: Palmetto resident, Tech fan, and lover of Respectful and Caring Pro Athletes.
doodoobailey
February 27th, 2009
9:59 am
Brooking will test the market…the market will let him know that he needs to re-sign for leage minimum in Atlanta and be a core guy, or retire with pride.
Mike
February 27th, 2009
9:59 am
This list of possible free agents is retarted. Does D.Orlando actually liten to what Dimitroff says?? Mike Brown and Dre Bly are not younger guys and certainly are going to ask for significant contracts, so count them out. LJ Smith can’t block so I’m not sure why he’s even on the list. Sean Jones looks like the only decent possiblity….nice list D.
Mitun
February 27th, 2009
10:01 am
What about S Roy Williams cause Dallas is wanting to trade him
Falcon_Lifer
February 27th, 2009
10:02 am
Thank you! Thank you! Please don’t let the prescious Home Town Hero back! He is un-wanted!
dl
February 27th, 2009
10:06 am
Let’s go after Jermaine Phillips from Tampa Bayy. He is a UGA grad so we may get a hometown discount?
hatfieldgeoff
February 27th, 2009
10:08 am
Brooking at his best was never one of the top 20 linebackers in the NFL. He was a hustle guy that was a little small and a little slow and that has become even more pronounced the last 2-3 years. His play down the stretch this year proved he had to go. Good Luck to him, but the defense we need can’t include him.
Deep South Falcon
February 27th, 2009
10:11 am
I cannot believe that they are going to let Foxworth go!! He is the only legit cover corner we have in our secondary. Houston gets beat all the time, and looks lost the other half. They really should just go ahead and release him and find someone else to tandem with Foxworth. Whoever, suggests Roy Williams as a capable replacement for Milloy needs to watch more football. The reason Milloy was not resigned was because he cannot cover man to man when needed, Roy Williams is being trade because he cannot cover either!! Sean Jones would be a great pick up! He is still young, and he played for the Browns…would you play hard for that difunctional team. Get him with Mike Smith and who coached him in college Van Gorder, and I promise he will be in the pro-bowl. Secondary in my mind is most important area of need, D-line second. KEEP FOXWORTH-GREAT COVER CORNER
Dan
February 27th, 2009
10:11 am
Like to see them get Foxworth or Bryant McFadden for CB or both. Would like to see them get Sean Jones or Jermaine Phillips at Safety.
Would like to get Shaun Cody a young DT that also organizes charities would fit well with Arthur Blank. Jon Stinchcomb for the Offensive Line
VICK SUPPORTER 2
February 27th, 2009
10:13 am
HOW ABOUT THAT BUST D. HALL SIGNING A 70 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACT LAST YEAR AND THEN ANOTHER 54 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACT THIS YEAR. GUESS BUSTS GET REWARDED
HOW DARE THE WORLD NOT LISTEN TO FALCONS FANS TELLING HOW USELESS D HALL IS
Also a Dawg Fan
February 27th, 2009
10:16 am
We need D.Foxworth… I like J.Phillips as Strong Safety… It’s past time for Brooking. I’ve never seen him cover a back out of the backfield and he will make a tackle..15yds down the field..Don’t let the DOOR KNOB HIT YA WHERE THE GOOD LORD SPLIT YA..
Collegeparkguy
February 27th, 2009
10:19 am
Finally Brooking jeresys 75% off lol…I liked keith as a person, really great guy, i mean it but he was a good tackler but always 2 steps behind on a play. He should be thankful he stayed around for as long as he did. I like wire though a better LB than brooking… The “All American” as he has been labeled by certain fans is finally gone
rainman
February 27th, 2009
10:25 am
For the time being we are trusting TD and Blank to assemble a team that will compete for a championship. They will find the honeymoon short lived if the status quo is acceptable or if there are any signs of regression. Every other team is working very hard to improve and we have to hope our FO can compete with anybody. Blank is one of the richest owners — I hope he is willing to spend whatever it takes to bring Atlanta a super bowl.
Clayton
February 27th, 2009
10:28 am
After last year we can’t really doubt Dimitroff and Coach Smith. From a fans point of view its a shame D Foxworth has to go, he is the only player mentioned that I believe the Falcons will miss. We all know that Chris Houston is no number 1 and for that matter maybe not even a number 2 cornerback. I read the Falcons have 20M of cap room, maybe they are being smart and saving for and most likey when they have to release Vick, another good draft like they had last year and they should be ok
scottinjaxbeach
February 27th, 2009
10:29 am
I can all but guarantee you that Paul Spicer will wind up in Atlanta along side his former coaches. I think Spicer is about on empty but he has one more year left in him and he would be a good fit.
SJones and JPhillips would also make ideal fits for the rebuilding secondary. I still believe that they should pursue Foxworth but he maybe asking more money than he is worth. I would want to see another year out of him before I offered him a big contract.
hallelujah
February 27th, 2009
10:31 am
‘probably a very nice guy, one that you would want to have a brew with, but watch some game films and focus only on him. Just not the butt-kicking guy many thought he was.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 27th, 2009
10:31 am
HERE ARE a couple updates:
Brian Mackler, Foxworth’s agent, sent a text earlier this morning telling the AJC that his client is set to visit with the Baltimore Ravens.
Looks like Boley is headed to the New York Gaints, according to the Newark Star Ledger.
Http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2009/02/source_freeagent_lb_boley_to_v.html
MIKE: Glad you enjoyed my list!!! Don’t sleep on the old DBs Bly and Brown. Give me your list.
RedTailHawk
February 27th, 2009
10:34 am
Don’t understand letting Foxworth go unless he wanted huge money. TD has had only one draft here and admittedly did a great job. He has me on the edge of my seat with this one already. Looks like we are truly rebuilding on D. I’ll drink the kool-aid for now. It certainly is not gonna be dull. GO BIRDS.
Ken Strickland lives in his mom's basement
February 27th, 2009
10:37 am
There you go, Ken Strickland, you freaking idiot. The Falcons have spoken. NO ONE CARES THAT BROOKING LED THE TEAM IN TACKLES BECAUSE WHEN YOU PAY SOMEONE 9 BILLION DOLLARS THEY’RE SUPPOSED TO DO MORE THAN JUST TACKLE.
THE DAYS OF ARTHUR BLANK BEING AN IDIOT AND FORKING OVER MILLIONS TO PLAYERS JUST BECAUSE HE THINKS THEY’RE GREAT GUYS IS OVER, AND THANK GOD.
NO MORE PEERLESS PRICE, WARRICK DUNN, MICHAEL VICK AND BROOKING CONTRACTS.
DWR in Atlanta
February 27th, 2009
10:38 am
No reason to deal Keith to free agency, put him in a lesser role. Furthermore, the press is summing up his career on one play in last years playoff game vs. the Cardinals. He deserves far more than a bad decision on one play.
BB1
February 27th, 2009
10:39 am
To all you Brooking haters and “Dawg Fans”, be happy…. he’s gone. Hopefully you can convince the Falcons to sign up every Georgia player available thru free agency and then, maybe just then you all will smile. There is a reason the Falcons haven’t signed players when they came out of Georgia, think about it. With all the Georgia players you would like to have on the team, the Falcons should be able to compete in the 2nd tier of the SEC, but would never make it to the upper echelon of the NFL. All you great soothsayers have your wish, forget about Brooking, be greatful you now have a journeyman outside linebacker as a starter in the place of your leading tackler for 8 years…nice move.
CDW
February 27th, 2009
10:47 am
DOL,
Don’t you think the Falcons should pursue LB Bart Scott (although I read hes about to sign with the Jets and his former D coord is now coaching there)? That would be a good LB team of Lofton and Scott.
DEFalconFan
February 27th, 2009
10:47 am
Brooking was a great player, but great players get older, lose a step. On a rebuilding team, which, make no mistake the Falcons still are, young is needed. A new coach needs to be able to mold players, not reprogram them. Bring on the young hardnosed, ball hawks to learn the system and thrive under Mike Smith. Just please avoid LJ Smith, go for Jared Cook in the Draft. In free agency, look for Jim Leonhard from Baltimore. He is 26 and was an understated leader on a tough Baltimore Defense.
Hollywould
February 27th, 2009
10:55 am
Bly is nothing but overrated. Mike Brown too injury prone. I still think we have a chance with Foxworth. It was time for Brooking to go.
Who cares about D. Hall? Damn, VS2 everytime you say something it is either wrong or stupid. How was your Hall in Oakland? Just like people
who know football tried to tell you. Let the redskins spend all their money on Hall and Haynesworth. I love it as the Redskins come to the dome this year. Hall will get torched again(as usual)
Cheesemaster 09
February 27th, 2009
10:58 am
When it’s time to go it’s time to go. Hometown hero or not, the dude is a liability on the field at this point. I’m just saying, what if someone younger, faster, and smarter had been in on that 3rd and 16 against the Cardinals? He may have racked up the tackles, but his tackle numbers are less impressive when you realize how many of them were made catching someone downfield that should not have gotten there to begin with. So long and good luck.
GATORZONE
February 27th, 2009
10:59 am
Falcons should have kept Foxworth. I think they should make a run on Jermaine Phillips as well. He is a good player w/potential to become great, he just needs to stay healthy. I look for Houston to really have a good year. His seasoning took place last 2 and he will step it up this year.
Trust TD and Smith, they will make the right moves!
Go Falcons!
TheManMike
February 27th, 2009
10:59 am
DHall was given a large contract last year, and look where he went with it. end of discussion.
Brooking – Good luck in FA.
Boley – Good luck in NY.
Foxworth – See ya in Balti!
All you ans talking about all these players we should pick up, filling every D role, haha….TD said specifically we would not be making a big splash in FA….so, dont look for ALL our needs being met in FA…hehe…too funny.
TheManMike
February 27th, 2009
11:01 am
Look for our other guys…David Irons, Chevis Jackson, Coy Wire, Stephen Nicolas etc. to really be pushed to the forefront….with a few FA and Draftees to supplement
Brandon
February 27th, 2009
11:02 am
Brooking is too slow and must go.
RED-CLAY
February 27th, 2009
11:06 am
That’s the best move yet. He was the most overrated Falcon of all-time. I loved his passion but, passion never makes plays.
JG
February 27th, 2009
11:07 am
How bout this Lineup?
Bryant McFadden CB
Chevis Jackson CB
Jermaine Phillips Safety
Eric Coleman Safety
John Abraham DE
Jonathan Babinauex DT
Trey Lewis DT, Vance Walker DT
Kroy Bierman DE / Jamal Anderson DE
Curtis Lofton LB,
Stephen Nichols LB,
and Clay Matthews LB,
We can’t fix it all in one year, Look at another Linebacker next year and DE next year to replace Anderson. GOOD BYE Anderson!
GATORZONE
February 27th, 2009
11:07 am
What about Chauncey Davis? I would have loved to see him return… DOL, do we have a chance with him?
Cybed
February 27th, 2009
11:08 am
Sad to see Brook go but this is “a business” Thanks to Brook for playing as hard as he could as long as he could . His drive WILL be missed.
lionsfan
February 27th, 2009
11:12 am
Dre Bly is all hype, no production.
Sportznutt23
February 27th, 2009
11:16 am
Spicer would be a good option because of his days under Mike Smith, but is there any talk on Mike Peterson?? No one has mentioned him at all… and you know he’s not resigning in Jacksonville. He was great under Smith, why dont we bring him in here?
JG
February 27th, 2009
11:18 am
Chancey’s Agent is trying to get him a starting gig, and as long as we have Anderson, It won’t happen. Petrino left us, and drafted some winners for us. Wierd, Two Arkansas players drafted by Petrino? I wonder if that helped him get the job?
Tapate50
February 27th, 2009
11:20 am
Its SPICER… and he is exactly what we need. Down year last year but a vet DE with a unreal motor.
They have picked up LJ Smith already per Rotoworld.
GATORZONE
February 27th, 2009
11:22 am
Good Point JG, that is rather Ironic!
I still think Houston will be a good player, but as for Anderson…B-U-S-T!
Tapate, thanks for the update. I think that will be a good addition. what do you guys think?
JG
February 27th, 2009
11:27 am
We need a blocking and recieving tightend. There is a reason Philadelphia got rid of him. He doesn’t block, There are too many tightends in this draft. It is deep and those kids are young and hungry.They are also not leaving Philly with a attitude. Waste of money we could spend on a safety.
Mac
February 27th, 2009
11:30 am
Hey, folks, the Falcons haven’t lost Foxworth, yet. I’d like to see them add a really good DB in the draft and maybe pick up another in free agency. Hope they can get Davis re-signed. I don’t trust Boley anymore and think he will sign elsewhere.
Sportznutt23
February 27th, 2009
11:31 am
I agree JG… No to L.J.
Way too many TE in this draft, Pettigrew, Coffman, Cook…etc.
Use the money on DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE!!!
Mac
February 27th, 2009
11:31 am
Also, as I’ve written before, please address tight end. Don’t ever want to see another pass thrown in the direction of Marcus Pollard.
Parkview Power
February 27th, 2009
11:32 am
BYE BYE BROOKING!!! FINALLYYYY!!!!! GET JAMAL ANDERSON GONE NEXT!!!! We need foxworth!
Character
February 27th, 2009
11:37 am
Bad move Falcons…lose your leadership on D. Good Luck Keith.
shannyeight
February 27th, 2009
11:38 am
i like the idea of sean jones being with the falcons…and spicer too…if the falcons could get those 2, they wouldnt have to address too much in the draft…as far as TE, i’d go with jameel cook or chase coffman…i’ve seen l.j. drop too many “on the money” passes…
D3
February 27th, 2009
11:40 am
TD is holding true to his word and I love it. We appreciate everything KB has done for this organization & city, but its time to move on. Look at the best franchises, Patriots-Steelers, they cut them loose when they feel they have to overpay them too deep in their age. Patriots let Rodney Harrison go as we speak. Emotion has to be taken out to be successful in the NFL.
Well, it looks as though the staff thinks enough of Chevis Jackson that he can take over as the #2 CB, and a returning Von Hutchins can take over the nickel, which I can understand. Would’ve loved to keep Foxworth but maybe he was asking too much.
Letting Foxworth go means they probably plan to spend a 5th rd pick (Asher Allen anyone?)or so on a corner. I can’t fathom they will go after another top-tier corner like Bryant McFadden or Dre Bly. They may decide to grab a second-tier DB like Barlett from the Rams to shore up the secondary. TD likes getting those second-tier role players. Last year he picked up Hartsock & Coleman which served us well and didn’t break the bank. Finally, we have a GM who knows what the H he’s doing. Compare that to the Redskins. Making Haynesworth the highest paid player in the NFL ($40 Million Guaranteed) and D.Hall the highest paid CB, are you kidding me?
Just read that the Falcons placed a call to DE Antonio Smith, who’s 27 or 28. This means they may be considering on pushing Jamaal Anderson inside, which I’d love. They should add one of the following: DE Antonio Smith, S Sean Jones, or S Jermaine Phillips. Filling S, 2 OLB’s, DT, & TE through the draft will be impossible.
drmondo
February 27th, 2009
11:44 am
Brooking was a great player who lost a step or two. Hopefully he’ll test the free agency waters and then sign with ATL. We could use him as more of a backup/LB player-coach. His value now isn’t what he does on the field but what he can teach the younger guys on the team.
DOL, why didn’t the team cut DE Anderson? He’s been a real bust so what is his value to the team?
Poor McKay
February 27th, 2009
11:44 am
DOL, is Chris Houston a sure-fire lock to keep his job? Why not try to go after two experienced CBs?
Also, any word on Trey Lewis?
Deep South Falcon
February 27th, 2009
11:44 am
The only reason Chris Houston is not a B-U-S-T is because he was not drafted in the first round. They guy is “Big Play Ray” all over agian. At least he does not run his mouth like him Ray Buchanan!! Dre Bly is too old, and Mike Brown is one stubbed toe away from retirement! Come on DOB, We are looking for younger, not two year rent a players like L. Milloy!!
GATORZONE
February 27th, 2009
11:45 am
Apparently Pettigrew did not impress too much at the combine. IF Jamall cannot shed a block on the outside, how well will he do in the middle? It seems that he is rather weak when it comes to an up the field push.
A.S.
February 27th, 2009
11:47 am
i will definitely miss Keith. He has been in Atlanta for as long as I can remember. The Falcons need to address their needs defensively via free agency by adding some veterans. They can they draft some rookies.
E-Roll
February 27th, 2009
11:50 am
D.O. Led, I haven’t heard anything about Stephen Nicholas and Trey Lewis lately. If they are both in good shape for the 2009 season, I think that two of the spots on our defense could be covered right there.
Also on the NFL website, Vic Carucci has Demetric Evans and Mike Montgomery as defensive ends and Jim Leonhard at safety as players that can add some pop to teams at a price that is a bargain in today’s NFL. Do you have any thing on these guys?
TheManMike
February 27th, 2009
11:50 am
I say we keep all the available Safties where they are and keep for that Polomalu type in the Draft…..GOD I LOVE TROYS LOCKS!
Dennis
February 27th, 2009
11:56 am
I am both a Falcons and UGA fan, but appreciate what Brooking has done over the years. Those of you who belittle him and others because of the college teams they played for are total idiots. When they get to the Falcons, they are Falcons, plain and simple.
Grow up, whiney babies.
Seth
February 27th, 2009
11:57 am
I say we DRAFT Lauranatis, ya his stock fell in the combine but I say we either take him at 24 drop back a few spots and then pick him up. Im not sold on the Oklahoma TE. I think the Defense should be the top priority.
Sportznutt23
February 27th, 2009
12:07 pm
Here’s some FAs I wouldn’t mind if the Falcons signed:
S Sean Jones
LB Mike Peterson
LB Jonathon Vilma
S Mike Brown
DE Paul Spicer
DT Grady Jackson (is always welcome back)
Look for in the Draft:
1 Brandon Pettigrew
2 Michael Johnson
3 Rashad Johnson
4 Asher Allen
Strawman
February 27th, 2009
12:22 pm
Hey, Brooking and Foxworth, and others aren’t gone yet. The Falcons can still sign them and may have inside track given their success here. I agree that Brooking will not get big offers elsewhere and will probably re-sign. Since Dimitroff has lifted the ban on signing Georgia players I’d go with Jermaine Phillips at S. I’d push real hard to keep Foxworth and Chauncey and make Chauncey the starter at DE. Don’t understand not pursuing Haynesworth unless they are resigned to a big cap hit from Vick. Maybe draft an outsdide linebacker like Cushing (upfield speed please not a sideline to sideline guy like Brooking.) Need a big DT, I think Raji will be long gone but maybe round 2 another guy or bring in a second tier FA. Grady may last one more year. I’m a bit hesitant to say keep all the same guys after a relatively mediocre year defensively but that’s the way I’m leaning. Glad to see Clabo and Dahl back- we have 8 draft picks and I don’t care if they are all Defensive players. I still think you can’t have enough cover corners so I’d go for one (Allen?) somewhere rounds 1-4. Even first round if there is a good one there.
How much cap room do we really have now that Brooking and others are off the books?
Reno 911
February 27th, 2009
12:26 pm
Welcome back, VS2. Have fun pulling for the Redskins this year. They’re going to suck.
BugKiller
February 27th, 2009
12:30 pm
D-LED!!!
I know exactly where Brooking will end up, and he will go there for less money, too.
The only team that will offer him a chance to play within himself and his diminishing skills, that won’t ask a lot of him running around trying to do what he can’t do, that’ll put him in the middle of a 3-4 defense, letting him clog the middle of the line, and the only team that will give him a chance to win a Super Bowl before he retires.
The New England Patriots.
They value experience, even if the experience is as washed up as lets say a Junior Seyou or Keith Brooking, who can be out-right liabilities when asked to be true starters on different teams.
Keith Brooking can disappear into the anonymity of the Patriots defense, be a part-time player, and win a ring.
Trust me. Brooking is going to New England for one or two years to join their aging linebacker corps to back-up Bruschi and Vrabel.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 27th, 2009
12:31 pm
Love most, though I get the feeling that the loss of Chauncey Davis could come back to bite.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 27th, 2009
12:32 pm
Just did a spot with 790 guys Jeff Wolverton and Brandon Adams. They were hyped on the Falcons moves. Wanted to know if Derrick Brooks would be an option for the Falcons.
GATORZONE: DAVIS could be back if no one offers him starter money.
JG: Nice lineup.
POOR McKAY: Houston is going to face some competition for sure. The Falcons want him to play more physical.
STUCK IN SC
February 27th, 2009
12:34 pm
Its about freaking time! Brooking, don’t let the door hit you in the a$$ on the way out!
Hunk Erdown
February 27th, 2009
12:34 pm
Brooking is a class act and imo has had to play above his ability to have lasted as long as he has. Unfortunately, his ability just don’t cut it. I also cannot agree with wasting a roster spot on him at any price. If the Falcons are to do as good or better than last year, those roster spots are going to have to be tough decisions on really good players. Or at least on some young blood that we can bank on their future. Lauranitis may be a decent fix, but it would be great to be able to get a Ray Lewis clone.
As far as Brooking goes, I think he would make a great Linebacker coach at a D-1 school. I wish him the best and hope he will go out with his pride and dignity.
David
February 27th, 2009
12:36 pm
How about Keiaho at LB, just released by the Colts, draft Peria Jerry DT Ole Miss, Chase Coffman, TE Missouri, Connor Barwin, DE Cincinnati, Alphonso Smith, CB Wake Forrest.
Darrin "The Vent King"
February 27th, 2009
12:37 pm
Brooking has always put his best effort out on the field and I will always admire that about him, but at one time or another in every NFL player’s career the time will come for a change. I’m not just talking time for him to leave, but the possibility of him testing the market, not getting the price he thought he’d get, coming back in a reduced role (for league minimum) and helping mentor our future line backing core. If he leaves, so be it and best of luck, but I actually think we could benefit in utilizing his experience and teaching some positive things to next generation of LBs we’ll end up with. Either way, I’m not going to cheer too loudly the departure of one of our players that put it out there everyday, but do realize this move needed to be made for some time. So just say I’m “respectfully” glad this is happening and wish KB luck where ever he ends up.
GO FALCONS!!
Joe
February 27th, 2009
12:41 pm
Can someone please tell me why antonio smith is even an option?????!!!!!!! The guy played on a 9-7 team that had one of the worst defenses in the league and we want this guy!!!!!!! Who cares they had a lucky streak to make it to the super bowl!!! What does this guy offer us?????? If he was so good he would have made his defense good!!!! Now if anybody can explain to me what this guy has to offer then please do but until then I am completely against going after that loser!!!!
Also how come we can’t be major players in the free agency????? If the redskins can sign haynesworth to a $100 million deal and hall to a $54 million dollar deal them why can’t we sign atleast one good if not great free agent?????????
richbrave
February 27th, 2009
12:44 pm
D.O.LED:
DAN SNYDER collects FA’s like a night-time thief in OCALA stealing grapefruits from a farmer’s grove. While the TITANS and the new regime in ATLANTA shun these misanthropes, UNCLE DANNY provides them with a collective home, and the playdough to spend on shrinks who attempt to make them less sociopathic. Meanwhile, the results show on the field. You have nothing to fear from the REDSKINS, FALCONS fans. They will continue to be mediocre whilst you ascend the NFL’s hirarchy of teams toward a SUPER BOWL victory. Roll on.
BugKiller
February 27th, 2009
12:46 pm
That overrated sissy from Ohio State, Laurinitis, would just be more of the same we got with Brooking:
Can’t cover fast backs in the flats.
Can’t cover tightends up the seem, or slot recievers on crossing routes.
Makes the majority of his tackles 8 yards down the field when he plays actual good teams.
LSU and SoCal specifically targeted that overrated CLOWN in their offensive game plans and thoroughly embarrassed him.
As Peter King quoted a defensive coach at the Combine in his MMQB column who asked Laurinitis, “When the hell has a linebacker come out of OSU and been worth a $hit?”
Andy Katzenmoyer, AJ Hawk, and now Laurinitis… all NFL BUSTS.
Dimitroff is smart. He won’t be drafting the overrated, crappy, and SLOW players from the Big-ZERO anymore.
It’s SEC, Big-XII, and SoCal all the way with Dimitroff.
David
February 27th, 2009
12:52 pm
Foxworth has signed with Baltimore. Hope Von Hutchins is healthy. Plus, we still have Brent Grimes at CB.
Joe
February 27th, 2009
12:56 pm
The salary cap doesn’t affect the redskins or the cowboys so why in the hell does it keep us from signing any good fee agents!???!!!!!!???????? I’m pissed that the falcons actually think that starting over completely on defense is what we need!!!!!!! Sign some big free agents and then build through the draft. NOT drafting our defense through the draft!!!!! I mean sure we will find some good if not great defensemen in the draft but to think we will rely on going to the super bowl with all rookies and some part time veterans ( wire ) is absolutely insane!!!!!!!!!!! Thomas dimitroff is really starting to piss me off!!!!!!! Spend some money on much needed pieces on defense and then draft the other needs and we should be fine!!!! But mark my words. We will not go anywhere anytime soon with coy wires and rookies on defense!!!!!!!!!!!!! D Orlando Ledbetter what do you have to say about that???????
Greg
February 27th, 2009
1:00 pm
Would love to know why the Broncos released Bly. Is there a red-flag story there?
Greg
February 27th, 2009
1:02 pm
Mike brown has been hurt a lot. Wouldn’t go there.
BugKiller
February 27th, 2009
1:03 pm
Joe,
You’re an idiot.
You don’t know a damn thing what it takes to win a Super Bowl. Thomas Dimitroff does.
The Patriots made ONE large free agent expendature in their time as the only dynasty of the free agency period.
ONE.
And Roosevelt Colvin got hurt, and didn’t contribute to the Super Bowl they won that year.
They got everyone else on the scrap heap, like Corey Dillon.
Or fleeced teams in trade, like with Randy Moss.
They sign middle-tier guys who play within the system, with no egos, and who help the TEAM, not the I.
They also let their guys go when they demand more money than they’re worth, like with Adam Vinitieri.
And the Patriots DRAFT well, even though they’ve been in the bottom half of the draft every year this century.
But you would have the Falcons blow their wad on two players like the Redskins did, when the Falcons have far more needs than two players.
You’re a moron. Dimitroff knows exactly what he has to do. He’s a Grand Master Chess Champion who is 10 moves ahead of everyone, including you, because he learned from two other Grand Masters, Pioli and Belichick.
He got us FOUR starters in last year’s draft. He will pick up a few, team-first free agents to be starters, and a few more for depth (I’m hoping on hard-hitting Sean Jones).
Then he will OWN the draft board, getting the Falcons even more starters.
So shut the frak up, because you know absolutely nothing.
Kappellmeister
February 27th, 2009
1:05 pm
Hey MIKE – nice job misspelling ‘retarded’.
Sportznutt23
February 27th, 2009
1:07 pm
BugKiller…
Amen.
mars
February 27th, 2009
1:14 pm
Hello? Come on, people! The O-line still needs attention, and unless I’m mistaken Jon Stinchcomb is available. Signing him is much more important that tight end right now. Remember, this is a big tight end draft. Stinchcomb and Phillips, everything else can be addressed in the draft.
Reality Time
February 27th, 2009
1:14 pm
Vick Supporter 2: Yes, DeAngelo Hall can sign really big contracts. The problem is that he never stays with the team long enough to collect. He didn’t do anything in Oakland and did very little in Washington. Washington just happens to have an idiot owner. Wait until Hall is able to produce and collect all of that big new contract before you start calling him a “cover corner” again. And yes, I’m still happy he isn’t in Atlanta.
Mark
February 27th, 2009
1:15 pm
Just heard about Fox signing with the Ravens. Big loss for the secondary. Gotta go after Bartell. Found a highlight video of him online. http://broadbandsports.com/node/24121
Sportznutt23
February 27th, 2009
1:21 pm
Everyones worried about the secondary, as am I… and I think our D-line is going to be fine (TD will add something there)… But guys, our linebacking core is suffering right now… That is where the big name free agent needs to come (at LB)!!! I’m still a big advocate of Sean Jones though… Go Dawgs!!!
JG
February 27th, 2009
1:24 pm
BugKiller,
You are wise, I will read your comments.
Mars,
Yes we need Oline help, but not as immediately as Defensive help.
I wouldn’t doubt that we draft Andrew Gardner from Ga Tech in The 6th or 7th round. Because we are looking for a serviceable backup till we can draft a starter, maybe 2010?
JerseyFalcon
February 27th, 2009
1:40 pm
Thank god TD didn’t go after Albert! As for Brooking and all these other Georgia players..just because you went to college in GA doesn’t mean you will be a great player for the falcons. I am not from GA, so I am not bias. I am from North NJ..and with that said, Do NOT draft Brian Cushing…one roid test will ruin him. Pick up Philips as a saftey, maybe Rogers from the browns, if he is cut. Bartell as corner and then draft the rest as needed.
D Money
February 27th, 2009
1:47 pm
Liegh Bodden-CB (big, quick corner)
Sean Jones- SS big safety that has pretty good coverage skills and a big hitter.
Everything else get from the draft.
Seth
February 27th, 2009
1:57 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9-k7Czh_ww
GATORZONE
February 27th, 2009
1:59 pm
Bugkiller.. I agree, Joe you are an idiot! Look what years of free agent signings have done for the Redskins and in previous years, the Falcons!
Build through the draft and with team first players!
Maddog
February 27th, 2009
2:01 pm
Gee, big loss. He looked about as good covering passes as I do in a Speedo.
JerseyFalcon
February 27th, 2009
2:06 pm
What did the Falcons give up to acquire Foxsworth last year?…was it a 5th round pick, or a 7th?
Joe
February 27th, 2009
2:09 pm
Bugkiller,
Ok first of all I never said break the bank on anybody!!!!!! All I said in a nutshell was that an ALL ROOKIE defense will not go to the super bowl!!!! You may need to learn to to read before you start bashing peoples comments like that!!! TD has and does a hell of a job doing what he does and yes I understand the patriots drafting low and still succeeding but what rebuilt team do you one of that went to the super bowl with all rookies???? The patriots were by no means a rookie rebuilt team they picked up free agents and then built through the draft! Over the years then finally it was super bowl after super bowl for them which also had to do with coaching! I was wondering how other teams like redskins and cowboys seem to never me affected by the salary cap yet we can’t get 1 big name to help lead our defense like a ray lewis to help the younger rookies develope!! So please answer my question! What all rookie defense do you know of that went to the super bowl? Let alone win it!!
BugKiller
February 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
Dude… again, you’re an idiot.
Curtis Lofton. Coy Wire. Chauncy Davis. John Abraham. Chris Houston. Even Jamaal Anderson if they turn him into a decent tackle.
That’s 6 experienced, non-rookie starters.
Free Agency is EXACTLY 14 hours and 16 minutes old.
Dimitroff will get who he wants, when he wants them.
The salary cap DOES affect the Cowboys and Redskins, moron.
When’s the last time either of those teams won a playoff game? The Cowboys haven’t since 1996.
Why? Because they sign big “name” players for more money than they’re worth along with their big egos, and then they have NOTHING left over to help with depth.
Depth is what keeps you in games in the 4th quarter, something teams like the Cowboys, Redskins, and Raiders, with their idiot owners, can’t ever seem to grasp.
They also throw away draft picks like it’s cool to trade for overrated, past-their-prime players as well. Would you have Dimitroff do some of that?
Calm the frak down, shut the frak up, and stop typing. For your own good.
JG
February 27th, 2009
2:21 pm
Seth
It is amazing how good you can make someone look through the magic of video?
Weak Conference, horrible bowl record.
SEC 3 National Championships in the last three years, and USC, Oklahoma, Texas are all NFL player Factories even the ACC has a ton of quality of NFL players.
I don’t want to hear about Ohio State anymore.
darrell starks
February 27th, 2009
2:22 pm
Defense defense and more defense big loss with fox worth a solid CB,and now chaunce davis is gone another solid backup at defensive end, in this this year draft we need defense only. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
poppa falcon
February 27th, 2009
2:27 pm
A HEALTHEY Von Hutchins will MORE than make up for the loss of Foxworth
Seth
February 27th, 2009
2:28 pm
My bottom line is this, We need people who can: open field tackle / Lay the wood / Injure / Cause concussions / make you stomach curl when you see the replay… we need them at OLB, Safety, and anywhere else where we made cuts… You know its a bad sign when your safety (Milloy) had the most tackles on the team, because that means the 7 guys in front of him didn’t… so i dont casre who it is but we need those kind of players.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 27th, 2009
2:32 pm
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/falcons/stories/2009/02/27/domonigue_foxworth_atlanta_falcons.html
FOXWORTH GONE TO BALTIMORE.
FOUR YEARS, $27.2 MILLION
JG
February 27th, 2009
2:35 pm
Seth,
I agree with that statement.
We need hitters!
TD will find them.
Reno 911
February 27th, 2009
2:40 pm
Foxworth’s presser with the Ravens is about to start on NFl Network. Losing him may hurt. Any ideas as to how TD fills all these Defensive holes? We need two OLB’s, at least one Corner, a safety, and a TE. Can’t fill all those with rookies. I’d bet TD will try to net one of the safeties out there in FA: Sean Jones or Jim Leonhard. We should steer clear of LJ Smith. He’s not the versatile TE that the offense needs. The draft is deep in LB’s (at least in the first two rounds) and TE’s, but do we dare fill four of these five positions with rookies? Joe is right (in part) in his assertion that rookie defenses don’t win championships. I don’t believe the Falcons are building to win a championship this season, though. This team is still two years out. Next year’s schedule will be tough, the team will grow, learn, but ultimately disappoint compared to 2008. Yes, they could have legitimately made it to the NFC title game last year, but were in reality just barely good enough defensively to hang. They’ll get better, but won’t be a top ten unit this year. the pieces just aren’t there. What do you guys think? How many rookies play significant playing time on D next year, and who are they? Matthews or Cushing at OLB (1st round)? DJ Moore or Alphonso Smith at Corner (2nd rounders)? Coffman at TE (3rd)? I used to subscribe to the thinking that Jeria Perry at DT would be just the push we needed in the middle, but with all of these holes at OLB, C, and safety, I think drafting toward that need gets put on the shelf for a year, and we just have to hope that Trey Lewis pans out.
Joe
February 27th, 2009
2:44 pm
Bugkiller your the only idiot I see!!!!! Your incompetent a$$ still haven’t answered my question!!! What all rookie team has went to the superbowl???? And didn’t the falcons sign big free agents last year!????!! Yes they did you idiot!!!!!!!! His name was michael turner and don’t forget jason Elam!!! Without those two holding down the run game and field goal unit down where would we have been???!!!!!! And if you aren’t going to answer my questions then don’t waste my time responding you illiterate person!!!!!
darrell starks
February 27th, 2009
2:47 pm
The first pick LB JAMES LAURINATIS OF OHIO STATE OR BRIAN CUSHING OF USC SECOND PICK SEAN SMITH OF UTAH WHO CAN PLAY SAFETY OR CB WHO WILL BE A BEAST IN THE NFL I would play him at safety with coleman third pick DT Dorrell Scott from CLEMSON TIGER OR ALLEN ASHER FROM GEORGIA. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
JG
February 27th, 2009
2:55 pm
If we have to take the hit for Vick on our Salary Cap.
When do we do it? I agree with Reno 911.
Don’t expect the Falcons to repeat last years record. We have a incredibly hard schedule and Do we may want to take the majority of the Vick hit on our Salary cap this year?
So that in 2010 we can be bigger players in free agency or early round signing?
I am not sure how it works maybe someone can explain. How do you sign Haynesworth for $100 Mil, Hall for $56 Mill, and have room under the salary cap to pay your 13th pick in the draft? Or any early picks in the draft? They still have Chris Samuel, Portis and Cambell right? How are they staying under the cap?