Smith likes the USC linebackers
USC linebacker Kaluka Maiva puts a hit on Arizona State's Terry Richardson.
Dana Point, Calif. — Falcons coach Mike Smith and the rest of the NFC coaches met with the media Wednesday morning at the NFL Owners meeting.
Smith, the Associated Press reigning coach of the year, was a popular guy.
Reporters from Detroit wanted to know what went into the Falcons decision to draft Matt Ryan, how they scouted him, what kind of workout he went through and want he likes to eat for breakfast.
They were doing their due diligence on Georgia quarterback Matt Stafford.
Rey Maualuga having a bad hair day.
Smith also talked about the linebackers for USC, who are eligible for the draft. At least two of them could be on the board when the Falcons select with the 24th pick in the draft.
Clay Matthews Jr. dishing out some pain.
Brian Cushing and Rey Maualuga are being projected to go early in the first round. Clay Matthews Jr., who’s father played for the Falcons, and Kaluka Maiava will be available at 24. Maiava is not generally considered a first round pick and could be taken later in the draft.
“They are very impressive,” Smith said. “There are four guys that are definitely going to have an opportunity to play in the NFL. It’s been well documented that there are going to be some guys that get drafted very early.”
Smith seems some similarities in the group of USC linebackers.
“I think there is one common theme that these guys have and that’s they enjoy playing the game of football,” Smith said. “That’s very obvious when you watch those guys on tape. They play with a lot of intensity. They play with a lot of passion. They have different sizes. They run differently, but the one thing that they do is that they play, very, very hard.”
The Falcons are rebuilding their linebacking corps after Keith Brooking (Dallas) and Michael Boley (New York Giants) left during free agency.
Which one of the USC linebackers would you like to see the Falcons take?
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160 comments Add your comment
Tyger
March 26th, 2009
6:35 pm
Falcoons Easy Button #3
1. 24 Michael Johnson, 6′7, 260, DE, G.Tech – after reviewing more tape, how can you pass over this guy? Moreover, considering Peria Jerry will be long gone, I’ll take the risk for the high reward here. I’ll bet on Smitty and the others to coach him up.
2. 55 William Moore, 6′1, 230, SS, Mizzou – another low risk high reward. Ate the Big 12 up last year, has the size and pick 6 ability you look for in the secondary. One year of senioritis is going to dissuade what I see on the field: a playmaker. Louis Delmas is long gone by 55.
3. 90 Rashad Johnson, 6′0, 187, S/CB, Ala – I hate this pick, Falcoons should package with both of the 5th rounders and move up back into the hunt. But if I have to, R.Johnson provides good depth to a secondary in need.
4.125 Nic Harris, 6′3, 230, OLB/SS, OK – Ran poorly at the combine, but excelled on the field, a big hitter that will help on the edge. TBD if can help at SS.
5. 143 Brandon Williams, 6′4, 246, DE, TX Tch – Lanky sackmaster, doesnt have NFL strength yet, but has a frame that can add weight and strength. Put up big numbers in college and may be coming out a year early, but finds a way to the QB.
5. 160 Sammie Lee Hill, 6′4, 328, DT, Stillman – Huge man that dominated lower division similarly to Trey Lewis. Maybe long gone by 160, but if there, would take a flyer here.
6. 196 Dominique Johnson, 6′2, 190, CB, Jackson St. – HBCU flyer from the Mel Blount-Ken Houston mold with 4.3 speed and deep cover skills.
Non-drafted FA – Endor Cooper, 6′2, 235, LB, Howard – Sheridan Player of the Year, at least one per year has gone on to start in the NFL.
Cameron
March 26th, 2009
7:08 pm
If Vontae Davis is available at 24, then I would seriously consider him. However, he has tons of potential that never really led to production. I would be very cautious. I like P Jerry or Cushing if available. Peria Jerry was unblockable in the SEC, which happens to be the best conference in college football. Cushing is a beast than can play the run or pass and come up with the “big play.”
I definitely do not think we should draft Pettigrew, Clay Matthews, or Larry English. English is a 3-4 OLB or an undersized 4-3 DE. We already have an expensive one of those (Abraham) who has trouble staying healthy and has to come off the field on obvious run downs. We definitely do not need another “situational” player making a lot of money (which the 24th pick will), no matter how good their pass rush ability may be.
I do not think we need Pettigrew at 24, our combo of TEs produced pretty well last year. Would it help to have a field strecther at TE? Sure, but we have many more glaring needs (defense). We will probably draft the top left on our board that plays a position of need. I think that is definitely the best strategy. If that is Pettigrew, fine. Cushing, great. Jerry, fantastic. Top flight corner that falls to us, outstanding.
I have a feeling safety will be addressed in the second or third round, along with either LB or DT if not satisfied in the first. OL depth will also be added in the later rounds. I trust TD and am sure we will have another impact draft.
BULLSEYE
March 26th, 2009
7:18 pm
Consider the Miami Dolphins. The Falcons and Dolphins have run parallel courses in the last few years. Ownership changes, one and done coaches, poor pitiful seasons and picking at the top of the draft board. Both teams reorganized and they both picked tackel and quarterback with their early picks. Both teams needed almost everything and they still both have the relative same level of need. Look at who the Dolphins are interested in ,and outside of a reciever, Parcells has identified the players the Falcons need and we pick before them. Sweet.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
7:30 pm
Ken, I can live with that. I wouldn’t prefer it over mine but I’d be a proud season ticket holder with that lineup. Your mock addresses key positions and I can count, at least, four starters in your draft. I’m very proud to see that our minds think alike in later rounds with the Cameron Morrah (you the one got me on that tight end tip; so don’t belittle my two-tight end set theory) and Sammie Lee Hill. I got to do my research on Courtney Greene. I’ve never considered him. Good mock, though.
Tyger, I can take your draft as well. I like all your picks but I’m deeply concerned about Nic Harris. He was on my early mocks because of his versatility. I think he can push back or move down in the box. I think he’s got issues, though. I can’t remember what made me disinterested in the kid but I thought maybe a Patrick Chung can do his job and pick up a receiver in the nickel; Harris can’t do that. He’s like a linebacker trying to play safety. When Chung is a safety that can play linebacker and I would prefer that. Other than that, your mock is awesome.
D3
March 26th, 2009
7:43 pm
JJ – love that draft! Hadn’t heard about Chip Vaughn and don’t know his stats from college, but his measurables are solid. Perry, Nelson, & Vaughn would be nice. Chung might be gone, but maybe Sean Smith? How about Jerry/S.Smith/Nelson-Cook-Coffman?
Stirg – what’s the word? The answer to your original question is YES we are fanatics, but hey its all good. I’ve found my favorite new hobby, all the while practicing my typing skills. I digress. I like your mock too, but did you mean to put Pettigrew & Morrah on there? I’ve finally come to the conclusion right along with Ken that pretty much any position we draft will improve our team.
mudcat – thanks for the props, I like to put up tons of ideas and possibilities on picks.
Ken – like your mock as well. There are just so many scenarios that could help our team, as long as TD & co. do their research, which we know they will. Is there any way Sean Smith could stay at CB at 6′4? I just can’t think of any NFL CB’s over 6′2, could be wrong of course. Only disagree with taking a CB that soon and not taking Nelson/Cook/Coffman in at least round 3. Even if Morrah is a better blocker right now, I’ll take a chance on one of those guys because its easier to coach blocking than it is to coach play-making.
Tyger – agree on Sammie Hill and usually in your wheel-house, but Michael Johnson will be a stud for somebody, but drafting a pure DE doesn’t seem to be the best take since DT, S, CB, & TE are all more pressing, IMHO. I know a lot of people are in love with William Moore, but I would have a real hard time taking someone who totally disappears from their junior to senior year.
Best available draft, in order of preference:
1) Cushing/Maybin/Matthews/English – OLB
2) Chung/S.Smith/R.Johnson -S
3) Nelson/Cook/Coffman – TE
4) Chris Baker/Sammie Hill/Fili Moala/Terrance Taylor – DT
5) Jarius Byrd/Sherrod Martin -CB
or
1) Raji/Perry/Hood – DT
2) Chung/S.Smith/R.Johnson -S
3) Nelson/Cook/Coffman – TE
4) Connor Barwin/Marcus Freeman/Cody Brown – OLB
5) Jarius Byrd/Sherrod Martin -CB
see ya guys in a few. Good stuff, BirdCage Bloggers!
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
9:00 pm
D3, you’re not playing fair. You got three names for each position that we need. I know what you’re trying to say (best available) but the fun in “mocking” is to finalize your thoughts and suggestions. You taking the fun out of it. I know its hard; this is a first time for me too (wait, that didn’t come out right). What I’m trying to say is that this is the first time I’ve been so interested in a draft. This is the first time of been interested about blogging. I NEVER Blog! Last season made me believe in the Falcons, again, and I hope they do their best. So choose, man. I had to do it and it was so difficult with all that talent still on the board at 24. This kind of put things in perspective for owners, general managers and coaches and make me view their positions differently. If we can’t agree on a blog, can you imagine what its like in a war room on draft day?
And, yes! I meant to put Brandon Pettigrew and Cameron Morrah on the same mock draft. Ken is the one that got me thinking about the dynamics of playing a blocking-catching tight end and it made a whole lot of sense. If it makes sense with one tight end, it’ll be extra-productive with two. Can you imagine that, fans? Imagine two Pettigrews, White, Jenkins and Turner in a two tight end set. Defense would know if that’s a run or pass. If it is a pass play, what defense in this league can contain White, Jenkins and two Pettigrews going out at the same time. Take Pettigrew in the first round and Morrah in the later. Wouldn’t have to touch that offense for years.
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
9:18 pm
D3,
Thanks for the compliments, man. It’s a pleasure just to be able to talk Falcon football with you, Stirg, Ken, Najeh, Marko, and so many others (don’t get mad if I missed your name in a shout-out, guys). If you like basketball, check me and my partner out on The Hawks Hacks. That’s the AJC’s Hawks fan blog, opposite Sekou K. Smith’s Hawks Beat Blog.
As for replacement of the Bird Babe (no offense to whoever that is), I’d go with Stirg over me, if choosing between the two. His research and analyis is superior to mine. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a Falcon fanatic too, but I recognize game when I see it. Same with Ken Strickland. Peace!
By the way, y’all are turning up some nice mock drafts where the Falcons picks are concerned. I like a lot of them, even if I disagree with a pick or two here or there.
The Robot Nesbitt is killing me. Dude is too funny
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
9:23 pm
What’s up fellows. The debate continue in good fun. But I still stand my my bet. Patrick Chung will not be there for us in the second. It’s all good though. My Mock: 1) SS P. Chung 2) CB J Byrd 3) TE S. Nelson 4) OLB M. Freeman 5a) DT Terrance Taylor 5b)DT Sammie Hill 6) Best available OL prospect, preferably a tackle. GO FALCONS!!
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
9:36 pm
Thanks, Ray.
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
9:37 pm
One thought on Peria Jerry. And it’s not a disagreement on drafting him at #24, just a thought. Peria Jerry is about 6′3″ and 295. I know we’ve talked about the possibilities of Jamal Anderson moving inside. He’s 6′6″ and around 285 or so. I guess my question is this: would Jerry be that much more capable of pushing a pile than Anderson (who already knows the system)? And since Jerry would play inside, would he be that much more of an effective pass rusher? We actually struggled against both the pass AND the rush last year on defense, at that position.
And that actually raises another question. Babineaux is solid against the run, but not a huge threat on pass rush. So we would probably need Jerry to be at least adequate against the run, while being more effective pass-rushing. The same would go for any guy we plugged in at DT, really. Or would we be okay with two guys at DT who are effective against the run, and “fair-to-middlin’” at passing rushing? If that’s the case, then we still have to upgrade the pass rush, but at other positions. That would mean DE and/or LB.
I guess what I’m saying is that WHERE you want to create/upgrade your pass-rush defense determines WHO you draft, as well as in what round. So if Peria Jerry doesn’t present a real/certain threat as a pass-rusher at the DT spot, is it worth burning the #24 pick on him? If he does, then I say grab him. If he doesn’t, then what makes him a better option than Trey Lewis (who’s bigger) or Jamal Anderson (close to same size, could move inside)?
That’s my only real concern with drafting Peria Jerry. That, and I think we’re on a 50-50 chance with him. Either you draft him at #24, or you miss him altogether. Same goes with any of the other top 1 or 2 tier DTs.
Ken Strickland
March 26th, 2009
9:51 pm
TYGER-you got me on your CB pick. I forgot all about Dominick Johnson of Jackson State. He would have changed the order of my mock draft. I’d take him over my CB pick. I think DT CHRIS BAKER(6′2″ 300lbs) of Hampton Univ would be a hidden gem and a steal in the later rds. With DJohnson as my CB pick, I’d switch positions and take SS PChung with the 2nd pick.
1-DE/OLB LEnglish or Maybin
2-SS Chung
3-TE Marroh
4-CB Johnson
5-DT Hill or Baker
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
9:54 pm
Continuing my thoughts…
This is where I see the merit in drafting a guy like Sammie Lee Hill or somebody like that, later in the draft at DT. I know I said a lot depends on what we draft there and at LB, but the more I think about it, and the more I read scouting reports and listen to my fellow bloggers…the more difficulty I see with us upgrading the DT position in the 1st round of the draft.
I do see us shoring it up at the very least later on. But that doesn’t mean a latter-round pick won’t turn into an upgrade. So I’m moving more towards the DE/OLB pick if we go defense in the first round.
Yes, I know, I know. Falcons just gave Chauncey Davis $14 million to play end for us. I know. I am not suggesting that we draft a guy PURELY to play DE. Nor am I suggesting we draft a PURE DE. That’s why I don’t agree with drafting Johnson out of Ga Tech. This guy is essentially about the same size as Jamal Anderson (but lighter) and is a better pure athlete. Ok, that’s great, but he hasn’t PRODUCED. Not saying that he CAN’T, but where’s the guarantee that he CAN? Not seeing it. Don’t get me wrong, the guy seems nice enough, is a HELL of an athlete, and might have a ceiling higher than the Eiffel Tower. But talk about high-risk/high-reward. I don’t know if his work ethic matches. Besides, Al Davis will be all over this guy….
What I can see us doing is grabbing a double threat like English, or just getting a steady, constant threat, play-maker at OLB.
Or Pettigrew, if the brass is convinced that he will take the offense to another level, and quality defensive players with a chance to make an impact THIS YEAR are available in later rounds. Can’t ignore a guy like that, despite what his 40-yard dash times were.
We might even “reach” on a guy if TD and Smith think a particular guy can come in and play multiple spots. That’s where guys like Larry English become possibilities.
OR….we might draft a guy who’s a mean play-maker if he falls to us, and we think we can move an existing Falcon player to another spot. I think somebody else already mentioned Rey Maualuga (spelling?). Hey, if that guy can move to OLB, or Lofton can, I wouldn’t be averse to having him. I don’t know how much sense that makes (maybe none at all), but I’m talking value pick here, not specific need pick. Actually, it’s a scenario I don’t see happening, but I’m using it as an example. Again, that’s assuming Rey is a guy that our brass loves and is a serious play-maker, not a USC-branded media darling…too many guys often are…
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
10:04 pm
Stirg,
I’d like to see Thomas Dimitroff’s hair in the war room on draft day. Probably make Don King look like he had a buzz cut…
D3,
Ah, so you have three guys to a spot on your mock draft, huh? Cheater! Heh, heh, heh. Nah, I know you’re just trying to cover all the bases. How about I cheat a little further and use YOUR multiple mock to make my own? I’ll go with this mock, from YOUR mock:
1)English
2)Chung
3)Nelson
4)Hill
5)Byrd (I’m guessing, haven’t researched this guy)
Raji trumps any others as the 1st round pick if he actually falls that far to us (momma told me not to smoke that stuff…
)
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
10:25 pm
Byrd is a solid corner with a good pedigree. Saw a lot of him and Chung on FSN Northwest this past season. He and Chung were the bedrocks in a very good Oregon Duck secondary…and we know how pass happy the Pac-10 is.
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
10:30 pm
Watched a lot of FSN Northwest this past college season; The pass-happy Pac 10. Chung and Byrd were the mainstays in one of the nation’s best secondaries. Both are physical players and cover well. The one little thing that they will have to be coached up on is that they do every now and then tend to get “hand-happy” resulting in a few more holding calls than you would like. But all the skills, intangibles, and technique is there. They would set us up with a punisher at SS and a corner with the potential to shut down. GO FALCONS!!
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
10:33 pm
I was just looking at the roster. Hey Robot or anyone, do you have the skinny on this DT Myles we added as a off-season signing?. 6′2. 305. Rookie out of D2 Tarleton State.
willie
March 26th, 2009
10:42 pm
I saw a columnist that follows the Houston Texans on NFL Network and he thinks the Texans could take Clay Matthews with the 15th pick. Matthews and Cushing will both be gone, I’m afraid, so the Falcons will need to go in a different direction. This is good news, because the direction we need to go in is very clear….pass rusher! Besides Abe who is an injury waiting to happen, we have nobody that can consistently get to the QB. We must make this a priority! I think you take a flier on Michael Johnson if he is there. “They” say he was inconsistent last season but 9 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 7 pass break-ups, 1 INT for a TD and a blocked kick doesn’t sound too inconsistent to me. This guy is a freakish athlete who could turn out to be a Pro Bowl caliber pass-rusher. That sounds like a pretty darn good value for the 24th pick to me, and worth the risk!
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
10:46 pm
D3 and Big Ray: I see you guys are warming up to Chung and Byrd. They are evening moving up on your draft boards. I like that!! BR, great point on Hill later in the draft. Don’t sleep on Roy Miller of Texas neither. Did you see his performance in the Fiesta Bowl. And I just did not watch him there. FSN Southwest covers UT football extensively. What would we “Mel Kipers” be like without a dish, huh? Laters!!
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
10:47 pm
I’m thinking that a first round pick on a defensive end is out of the question. Again, it takes a defensive end three to five years to mature in this league, including the most elite. We already have four good defensive ends that is either matured or is prospering. I think a lot of analysts, mockers and writers have lowered Michael Johnson’s ranking in the draft. Who knows? He may fall to us in the second or later rounds. My point is this: you can’t waste the first pick on a defensive end, trying to fix a problem right now. Defensive ends do not come into the league and make an immediate impact; it has never happened.
I heard the U.S. Treasury Secretary (can’t remember his name; Geithner, or somebody) say the other day, “When a quarterback passes the ball, he don’t pass to where the receiver is, he pass to where the receiver is going.”
As for the first pick, I still think its a good idea to draft Brandon Pettigrew, to compliment a Cameron Morrah in the later rounds. Opening an offense with two tight ends that can block and catch, can only work with two studs like Pettigrew and Morrah. It would solidfy the offense for years. Am I, Thomas Dimitroff and Ken Strickland (although Ken would never take two tight ends in this draft, I’m sure; but thank him for my insane theory) the only ones that would entertain taking Pettigrew at 24? Again, if I’m a defensive coach, I am absolutely scared to face White, Jenkins, Morrah, Pettigrew and Mule Train Turner in a two-tight end set.
It has been proven that the defense can be fixed with rounds two, three and four. Chung or Moore will be available in second round. Sintim and Sammie Hill will be available for our picking in later rounds, trust me. Look at the mocks; most fans are even suggesting to trade down. If you’re willing to do that, take the one unique player that can change the complexion of your team. Morrah and Pettigrew! Repeat it with me, “Morrah and Pettigrew”.
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
10:48 pm
Davis is ready to step up at DE. I predict that he will get 6-9 sacks this coming season.
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
10:54 pm
Stirg, I’m telling you. If you look at round two, Seattle, Cincinnati, Houston, and New England all are in need of a safety just like we are. The bet is still on the table. ESPNZONE on draft day: Chung in round one or your first three rounds are on me. Laters, bro.
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:05 pm
SeminoleWarrior,
Thanks for the info on Byrd. I was in the process of looking some stuff up on him (I’m still looking at DTs and LBs right now).
Stirg,
I agree. DE is not the spot, not if going for a pure DE. I think it’s a good idea to add some pass-rushing capability to the LB core, though. We need to do something to take the pressure off of Abraham to do that job by himself. This will probably help him stay healthy, as well. I think re-signing Chauncey Davis (and allowing him to start if he truly earns the spot) is a step in the right direction where the pass-rush is concerned, but I don’t think it’s the only step we should take. OLB has to be another. Too many good quarterbacks in this league that will pick any secondary apart, I say ANY secondary, if given enough time.
However, I absolutely cannot argue with any real heart about picking Pettigrew at #24. The guy is the most complete tight end available. Who knows, we may not have to draft Morrah, as Peele might be enough to pair with Pettigrew. That would give us another pick to use on a defender or O-Line guy. Or not. Morrah wouldn’t hurt my feelings.
I don’t think your two-tight end set is an insane idea. Sure, we hang our hats on the run, but two tight ends can never hurt, and Matt Ryan is one of the NFL’s future good QBs. Giving his cerebral self another target or two can only help, as he shows he can take over when the run game isn’t going anywhere. He doesn’t have to be Drew Brees (300+ yards per game), but he’s more than Jake Delhomme. I think your ideas evolve into a very potent offense that will be as hard and confusing to deal with as that St. Louis offense back when Kurt Warner and crew were doing it to the whole league.
Not the same, mind you, as we run more and pass less (and don’t have those confusing routes and speed at every spot), but maybe just as difficult to deal with…in time. Besides, the defensive guys you included in your mock are solid pickups as well.
One thing though: we don’t get any compensatory picks, but I could swear we have multiple picks in either the 5th or 6th rounds. Correct me if I’m wrong.
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
11:09 pm
Big Ray, we have two in the fifth and only one in the sixth. But we should be in line for three comp picks next season. Brooking, Grady, and Foxworth all signed deals that will reward us in ‘10. And those picks will be in rounds 3-5 if all goes well.
D3
March 26th, 2009
11:20 pm
Great posts fellas. A lotta fun blogging with you guys and having actual intellegent football conversations, and when we disagree its all in good fun. I personally have had several idea changes from the likes of great posts by Stirg, Big Ray, Seminole, Ken, JJ, marko, and Nique. Great stuff, maybe we could meet up at a Taco Mac on draft day for a big Falcons draft party.
Stirg – man, you’re right, I didn’t play fair; I just put up all the guys I like and who might be available. So let me try it using the rules:
Option 1 – OLB Route
1)Clay Matthews – OLB
2)Sean Smith – S
3)Shawn Nelson – TE
4)Chris Baker – DT
5)Sherrod Martin – CB
6)Sean Sester – T
Big Ray – don’t sell yourself short, you da man. If any of you are seriously interested, I’m thinking of contacting the AJC and floating some ideas to them so let me know. Because just with the loyal BirdCage Bloggers alone we could rock out the fan blog, such as what Bill King does with UGA’s Fan Blog, the dude gets serious hits on his blog and actually puts thought and effort into it. I digress. Back to ball.
Love your mock, couldn’t do it any better myself. I’d love Chung as a 2nd rounder, but he may not drop all the way to us. If he goes, I’d be happy with Sean Smith or Rashad Johnson, the guy may not have the measurables as others, but he balled out at Alabama the last two years against some of the toughest competition and had superior this year. Also, excellent point on DT’s. Anything other than Raji, who will be long gone, is a risk and I’d rather take my chances on someone like Chris Baker, Sammie Hill, or Terrance Taylor who we could get in the 4th rd.
Semiole – great suggestion on Jarius Byrd. Love to get our hands on him, but I would bet he’ll be gone by the 3rd and honestly I’d rather get our hands on one of those safties(unless of course they truly feel DeCoud is really that ready) and, in that case, I would say pull the trigger on a guy like Byrd if he’s worthy. I think I’m pretty much dead set on taking a TE in the 3rd Nelson/Cook/Coffman in that order.
Option 2 – DT Route
1)Peria Jerry – DT
2)Patrick Chung – SS
3)Jared Cook – TE
4)Connor Barwin – OLB
5)Keenan Lewis – CB
7)Ramon Foster – T
Mixed up the other picks just for fun. Great stuff!
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
11:22 pm
Yes, that is true. We do have a pick in every round, I believe. I just wanted to get some players on my mock that would start and make an immediate impact. If you’re asking me to pick seven out the draft, I’d go with (in order) Pettigrew, Chung, Sintim, Sammie Hill, A. Allen, Morrah, Nic Harris. If those guys aren’t available in that round, draft the best player at that position. So I guess I’d draft, by position, in this order: TE, SS, OLB, DT, CB, TE, hybrid DB. All our needs are met and that’ll give us four immediate starters.
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:23 pm
SeminoleWarrior,
You could be right about Chung going early in the second round. I don’t think that kills us in the draft though, if we don’t get him in the 1st round. I just don’t think he merits that pick, unless the brass believes he can come right in and start…and excel…
Willie,
Point taken on Michael Johnson, but there’s a two-edged sword there. If he’s really that good of a prospect, he won’t fall to us…
His athleticism definitely says “high reward,” but I’m not too thrilled on the “high-risk” side. Watch him prove me wrong, but what can ya do?
Stirg,
If we draft Pettigrew in round one, definitely count me in on the Clint Sintim train….
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
11:37 pm
Sintim’s stock seems to be dropping and his pro day did not go well. Is he injured? Freeman could play any of the three LB positions and has great speed, cover skills, and is a sure tackler. That was SORELY a missing element in the LB corps last season. RAY, I agree that if Chung is not the first pick, it will not kill us but I just feel that he will be the best SS to come out of this draft. Coleman is young enough and mature enough at FS to serve as a leader back there. I just think we need a thumper back there and Chung is definately that. Some of those hits he made on FSN Northwest for the Ducks had me thinking of Bob Sanders of the Colts. That is the type of safety we need minus the injury bug. But, I’m with you bro. D3, I’m down with you and the rest of the posse if we want to try and set up a draft day gig!! I’m out!!
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:40 pm
SeminoleWarrior,
Thanks. I KNEW we had two picks in there SOMEWHERE, lol! I’ll be looking forward to those compensatory picks in 2010, but you’ll probably have to remind me of them.
I don’t think we have a pick at all in the 7th round.
D3,
Thanks again, but I have my hands full doing the Hawks Hacks blog with my blog partner.
You and SeminoleWarrior could be right about Chung not falling to us in the 2nd round. Sean Smith and Rashad Johnson are possibilities, as might be William Moore. The trick to this will 1)Who falls to us, and 2) Who we think we can upgrade WHAT safety position best for us.
I’m looking at our roster on Falcons.com, and we have Erik Coleman listed as our starting FS, with Decoud as 2nd string. NOBODY is listed as a starter at SS, but Fudge is 2nd string, and Brock is 3rd string.
Chung is the only guy we’ve talked that much about, who is listed as a SS. Chip Vaughn got an honorable mention from somebody earlier in the blog, but can’t remember who from.
Delmas, Moore, Rashad Johnson, etc are listed as FSs. Hell, Sean Smith is listed as a CB who might be a lot better as a safety. Really want to stir things up? Malcolm Jenkins, who we won’t get, doesn’t even KNOW which one he is! LOL….
So the question is this: can any one of these guys be converted into a good SS (the position of need for us, apparently)? If so, which one? Consider also that probably NONE of them will be available in the 3rd round, so if we bite on one of the mentioned guys, it will have to be in the 2nd. I think.
Or….do we convert one of our existing guys (Decoud) into a SS, and draft a FS? Of course, this assumes that Jamal Fudge doesn’t prove himself to be 1st string material, something that has to be determined BEFORE the draft….
Hell if I know. Don’t let me anywhere near that war room. I’ll have us all cross-eyed before the draft even begins….
D3
March 26th, 2009
11:40 pm
Last post of the night boys, another great round.
Stirg – couldn’t say it any better about DE, you hit as solid on the head as anyone else will. From your research, it takes, in general, at least 3-5 years for a DE to develop. Why would we start all over with Michael Johnson?
Willie – you might just be right about Matthews and Cushing. Personally, I’m pretty sure Cushing will be gone, but I don’t think Matthews will be. But if they are, than that will mean that, at least, Maybin or English will drop to us, which I’d be happy with.
Seminole – man, I will take you up on that Chung bet in a heart-beat. Two of my favorite things I like best: football and beer. How ’bout Taco Mac?
Big Ray – yeah, I wouldn’t be pissed at all if we took Pettigrew. Complete TE, elevate our offense to a new level. And there are guys out there TD could snag rds 2 – 5 that could start and definitely fill roles (a la Curtis Lofton, Harry Douglas, Chevis Jackson, Kroy Biermaan & Thomas DeCound-TBD).
Great stuff guys, take it easy. Talk to ya soon.
BTW, I’m sure you’ve already got this website, but these are the best two I’ve seen:
http://www.draftcountdown.com/
http://walterfootball.com/draft2008P.php
SeminoleWarrior
March 26th, 2009
11:47 pm
LOL..Ray. I feel ya. But if TD lets me into the room, the pick will be Chung at SS, Coleman at FS, and DeCoud as my special teams warror.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
11:48 pm
Thanks, D3. Now that I cleary see your picks, I can go along with opinions. I like your mock. I like your DT route better but I don’t think Jerry would make it to 24. Even if he does, he’d play under tackle and we already have Babs. I don’t like Matthews as your first pick in the OLB route. He’s just unproven to me, with all the talent he had surrounding him. To me, Sintim in a later round would be a better fit for our system. Good DT route mock, though.
Ray, you developed an interesting point (everyone, pay attention).
Big Ray said “We need to do something to take the pressure off of Abraham to do that job by himself. This will probably help him stay healthy, as well…”
How do you keep Abraham healthy?
By keeping him off the field.
How do you keep him off the field?
By keeping the offense on the field.
How do you keep the offense on the field?
By controlling the clock with a solid running game.
How do you establish a solid run game and make defense respect the pass?
Draft Pettigrew and Morrah.
Say it with me, “Pettigrew and Morrah.”
Great blogging, fellows!
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:49 pm
SeminoleWarrior, I don’t know what Sintim’s deal is. I read the part about the Pro Day not being an improvement on his combine performance. Some sites are saying he might have to move to inside backer to make up for deficiencies. If that’s the case, then he definitely is not worth a 1st round reach, and may fall to the 3rd round. Some say he’s a pass-rusher extraordinaire, and can cover tight ends well in space. Others say he’s weak in space. I don’t see getting him if he’s got to move inside. But I don’t think that’s the case.
Everybody has “issues” they need to work on. The biggest thing is that some say he will excel if he’s coached up right, and has all the physical tools already. Well, he won’t have to worry about being coached up right HERE. But he does have to have enough of the right attitude and motivation to end up here.
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:54 pm
Scouting report on Sintim on DraftCountdown is interesting. Weaknesses center on average speed and non-fluid hips. Strengths center on terrific pass-rushing skills and powerful tackling.
It’s said of him that he fits as an OLB in a 3-4 scheme though, and questions whether or not he can transition to 4-3 scheme. Hmmmmm.
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:58 pm
Stirg!
You stole my point and made it into your own diabolical 2-tight end scheme! Ahhhhh! I will not be assimilated! I will not be assimilated! I will not be….(blank stare, followed by talking in monotone)…”Pettigrew and Morraaaaaahhhh…Pettigrew and Morraaaaaahhhhh…”
*blink, blink*……where am I?
Big Ray
March 26th, 2009
11:58 pm
SeminoleWarrior,
If we can manage it, that sounds like a nice safety group to me…
Big Ray
March 27th, 2009
12:22 am
Hello? Helloooo….I’ve chased them all away…
Ken Strickland
March 27th, 2009
12:23 am
Injury prone DE JAbraham is the reason I believe a DE/OLB is the way to go with our #24 pick. His 16 sacks represent almost half our entire total. If he goes down, who do we depend on to provide a consistent pass rush from the edge? KBiermann isn’t ready to be an every down DE and would wear down. CDavis is steady and does everything well, but he’s not a prolific pass rusher. He would be a perfect compliment to a prolific pass rusher like JAbraham. JAnderson has to really step it up as a pass rushing threat, and so far, he hasn’t. Hybred players(DE/OLB) like English and Maybin can provide a strong outside pass rush on passing downs, while mastering the OLB positions.
STIRG-I’m not against drafting 2 TE’s, but not in this situation. Our OL is still rather thin and we need to replace retired OT Todd Weiner. With 4 TE’s already on the active roster, we don’t need 2 rookie TE’s. I haven’t heard anything yet, but what is the current status of the right side of our OL, RFA OT TClabo and OG HDahl? Also, starting LT SBaker has had serious injury problems the last 2yrs, which is why he fell to the lower half of the 1st rd.
Like everyone else, I don’t have a clue who we’ll pick at #24, But we already have 2 certain starting LB’s(OLB Peterson & MLB Lofton). As it stands now, the other LB position is SNicholas’ to lose. We have CWire and RJames backing up the OLB positions and TGilbert backing up MLB. There’s nothing that indicates any of the top rated LB’s in this draft will be able to outperform what we already have in RJames or SNicholas. Drafting either Maybin or English give’s us another edge pass rusher plus a potentially outstanding LB prospect. We already have 5 DE’s on the active roster(JAbraham, JAnderson, KBiermann, CDavis & Sfrazer), so drafting another pure DE like Johnson would be redundant, like BIG RAY SAID.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 27th, 2009
12:29 am
I’m not certain what’s going on with Sintim, off the field. I referenced this study with DraftCountdown.com http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/olb/Clint-Sintim.php
Although he played in a 3-4 defense at Virginia, they analyzed his strength as playing SAM in a 4-3 defense, at the next level, and that is exactly what we need.
I’m not trying to pick or mock the middle rounds (I’ll leave that up to TD’s intel; he seems to excel in those rounds). I’m just trying to get my point across and introduce this concept about Pettigrew and Morrah. Who can stop that offense? So, for the record, just accept my first and last mocked picks. Draft Pettigrew at 24 and Morrah at 196. You guys can handle all the in between…I suggest defense.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 27th, 2009
12:45 am
Ken, I agree with your attitude about Abraham and crew. I think a strongside hybrid linebacker will help the line a lot. I just don’t think we have to waste a first pick on him. Trust me, either Maybin, English or Sintim will be available in the second round. If you like Maybin and English, then you’ll be satisfied with Sintim. That gives you a starter at a glaring need and it still leaves our first pick available.
Come on, Ken. Sing it with me, “Pettigrew, Morrrrah; Pettigrew, Morrrrah.”
falcofan
March 27th, 2009
8:26 am
I do believe that C Mathews would be a great pick up like Mike Smith said they all love the game and he will be as devoted to the team as he was at USC and he would be here a long time
marko
March 27th, 2009
9:18 am
Saturdays2sundays http://saturdays2sundays.com/?page_id=3, has us selecting Clay Matthews, Fili Moala and Cornelius Ingram one, two and three. I’d take that draft in a heartbeat.
Ken Strickland
March 27th, 2009
9:26 am
STIRG-I actually prefer Morrah over Pettigrew. Pettigrew is bigger, and maybe a bit more polished overall, which is about his only real advantage. Morrah is faster, quicker, and a much better value pick since he can probably be had in the 3rd or 4th rd. Pettigrew is a finished product, while Morrah has room to grow, literally, and improve. With a couple of yrs of experience, he just might turn out to be a better overall TE than Pettigrew. Why waste our 1st rd pick on Pettigrew when our 4th rd pick, Morrah, can start and probably be just as productive? We can draft another TE in next yrs draft, when we’ll have a surplus of picks. Four of the 5 starters we’ve lost to FA have signed lucrative contracts with other teams(SS LMalloy remains unsigned). When you compare that to what we’ve signed in FA, we’ll be due some nice compensatory picks next yr.
Excellent point on the availability of at least one of the hybrid DE/OLB we’re looking for in the 2nd or 3rd rd. Most other teams, especially those with 4-3 DEF’s, are looking for pure OLB’s, not hybrids. I still say no LB in this draft has demonstrated an ability that shows they can outperform what we already have in James, Wire or Nicholas. Therefore, none of them are worthy of our #24 pick. Peterson will replace Brooking. Nicholas will step up and replace Boley and James will assume Nicholas’ roll as backup. We lose 2(Brooking/Boley), we gain 2(Peterson/James), although James was already on the roster he spent the season on IR.
I watched last yrs draft until we selected QB MRyan. I got so upset that we didn’t pick one of the top 2 DT’s, I stopped watching. This yr, I’ll be glued to the TV and I’ll watch it in its entirety no matter who we pick. I have supreme confidence that no matter who we select, our coaching staff will make it work to our benefit and make us a better team.
Cameron
March 27th, 2009
10:04 am
Tyger:
William Moore low-risk, high-reward. I beg to differ. Maybe high-risk, high-reward. Has had injury problems. He isn’t very fast. You said he ate up the big ten last year. Yeah, I guess that is why Missouri was one of the biggest disappointments last year. You also say “One case of senioritis,” I thought he tore up the big ten last year. He is way overrated, same with Ziggy Hood. Stay away from these guys.
Strig:
I will bet you money we don’t draft Pettigrew in the first round. I will bet you everything I own, that we will not draft two TEs in the draft. We will defnitely draft a TE, but not in the first round. We will take the best defensive player available at 24.
Cameron
March 27th, 2009
10:08 am
Please tell me why on earth anyone would want us to draft an undersized 4-3 DE and ask him to play OLB for us. In order to get his pass rushing value, he would need to play DE. Tell me when was the last time a 4-3 OLB was one of the top sack specialists in the game. Any DE in college moving to OLB, needs to be an OLB in a 3-4. English will not be drafted by the Falcons.
SeminoleWarrior
March 27th, 2009
10:15 am
What’s up my peps! I’m opening a campaign HQ here for Chung, Byrd, Freeman, and Nelson. Big Ray, Stirg, and D3 are warming up to my thoughts. Now I got to work on Ken Strick, Nique, and Marko. KS has a valid point on the 4-3 LB setup. And unless VanGorder is thinking of going to a 3-4 at times, I see no need to waste a pick on a hybrid. We also seem to be stacking DTs on the roster again this off season. I still think we need to draft a plugger (Taylor/Hill/Mill/Knighton) late but there are a ton on the roster. Makes you wonder huh?
SeminoleWarrior
March 27th, 2009
10:17 am
Great points Cameron…I’m with you on William Moore. Reminds me of Jimmy Williams.
SeminoleWarrior
March 27th, 2009
10:33 am
K Strick, both Clabo and Dahl have been offered one year tenders as RFAs. They have also be tags with second round tenders. If anyone signs them, they will have to give us a second round pick. Clabo has already re-signed his with the Falcons. Priority should be given to long term deals on those two and Roddy White as soon as the dust settles from the draft. I know the MV cap implications are still out there and still to be determined, but that OL and White must be secured as soon as possible.
Hamad Meander
March 27th, 2009
10:58 am
There are two positions in football that are relatively low risk 1st round selections – offensive line and linebacker. Therefore, if a top tackle is available @ 24th, take him (we need a RT badly). However, if that doesn’t work out, I would think that Cushing would be a great pick. He seems to be a beast in the weight room and brings a load when he hits.
Otherwise, I would not be upset if the Falcons traded down for more 2nd rounders to fill out the roster. I see the top needs as OL, LB, CB, S and then DT and DE.
Remember that Trey Lewis (DT), Robert James (LB), and Thomas Brown (RB) should be back this year. That is a few positions that are less critical due to these guys coming back.
Ken Strickland
March 27th, 2009
11:17 am
I don’t want to mislead anyone into thinking Emglish or a DE/OLB is my personal choice at #24. However, I do see the wisdom in making that choice. Personally, I’d go DT(Jerry), then SS(Chung), TE(Morrah), CB(Johnson), DE/OLB(best available), DT Sammie Hill.
I MUS.WRITE
March 27th, 2009
11:23 am
No way we draft 2 TE’s,just not going to happen. Ray i hope everybody believes the hype that Maybin is’nt ready fror the NFL, thats way he can fall in our laps-Mark my words this guy is going to be a stud DE/OLB…..in the Merriman mold.
We have good depth at LB and DE……. There is’nt a NT worth the 24th pick so I would go tjhis route.
!- DT -HOOD ( pair him with a healthy Tre Lewis and we could get a better pass rush in the middle.
2- S- Sean Smith
3-OLB/DE Connor Barwin
4-CB – Mike Mickens/
5-NT – Terrance Taylor
5-OT- Gardner
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
!- DT- P.Jerry
2-SS- Chung
3-CB- Mike Mickens
4-DE-lawrence Sidbury…. Great pick if available
5NT- Roy miller / Sammie Lee Hill/ Terrance Taylor
5 OLB- Williams…. Western ILL
DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE