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
mudcat
March 25th, 2009
12:56 pm
Maualuga and Cushing will probably be gone by the 24th pick, but Mathews wound be a great pick, although I would love to see TD take Sean Smith the hybrid CB/SS with this pick. Maiava has good speed and intensity, but at 6-0, 230lbs. I think he’s not an every down player and may be a good pickup in the 5th round. Go Birds!
I MUS.WRITE
March 25th, 2009
1:06 pm
Maualuga
Green Tea
March 25th, 2009
1:14 pm
Which one? Maualuga, that’s a no brainer. Never happen though.
here’s my question D’Led, where do you think he’ll go in the draft and what would the Falcons potentially have to do to get him??
Pete
March 25th, 2009
1:16 pm
James Laurinaitis…………….from Ohio State.
Just as physical and talented but more leadership qualities than all 3 USC’s players combined.
Michael W.
March 25th, 2009
1:17 pm
Unless Maualuga can move outside and play either SAM or WIL, I don’t see the Falcons picking him. They’ve got their MLB in Lofton, and they need LBs on the outside. I don’t think Maualuga can move outside.
mil mascaras
March 25th, 2009
1:21 pm
Pete,
Let me guess. You are an Ohio State fan/grad. Laurenaitis is going to be a nice pickup for someone who is looking for a technically proficient tackler/leader. He is not at all in the same class speed wise with the SC guys, I don’t think. Maybe his dad could teach him how to put on pregame makeup, though.
TrueFalconFan
March 25th, 2009
1:23 pm
I like Clay Matthews Jr. definitely a sleeper in this draft. Greatest compliment came from Pete Carroll, he felt if Matthews was playing more in the Oregon St. game they would have beaten Oregon St.
foxdog
March 25th, 2009
1:28 pm
1- Cushing
2- Matthews
3- Look somewhere else
Doug
March 25th, 2009
1:29 pm
New England is notorious for not wanting the first round pick. We should trade our second and third round for NE 23rd pick and we should take two of the USC linebackers.
Greg
March 25th, 2009
1:31 pm
We shouldn’t be taking ANY LB in the first round. We’re actually pretty solid at LB. But we have glaring weaknesses at DT, S, and even DE with JA’s tendency to tweak his groin and get in for only about half the plays. Our inability to get pressure from the front four on the QB’s of good teams was our numero uno problem last year. We have GOT to get a big improvement there, or we will be lucky to win 10.
JJ
March 25th, 2009
1:32 pm
SI.COM – ” Matthews shows inconsistent skills as a run defender due to his inability to take on bulky offensive lineman at the point of attack”.
If stopping the run is our first priority, then I’d pass on matthews. I’m leaning toward DT – Ron Brace, Ziggy Hood or TE – Pettigrew. We MUST stop the run first and break out the grits!
Wes
March 25th, 2009
1:32 pm
I understand if we taken an OLB in the first round, but is anyone not concerned about the lack of a safety? Lawyer is still a FA, bring him back! He may not be great at this point, but starting a rookie at so many key defensive positions is very concerning, especially without a big DT up front..
D Money
March 25th, 2009
1:35 pm
Sintim our of Virginia. I believe all of them will be gone before 24
welikebaseball2
March 25th, 2009
1:36 pm
Surely not Maualuga. Why would we go with an ILB & put him at OLB? I’m convinced part of the reason Brooking was released was the fact that he was a liability in coverage. I’ve got a feeling Maualuga & even Cushing would be the same story.
Willie Coyote
March 25th, 2009
1:37 pm
Best available defensive player would be just fine. One who will help the pass rush would be preferable.
ATLHOMER
March 25th, 2009
1:37 pm
Not sure who I want the Falcons to take, but I know I don’t want Maualuga, he may turn out to be ok, but I don’t want players on my team that scores a 7 on the Wonderlic test. Lbs need to be smart, be able to decipher whether is run, or pass. Look at Vick he scored low and was a GREAT talent and I mean GREAT, but just could not make a good decision on or off the field. Same with Vince Young and many other players. I trust that the brass with the Falcons’ know this and trust them to make good decisions.
D Money
March 25th, 2009
1:40 pm
Wes, I think we’ll definitely get one in the second round because there won’t be any at 24 worth a first round pick that fits our system.
Jonathan
March 25th, 2009
1:44 pm
I’m with you Greg…
The Falcons are NOT going to take a LB first. If they were I can bet you that Smith would not have come out and said “we” like these guys.
The Falcons and Demitroff will fill the biggest need in the first round and LB isn’t it.
G State Ben
March 25th, 2009
1:45 pm
Wow, you can weed out the people that know football from this blog.
Maualuga and Cushing will be gone. Matthews will be available but you don’t want him at 24. You have a steady diet of LBs in this draft and Maualuga and Laurinaitis plays MLB which you just drafted Lofton to play that position in 2008.
The Falcons will look hard at a Larry English, Clint Sintim and Matthews as a possibility in the 2nd round if available or even a Marcus Freeman from Ohio State in the 3rd.
1st rounder will be best player available and I don’t see that being a LB. TE, CB or S will be the order I’d project.
ATLHOMER
March 25th, 2009
1:45 pm
Jonathan, why not a LB we need help everywhere on D. and you start with the front 7, that makes the DB’s so much better.
Jonathan
March 25th, 2009
1:51 pm
We have LB’s that can play right now. If they choose to add to that position and they will, it will be later. Like it’s been said earlier by some of the other post, the Falcons have way bigger questions at say DT, S and DE hybrid LB (English).
Please no one think that we need a TE in the first round. TE is not a position we have to excel at, yes it is a great option for our QB but not a 1st round issue.
JJ
March 25th, 2009
1:51 pm
If we have to pick a OLB in the first…Cushing may still be there in late first round (yahoo.sports has him going at #26).
SI.COM – “tough, hard-nosed linebacker with exceptional skills as a run defender who makes a ton of ‘bang-bang’ plays. In coverage, he’s solid in all aspects and plays with outstanding awareness”
Ok – brace, hood or cushing will be fine!
ATLHOMER
March 25th, 2009
1:58 pm
Jonathan you and I are in complete agreement that we do NOT NEED TO DRAFT a TE in the 1st rd, even if the draft was not deep at that position which is is this year. I agree we have some talent at LB that a lot of people don’t know about, but if there is an OLB at the 24th pick that TD thinks is a game changer we need to take him, even though most would agree that Safety is one of the most glaring needs we have.
draft 101
March 25th, 2009
2:01 pm
take pettigrew if he is available. then our offense will just about be complete. If not take alphonso from wake, or the next best corner our secondary is needy. The LB corp is better than what most people think.
JB
March 25th, 2009
2:07 pm
Falcons, do not take a LB with this pick. Plenty to choose from in later rounds. Get a big, head hunting, physical corner who will make a difference…….with 4.4 speed
Jonathan
March 25th, 2009
2:12 pm
I’m not a scout by any means, however I do read a lot and I watch every CFB game that I can. I agree, if there is a LB at 24 that Dimitroff considers to be a “game changer” then by all means get us a “game changer”. I believe in him and his decision reigns over mine, I was just stating my opinion…I just do not think that Matthews is that guy. I think he was good by association with the great help that team had around him.
Honestly, I really do not like our pick at 24, its seems to be a really tough place in this particular draft…
marko
March 25th, 2009
2:14 pm
Maiava’s a little on the small side. No where close to first round material, but if the falcons pass on linebackers in the first , I wouldn’t object to him as a mid rounder.Clay Matthews would make my day. Looks like Mauluga and Dimitroff use the same barber.
ATLHOMER
March 25th, 2009
2:16 pm
TO JB, man if there was a CB like that he would be gone. Besides, there is not a first rd CB in the drart, jenkings is only a frist rouder for lack of better options this year.
ATLHOMER
March 25th, 2009
2:19 pm
To add to my last post, I say this not because I am so GREAT scout, but from what all the “So called experts” think and Mel Kipper and a few others on ESPN seem to be reasonable with their thoughts and opinions, these guys seem to think the CB class is rather weak this year.
draft 101
March 25th, 2009
2:24 pm
I WATCH ALPHONSO SMITH RUN THE DRILLS AT THE SCOUTING COMBINE AND HE WAS A MAN AMONG BOYS IN THE FOOTBALL DRILLS. HIS MEASURABLES CAME UP A LITTLE SHORT BUT THE KIDS A FOOTBALL PLAYER.
VICK SUPPORTER 2
March 25th, 2009
2:25 pm
NUMBER 2 THE NEW FACE OF THE FRANCHISE, BUT NUMBER 7 STILL DOMINATES FALCONS HEADLINES….INTERESTING INDEED
I KEEP HEARING THAT THE NFL LOCKOUT IS STILL LOOMING. LOOKS LIKE VICK’S NEW LEAGUE WILL BE THE ONLY ONE PLAYING FOOTBALL 
CLOCK IS TICKING: “VICK THE RETURN”. HAVE A NICE 2009 GUYS
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 25th, 2009
2:38 pm
I say draft neither. Here’s why: One, we already have Robert James, Coy Wire and Stephen Nicholas to compete for outside linebacker positions. Do we really need to make the linebacker position a priority at twenty-four? Considering our current roster at linebacker, I think we can afford to draft elsewhere; same goes for d-line and cornerback. Secondly, if you’re going to draft for a position that (I’m sure you’ll disagree) is set at linebacker, then draft a multi-functional defenseman like a Larry English, who can play defensive end and linebacker. That way, everybody get to play.
To answer the question, I think Larry English would be the best recruit. Pick 24, however, should be spent on the best safety/defensive back that fit our needs…or Pettigrew. Defensive linemen, linebackers and tight ends will remain in the draft and good players will be available in later rounds.
Big Ray
March 25th, 2009
2:39 pm
D. Ledbetter,
Nice blog article!
Stirg,
Read your research on Dimitroff when he was with New England. Excellent work, man. Excellent work. That does give some insight into this guy. He gets a chance this year to prove that last year’s successful drafting was not a fluke.
Well, I wouldn’t be unhappy with Cushing OR Matthews.
But if one of the top DTs fell to us at that spot…
I think the question becomes what you can/need to upgrade the most in the first round. If we can upgrade or fortify DT in the second or third rounds, and a good OLB is available in the first, then go for it. If it’s the other way around, then do it the other way around.
The problem is, we still could use an upgrade in the secondary. So where does that fit in all of this? Personally, I wasn’t happy to see Foxworth go, but I’m not willing to believe it was a fatal mistake. An improvement up front will help our secondary. There are some good secondary players available in the draft. But I’m not sure there is going to be anybody at CB or SS available at the 24th pick, that’s worth a pick that high. But what do I know?
I know I’m not worried about Dimitroff and Smith making some good decisions. I know I’m not worried about the guys we have getting better (like Ryan). I’m not throwing all caution and concern to the winds, but I also don’t think there is reason for gloom, doom, and despair.
I certainly hope not. The only thing worse than losing is listening to all the same naysayers, pi$$ ants, and other malcontents that we listen to every year (even last year, which made no sense at all).
Big Ray
March 25th, 2009
2:50 pm
ALTHOMER,
There is some merit to taking anybody that looks to be a true game-changer. Since we’re not scouts, we probably don’t know all the “signs” of that in a player. And while I agree that Kiper pretty much knows his stuff, I don’t take his word for law. Having said that, there doesn’t seem to be a good deal of GOOD depth in the draft this year when it comes to DBs. I think we’ll draft a tight end. Pettigrew might be hard to pass up if he falls to us. But that does start a domino effect on what we do as far as picking defenders.
Glad I don’t have this job. We’d never get anything done.
Stirg,
So are you saying English is the best pick at #24 if we get a non-defensive back? Who’s your idea as a best bet for our #24 pick if we get a DB? We may or may not disagree on this, but I’m not seeing anybody at that position that presents more value for us as our first pick. But then, there’s no telling who falls to us either, though I wouldn’t count on somebody like Jenkins falling…
I’m just saying, I don’t know if there’s a DB at that pick that we can get, who has more of an impact for us on defense than other players at other positions. At least in my opinion, anyway.
Jonathan,
I agree. I wish we had a higher pick. But for now, we just don’t. Gonna have to find a way to make lemons out of lemonade. But, things could be worse. And they were, prior to the Cardinals getting to the Super Bowl. Because they did, we moved UP to the 24th pick. Still, it’s a tough spot…
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 25th, 2009
2:53 pm
Thanks, Big Ray. Anybody wondering what Ray is refering to, I posted this on an earlier blog:
I thought some of you guys would be interested in some information I’ve been researching the past couple of days. I was very interested in knowing what kind of players Thomas Dimitroff showed interest to, in the past. His subtle, but simple, resume include titles of NFL Scout, Area Scout, College Scout; and in 2002, he was hired by New England to be National Scout. Just after one year, the organization elevated his title to Director of College Scouting and he held that position from 2003-’07. That is where I began my research. Although TD was not general manager (not the final word), I’m certain his suggestions and opinions of draftees and players were most relevant. So, I’m suggesting that TD had a hand in evaluating, interviewing, drafting, researching and/or recruiting these names. You can draw your own conclusion, after you consider the player’s status today.
ROUND…OVERALL…PLAYER…POSITION…COLLEGE
2003
1 13 Ty Warren DT Texas A&M
2 36 Eugene Wilson CB Illinois***
2 45 Bethel Johnson WR Texas A&M
4 117 Dan Klecko DT Temple
4 120 Asante Samuel CB Central Florida***
5 164 Dan Koppen C Boston
6 201 Kliff Kingsbury QB Texas Tech
7 234 Spencer Nead TE BYU***
7 239 Tully Banta-Cain LB California
7 243 Ethan Kelley DT Baylor
2004
1 21 Vince Wilfork DT Miami***
1 32 Benjamin Watson TE UGA***
2 63 Marquise Hill DE LSU (Died 052807)
3 95 Guss Scott S Florida
4 128 Dexter Reid S N. Carolina
4 128 Cedric Cobbs RB Arkansas
5 164 P.K. Sam WR FSU
7 233 Christian Morton CB FSU
2005
1 32 Logan Mankins OG Fresno State
3 84 Ellis Hobbs CB Iowa State***
3 100 Nick Kaczur OT Toledo
4 133 James Sanders S Fresno State***
5 170 Ryan Claridge LB UNLV
7 230 Matt Cassel QB Southern Cal.***
7 255 Andy Stokes TE William Penn
2006
1 21 Laurence Maroney RB Minnesota***
2 36 Chad Jackson WR Florida
3 86 David Thomas TE Texas
4 106 Garrett Mills TE Tulsa
4 118 Stephen Gostkowski K Memphis
5 136 Ryan O’Callaghan OT California
6 191 Jeremy Mincey DE Florida
6 205 Dan Stevenson OG Notre Dame
6 206 Le-Kevin Smith DT Nebraska
7 229 Willie Andrews DB Baylor
2007
1 24 Brandon Meriweather S Miami
4 127 Kareem Brown DE Miami
5 171 Clint Oldenburg OT Colorado State
6 180 Justin Rogers LB SMU
6 202 Mike Richardson CB Notre Dame
6 208 Justise Hairston RB Central Conn. State
6 209 Corey Hilliard OG Oklahoma State
7 211 Oscar Lua LB USC
7 247 Mike Elgin C Iowa
Now, I’m certain that most of these names were recruited as situational players. Furthermore, teams draft on need and I’m sure a number of players were drafted, during TD’s tenure, based on positions that were vacant on the roster. Nonetheless, TD was responsible for researching and evaluating the best player to fill those needs. This entry simply gives us an idea of how TD operates. Again, you can draw your own conclusion. What I noted was the type of schools he recruited from and the number of late rounders that eventually rose to national recognition. In conclusion, I decided to shut-up and let TD, and staff, do their thing. What do I know?
Tyger
March 25th, 2009
2:56 pm
Falcoons in good shape
DL: Davis, Anderson, Babineaux, Abraham, Lewis, Biermann,
LB: Nicholas, Lofton, Peterson, Gilbert, Wire, James
CB: Grimes, Houston, Jackson, Irons, Hutchins
S: Coleman, DeCoud, Fudge
If the season started tommorrow we could win with those guys, we did it all year. Certainly, we’d like to improve, but Mike Peterson was a addition. And I think everybody has DeCoud penciled in as a starter at Safety.
Clearly, the secondary is a concern. Taller more physical corners are in order. Grimes is spunky and plays his heart out, but he’s a backup. Houston has uber-athleticism but he’s still only 5′7, so go figure. Chevis is a step slow. And both Irons, Hutchins coming off leg injuries. CB is the priority. Problem is draft not deep in secondary, especially at CB, pickings are slim.
Safety is next biggest concern. We need depth behind Coleman and DeCoud, could get that in FA however. But I really like L. Delmas, W. Moore, Hamlin.
The DL needs strethening. Abraham is injury prone. Anderson is an underachiever. Lewis is coming off major injury. Davis and Biermann are solid contributors, but they need a young anchor. Ron Brace or Fili Moaloa could be available Rd. 2/3. Brandon Williams, 6′5, undersized sackmaster, TxTech, could be a worthwhile project in Rd. 4/5.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 25th, 2009
3:10 pm
Ray, if you’re asking me about CB, then I agree with you. There are no CBs worth taking at 24 when, assumably, all the good CBs will be taken by then (Sean Smith made the exception). If you’re asking me about safety, then I like Chung, Chip Vaughn, Kevin Ellison (USC), Emanuel Cook (South Car.).
We can use 24 for a number of players (its such an awkward position to pick from). I think at 24 we choose the best player on the board that fits one of our needs at safety or the front seven. I’d even consider Pettigrew for 24, simply because his position is a need and there is no other player with his calibre.
I MUS.WRITE
March 25th, 2009
3:14 pm
G State Ben…… The question was which one do you refer, nothing about who will be there at 24. Maulauga is the best of the 4 imo-yeah buddy we know he plays inside ????. I wouldnt take a LB in the 1st unless Maybin fell thru the cracks.
I know that TD and Smitty are blowing smoke anyway. I would take Hood if he’s there, Brace wont be there when we pick at 55. we need DT/NT -we can pick up Roy miller in the later rounds …..I keep getting the feeling that pettigrew will be the pick, why pick a LB in the first when Freeman and Follette will be just as good.
I MUS.WRITE
March 25th, 2009
3:20 pm
Jeez man, this blogg eats post like that kite eating tree on Charlie Brown
Atlanta Falcons Talk » Blog Archive » Smith likes USC linebackers
March 25th, 2009
3:23 pm
[...] AJC Source >> Atlanta Falcons Blogs Posted March 25th, 2009 in Atlanta Falcons Blogs. [...]
scott
March 25th, 2009
3:23 pm
GUys, remember, no CB or Saftey will have a shot at a good career without some strong pass rush. We’re better off getting some monsters on the line and at LB and our backfield will be able to heep up.
WR
March 25th, 2009
3:26 pm
First and foremost lets deal with the fascination with Laurinaitis, on second thought, lets not, please save the Brian Bosworth and Audray Bruce dreams for the detroit lions, as falcons fans, we have been there and done that. Back to the draft, if a safety is not available that warrants a 1st round pick, I say go after Pettigrew and continue to build the defense with the remaining draft picks, there won’t be a Defensive lineman that is worthy of a first round pick in this spot and the only other option is to trade the pick for more picks, hopefully another 2nd rounder, but at 24 that would be a stretch. Pettigrew may seem crazy considering the state of the “D”, but considering the state of the “D” and what probably will be available, he would be the best option unless a trade happens. If the falcons can trade for an extra 2nd round pick in order to secure a good safety and Defensive tackle, I’m all for it, if not Pettigrew seems to be a better option than the reach for Cushing, Matthews, English, or Johnson.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 25th, 2009
3:32 pm
Good start today. Rather impressive bloggers. You all are HOT!!! At the Long Beach City/Snopp Doggy Dogg International Airport. Heading back to the ATL. Spoke with Smitty today at length. We’ll be dropping more his insights later. But one of them I came away with is that Thomas DeCoud is UP !! The third round pick with get the first shot at Lawyer’s spot.
GREEN TEA: I posted my first mock draft last Friday. We’ll update/revise on Friday. I had Maualagu going to Jacksonville with the 8th pick. Cushing to the Redskins at 13. I had the Falcons passing on Matthews. He was then picked up by Baltimore with the 26th pick. My plan is to revise the Mock Draft every Friday up until the draft.
PETE: Do you live in Columbus or do they just call you Brutus Buckeye? I liked the Animal’s kid when I talked to him at the combine. But I’d stay away from OSU linebackers. Check the track record. Randy Grandishar and Pepper Johnson were the last REALLY good ones (Chris Spielman’s career was cut short). What’s the Hawk kid done for the Packers? Maybe he’ll fit better up there in the 3-4.
MARKO: You must be old school. Don’t like all that hair. TD’s spike hairdo is pretty cool.
Spud Webb
March 25th, 2009
3:44 pm
You can’t take a LB at this spot. DL or DB for sure.
You can LB’s later in the draft.
cutter
March 25th, 2009
4:00 pm
D.O.L.- Decoud is up for SS or FS?
PHIL
March 25th, 2009
4:38 pm
anyone like the TE from Rice somewhere down order?
Nique
March 25th, 2009
4:38 pm
When they drafted Lofton last year one of the reasons why they said they got him is bc he can play both SAM & MLB, if that’s the case & Ray Maualuga drops like some analysis are saying that he will, Orlando do you see us taking him? If not why not?
marko
March 25th, 2009
4:44 pm
Orlando, Safe to say I like everything about Dimitroff but the hairdo. you can tell him that a fellow Mt. biker thinks he has a serious case of helmet hair. If DeCoud gets first crack at SS then I hope Rashad Johnson’s on the radar for FS. I read that some scout did’nt like his open field tackling. Made me wonder which Rashad he’d been watching. the one that plays for Alabama does seem to have any problems in that area.
Nique
March 25th, 2009
4:47 pm
The only downside that i could see to taking Ray if he does somehow drop to us at 24 is that you might not want to more Curtis after just a year where he seemed to be getting comfortable at MLB & also my concern would be his quickness there, bc last year they had to sub him out on pass coverage downs & if your on the outside they can’t really hide you in coverage. But if we were to make that move & take Ray Maualuga I’m sure that they’d be confident that either him or Lofton had what it took to slide outside. But if that is the case & one of the 2 can, & we take Maualuga, lb has gone front a point of weakness going into the offseason, to NO DOUBT our strongest position!!! LB: Starters Nicholas, Lofton, Maualuga. & then Peterson, Gilbert, Wire, James as reserves, now that’s a dynamic LB core!
But again I wouldn’t go LB in the 1st round, but if they did so with Maualuga who in my mind will be a NO QUESTION pro bowler & left he could play alongside of Lofton, I’d feel better going LB in the 1st than under any other condition.
falcon fan
March 25th, 2009
5:29 pm
I would not be surprised to see the falcons trade down if the price is right to land some additional picks. Who knows what T.D. and smitty have up their sleeve.
darrell starks
March 25th, 2009
5:55 pm
IF CUSHING IS GONE you have to take SEAN SMITH OF UTAH WHO I THINK WILL BE A STILL FOR US at 24# him a coleman at safety will be awesome.GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 25th, 2009
6:01 pm
(Layover in PHX at the Sky Harbor)
CUTLER: He’s a free safety. But they’ll try him as a Hybrid free-strong safety. That’s what every body is going to. He will have to cover and sometimes go down in the box. He has to have range, be able to cover and have striking power.
JerseyFalcon
March 25th, 2009
6:56 pm
why is everyone picking Maualuga and Laurinaitis when they are both middle linebackers? Didn’t they alredy plant in Loften in that position and add Peterson! Pick a OLB, TE or a SS w/ the first pick..maybe sean smith, mathews, or possibly larryEnglish..remember Abe was an LB when he was with the Jets.
RJS
March 25th, 2009
7:02 pm
Quizz Rodgers loved those USC linebackers too- because they couldn’t tackle him. Cushing looked especially bad (and slow) in their loss to Oregon State.
marko
March 25th, 2009
8:13 pm
JJ, for the sake of sanity, S.I. rated Ryan Leaf ahead of Peyton Manning. Do you really care about how they feel about clay Matthews?
marko
March 25th, 2009
8:40 pm
There seems to be a lot of Ron Brace supporters out there. Our good friend Strig d’Nahsih provided you with five years worth of drafts that Dimitroff contributed to. Can anybody show me a single lard butt in the bunch?
JJ
March 25th, 2009
8:42 pm
marko, for the sake of sanity, can u cut,paste that for me? I’m just trying to research all these options and not be a “lazy ass” throwing out names without some knowledge. Do I know how good these guys are? Hell no, I’m a GSU grad and we still dont have football.
I did not know SI.COM was A JOKE. Funny, I really enjoy peter king and his associates writing about the nfl. My bad marko, I guess I’ll quit researching the web and go with you’re analysis! Just trying to add to the blog buddy and you’re ryan leaf for manning is bogus, come back with some facts please!
SeminoleWarrior
March 25th, 2009
8:43 pm
The Falcons will pass on any LB from USC in the first round. This pick will be either a safety or cornerback. Stay tuned for more details.
JJ
March 25th, 2009
8:58 pm
FSU, their are no cb/ss worthy of 1st rd. pick. Second/Third round has plenty, chung?
Colorado Bulldog
March 25th, 2009
9:01 pm
Smith is a former D line coach. Both he and TD agree that the strength of a good d is the D-line. If Jerry is available, I say we take him. And maybe we trade up to get him and if Raji falls out of the top 10, they might go get him.
Nique
March 25th, 2009
9:10 pm
Yeah Marko
A stud named Vince Wilfolk!
Green Tea
March 25th, 2009
9:12 pm
The question was which if the USC guys would you like to have. Out of the 4 I’d rather have Maualuga, hands down. Not that the Falcons need a middle linebacker but out of the 4 it’s a simple answer.
Some of you guys have some really good posts btw…
D3
March 25th, 2009
9:21 pm
DOL, two blogs in two days. You’re da man. Keep rockin’ it out, the power of the bow tie is strong with you.
The class of the pure OLB group this year, after Curry of course, is Cushing. I know we have many o’ discussions on here about ‘To draft an OLB, or not to draft an OLB,’ but it becomes really easy if Cushing falls to us. No-brainer. Assuming Raji or Jerry’s not available and Cushing is, easy pick. He’s been a stud at the highest level of college football for awhile. Great work ethic, fiery play, and solid measurables. I think this argument is all for not, because he will be long-gone.
I know we’ve predicated the fact that we ’should’ be solid at OLB with Lofton, Peterson, Nicholas, Wire, & James, but Peterson is a short-term fix; Wire played solid, and Nicholas worries me because he couldn’t beat out Wire when Boley started tanking. Playing Devil’s advocate a little here. As Cutter helped me realize, James is 5′10, 219(not one to get hung up measurables, but not the ideal sized OLB when you gotta take on TE’s, T’s, & pulling G’s.
Concerning pure OLB’s, the decision becomes much more difficult if Matthews is available instead of Cushing. Personally, I like Matthews and think he would set us up for a young, tough LB corps for years to come. The final vote comes to TD, Smitty, & Van Gorder on how they feel about the depth of their LB’s and if Nicholas or Wire is truly ready to take over.
Mauluga is a MLB or a 3-4 ILB to my knowledge, and we already got a stud there in Lofton.
Aaron Maybin & Larry English provide a little more of a quadary. They have the potential and that sacred versatility TD & Smitty are looking for to be a OLB or DE. I don’t know if it would be the best idea to draft an OLB with our #24, but I’d be happy with Cushing/Maybin/Matthews/ or English.
I also do know that, IMHO, there is not the value to draft a CB or SS @ #24. And besides Raji & Jerry, Hood may be a bit of a reach as well. Tough, tough decisions.
D3
March 25th, 2009
9:47 pm
mudcat – right with you Matthews. Talk about a stud work-ethic. Sean Smith would be a great pick-up, but not necessarily worth #24, IMO. We should have one fall to us between Delmas/Chung/S.Smith/& R.Johnson in the second round. Prefer Chung & Smith.
TrueFalcon – again, I’m a big fan of Matthews too, but I do think it would be a tough decision if the choice were between Matthews or Jerry.
JJ – usually right with you, but I’d have a hard time taking Hood or Brace before Matthews in the first round, particularly Brace. I think we could get as good a value with someone like Sammie Hill/Fili Moala/Chris Baker/Terrance Taylor in the 3rd or 4th round.
Willie Coyote – man, love your simplicity. We get wrapped up so many times on positions, depth, etc., but any number of guys could be a solid pick to our DEF. Particularly, OLB, DT, or DE.
G State Ben – nice thoughts on LB. It definitely isn’t our biggest needs, but I’d have to say that S & CB do not have top-end talent this year worthy of #24 pick, with the exception of Vontae Davis or Malcom Jenkins who’ll be long one. Only TE would be Pettigrew, but TE is soooo very deep this year.
JB – love to get a stud CB with our first pick, but unfortunately all the ones that will be available, Alphonso Smith/Darius Butler/DJ Moore, are all 5′9. We have two of those in Grimes and Irons that have experience.
Mookie
March 25th, 2009
10:05 pm
1. CB V. DAVIS ILLINOIS
2. S W. MOORE MISSOURI
3. NT R. BRACE B.C.
4. TE S. NELSON S. MISS
5. DE L. SIDBURY RICHMOND
6. OT J.BELL FURMAN
6. LB K. MAIAVA USC
SeminoleWarrior
March 25th, 2009
11:05 pm
Here is my mock: 1) SS/FS Chung…I just think when all is said and done, he will be the best safety in this draft. 2) CB Jarius Byrd of Oregon, big and physical CB; 3) TE Shawn Nelson; 4) OLB Marcus Freeman; 5a) DT Terrance Taylor 5b)OLB Morty Ivy; 6) OL Joel Bell
Go Falcons!!
SeminoleWarrior
March 25th, 2009
11:06 pm
D3, check out CB Jairus Byrd of Oregon. I think he is just what you and I are looking for in a big, physical corner.
D3
March 25th, 2009
11:06 pm
Stirg & Big Ray, ya’ll are men among boys on this blog, glad to see you back. I’m nominating one or both of you to take over for the Bird Babe(not hatin’, but when was the last time she posted, and ever over 3 sentences).
Big Ray – you couldn’t have put it better about drafting @ #24. I say it revolves around OLB and DT, as well. 2nd Rd. I say should be reserved for SS, Chung/S.Smith/R.Johnson. And I think 3rd we should pick up a TE Nelson/Cook/Coffman. If Jerry falls to us, I say pull the trigger, but if its between Hood and Matthews/Maybin/English (assuming Cushing, Raji, & Jerry were gone), I’d say take Matthews/Maybin/English and take our chances with a DT run-stuffer we could snag in the 4th such as Chris Baker/Sammie Hill/Fili Moala/or Terrance Taylor.
Stirg – man, you’re research is the S—! Dimitroff is gonna gold mine us some talent in the later rounds, and at the minimum, even if he wasn’t the sole engineer, he at least scouted them and helped in the decision making at NE.
Tyger – spot on analysis of current depth. We pulled smoke and mirrors last year, and what we lost in experience (Brooking,Jackson,Milloy), we can make-up for in talent, desire (Nicholas,Lewis,DeCoud).
Seminole – what’s up G? C’mon man, you really think we’re taking a CB or S in the first @ 24? I could be way wrong, but I just don’t see us taking a 5′9 CB or Safety in the 1st. Chung/Smith/Johnson will be available in the second, and maybe Delmas, who knows.
Have a good night guys, we’ll see you in the BirdCage again tomorrow!
D3
March 25th, 2009
11:11 pm
Seminole – you’re the general! Like Jarius Byrd, haven’t even heard about him yet. Like your mock, BTW. Great stuff. I would change it just a touch:
1)Clay Matthews – OLB
2)Patrick Chung – SS
3)Shawn Nelson – TE
4)Chris Baker/Sammie Hill/Fili Moala/Terrance Taylor – DT
5)Best available CB
Great stuff, man. Take it easy Seminole.
SeminoleWarrior
March 25th, 2009
11:42 pm
D3, Mookie, Nique, and all my brother in the room.. I’ll buy the brews at the ESPNZONE on draft day if Chung makes it to us in the second round. No way that will happen. The guy is too good and given where we are late in the first, given the need at SS, we must take him. I really like DeCoud but I just have this feeling Chung is a beast waiting to happen at safety.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
12:37 am
Thanks, D3. Question: Are we fanatics?
Rottie
March 26th, 2009
5:43 am
Best player available. If you start “looking” for a position, often times you overpay and end up being disappointed. The linebacker crop this year is excellent – probably the strength of this draft when you factor in hybrid DE/OLBs. I keep hearing people say TE Pettigrew in the 1st. Monumental mistake…the guy is too slow for the NFL. He’s a big target with nice hands and a decent blocker, but he lacks separation speed.
tbhawksfan
March 26th, 2009
6:52 am
I think I’ve looked at about 200 mocks in the last months. It seems that given our needs, #24 is not looking good. I’m prone to trading up or down.
According to Smitty and TD, we are actually set at every position. If this is true, do we draft to improve now, or for the future?
It seems like the best options at #24 will be either OLB/DE or TE. Our problem is that the OLB/DE players don’t fit our scheme. We play a 4-3, not a 3-4. Guys like English are proto-type 3-4 OLBs.
I also see our most glaring need being DT, CB or SS. The only player that might be available and a good pick at #24 is V. Davis CB.
For a long time I was thinking trade down. Now I’m thinking; trade up.
With our CBs and T. Lewis coming back healthy, we seem to have some depth at every position; except SS. Every year there are numerous FA’s to plug holes. Why stockpile late picks that rarely make strong contributions?
What about our #24 and one of our mid-rounds to move up about 10 spots in the draft and get an impact player at a position of need; DT/SS/CB?
Would it really hurt us to ‘loose” one mid round pick in this draft? Wouldn’t the drafting of Jerry DT or Jenkins CB (potential 2009 impact players at need position) be better than a marginal player at #24 and a mid-round pick? I say, yes.
I trade up, #24 and #125 for #14 or so. Given that move, here’s my mock:
#14: Jerry DT
#55: Delmas SS
#90: Francies CB
#143: Maiava OLB
#160: Hughes CB
#196: TE
This senario would give us two potential impact players at positions of greatest need and extra depth at other areas of need. We sacrifice at TE to improve the D.
ndadome
March 26th, 2009
8:19 am
This is my brain +++++++++++. This is my brain after all these mock drafts & opinions #@$#@!@#$%$#!!!
kclubmember
March 26th, 2009
8:44 am
I really like Clay Matthews and Brian Cushing,but Rey Maualuga is a game changer.
The Robot Nesbitt
March 26th, 2009
8:52 am
The Robot has determined that the Atlanta Falcons Football club will select a player that will provide pass rush. A review of all available data indicates that pass rush, probably defensive end, will be addressed in the primary round. The secondary round will address offensive tackle. The middle rounds will address the secondary, the tight end, and linebacker, though not in that particular order.
[Warning: Internet blog postings appearing prior on this page include factual errors.]
The Robot has determined the proper order of the “USC” linebackers, based on the results of 32,435 career simulations, taking into account overall career performance, injuries, and teams played for. The results:
Rey Maualuga
Kaluka Maiava
Clay Matthews Jr.
Brian Cushing
That is all. I must use my processing power now on producing weather reports.
TheManMike
March 26th, 2009
10:15 am
Rey Maualuga is our pick – Anyone who even RESEMBLES Troy Polumalu should be taken. Or we could trade our entire secondary for Good ol1 Troy….
All kidding aside…i still agree…hahaha..
No really tho – i love Troy P. I know TD has mentioned he wants a Troy P type player – WHO IN THIS DRAFT DO YOU GUYS/GALS SEE AS BEING THE CLOSEST MATCH TO A TROY P? Is there even a close match??
I truly beleive that Troys “Locks of Love” are what make him so damned dominating and intimidating. Rey Maualuga has that hair man!
Thoughts??
I MUS.WRITE
March 26th, 2009
10:46 am
Robots that dude Lol…… So you now to get beer from the fridge – Can u pour mixed drinks -I could use u at my next mixer.
doodoobailey
March 26th, 2009
10:46 am
I like the idea of moving up and getting impact guys, falcons kind of suck with late round picks(see Martrez Milner???)
and don’t get another danm tight end…
Supes
March 26th, 2009
11:02 am
I don’t think trading UP is the right way to go here, unless the Falcons are LOCKED into a player they deem to be a “game changer” for the Franchise.
If anything, if they aren’t 100% sold on players available at 24, they should TRADE down, and pick up (hopefully) an extra pick, maybe a 3rd rounder, late 2nd round?
I believe in a deep draft (esp. defensively) like this one, picks in the 2nd and 3rd round are like gold. Cheaper (as far as signing them), and in some cases, just as good as 1st rounders (later on).
One more thing…If the Falcons can grab Maiava in round 5 or later, DEFINITELY a steal. Out of all of USC, LB, he is the one that DOMINATED the most against Penn State in the Rose Bowl. Not sure if that had anything to do with Penn State “paying extra attention” to his “bash brothers” at LB, but I remember he made plenty of tackles and big hits.
Jonathan
March 26th, 2009
11:10 am
Mike – Are you kidding me??
Of course there isn’t a Troy is this draft, if there was he wouldn’t be hanging around at #24. The closest player to Troy is Taylor Mays (at USC now).
Troy’s looks have nothing to do with intimidation…he brings it on the field and everyone knows it. My thought is you need to move to Pitt and follow up on your man-crush.
JJ
March 26th, 2009
11:14 am
We need a pass/blocking TE to improve our 3rd down efficency and give OUR kid another weapon, just not at #24.
- CUSHING/ZIGGY/BRACE, – CHUNG, – COOK
One mock draft has us taking Michael Johnson DE, the kid is a beast but I just dont see our brain trust taking that gamble. But damn, the kid is huge!
Jonathan
March 26th, 2009
11:39 am
Michael Johnson is huge and is in the best shape a man can be in. I like his style to drop and cover and/or blitz. However…he never ever showed up in big games with tech, he was usually dominated by players he should have easily over powered. I don’t see the Falcons drafting MJ. Unless the Falcons trust think that Tech didn’t utilize him in the right ways. My guess is that MJ will be drafted in the 2nd and he’ll be a bust as a dominant player.
Ken Strickland
March 26th, 2009
11:45 am
I can’t tell you guys how much I’ve enjoyed reading your comments and suggestions. I can see the wisdom in almost any of the choices that are available. I’ve come to see how we could benefit from drafting a TE, CB, SS, DE, OLB or DT with our first pick. Remember, we’ll have a chance at a large number of the players that will be drafted in the lower rds when they get cut during training camp. Also, a lot of the drafted players that make their teams will cause veteran players, some we might be able to use, to be released. FREE AGENCY ISN’T OVER.
Jonathan
March 26th, 2009
11:50 am
I’m glad you pointed that out Ken…because we had no idea??
Atlanta Falcons Talk » Blog Archive » Mike Smith likes USC LBs
March 26th, 2009
12:06 pm
[...] Mike Smith likes USC LBs [...]
Nique
March 26th, 2009
12:14 pm
SeminoleWarrior
I really think that he could be! He rated as the 3rd best safety on many ppl’s boards & if we don’t take a safety at 24, there might not be one taken in the 1st round period! With that being said Chung is ranked behind Delmas & William Moore as the 3rd best SS on the board on many boards, so if no SS goes in the 1st, bc the popular conscious is that there isn’t 1 SS with a 1st round grade in this years draft, then there is a good chance that 3 won’t go in the 2cnd round b4 we pick. I personally would be ok with any of those 3. The fallacy that i see on here is ppl saying draft Shawn Nelson in the 3rd & Ron Brace in the 3rd, or even where we are in the 2cnd! Neither of those players will be there where ppl are selecting them in mock drafts…NO WAY!!!! & ppl talking about trading up, that’s just not smart, we have TOO many holes to be getting rid of picks, we need to trade down & get additional picks!
Think realistically we NEED (not wants right now) a new starting NT, SS, & CB (& we want a new TE, OLB, & I personally would like to see a new Tackle to really solidify our O-line, bc while we ranked towards the top in rushing, there were games when we simply could not move the ball on the ground! I.E. anytime we played really dominant D’s & the playoff game against Ari. truly dominant running games, like the Steelers, Panthers, & Giants don’t have that problem bc of the quality they have up front)Sorry for getting sidetracked! But yeah so to walk away with 3 to 4 no questioned starters in the draft like we need, I don’t think that we can afford to trade any picks away trying to move up!
JJ
March 26th, 2009
12:23 pm
Interesting mock draft from “The football Expert”:
- 24 – Peria Jerry DT 6-3 295
- 55 – Shawn Nelson TE 6-5 242 DALLAS takes chung at 51
- 90 – Chip Vaughn SS 6-2 215
I could live with that, all 3 could start. Of course it all depends on FA yet to be named!
Robot – is it true you have a thing for wall-E?
JJ
March 26th, 2009
1:03 pm
Stirg
Answer: YES! GO FALCONS!!!
Jamison
March 26th, 2009
2:50 pm
I think that our linebacking core is not the issue early in the draft. With the pick up of vet Peterson and strong play at the end of the season from Coy Wire and the emerging Lofton, i think we need to focus on patching up the secondary and focusing on our D-line. Anderson is a bust, big Grady to Detroit, leaves us with two big names on defense. John Abraham and Mike Peterson. FREE AGENTS ARE STILL OUT THERE DIMITRIOFF!
BLACK AND RED DAWG
March 26th, 2009
4:56 pm
Hey, let’s do it the “New England” way and draft a multi-use/dementional player. Larry English gives you the best of both worlds and provides depth @ two positions and can be used on special teams. But, that will be left for the falcon brass. One thing that a good pass rush can do, is cover up a subpar to fair defensive back field. D-line is priorty 1. Our offense needs very little tweaking.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 26th, 2009
4:57 pm
I can’t agree with some of your suggestions about drafting one of the USC linebackers. First of all, only one or two of those linebackers are legit; everybody else is just surrounded by good football players. If you put me back there with Cushing, Maualuga and Maiava, even I’ll look tempting enough to draft. Why are we salivating over drafting one of these guys, at 24, when we can get Clint Sintim or Tyrone McKenzie in a later round? Sometimes I believe that some of us don’t read about, or research, other players. I think that you desire a player because you seen him on ESPN or Fox Sports. Fellows, read, research, then react.
I got my own mock:
Brandon Pettigrew
Patrick Chung
Clint Sintim
Sammie Lee Hill
Cameron Morrah
Do not be suprised to see TD go tight end with the number one pick, especially with Pettigrew’s skills still on the board. In fact, look for him to take two pass-catching tight ends. It’ll definitely confuse the defenses when we use two-tight end sets; and it will make our offense the most potent in the NFL. With what we already have on defense, we can afford the two tight ends with a Sintim, Hill and Chung.
Like that?
marko
March 26th, 2009
5:25 pm
JJ, The insanity crack was uncalled for. I’m sincerely sorry. Anybody that had to park at Georgia State, not to mention eating at the Bite and Die for four years deserves better.
mudcat
March 26th, 2009
5:29 pm
D3 & dbhawksfan-love your mocks! We have a lot of really good blogs and very knowledgeable fans. My mock is Sean Smith DB/S Utah or Larry English DL, James Casey TE from Rice in the 2nd rd, Alex McGee DT/DE Purdue in the 3rd rd and Zack Follet OLB from Cal SJ in the 4th. Keep the good stuff coming guys!
marko
March 26th, 2009
5:32 pm
Nique, you’re right nobody’s mistaking Vince Wilfolk for a swimsuit model. the only way a guy could make that kind of mistake would be standing Vince up next to Ron Brace.
JJ
March 26th, 2009
5:34 pm
no prob, go concrete campus! watch out uga/gt! lol
tbhawksfan
March 26th, 2009
6:06 pm
Anyone that would drive to GSU deserves to eat there. Mass transit guys. I used to enjoy some of the little hole in the wall eateries hidden around GSU.
danga
March 26th, 2009
6:15 pm
I think we should trade our 1st pick to the cardinals for cb dominique rodgers cromartie. Lets face it we’re gonna need at least 1 good cb to compete and we dont have that and we arent getting 1 out the draft iether.I would give them a 1st this year and a 2nd for next year.We’ll have plenty compensary picks next year for the free agents we had to give up this year.
Edgar
March 26th, 2009
6:20 pm
Connor Barwin
Cincinnati
Ht: 6-4
Wt: 256
40: 4.66
Ken Strickland
March 26th, 2009
6:25 pm
STIRG D’NAHSIF-I like you mock draft except for the 2 TE’s. I’d take a different approach. My mock draft is as follows:
1st rd-DE/LB Aaron Maybin(6′3″ 249lbs) or Larry English(6′2″ 255lbs)
2nd rd-CB Sean Smith (6′3″ 214lbs)
3rd rd-SS Courtney Green (6′ 212lbs)
4th rd-TE Cameron Marroh(6′3″ 244lbs)
5th rd-DT Sammie Lee Hill(6′3″ 329lbs)
These 5 picks addresses all of our key OFF/DEF needs. What do you think?
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
Hamad Meander
March 27th, 2009
11:29 am
I agree that the majority of picks should be on defense. Here are the positions I DO NOT want to see selected: QB, RB, WR, FS, FB, or DE (unless the DE is one of those “I can’t believe he’s available at this point”).
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 27th, 2009
11:31 am
Ken, your mock is very similar to mine. I, too, have Morrah, Chung, Hill and the best OLB in my mock; but you and I just can’t settle on pick 24. Help me to understand, buddy. What motivates you to select Jerry at DT when we already have Babs? I understand the gift in Jerry and I understand the glaring need at DT; but, again, we have Babs. If we take Jerry, we’ll still need a plugger. There’s just no way I can convince you to take Pettigrew at 24, huh?
I MUS.WRITE
March 27th, 2009
12:08 pm
Some late round steals could be:
Sebastian Vollmer
OT- U of Houston
6′7 317….. Light feet, great footwork. great pass/run blocker
Bradley Fletcher
CB- U of Iowa
6′1 200 4.3 speed
good late round selection
GMan
March 27th, 2009
12:10 pm
NO way, no how do we go with Vontae Davis, in any round. All info out there says that he has the same characteristics as his brother. Monster physiques, strength and potential but only part time heart and work ethic. Vernon is a bust. TD is NOT going to take ANY part time heart. He wants Palomaulu and John Lynch heart.
That will probably rule out Michael Johnson as well.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 27th, 2009
12:20 pm
Just posted the updated Mock Draft. FALCONS SELECT . . . . . . CLAY MATTHEWS JR, USC, LB.
Stirg d'Nahsif
March 27th, 2009
12:34 pm
Ugh!
Mark E Scherer
March 27th, 2009
1:17 pm
If your looking at TE—then in my opinion Shawn Nelson has better talent than Pettigrew and Nelson is faster.
Mark E Scherer
March 27th, 2009
1:18 pm
however we should look at d-line
Mike
March 29th, 2009
9:02 am
I personally think the butler kid is the best cb in this draft but I also think cb is the least important position in football. I think trey lewis will be a pleasant surprise this year so I’d like to see us go after robert ayers de tenn at 24 maybe trade up in the 2nd fr chung/delmas and get marcus freeman in the 3rd. I agree we need a pass catching te but that can be addressed with a 5th/6th or undrafted free agent. Frget the guys first name but there is a te named quinn that we can get really late and develop him behind hartsock/pelle
Mike
March 29th, 2009
9:19 am
I’m guessin on ayers btw 24 is a hard place to draft and I’ve seen him projected everywhere between 1st and 4th