Kiper has Johnson slipping to third round

TheManMike

April 21st, 2009
8:09 am

Nice blog today DOL-

I would love to pick up Michael Johnson in the 3rd. Would be a steal, imo. I like us getting one of the hybrid freaks in the second, because i do also see us taking TE BrandonP first(if hes there).

No song lyrics today D?

J

April 21st, 2009
8:11 am

Story contains the following: 25th ANNIVERSARY OF BEST DRAFT OF ALL TIME: In 1974, the Pittsburgh…..
Let’s see, 1974 to 1984, to 1994, to 2004, to 2009. Granted, I had a second-tier, assistant football coach (who diagrammed plays during class) as high school math teacher but that appears to be 35th anniversay, not “25th”, according to my figures.

mountain_jim

April 21st, 2009
8:16 am

Nice info, Dled. I prefer Mayock’s ratings myself. I doubt Tech’s DE drops past the 2nd, if he’s below that he must have really done poorly in his interviews.

Dawgilama

April 21st, 2009
8:25 am

I like Kiper soooo much more than McShay. Even if he’s wrong, he is really good at making you think he’s right. He’s obviously not right all the time, but he’s full of knowledge and very entertaining.

What’s up with Tony Gonzalez to Atlanta? A trade seemed to be picking up some steam a couple weeks ago. I’d rather us go with a TE in the 3rd-4th (Travis Beckum or James Casey) and address some defensive needs early on (Assuming a trade for Gonzalez doesn’t go down). Pettigrew to Atlanta just isn’t going to happen.

One prospect I’m very intrigued by is Connor Barwin. High character guy and a physical freak! Not sure whether he’s a DE or OLB…..or TE!

mike addington

April 21st, 2009
8:25 am

Wherever M. Johnson goes, I think he’s going to be great NFL player, and hey I’m a UGA fan.

mike addington

April 21st, 2009
8:32 am

On the running backs, when I watche OSU, I didn’t see Cris (Beanie) Wells do very well but he has the power and speed; however, an important aspect is “finishing” the run. The starting fullback pushed into the starting tailback roll for GA several years ago, Veron Haynes, made a name for himself by doing that and ended up withe the Steelers for several years. another whose last name I forget, Orlando something ended up starting for Denver for a year or so, mostly because he really put his head down and plowed into the tacklers. Despite his size, Morena does the same thing and I think besides his other talents, that’s what the pros like about him. I don’t know whether his moves will work that well in the faster and quicker NFL, but he’ll get you some yards because he never gives up on a play.

JB

April 21st, 2009
8:36 am

As a Dawg fan, I agree with with Mike about Johnson…..I’m jealous about one thing only at Tech. That staff over there gets a lot of their players. most are 2 and 3 star but most play like 4 star. sometimes our 4 star play like 2 star. I will tip my hat to Tech for that.

JB

April 21st, 2009
8:37 am

I meant to say ” Gets a lot OUT of their players “

N. Joy Pharteen

April 21st, 2009
8:40 am

When’s Tony Gonzalez getting into town? Have you lined up an interview, Darryl? Hope we don’t go offense with the first pick, unless my some miracle, one of those monster tackles was still there. We have to many defensive needs to go with Pettigrew first.

Jamaal=Bust

April 21st, 2009
8:48 am

Man. I would love to get a solid LB in the first, then in the second take either Cook or the Mizzou TE, then if Johnson is still around, gobble that dude up quick, because he plays big. I think he’ll be better than Jamaal at DE right away. That way we can move or draft bust to DT and let him eat some space up, which what he was doing better last season. To me Pettigrew isn’t the type of TE the Falcons need. Cook is, and the mIzzou guy is. Both exceptional hands, good speed and potential for very good run blocking. I really think it’ll end up close to what I said. Or at least I hope, so I don’t sound soooo stupid. Great job with the article btw, Kiper is a brain stud.

FDB

April 21st, 2009
8:49 am

Falcons, please take a chance on Willie Williams in the 7th or line him up as a FA. The character issue is done. He will be a great special teams player and good LB depth.

Supes

April 21st, 2009
9:03 am

I’ve always enjoyed Kiper’s draft analysis. Even when he’s wrong or I disagree with him, at least he’s passionate and entertaining. McShay is also good, but he often doesn’t take a hard enough stand on a player one way or another and just says a lot of double talk.

Darn, if Michael Johnson is there in the 2nd or 3rd round for the Falcons, I sure do hope they take a hard look at him as a pass rushing DE and John Abraham’s understudy. We could be getting a steal.

Hope we get a mainstay LB with our 1st round pick, but as long as it’s an impact defensive player I really don’t care. I trust Thomas Dimitroff and Coach Mike Smith (esp. after last year’s draft).

Marko

April 21st, 2009
9:06 am

Big Ray, Seminole and Ken, I’m sorry not to respond in a more timely manner. I was bushed so I turned in early. Thanks to you all for the kind words.

Orlando, you dumped a lot on our plate this morning, How do I feel about Mel?, Jealous comes to mind. I’ll follow up on the other stuff

Getting back to our favorite topic, the Falcons, and what the hell they might be up to.Mularkey’s sudden interest in tight ends as receivers seems a logical progression . We can only assume that he was thumbing through the rule book one day and discovered that tight ends were allowed to catch passes. This startling revelation seems to have opened up worlds of startling new possibilities to him. We’ll see how it works out next season, hopefully with Gonzalez. I’m told Tony will block a bit. He’s just not asked to do it very often. If you think about it, it’d be a little like asking Sea Biscuit to plow fields. I’m still trying to follow up on Gonzalez from the KC end. They seem peeved that he no showed mini camp. Most are still in denial, but a few seem to be getting used to the idea that he won’t be back.

Like I said, I understand that small and quick defensive lines can be highly effective. It’s just that this type of defense seems out of character for Smitty and Dimitroff. I really can’t wait to see how our offense evolves.

We know the Falcon’s worked out Fili Moala. The reports on this guy are all over the place. The sporting news rates him second only to Raji. Matt McGuire on the other hand claims that he’s the most over rated player in the draft. It seems to me that somebody’s got to be wrong here. I suppose the main thing’s what Thomas and Smitty thought about him at their meeting. I’ve always liked the kid. He looked pretty good to me when I saw him play, but the Ducks aren’t on our schedule net season. Still it’s hard to find a three hundred pound tackle that looks a tad on the skinny side. This is a very big boy, and he could easily get a lot bigger.

Here we are only days away from the draft, and my employer expects to work. I’m telling you the nerve of some people. Still, they pretend to pay me so it only seems fair that I get back to pretending to work. Have a good day one and all.

siskel_god

April 21st, 2009
9:20 am

Why was everyone so outraged when the Falcons were rumored to trade a second round pick for Tony Gonzalez but it’s okay to use a first rounder on a TE? I’ll take 4 good years from Gonzo over any TE in this draft. First round TE’s don’t really have a good track record of being superstars Greg Olson, Heath Miller, Vernon Davis come to mind. Only Shockey and Winslow have shown flashes I would much rather have a defensive impact player at any position and Gonzalez for our second pick. Outside of C. Lofton who on our team has been an impact player we drafted in the second round? Babineaux just came around this year, Houston may never come around, Jimmy Williams isn’t even on the team anymore. I like Jerry from Ole Miss, I saw him live at the cotton bowl against Texas Tech this year and that guy is a beast. Not sure if he fits that big DT mold of Mike Smith but he is definitely talented. I also like Mauluga, not really sure why he is slipping and I still don’t think he will slip to 24, but he is the one guy that I would trade up to get. He reminds me so much of a bigger Polamolu or Tatupa in Seattle. I remember 2 years ago against UCLA he hit a guy harder than anyone I have ever seen. He is definitely athletic enough to play outside in coverage and can get after the QB. If they can somehow get Rey and Gonzo saturday, Falcons will definitely win the south this year.

BigMike

April 21st, 2009
9:27 am

Kiper! The standard for which all anayalst should want to be. The guy is on point the vast majority of the time.

mars

April 21st, 2009
9:33 am

So I here J Anderson was a tight end before he was converted to defense. Since he SUX at D, how are his hands? I like to see the Falcons NOT waste an early pick on one of these overrated TE’s with so many other needs to fill.

mars

April 21st, 2009
9:39 am

Anderson certainly has the height and size. Does he have the tools to play TE, or anywhere, in the pros?

Jamaal=Bust

April 21st, 2009
9:46 am

lol mars, you sir are correct. he was originally a TE, but Arkansas thought he’d make a better DE because he wasn’t a consistent hands guy. He also had trouble reading his assignment, so they switched him to DE because he has good speed, but he still struggled with reading his assignment, but was able to over compensate in college by using his big body and quick feet. So, in conclusion….Anderson would make as good a TE as Chris Chandler would make a boxer

Daddys357

April 21st, 2009
10:23 am

I saw on SI.com where they were think Atlanta was going to trade the #24, 2 round, and a 5 round pick for Glenn Dorsey and Tony G. I just dunno about the cap space but it sounds like a good deal to me. What do you guys think?

Falcon Devil

April 21st, 2009
10:34 am

If MJ is there at 55 I say take him!!

ACC Football=SEC Basketball

April 21st, 2009
10:34 am

Mike Addington: I believe you are thinking about Olandis Gary.

Ramblin Wrecker

April 21st, 2009
10:40 am

If Michael Johnson is picked in the 3rd round, then somebody just won the lottery. Not only is he that good, but add a chip on his shoulder like dropping to the third round and somebody’s QB is going to pay for that. Admittedly I’m not a football expert like Mel Kiper or Mike Mayock, but I’ve watched MJ play for 4 years and I just don’t see him taking plays off or lacking intensity. I think a key bit of information that gets lost about MJ is that he played on all special teams on every snap, until early last season when he was experiencing cramping. Even after that he was in on special teams part time, and made a difference, blocking kicks. In the right system MJ is going to be a great pass rusher. Maybe the slight is just what he needs to make him even greater.

Gatorzone

April 21st, 2009
10:44 am

Daddy, that would be PHenomenal, but I do not believe it will happen.

D3

April 21st, 2009
10:52 am

Great Tuesday AM Bird-Cager Bro’s! One of my fav lines from Seinfeld, “Tuesday has no feel.” Well, this one does as we’re only 4 DAYS away from one of the best events of the year! Trying to figure out what to grill on saturday. Any suggestions? I could always go with my wing recipe w/ homemade blue cheese, but I like trying something new. Any suggestions on a good taligatin’ idea for sat.? Anyway, to the matter at hand……..

DOL – you’re gettin’ your regular season wind my man. Knockin’ all kinds of stuff on our plate. Nice work as always. You gonna be @ Radio City Music Hall on Draft Day? I think they should consider moving it to different NFL cities, that would be an absolute blast to experience.

On Stafford – If the Lions were smart they would seal the deal on Stafford. Look at the success the Falcons had drafting Ryan and going to get the best available Left Tackle late in the first. Stafford won’t have Ryan’s success, but he will be good, possibly even great one day. The maturation process will be much longer. If they decided on Smith or Monroe, they wouldn’t have a shot at Sanchez or Freeman. Stafford has played on a big time level since the second game of his career. Not many true freshman come in and start in the SEC.

On Crabtree – I think Seattle goes with Monroe or Smith, whoever’s available. I could see them going Sanchez before Crabtree, especially since they signed Housh. To Cleveland, maybe only if they plan on trading or not re-signing Braylon Edwards, which would be a huge mistake in my opinion. They do need some offensive weapons, but adding Orakpo would be a huge boost in their 3-4 scheme.

On Heyward-Bay – could see him going to Vikings, but when more likely Harvin. When healthy, Percy Harvin is a playmaker. I know well as watching him as a Dogs fan the last three years. He rarely doesn’t show up in games he plays, and he’s a huge boost to special teams, RB, etc. Jets take Freeman, unless he’s gone and then I could see it. Not to Miami b/c the Tuna doesn’t like drafting WR’s in 1st round and too much like Ted Ginn Jr.

On Pat White – It’ll be real interesting to see where he goes. I’ll be willing to bet that someone reaches for him in the second. He is a playmaker, but has been known to totally disappear as well (anyone remember that Pitt. game, where all he had to do was win and in the Nat’l Champ. game?).

James Davis & Aaron Kelly – Davis might turn out to be a steal if he goes to the right team. He’s got the solid build and speed that can translate well to the NFL. Aaron Kelly might as well. At 6′4. 205, 4.55 speed I’d love for the Falcons to take a chance on him as their 5b pick. Great complement to HD in the slot and future red-zone replacement for Finneran.

And finally to MJ – I’d be absolutely SHOCKED if he fell out of the second round. With his tools, size, speed, and potential someone will snag him in the second I bet. The reason he’s dropping is his tape, I would bet. Mayock loves his skill set, but destroys him because of his tapes. Known to take plays off and disappear. But if he fell to #55, it would be hard pressed to pass on him as a Falcon and future replacement for Abraham. He may even could drop into coverage on 3rd downs with his height and speed. If we did pick up MJ, I would like to move JA inside and let MJ and C.Davis compete for the other DE spot thus killing two birds with one stone, but it doesn’t appear that will happen. We could still draft a DT in round 4 or so and get a solid run-stuffer as well.

The excitement is picking up steam as we speak and the we’re already almost to hump day. Keep the good posts rollin’. And on that note………….

4 DAYS, 1 HOUR, 6 MINS, & COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stat Man

April 21st, 2009
10:57 am

I’m with Falcon Devil – if Johnson is there at #55, it should be a no brainer!

D3

April 21st, 2009
11:04 am

Quick Snap- Mock Draft Cinco.3(MJ version)
1)Brandon Pettigrew – TE
2)Michael Johnson – DE
3)Chip Vaughn – S
4)Sammie Hill – DT
5a)Keenan Lewis – CB
5b)Nic Harris – OLB
6)Lydon Murtha – T

Ken Strickland

April 21st, 2009
11:11 am

The internet service in my area completely went out yesterday so I couldn’t respond to any posts. This is my 2nd attempt today because it’s still going in and out.

BIG RAY-all I can say to your unbelievably flattering compliment is THE FEELING IS CERTAINLY MUTUAL MY FRIEND.

SEMINOLE WARRIOR-there’s no way DC Van Gorder can be judged by last yrs DEF performance. Too much of what he had to deal with was inherited. DT GJackson was nothing more than a thumb in the dike, and the same could be said for SS LMalloy. LB KBrooking has never been know as a big hitter and didn’t fit his preferred style of LB play. LB MBoley just didn’t fit his scheme and regressed to the point he had to be replaced.

Let him get a DT and LB or two that plays the way he prefers, along with a SS with cover skills, and then we can judge. He actually did an excellent job of coaching considering what he had to work with. In fact, he coached DE JAbraham and DT JBabineaux into having career yrs.

D3-No, TDeCoud didn’t go on IR, that was safety AHarris. When you view their scouting reports, it makes it hard to believe there’s a SS in this draft that can come in and match their skill and versatility, certainly not their experience, familiarity with the system, coaching staff and players. AHarris can play both safety positions and has the speed, quickness and cover skills to be an effective nickel CB.

When the draft starts this weekend, I’ll be sitting on pins and niddles waiting to see who we choose out of the players that will likely be available. It’s actually possible that TE BPettigrew, DT PJerry, DE/LB CSintim and LB’s CMathews and BCushing will be available.

TE BPettigrew could have the biggest impact on who we draft if he’s chosen at #24, especially of DEF. Offensively, his presence could improve our redzone and short yardage OFF, scoring opportunities and scoring. That would make our OFF rock solid by improving our passing gm without adversely affecting our rushing gm, bringing balance to our overall OFF. That in turn would increase our time of possession and force teams to play catchup, which means our DEF would have to face more passing than running situations.

Now we get into how Pettigrew can effect who we draft defensively. Since his presence could force teams to attack our pass DEF more often, pass DEF skills would naturally become a major factor in deciding who we draft. It could make the difference between drafting a big roadblock run stuffing DT like RBrace, or a quicker more agile DT with superior pass rushing skills, like Hood. It could also determine whether we draft a hybrid DE/LB like Sintim, who can rush the passer from a 3pt stance, or a pure LB type like Cushing or Mathews.

Bottomline, by increasing our time of possession, scoring and overall OFF proficiency, drafting TE BPettigrew could change the way we structure our DEF and the players we choose to make it work.

JUST FOOD FOR THOUGHT.

Nookah

April 21st, 2009
11:17 am

Marko, that last paragraph was hilarious. Man that was funny, at least I found it so.

So Torry Holt goes to the Jags, 3 years, $20M. I guess I may have to rework my draft picks.

Detroit have not spoken to the Stafford camp in weeks? Smoking mirrors or new #1 target? You decide guys!!!

Sanchez to Seattle? Hmmmmmmm!!!

Even though I am working my draft board, I still like Clint “Dirty Harry” Sintim @ 24.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect!!!

D3

April 21st, 2009
11:22 am

Ken Strick – great point on A.Harris. A lot of people forget that about he and Jamal Fudge. We actually more help in our secondary than people imagine. Assuming DeCoud is the real deal, it will be hard pressed to think we spend anything higher than the 3rd round on a S. We can address TE, OLB, DT, or even DE if MJ happened to be there.

Because I’ve worked myself into such a Pettigrew frenzy, I’ll be somewhat disappointed if we don’t get him. But that pain can easily be soothed if we pick up Sintim. Definitely Sintim over the USC LB’s. More experience and dominance throughout his entire career. Bigger and tougher as well.

That’s my final first pick desires: Pettigrew or Sintim.

Ken Strickland

April 21st, 2009
11:28 am

D3-I missed your mock draft. I love it except for SS CVaughn. I have nothing against CVaughn, I just wouldn’t draft a SS. I’d go with a DT like EHood, Sen’Derrick Marks or FMoala at #2 and DE MJohnson or MSidbury at #3. Otherwise, I think your mock is the BOMB.

Poor McKay

April 21st, 2009
11:47 am

You have to respect anyone who is as well-prepared and studies as hard as Kiper. The hair hat is another subject.

This pre-draft coverage has lasted longer than MLB Spring Training, the 2008 Presidential campaign and the Minnesota Senate race. By the time Saturday comes around, Stafford will feel like he’s been out of UGA for about 4 seasons. Let’s get this over with already.

Sarah B

April 21st, 2009
12:08 pm

D3 not 4 days, 1 hour. The draft doesn’t start until 4 this year.

Jim F

April 21st, 2009
12:33 pm

good note by Mel on Heyward-Bey….you really have to wonder why guys with his skills don’t have great production, and Ralph Fridgen at Maryland is no fool. Heyward-Bey has Troy Williamson written all over him.
For the Falcons, I like English, Cushing or Jerry……Pettigrew isa good player, but we need D and there’s a lot of good TE prospects in the later rounds….Johnson would be very tempting if he’s there in the 2nd round….

Caleb

April 21st, 2009
12:58 pm

Regarding Daddys357’s comments, I read the Glenn Dorsey rumor as well. It would be nice to get him for our d line, but it would take some draft picks or players. Dimitroff and Pioli worked together in New England though, so maybe there’s something to the story. Any thoughts D-Led or others?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 21st, 2009
1:02 pm

D3: Thanks for you kind words. Strong post as usual. I’m not going to Radio City. I’ll be at the nerve center in Flowery Branch for the Falcons selections.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 21st, 2009
1:12 pm

Here’s the SPORTING NEWS correspondents mock draft. It took 28 hours over Friday and Saturday to get this done. I had to take Maybin. Didn’t have him slipping that far in all of scenarios that I’d worked out. Great value pick here:

1. Lions: Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

2. Rams: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

3. Chiefs: Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest

4. Seahawks: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

5. Browns: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

6. Bengals: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

7. Raiders: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

8. Jaguars: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

9. Packers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

10. 49ers: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

11. Bills: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee

12. Broncos: Everette Brown, OLB/DE, Florida State

13. Redskins: Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

14. Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

15. Texans: Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

16. Chargers: Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State

17. Jets: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

18. Broncos: Peria Jerry, DL, Mississippi

19. Bucs: Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

20. Lions: Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC

21. Eagles: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

22. Vikings: Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

23. Patriots: Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

24. Falcons: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State

25. Dolphins: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

26. Ravens: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

27. Colts: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

28. Bills: William Beatty, OT, UConn

29. Giants: Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

30. Titans: Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers

31. Cardinals: Donald Brown, RB, UConn

32. Steelers: Fili Moala, DL, USC

Tyger

April 21st, 2009
1:21 pm

Michael Johnson is being robbed!!!

Johnson went head-to-head with Eugene Monroe, UVA, a projected top #5 pick, and ate his lunch. He put up solid senior year numbers and was at or near the top of the ACC in every statistical category that matters at his position.

He’s an exceptional pass rusher, plays side-line to side-line, is solid against the run and can drop back and cover the flats. At 6′7, 260, he has some of the best metrics in the draft, which he fully displayed at the combine.

Oftentimes, exceptionally gifted athletes are unfairly penalized by their vast potential, everybody wants to see a finished product yesterday and its unfair to the young guy.

Take our Hawks for example: 4 years ago we drafted Josh Smith, an exceptionally gifted uber-athlete that was hammered by NBA draft expert, Rick Bucher, who said he would be the biggest bust in the draft. Now, we’re headed to the 2nd rd of the playoffs and JSmoove is actually “getting it” and headed for all-stardom.

Michael Johnson is another uber-athlete, who’s heart and attitude, is being unfairly questioned b/c GT didn’t win every game or he appeared to “take plays off”? Football is a team sport, the same logic that’s hurting M.Johnson is helping the USC boys. Of course, you look better surrounded by better talent, of course you look better when you go 9-1.

But all this subjective conjecture is worrisome, based on objective observation, I don’t see him NOT making plays he should make. No, he doesn’t prance after every play like the Florida guys, but they don’t teach that here in Georgia or Alabama.

Here, you act like you’ve been there before.

RedandBlack

April 21st, 2009
1:30 pm

The Falcons have to go with a defensive player as their first player in the draft. Hopefully, it will be a good defensive lineman. The secondary also has too many holes right now to be competitive for 2009. Johnson could be the LB the Falcons need in the second round.

Jared Cook from South Carolina or Ingram from florida taken in the later rounds would be the best spot to draft for TE. The Falcons can not draft for TE in the early rounds. There is just too much of a need for defensive players to draft for TE early.

The Falcons will produce with an improved defense. Right now, they will have to draft it out to fill the defensive holes. T.D. will put them together. Go Falcons!! Go Dogs!!

Cameron

April 21st, 2009
1:37 pm

I don’t think anyone has a clue what the Falcons are going to do with the 24th pick. I am sure Dimitroff has kept quiet for a reason. I think people are saying we are going to draft Pettigrew because it is a need and would offer good value at 24. But, I get the sense nobody really actually “thinks” we are going to draft him for sure.

I honestly think that we are either trying to move up to get Malcolm Jenkins or move down and take Evander Hood or Ron Brace. Of course, I don’t know for sure either.

One thing I do know is that I trust Dimitroff and know he won’t make some of the idiotic picks that have been thrown out there (i.e. English and Sintim, well at least not at 24).

Oh well, I guess we will all find out Saturday.

Cameron

April 21st, 2009
1:43 pm

Tyger:

The knock on Michael Johnson has been his inconsistency and the fact that he takes plays off for years. Why do you think he rarely cracked the field until his junior and senior seasons? With maximum effort, he would have at least played as a sophomore. He wasn’t even a full-time starter until his senior year. These people have film to watch and know exactly what a guy does every play. This is coming out of left field because he doesn’t show up on highlights enough. This is their observations from breaking down hours and hours of film. His own coach would tell you that he struggled with Michael Johnson on the same things.

Having said that, would I like to have him on the Falcons? Of course, especially for a 2nd or 3rd round pick. If that guy makes it to the third round, I would sprint to the podium, turn in my pick, light up a cigar, open a beer, and kiss the hottest girl around.

Cameron

April 21st, 2009
1:45 pm

DOL:

I wouldn’t get pissed if Maybin fell to us. I don’t really think he fits our scheme and don’t think we are targeting him. But, at 24, I could live with that.

angry banker

April 21st, 2009
1:48 pm

there doesn’t seem to be any great talent in this draft outside of the first 5 OT and the first 6 DE/OLB prospects.

I’m willing to bet we trade down unless theres some huge value (i.e. Bj Raji or Everette Brown fall to #24)

Tyger

April 21st, 2009
2:04 pm

M. Johnson was a pre-season top 10 pick. Whatever, leftover baggage he had from his sophomore year was/ should’ve been taken into consideration then, if these guys pour over the game film, the way you say they do.

He did nothing his junior or senior to fall out of the 1st rd. The kid is solid. If undersized Aaron Maybin can go top 15, M. Johnson certainly is 1st rd. material. Maybin has done nothing more to solidify his position than Johnson, other than play at a higher profile program on a good year.

A TE...Really?

April 21st, 2009
2:05 pm

I thought all of that talk about drafting a TE in the first round was just that…a bunch of talk. Now I’m starting to get nervous that we really might go that route. WHAT A WASTE OF A PICK!!!! A TE…REALLY??? With all of the help this defense needs we are going to pick a TE in the 1st round?!?!?! Would be a highly disappointed season ticket holder if we went that route.

Daddys357

April 21st, 2009
2:12 pm

Caleb thanks for the comment. It would be very interesting if that type of trade did happen. But its hard for me to believe that a kid you drafted 5th the year before you’ll trade for a 24 pick unless KC is just now seeing something that TD saw last year before the draft. But if everything is ok with Dorsey, I would really have to put that deal into consideration Dorsey (#5 pick for #24) Tong G (for a second) and a 5th. Doubt it happens but if it was on the table would you sit down and eat or walk away and order something new?

Nookah

April 21st, 2009
2:21 pm

I am not a proponent of taking a TE in Round 1, but if we do, then Pettigrew has got to be the man. There ain’t any other 1st round TE talent in this draft. Pettigrew is way above any other TE in this draft. He’s not fast but do you want a WR or a TE? For those who read these blogs frequently, please recall me soccer anology. Big possession midfielder can take a pass almost anytime!!! For those of us who are connoisseurs of soccer you will understand, and that is what Pettigrew will give you over the middle and in the end zone I might add.

D3, I know you’ll support me on this. If we went TE, I know it would be Pettigrew and I would not complain.

Cameron, thanks for stating your opinion but my pick is still Clint “Dirty Harry” Sintim!! Incidentally, who is your pick bro?

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

webhead

April 21st, 2009
2:28 pm

Would rather have Brooking and Boley over these linebackers in this draft. Would have cost less also. Bad move on TD’s part.

djtruk

April 21st, 2009
2:29 pm

Go Mike. You worked your butt off in the gym and in football games for four years and you have to read all the bad reports from formal football players that didn’t make it in the NFL about taking plays off and he’s just a gym rat. You drag Eugene Monroe all over the field and still get the forced fumble and the sack. I know you will make it in the NFL and in life and next year this time someone will be eating their words. GO BIG MIKE

Spud Webb

April 21st, 2009
2:56 pm

The problem with Johnson isn’t talent folks. It’s his attitude, work ethic and possible “off the field” issues. He’s BOOM or Bust, thats a fact, worth the risk now, but in 2 years when you have to cut a 2nd or 3rd round pick, it’s isn’t worth it. Sad that this kid has fallen so much. I hope he makes it.
I don’t like UGA or Tech, but I’m telling you now, Knowshon will be the steal of the draft this year wherever he goes. The kid has “it” and will be a STUD.
Falcons do one thing Saturday and Sunday, draft DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE.

RedandBlack

April 21st, 2009
3:03 pm

Could Detroit take both Bulldogs in the first by drafting Stafford and Moreno? I agree with the former Slam Dunk Champion. Knowshon Moreno is a breakout superstar. Go Dogs!!

djtruk

April 21st, 2009
3:26 pm

I wish everyone had his attitude, work ethics and his off the field issues SPUD. He has “no baggage” just one NFL analyst that compared him to a workout warrior from last season. Get to know the player not the game.

WR

April 21st, 2009
3:27 pm

Hey fellas check out this DT sleeper, Vaugh Martin, from Western University, he played his college ball in Canada so he has been off most teams radars but over the last couple of weeks his name is popping up on different web site searches. If this guy is there in the fourth or fifth round he could be a steal.

D3

April 21st, 2009
4:02 pm

Poor McKay – Agreed. I’ve always looked forward to the Draft, but this year has been the best AND the longest because of all the good scenarios, thought patterns, and discussions. Hopefully, they’ll be some good picks we all are happy with.

Sarah – yeah, I’m so used to the draft starting @ noon, so I just left it at that time because I’ll be in frenzy mode with ESPN and NFL Network on. My Draft festivities will start @ noon, in other words.

Jim – great comparison on Heyward-Bay being Troy Williamson redux. A speedster doesn not a good receiver make. Disagree with you on Pettigrew. He is the only exception to take first. Raji and Jerry would be worth it, but Hood is not. We already have a down tackle in Babineaux and need more of an up tackle in the mold of Ron Brace, Roy Miller, or Sammie Hill, IMVHO.

Tyger – you got it on MJ. He WILL be a good-to-great player some day, but whoever drafts him will have to have patience with him and not expect immediate domination, especially since most DE’s don’t flourish until their 3rd year anyway.

RedandBlack – we’re boys already in that we share to two favorite teams: Dogs & Falcons. Agree on going DEF first, but Pettigrew is the lone exception. At that point in the draft in the first round, its kind of a crapshoot on whether they will make an outstanding, immediate impact. The same can’t be said about Pettigrew. There is tons of middle round talent on DEF through this draft, and allowing TD and his innate ability to mine these gems out will serve us well. MJ definitely could drop occasionally, but as far being an every-down LB, I don’t know about it.

Reminder about Bird-Cage Mock Draft Competition
1)Final mock draft of first round due by Sat. @ noon
2)Each direct hit receives a 1 point
3)I save them to a hard copy and will re-post on sat.
3)Winner receives ULTIMATE BRAGGING RIGHTS!!!!
Got following mocks: Falcon Devil, dacha, Nookah, Seminole, Marko, D3, WR. Where you at Ken Strick, Tyger, JJ, JB, Stirg, Poor McKay? Get in on the action.

H— YEAH! 3 MORE WORKDAYS AND ITS DRAFT TIME!

Ken Strickland

April 21st, 2009
4:13 pm

I’m not concerned in the least about who we draft at #24. This draft is just too deep at LB, TE and DT to be concerned. Our DEF is going to be much improved over last yrs based on the talent already on the roster. DT TLewis is an improvement over GJackson. SS TDeCloud is a vast improvement over LMalloy. SLB MPeterson and WLB SNicholas are overall improvements over Boley and Brooking. DE CDavis will is an improvement over JAnderson, unless he steps up and has a breakout training camp. Either way, there will be an improvement.

DT, CB and OLB are the DEF positions that might be open to a talented rookie.

Sarah B

April 21st, 2009
4:29 pm

D3 – I just didn’t want you to have a heart attack when it wasn’t on at noon. Looking out for a fellow Bird fan.

Nookah

April 21st, 2009
4:32 pm

Calling all Falcons fans, go to the Atlanta Falcons website and listen to J Mike Moore’s interview with TD. After listening to it TE is very much a possibility at 24. He stressed “needs based” draft, as he always does. He is also stressing getting impact players in the earlier part of the draft. He seems to be implying that he is fairly comfortable with the depth on our squad for the most part.

Take a listen if you have the time.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 21st, 2009
4:44 pm

Good work, D.O.’better. I like Kiper and I value his opinions. You don’t serve 31 years with ESPN and not know what you’re talking about. Yes, drafnikness is a word; but only you can get away with it (with a bow tie on your profile and a segment on NFL.com, you look like a professor that can create words).

Wow! Just a couple of months ago, when I introduced the “Pettigrew for ‘24′” idea, I couldn’t buy a second opinion to my nomination. Now, all my co-fans are hoping that he falls to us (I need to forget about this Ph.D and focus on a JD).

I think the Falcons are going to play the draft by ear. I think that they already have “their man” in mind; however, if “that man” is taken before “24″, I’m certain that they have a plan “B”, which may include trading. For instance, if Pettigrew is taken before “24″, like most of us is now suspecting, the Falcons may consider a trade for Gonzo and draft defense, instead.

Why is their no longer any hoopla for Ron Brace?

mars

April 21st, 2009
4:53 pm

Keep in mind, we still have option of trading a very flawed, and yet very talented Michael Vick. Also, in QB hungry league, Shockley is a waste as a bench-rider, and J Anderson might actually fit into someones defensive scheme somewhere (I type with straight face, no less). Look for one or all of these options to be exercised. Drafting Pettigrew would signal a return to the brain dead decisions that represent the history of the Falcons. If not interested in bringing Justin Peele along (quite talented and servicable, affordable without dropping ones pants), then wait for Jared Cook (as good as Pettigrew in all aspects). Considering our needs, squandering the first pick on a tight end would be moronic.

Tapate50

April 21st, 2009
5:01 pm

Maybin isnt what we need. To small for DE, and not enough LB prowess. Cmon…
Doesnt feel either need real well. So lets try again DOL.

mars

April 21st, 2009
5:04 pm

Why is my comment awaiting moderation?

Marko

April 21st, 2009
5:04 pm

As we look forward to the draft, and the upcoming season, I thought I’d compare Matty’s rookie stats to Peyton’s. Comparing quarterbacks isn’t an easy thing to do; you wind up getting into an apples and oranges kind of thing. Still, the numbers are kind of interesting. Matt threw for over three thousand yards. 3440 to be exact. Ten years earlier, Peyton threw for more, 3739. Together they are the only two rookie quarterbacks to throw for more than three thousand yards in their first year. Touchdowns, Matt threw sixteen. Again Peyton gets the edge he threw twenty six. Next comes interceptions, and here Matt has a clear edge. Matt threw eleven and Peyton threw twenty-eight. This is why Matt had a higher Quarterback rating than Peyton; 87.7 to 71.2. This is why the Falcons went to the playoffs and the 1998 colts finished three and thirteen.

What’s the point? The next year Peyton leads his team to a thirteen and three record. They went to the playoffs in 1999 and have, with the exception of 2001 been in the playoffs every year since. I’m not reading too much into this, but if Matt Ryan is anything like Peyton manning the next decade is going to be a little more exciting than what we’re accustomed to. Peyton forgot to have his traditional sophomore jinx. Let’s hope that Matty’s a touch on the absent minded side as well.

Kiper has Johnson slipping, I don’t see it. He had an amazing combine, and his stock climbed a little higher than it should have. He’s on the down side of the bounce now , but he’s still helped himself. I see him as a early second round pick. I do think the Falcons would take a long hard look if he was still there at Fifty-five. The thing we have to remember about Mel is that he’s the world’s most famous football fan. He’s not a scout let alone a GM. At the end of the day he’s a very lucky guy that stumbled onto a pretty cool way to make a living.

Adam Teicher, of the Kansas City Star and annoying video fame, has all but conceded that Gonzalez won’t be back next year, I’ve stopped speculating which tight end we should draft. I’ll let the poor slobs that don’t have Tony Gonzalez worry about that one.I might be wrong , but I think this deal’s done, The main that scares me is that it might not be with us. I remember that Buffalo was interested in Tony. I still believe that we’d have the inside track. A little because Thomas and Scott are buds, and a little because we’re outside their conference, Hope for the best it does’t cost anything.

Nookah, I almost forgot you thanks for the compliment. I do sometimes try to lighten things up a bit lest we wind up like the troglodytes on the political blogs.

darrell starks

April 21st, 2009
5:18 pm

This organization cant not afford to continue to not address the defense side of the ball the last time we really draft a true superstar on defense was DEION, AND JESSIE TUGGLE THATS bad we have to do a better job drafting on defense. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

darrell starks

April 21st, 2009
5:31 pm

I dont no why all the hoop la for a tight end we better get better on defense or the falcons will continue to be the same old falcons look at all the superbowl teams that won they all had a solid defense including the RAMS when they won the superbowl. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

tbhawksfan

April 21st, 2009
5:59 pm

I have to disagree witht he Pettigrew crew. TE is a need and Pettigrew is a good one, but the Falcons need to build a D; now. I don’t think TD and Smith are in the win later mode. They proved that last year by taking two offensive players in the first, depite popular choice Dorsey and more D.

I see the benefit of Pettigrew. I think Ryan would love him. The O would just get better. But, for everyone that says that a DT or OLB will be available later, well so will a TE.

Build a defence and Ice will win a Superbowl.

#24: One or more of Maybin, Jerry, Cushing, Davis, Mathews Jr, Pettigrew, Hood, Maybin will be available. I build my Falcons draft on two criteria; BPA at a position of need.

#24: Here’s the order based on availability: Jerry/Maybin/Hood/Davis/Cushing/Mathews/Pettigrew

#24: Jerry DT
#44: Sintim OLB
#90: Nelson TE
#125: Allen CB
#138: Miava OLB
#143: Shaughnessy DE
#176: Boone OT

WR

April 21st, 2009
7:05 pm

Darrell and tbhawksfan, everyone understands the need to upgrade the defense, when considering taking Pettigrew the Falcons are looking at the big picture. Pettigrew is the only first round graded tight-end in the draft, that being said if he’s available you take him, he completes your young offense. Its the Falcons have said its a process. Going into last year the experts and fans believed the whole team was in total chao. What did the birds do, they got a RB,T, and a QB, and all of a sudden the offense was top ten which means that the so-called young inexperienced, no name, other eight players on the offense developed into a cohesive good unit which the people on the inside knew about but we didn’t. I believe the same process will show its self on the defense this year. As fans we saw a team without much of a pass rush, adequate run defense, and only one decent corner with an aging but mostly reliable safety. Internally the Falcons obviously see a very defense that is getting better, as I recall the Cardinals torched the vaulted defenses of the panthers, and eagles, they held their own against the best D in the league in the Superbowl, but against the falcons of their 30 points 9 came from turnovers and a safety, and 7 came from a play involving busted coverage which by my math leaves 14. Anyone who watched the falcons all year saw young players growing and older players showing longivity in the teeth. Yes the falcons appear to need help on defense, but I have a good feeling that a team with a defensive minded head coach would not let practically five starters go if they felt the defense was in such bad shape. As I said before its called player development, you don’t keep 52 men on your active roster to just watch the other 22 play, those players are there not only as reserves but for development which it would appear the falcons feel the development process is over and these players are ready. Harrison from pittsburgh came from no where and he was defensive player of the year, where do you think he was, he was on someones bench developing.

WR

April 21st, 2009
7:14 pm

Before someone points it out there were some serious gramatical errors in my last post, no I didn’t proofread the thing, my bad, but I think you get the point.

braveshater

April 21st, 2009
7:40 pm

McShabby is a joke, anyone of us could do his job better than he does.

Nookah

April 21st, 2009
8:51 pm

Darrell Starks and tbhawksfan, I direct you to the Falcons website.as I mentioned in an earlier post. Listen to TD’s interview. I’ll paraphrase….we never use the :best player on the board philosophy. We know we have weaknesses in defense but that does not mean we will not choose offensive talent. He also went on to state that he wants to use the early rounds to get “impact players” (his words). Please see my earlier post for other stuff, or better still listen to the interview.

Basically he is implying that if he sees a player that can make the offense better then he will choose the player. He also said he was pretty comfortable with the depth for the most part. I think he is certainly leaving the door open for a TE.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

darrell starks

April 21st, 2009
9:02 pm

Look defense wins championship ,
if CUSHING is gone this is what i would do .

1st pick SEAN SMITH OF UTAH SAFETY WILL BE A BEAST.
2nd pick RON BRACE OF BOSTON COLLEGE DT but i still like DORRELL SCOTT of CLEMSON 6′4 320 POUNDS DT who might be there in the fourth round.
3rd pick ASHER ALLEN of GEORGIA 5′11 run a 4.3 fourty will be a solid corner back in the nfl.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shamus Thacker

April 21st, 2009
9:45 pm

Whenever I think of DE/LB hybrids, I think of Tim Green. He was SO much a hybrid that he was no good at either position. It wasn’t his motor, preparation, or physical strength. He was as hard working as a player could be. Too slow, stiff, and terrible in “space,” to play LB. Too short, light, and easily moved, to play DE. He was better eventually, when bulked-up and devoted full-time to DL, but not by much.

To make a long and extremely boring story short; DON’T DRAFT NO DAMN HYBRID!

Shamus Thacker

April 21st, 2009
9:52 pm

I also think Pettigrew will be the pick.

D3

April 21st, 2009
9:58 pm

Good Tuesday Evening Gents! Gotta love looking on my computer and seeing “2009 NFL Draft – 3 Days Away!” Man, is it getting close or what? This is gonna be the most exciting draft for me after all this excitment and blogging for months now.

Cameron – what’s up bro’? Gotta disagree with you on trading up. Definitely don’t see us trading up to get anybody. As much as I’d love to have Jenkins, he’s not worth giving up draft picks for. Like to snag Ron Brace, but we’ll have to try in the second, b/c he’s not worth a 1st round pick, IMO.

Stirg – where you been my brotha’? You gotta get in on the Mock Draft competition man. Been waiting to get your mock saved and ready to go. You get full credit on the Pettigrew train. You hitched your horse to him a long time ago and I give you mad props for that. I’ve wavered back and forth until about a week ago and settled in the Pettigrew concrete after researching Cushing, Matthews, Hood, etc. myself. Nice work. Me-thinks there’s no hoopla for Brace (at least on my end), b/c he’s not worth #24 and he’ll be long gone by #55. If not, that would be a great 1-2 punch: ‘Grew & Brace? H— Yeah!

Tapate50 – welcome my friend. If Maybin slips to us, definitely pull the trigger, IMHO. He’s got the possibility to be another Terrell Suggs(Draftcountdown.com comparison), especially if he learns the ropes of an OLB. If he somehow fell, I think I’d still go with my boy Pettigrew.

Marko – good evenin’ G! Great points on Manning/Ryan analysis. Same as I said earlier. Even though DE’s not a huge need, MJ is too much of a talent to pass up. Move JA inside and let MJ groom for Abraham’s replacement, while competing with C.Davis. TG or ‘Grew will be fine with me. The TG trade definitely would give us a chance to draft a Sintim/Barwin/Maybin. Nice.

darrellstark – understood on defense, but we have addressed the D last year with Curtis Lofton, Chevis Jackson, Thomas DeCoud, and Kroy Bierrman. Brought in Von Hutchins(immediately got hurt) & Mike Peterson. Also have Petrino leftovers Stephen Nicholas & Trey Lewis ready to step in this year. We do need to address D, and we will, but Pettigrew is the only OFF exception.

tbhawks – definitely get your point of view. Pettigrew is the only exception to rule, but Sintim will be gone by #55 and Nelson/Cook/Ingram will be gone by round 3.

WR – you ‘da man! Great post about our OFF last year and the same possibility for our DEF this year. As you mentioned, with all due respect, three of the biggest plays on our defensive meltdown against the cards came against our long in the tooth vets (Milloy getting burnt on flea-flicker, Milloy getting torched by Boldin on a 3 yard pass, & Brooking’s 3 & 16).

dacha – all good my brother. I had to change a few myself. Got it saved.

Keep it coming boys! Days, and yes we can now say 3 DAYS AWAY!!!!! Anybody got some suggestions for a good tailgating item on the grill. My draft fesitivities are gettin’ cranked up @ noon with some good food, NFL Network/ESPN, and brew (undecided for the big event. Might have to go a little old-school college and break out the Newcastle).

Bill in Dallas

April 21st, 2009
10:18 pm

We do not need Pettigrew. We need defensive help. We lost four key members of last years defense, and did not lose a single tight end.

I really like Delmas, but would like to trade back and pick him up. My dream scenario has us trading our #1 to Cleveland for their 2 #2’s and pick up Delmas, Sintim, and Johnson.

In short, if we pick Pettigrew, I’m gonna throw something.

D3

April 21st, 2009
10:39 pm

dacha – nice Falcons mock. If we could somehow get Pettigrew and MJ that would the S—! Greg Toller is definitely shooting up the charts the week before the draft.

darrellstark – I was also really big on Sean Smith too, but he I think he’s more of a project as its undecided if he project to a S or CB. Most likely not a CB due to his height, and any move to S would definitely take patience. Like the Ron Brace pick for sure if he’s there.

Bill – now that is a serious dream scenario. I would give up on Pettigrwe if we could get those three in the second. Sintim may just go at the end of the 1st. If we don’t go Pettigrew, Sintim is my man. If we don’t take him watch for Baltimore, Buffalo, or even Pittsburgh possibly snagging him. The guy was a complete stud as a 4 year starter and got better each year. Perfect for the 3-4 ILB(which he played at UVA) or a 4-3 SAM. If we pass on Pettigrew, the next 3 TE’s that are heads above the rest are Shawn Nelson, Jared Cook, and Cornelius Ingram. Good chances are that we’ll have to spend our second round pick to get one. I too was really worried about our D losses, but let’s take a look at who we lost/let go:
1)Michael Boley – totally disappeared to the point he was replaced
2)Grady Jackson – a stop-gap that was a 2 down DT on downside
3)Lawyer Milloy – great leader; doesn’t currently even have a team
4)Keith Brooking – great Falcon; weak in coverage, downside of career
5)Dominique Foxworth – tough one to let go; Ravens over-paid, IMHO.

Guys ready to step in/step up: Thomas DeCoud for Milloy, Stephen Nicholas for Boley, Peterson for Brooking, Chevis Jackson for Foxworth, Trey Lewis for Grady. Doesn’t even include our DEF picks.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 21st, 2009
11:20 pm

I’m here, D3. I, too, have some final papers to complete and its been a hectic end of semester for me. Also, I’ve been in my Hawks’ zone. Where I live, I don’t get the chance to see Georgia sports (Falcons, Hawks, Braves, Maroon Tigers, etc.) everyday. So when the opportunity, like the Hawks’ showing, presents itself, I get into my zone. I do the whole sha-bang; I have a ritual. I do the fish (beer battered in Red Scripe, of course) and grits; and I sit in my Fulton County Stadium seat (yes; I have an original). I’ll get hyped up before the draft, don’t worry. I’ll submit my mock draft closer to draft day. I want to better study the trades prior to Saturday. Detroit feels good about signing their number one draft pick by Friday. With that, I’ll be able to develop a mock with more precision. I’m still heavy on Pettigrew; but Philadelphia appears to be attracted to the blocking tight end. He may go higher than expected. I’ll figure it all out by Friday. Save me a spot.

Daddys357. What is that? Do you have change for fifteen cents?

Boxcarar

April 21st, 2009
11:35 pm

I just pop in on occasion, but those saying MJ is a steal in 2nd round, if he “takes off plays”, that doesn’t sound like a Smitty or a BVG kind of guy. Please skip the KC trades. TG is a two year at best solution. Let Matty gel with a fresh TE for a long future and we don’t need two DL busts on the roster for such a salary cap hit.

Ken Strickland

April 21st, 2009
11:53 pm

I just don’t understand this obsession with the idea we have to get everything we need in this yrs draft. We’ll have the equivelent of an entire draft returning to the active roster from Injury Reserve, and some of them have starting experience. OT RFoster(starting exp), CB’s VHutchins(starting exp), DIrons & BGrimes(starting exp), SS AHarris, LB RJames and DT TLewis(starting exp).

You can’t realistically ignore or dismiss the talent and impact these players can and will have on this yrs team. There’s no logical reason to believe the players in this yrs draft can or will have a greater impact than these returning players, especially as potential starters.

D3

April 21st, 2009
11:58 pm

Alright Bird-Cage Gents, just a few more days until the Big Day! I’m actually already starting to get a little no-football depression, because after The Draft and analysis buzz, its zero football until July. And evidently my Bravo’s are heading down the same path as last year. Losing two in a row to the worst team in baseball? D@–! May & June, no Football. Bummer. Got a couple of golf majors and the Bravo’s. Hope they pick it up. Anyway, I digress……..

Falcons Mock Draft Cinco.4 (’Grew-MJ Version; although unlikely)
1)Brandon Pettigrew – TE
2)Michael Johnson – DE
3)Chip Vaughn – S
4)Sammie Hill – DT
5a)Keenan Lewis – CB
5b)Nic Harris – OLB
6)Lydon Murtha – T

See you on the flip-side boys. And on that note……………

3 DAYS, 12 HOURS, 1 MIN, & COUNTING!!!!!!!!!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
12:01 am

Stirg – all good. Are you wavering on ‘Grew at the last minute? I’m not too worried about Philly taking our boy. Saw a thing on ESPN and their guy is Moreno. Even so much so that they’re debating moving up to get him. Go HAWKS!!!!!!!!

WR

April 22nd, 2009
12:06 am

Darrell, I don’t want to go against your logic of defense wins championships, but ultimately the team wins championships. Baltimore has had a consistent top 3 defense for the past ten years, how many championships can they claim, same goes for tampa, both teams can claim exactly one more championship then the falcons and neither has been back to the superbowl. I’m not taking anything away from either of those teams, I am using those teams as a perfect example of why the falcons could be considering a TE at number one. If the Falcons had the first pick of the draft and Ronnie Lott was available, it would be a young Ronnie Lott to go with the young defense that is in place,now what is the antedote for a young defense, a power rushing, pass efficient, ball controlling offense, point being, yes you continue to build the defense through the draft and if you can grab a player that is not only considered the best at his position, but one of the top 15 players in the draft period and he fills a position of need you take him. Trust me as a Falcons fan I have seen the very few highs and many lows of the falcons drafts and most of the lows have come from reaching for players in position of needs, Micheal Booker, Audray Bruce, Jimmy Williams, T.J Duckett, Tony Smith, and this is just a few of the many screw-ups this franchise has made. I know last year got us thirsty for more but true fans want a consistent contender not a one hit wonder, and from what I have seen from this new regime the falcons are building for now and the future which is truly the way to win a championship. The birds have been to the big dance, the next year crashed, a few years ago went to the NFC championship, the next year crashed, go back to the draft after any of the years of success with the Falcons and you will see them reach for a player they could have had later in the draft instead of taking the best player available that fills a need, not only was it a reach but those players became bust, and the jury is still out on Jamaal Andersen.

WR

April 22nd, 2009
12:11 am

KStrickland, thats my point, consistent teams build through the draft and continue to build through the draft, you add a piece or two this year you lose a piece and add another next year, thats the game of football.

WR

April 22nd, 2009
12:16 am

D3, nice mock I definitely would be excited if those players fell into the falcons hands, although I think we could probably use another tackle, say moala in the third. I just don’t get the feeling the birds are thinking about grabbing another safety considering the youngsters they already have.

Ken Strickland

April 22nd, 2009
12:22 am

D3-don’t overlook the possibility of Buffalo taking TE BPettigrew.

Ken Strickland

April 22nd, 2009
12:41 am

Teams that rely primarily on their DEF, like the Bucs, Ravens, Bears, Titans, Panthers etc, have demonstrated the ability to win A championship, but not multiple championships, at least not without the help of a strong OFF. The Bears DEF was far superior to the Colts DEF, but they lost because their OFF wasn’t nearly as good as the Colts OFF.

The teams that win multiple championships, like the Steelers and Patriots, have a balance between their OFF and DEF.

JP

April 22nd, 2009
1:10 am

A ball control offense will ware down a very good defense. This is why I believe the falcons will draft TE Brandon Pettigrew at #24. This will give Ryan another weapon to keep the offense moving. This will also help the defense to stay fresh and rested.

NikkiFree

April 22nd, 2009
6:00 am

DOB,
I wish you’d have asked Kiper where another local product, OU’s George Robinson was going.

Dominick

April 22nd, 2009
6:35 am

I ‘,ve been following drafts since 1991 getting at first the ourlad’s draft guide then getting kippers form about’95 or so, been a falcons fan since ‘80. I recently been wathcing film on youtube of potential falcons picks and the BEST FILM I’VE SEEN HAS BEEN OF LARRY ENGLISH! Very impressed with this player, you guys should check him out. Looks like John Abraham! Another player I was really impressed with almost as much as English was CLAY JR. would be very hppy with either in the first! Did’nt like CUSHING that much.

Dominick

April 22nd, 2009
6:38 am

ORLANDO! Check out English and clay and tell us what you think!

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
8:13 am

Morning my brothers in the fold!! Dacha, you rolled over on me..LOL. You bought into D3 and the ‘Grew. It’s all good. Now I have to buy tissues for two of my brothers. Just kidding, man. I’m still thinking that either the Cheesesteak Outlet or the Icebox on Lake Erie will get ‘Grew before us. But hey, that’s why we are playing this game.

I’m a Nole as most would guess. I know that there are some question with MJ but I do not see him falling to third unless there is news we are not aware of. i agree with D.O. Leds, forget Vonte Davis ending up in ATL. TD and Smitty jettisoned MeAngelo for his mouth; Davis is not one that takes well to coaching supposedly so his ship is already down as far as the Birds are considered.

Will have to make a modification or two to my mocks over the next 48 hours as I attempt to wait out the trades that are sure to come. Denver is blowing smoke..they will take Sanchez. Orton is not the long-term answer there. Question is will the move up to pick at #4 or #8. Will see.

JJ

April 22nd, 2009
8:24 am

D3: Still fine tuning my sheet of integrity and drive for the KASH! or belt.

Marko

April 22nd, 2009
8:24 am

Morning all, well it seems that little Michael’s ticket back to the good life is genuine remorse I’ve always felt that sincerity was the key to success. If you can fake that you’ve pretty much got it made. I suspect that Michael might have a bigger problem. Matt Ryan exposed him as a running back playing out of position. There’s absolutely no question that he has the physical skills to be a quarterback. What Vick lacks is the mental skills required to be a successful NFL QB. By the same token, I possess all the physical skills required of a first rate rocket scientist. It’s the mental part that I can’t quite get the hang of. Perhaps I’m underestimating the kid. If he picks up a play book and makes a genuine effort to understand it, he might succeed yet. For his sake let’s hope so.

The boy’s on the NFL Network were speculating on the Gonzalez trade. They proposed a rather scary prospect for those of us that would enjoy seeing him in a different shade of red. Next year. The Eagles are said to be interested in Tony The whole thing seems to hinge on Pettigrew, If He’s still on the board when the Eagles pick, he’s Andy’s guy. If Brandon goes early, Buffalo’s rumored to be interested; A Tony Gonzalez bidding war could be the result. If so, I don’t like the outlook. Philadelphia has bordered on being a great team for many years and they’re getting pretty old at several key positions. Their window of opportunity seems to be closing if they don’t get the job done this year; they’re in for some major changes. Anyway I felt that Thomas might fancy Tony enough to over pay a bit for his services. I didn’t figure on Andy Reid being desperate enough to give the farm away for him. Guess we’ll know Sunday morning won’t we.

angry banker

April 22nd, 2009
10:13 am

D3 – you mention Nicolas stepping up to replace Boley. Didn’t Wire get 80% of the snaps from game 5 and on? People are making a big deal about boley leaving, but we never used him.

My concearn is with our D line – how do you replace a guy who’s as big as a house? I like trey, but I see him and moorehead as back ups and subs for Babs – I think we absolutly have to draft a big boy to help plug the gaps up front.

Sarah B

April 22nd, 2009
10:46 am

D3 – the draft is special! I’d go with Babyback Ribs with a nice southern vinegar bbq sauce!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
10:49 am

Spent the morning listening to the interview that TD did on website and as D3 noted, it opens many a door. TD maintained one consistent theme in any and all interviews he has given to date. The Birds will address NEED over popular opinion. His intense focus is on the team in the long term and he does not seem to waiver in that belief.

I have been a Falcon fan all my life even when my friends and family members in south GA were in love with the likes of the Steelers and the Cowboys. History will reflect, I think, that things began to change for the Falcons the day that AB selected TD to be his GM. Our front office has never been more functional, more focused, and more driven to excel. Rich McKay was the man in Tampa, I will give him that, but the star lost some luster in ATL. But he, if he can give us a outdoor stadium on par with Raymond James, he will have succeeded here as well.

Check out TD’s remarks at the following link. They are very thought provoking. May result in a few changes in a couple of mocks too. Laters.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-falcons-draft&prov=ap&type=lgns

D3

April 22nd, 2009
10:58 am

Good AM Gents! It’s hump-day of draft week and the excitement’s building for the grand finale. Getting those final mocks, looking at the last before the draft (which seems pretty quiet by comparison to other years), getting the menu together for the Draft Day festivities at mi casa, and having the ultimate of debates……….what brew should I go with on the big day? Thinking about harkening back to my college days and going a little Newcastle, or might opt some good summer brew since it looks to be beautiful this Sat, like Sweetwater Hummer maybe. Anyway, I digress………..

WR – couldn’t have stated it any better my man. By definition, especially in this year’s draft, there is no lock @ #24. You have to be fluid and find a happy medium between needs-based and best player available. The reason NE, Pittsburgh, Philly, Colts, & SD stay on top is there excellent ability to pick later in the rounds. Pettigrew will much more of an impact than say, Hood, Matthews, or Cushing. Definitely boom or bust year for JA. You and Ken may be right about drafting a S. Really depends how much DeCoud is ready to step in. Never hurts for insurance.

Ken Strick – yeah, I’ve thought about Buffalo there, but they desperately need to fill Jason Peters empty tackle spot, IMO. They can afford to wait ’till the second and take a guy like Nelson, Cook, or Ingram. JMO, I think they grab best T available at #11, and grab best OLB/DE hybrid @ #28, like English or Barwin, or vice versa.

Big Ray – on your point, seriously. This week’s going pretty fast so far IMO, though. Knock on wood.

JP – you got it. Pettigrew’s too good to pass up. Everybody complains that he’s not a burner. Well, what complete, all-around TE’s are? 3 best TE’s in the league, Witten-Gonzalez-Gates, are not.

Dominick – definitely like English. He’s 3rd on “my” preference chart behind Pettigrew & Clint Sintim.

Seminole – you may be right my bro’, but I can’t see Buffalo taking ‘Grew at #11. Best available Tackle or DE/OLB Hybrid. They can snag Nelson/Cook/Ingram in the second. D@– straight on Vontae Davis. I wouldn’t draft him in any round. If he’s Mini-Meangelo Hall as NFL.com’s Gil Brandt says, H-to-the-E-to-the-Double-L NO! We had the real thing and thank G we got him gone. Great question on Sanchez and the Broncs. They’ll have to move up to #8, b/c I don’t see him dropping past San Fran. Me thinks Seattle waits one more year for QB due to Seneca Wallaces somewhat steady (not good, mind you) play. I starting the get the feeling that the Seahawks might snag him after all. Hasselbeck is chandelier-man and hasn’t had a good year in ages.

JJ- all good my friend. Got ’till saturday.

Rollin’ towards the big event! T-Minus 3 DAYS AND COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
11:21 am

Prepare the sirens! Hungry, blog-eating monster on the loose. He must have awoken from hibernation.

richbrave

April 22nd, 2009
11:24 am

And UNIVERSITY of RICHMOND’s LAWRENCE SIDBURY JR. now late second-early third per MR. KIPER. “He’s movin’ on up to the east side…gonna’ get a piece of the pie” Better look at him before he’s gone. GREG TOLER also.

webhead

April 22nd, 2009
11:26 am

Dallas plays Atl. this year and man, Brookong is going to knock the shit out of Ryan and That sorry excuse for a running back. You know which one I’m talking about, the one that falls down before contact. I feel sorry for Pettigrew when Brook takes his head off. If TD had any sense he would take Moreno so we can have a real running back. Peace out!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 22nd, 2009
11:49 am

Yeah, D3. I’m still cheering for Pettigrew. Drafting him kills three birds with one stone. He fills the need for a tackle and adds blocking to the run game; he add minutes to the time of possession, which leaves a weakened defense on the sideline; and he adds an additional threat to our passing game. I agree with WR; when you have a talent that can change the dynamics of your game still on the board, you grab him. Hey WR, I don’t remember Tony Smith…

Fellows, let’s take a moment to lift our Red Scripes and join me in a toast, to the man that made it possible for us to sit here and enjoy, in confidence, a GM (Thomas Dimitroff) that knows what he’s doing. Arthur Blank has given us someone that has unanimously captured the full support of Atlanta and its fans. We would not be here, positive-blogging, if it weren’t for Bill Parcells.

Yes, I said it. Lift your bottles (never drink a Red Scripe from a glass) and join me with a salute to The Big Tuna for his recommendation of TD. It was he, after accepting Miami’s deal over Atlanta’s, that suggested Blank should consider this kid from New England. It kind of demonstrates the respect league officials have for Parcells. Just off Parcells’ recomendation alone, Blank hired Dimitroff over a video conference. So, Big Tuna, here’s to you. See you in the SuperBowl.

D3

April 22nd, 2009
11:51 am

Apologize if this is a re-post. The monster is angry today.

Good AM Gents! It’s hump-day of draft week and the excitement’s building for the grand finale. Getting those final mocks, looking at the last before the draft (which seems pretty quiet by comparison to other years), getting the menu together for the Draft Day festivities at mi casa, and having the ultimate of debates……….what brew should I go with on the big day? Thinking about harkening back to my college days and going a little Newcastle, or might opt some good summer brew since it looks to be beautiful this Sat, like Sweetwater Hummer maybe. Anyway, I digress………..

WR – couldn’t have stated it any better my man. By definition, especially in this year’s draft, there is no lock @ #24. You have to be fluid and find a happy medium between needs-based and best player available. The reason NE, Pittsburgh, Philly, Colts, & SD stay on top is there excellent ability to pick later in the rounds. Pettigrew will much more of an impact than say, Hood, Matthews, or Cushing. Definitely boom or bust year for JA. You and Ken may be right about drafting a S. Really depends how much DeCoud is ready to step in. Never hurts for insurance.

Ken Strick – yeah, I’ve thought about Buffalo there, but they desperately need to fill Jason Peters empty tackle spot, IMO. They can afford to wait ’till the second and take a guy like Nelson, Cook, or Ingram. JMO, I think they grab best T available at #11, and grab best OLB/DE hybrid @ #28, like English or Barwin, or vice versa.

Big Ray – on your point, seriously. This week’s going pretty fast so far IMO, though. Knock on wood.

JP – you got it. Pettigrew’s too good to pass up. Everybody complains that he’s not a burner. Well, what complete, all-around TE’s are? 3 best TE’s in the league, Witten-Gonzalez-Gates, are not.

Dominick – definitely like English. He’s 3rd on “my” preference chart behind Pettigrew & Clint Sintim.

Seminole – you may be right my bro’, but I can’t see Buffalo taking ‘Grew at #11. Best available Tackle or DE/OLB Hybrid. They can snag Nelson/Cook/Ingram in the second. D@– straight on Vontae Davis. I wouldn’t draft him in any round. If he’s Mini-Meangelo Hall as NFL.com’s Gil Brandt says, H-to-the-E-to-the-Double-L NO! We had the real thing and thank G we got him gone. Great question on Sanchez and the Broncs. They’ll have to move up to #8, b/c I don’t see him dropping past San Fran. Me thinks Seattle waits one more year for QB due to Seneca Wallaces somewhat steady (not good, mind you) play. I starting the get the feeling that the Seahawks might snag him after all. Hasselbeck is chandelier-man and hasn’t had a good year in ages.

JJ- all good my friend. Got ’till saturday.

Rollin’ towards the big event! T-Minus 3 DAYS AND COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
11:58 am

Stirg, I love that and with a Red Stripe to boot. I am raising my bottle as I type these words of commendation to you Sir. Nuff respect!!!

I guess we should always remember these words…….With the first pick in the 2008 GM search, the Falcons select…..TD

With the second pick in the 2008 Coach search, the Falcons select…….MS…

….and THE PROCESS is underway…………….to be continued!!!!

GO FALCONS!!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
11:59 am

Post Attempt #4 – Apologies if re-post.

Good AM Gents! It’s hump-day of draft week and the excitement’s building for the grand finale. Getting those final mocks, looking at the last week before the draft (which seems pretty quiet by comparison to other years), getting the menu together for the Draft Day festivities at mi casa, and having the ultimate of debates……….what brew should I go with on the big day? Thinking about harkening back to my college days and going a little Newcastle, or might opt some good summer brew since it looks to be beautiful this Sat, like Sweetwater maybe. Anyway, I digress………..

WR – couldn’t have stated it any better my man. By definition, especially in this year’s draft, there is no lock @ #24. You have to be fluid and find a happy medium between needs-based and best player available. The reason NE, Pittsburgh, Philly, Colts, & SD stay on top is there excellent ability to pick later in the rounds. Pettigrew will much more of an impact than say, Hood, Matthews, or Cushing. Definitely boom or bust year for JA. You and Ken may be right about drafting a S. Really depends how much DeCoud is ready to step in. Never hurts for insurance.

Ken Strick – yeah, I’ve thought about Buffalo there, but they desperately need to fill Jason Peters empty tackle spot, IMO. They can afford to wait ’till the second and take a guy like Nelson, Cook, or Ingram. JMO, I think they grab best T available at #11, and grab best OLB/DE hybrid @ #28, like English or Barwin, or vice versa.

Big Ray – on your point, seriously. This week’s going pretty fast so far IMO, though. Knock on wood.

JP – you got it. Pettigrew’s too good to pass up. Everybody complains that he’s not a burner. Well, what complete, all-around TE’s are? 3 best TE’s in the league, Witten-Gonzalez-Gates, are not.

Dominick – definitely like English. He’s 3rd on “my” preference chart behind Pettigrew & Clint Sintim.

Seminole – you may be right my bro’, but I can’t see Buffalo taking ‘Grew at #11. Best available Tackle or DE/OLB Hybrid. They can snag Nelson/Cook/Ingram in the second. D@– straight on Vontae Davis. I wouldn’t draft him in any round. If he’s Mini-Meangelo Hall as NFL.com’s Gil Brandt says, H-to-the-E-to-the-Double-L NO! We had the real thing and thank G we got him gone. Great question on Sanchez and the Broncs. They’ll have to move up to #8, b/c I don’t see him dropping past San Fran. Me thinks Seattle waits one more year for QB due to Seneca Wallaces somewhat steady (not good, mind you) play. I starting the get the feeling that the Seahawks might snag him after all. Hasselbeck is chandelier-man and hasn’t had a good year in ages.

JJ- all good my friend. Got ’till saturday.

T-Minus 3 DAYS AND COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
12:02 pm

Good AM Gents! It’s mid-week day of draft week and the excitement’s building for the grand finale. Getting those final mocks, looking at the last before the draft (which seems pretty quiet by comparison to other years), getting the menu together for the Draft Day festivities at mi casa, and having the ultimate of debates……….what brew should I go with on the big day? Thinking about harkening back to my college days and going a little Newcastle, or might opt some good summer brew since it looks to be beautiful this Sat, like Sweetwater Hummer maybe. Anyway, I digress………..

D3

April 22nd, 2009
12:02 pm

WR – couldn’t have stated it any better my man. By definition, especially in this year’s draft, there is no lock @ #24. You have to be fluid and find a happy medium between needs-based and best player available. The reason NE, Pittsburgh, Philly, Colts, & SD stay on top is there excellent ability to pick later in the rounds. Pettigrew will much more of an impact than say, Hood, Matthews, or Cushing. Definitely boom or bust year for JA. You and Ken may be right about drafting a S. Really depends how much DeCoud is ready to step in. Never hurts for insurance.

D3

April 22nd, 2009
12:02 pm

Ken Strick – yeah, I’ve thought about Buffalo there, but they desperately need to fill Jason Peters empty tackle spot, IMO. They can afford to wait ’till the second and take a guy like Nelson, Cook, or Ingram. JMO, I think they grab best T available at #11, and grab best OLB/DE hybrid @ #28, like English or Barwin, or vice versa.

Big Ray – on your point, seriously. This week’s going pretty fast so far IMO, though. Knock on wood.

JP – you got it. Pettigrew’s too good to pass up. Everybody complains that he’s not a burner. Well, what complete, all-around TE’s are? 3 best TE’s in the league, Witten-Gonzalez-Gates, are not.

Dominick – definitely like English. He’s 3rd on “my” preference chart behind Pettigrew & Clint Sintim.

Seminole – you may be right my bro’, but I can’t see Buffalo taking ‘Grew at #11. Best available Tackle or DE/OLB Hybrid. They can snag Nelson/Cook/Ingram in the second. D@– straight on Vontae Davis. I wouldn’t draft him in any round. If he’s Mini-Meangelo Hall as NFL.com’s Gil Brandt says, H-to-the-E-to-the-Double-L NO! We had the real thing and thank G we got him gone. Great question on Sanchez and the Broncs. They’ll have to move up to #8, b/c I don’t see him dropping past San Fran. Me thinks Seattle waits one more year for QB due to Seneca Wallaces somewhat steady (not good, mind you) play. I starting the get the feeling that the Seahawks might snag him after all. Hasselbeck is chandelier-man and hasn’t had a good year in ages.

JJ- all good my friend. Got ’till saturday.

Rollin’ towards the big event! T-Minus 3 DAYS AND COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 22nd, 2009
12:18 pm

You feel me, Nookah? I know its only noon but we don’t have to wait until Saturday to have a beer. Do we?

I got something else on my mind that I think will affect your mock. Detroit is going to draft, for their first pick, an offensive tackle. I don’t know who is the best OT for number one (Jason Smith or Eugene Monroe) but I think Detroit is going to use Atlanta as a model for success. Check it out…

Do you know what hid Matt Ryan’s rookie mistakes and allowed him to mature as a quarterback? A solid running game. While we were at the top of the league in rushing last year, Ryan was able to learn and mature on-the-job as a quarterback. We knew that we needed a quarter back, going into last year’s draft, but we also knew that he needed support. Ryan’s success would not have been possible without drafting Sam Baker and acquiring Michael Turner. I think Detroit will attempt to draft the best tackle (like Miami did) and grab the best running back, with their second pick (20). Culpepper entered off-season workouts looking like a beast. He looked like a man on a mission and is hungry to start. Considering that, all he needs is a little support (a good tackle and a strong running game) to be successful. Remember, they got Calvin Johnson and three picks before our “#55″. They can go OT, RB and defense, all in two rounds. What a remarkable position.

We’ll know if I’m either draft-smart or draft-ignorant by Friday. Detroit plans to announce and sign their number one before the draft on Saturday. I do believe that pick will be an offensive tackle.

Marko

April 22nd, 2009
12:21 pm

Strig, welcome back to the land of the living. I’d been wondering where you’d gone. I didn’t know that the Tuna had recommended Dimitroff to Arthur I’ve hated the guy for leaving us at the alter. I guess that I might have to down grade my hatred, of all things Tuna, to second class indignation.

Can someone help me figure out why my earlier comment has been flagged awaiting moderation? I used no wordy durds. I’m mystified.

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
12:29 pm

D3, even though the Bills traded Peters to Philly, does not necessarily say they’ll have this position as a priority in the draft. They may be in the same position we are in, as Ken has highlighted on a number of occasions. They selected a guy last year in the 7th round who they think is a sleeper. His name is Demetrius Bell. Not sure how good he is but if they have confidence in his development they may still go TE, OL or DL (their needs before the trade). The point Ken continues to make is very valid. What appears to be a need from last year on any team might not necessarily be filled in the draft. They may have players on their roster being developed.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

WR

April 22nd, 2009
12:43 pm

Stirg, Tony Smith was the running back out of Southern Miss whom some compared to Tony Dorsett, he went on to return kickoffs for Atlanta and eventually fizzled out. I’m really looking forward to this draft, honestly I don’t think the Falcons can go wrong as long as they get a player of need without reaching. I’m still working on my final mock because things are starting to heat up between the teams, KC needs a second round pick, you have Braylon Edwards and Boldin rumors flying around, Denver has two first round picks to toy with, the giants and ravens appear to be in desparate need of a receiver, and we have the birds who have a few early late round selections to throw out there in order to move around in the draft. D3 I’m starting to think you came up with this mock draft competition to punish us all into burning up brain cells like you had to do for that paper, good think we have our Red Stripes, they make you think a bit clearer, or at least make you feel like your thinking clearer. Is clearer a word, d**n this red stripe is good.

dacha

April 22nd, 2009
12:45 pm

D3: Thanks for the changes, man. Your Falcons mock is a homerun if we go that way. I think that Nic Harris is a definite sleeper at OLB.

Seminole: Sry, bro…as much as I would like to have a kid like Laurinaitis, I changed my mind on Philly taking Pettigrew. I just don’t think that they can pass up on Knowshon and, as a result, I don’t see us passing up on Pettigrew. Which is fine with me. Maybe Philly is good for something?…ok, maybe not.

BTW, have ya’ll seen that the draft doesn’t begin until FOUR O CLOCK on Saturday? What happened to noon???!!! I can’t wait!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 22nd, 2009
12:51 pm

Thanks for the welcoming, Marko. I have a lot of homework. Plus, I been in my Hawks zone. Matter of fact, I got to run to the fish market to prepare for the game tonight. There aint nothing like fish and grits (with a Red Scripe, of course), while watching the Hawks in the playoffs.

Yes, I read that last year. I think it was an Arthur Blank interview, where he expressed his disappointment when Parcells took the job in Miami (Blank went for Parcells, heavy). I think the two had mutual respect for each other, enough for Parcells to recommend “the next best thing”. The rest is history. The proff is in our very similar records. Miami’s turnaround season looked very similar to ours. They filled some of the same voids that we had. Parcells is very gifted with an eye for football. I tip my hat to him.

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
12:51 pm

Stirg, I for one would not be surprised if they go that route. Please see who I have at the top of my mock…Jason Smith. Apart from the points you have raised which I endorse wholeheartedly, bear in mind that they have the #20 the #33 pick (top of the 2nd round). So they will have a large financial obligation to their first 2 picks and a high 2nd round. Also bear in mind one of the responsibilities of the GM is to make the organization financially viable while producing a winning product on the field. As GM’s like our own TD and Scott Pioli have proven, you can get good value in the lower rounds.

The situation they are now faced with, is do we take a QB, who is going to command Matt Ryan $’s ($72M or 8% increase – this is the average increase paid to 1 – 10 in the draft over the last 5 – 10 years, that equates to approximately $78M), and a #20 pick, and also sell tickets to cover those costs. Do not forget very importantly Stirg’s point, Culpepper has come to earn his job this year and he is re-united with Scott Linehan. This is his opportunity for a re-birth as it were and he is grabbing the opportunity with both hands. So QB might not be an immediate need in their eyes.

I am with you Stirg, I think it will be Jason Smith. Another scenario to think about also is do they go defense and take Aaron Curry. I am still thinking about that possibility.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
12:52 pm

Stirg- I agree on Detroit’s position. They should go OT (Long or Monroe) at #1 and defense with their #20, and wait ’til next year to take a QB. Stafford’s a great talent, to be sure, but that team has more holes than swiss cheese, and history is littered with QBs who were drafted high and inserted into shoddy teams only to fail because they had no supporting cast. I’m not a Georgia fan, but I feel for Stafford; if he drops past #1, everyone will call it a big disappointment, but if he goes to Detroit, he’s going to be getting paid ridiculous money in a city where the unemployment rate is above 20%, with even more ridiculous expectations, playing behind a terrible offensive line. I think the Detroit management would be smart to take an OT with the #1, because if they take Stafford, they’re in the same boat with him. If they take an OT, they are building for the future and, frankly, they can find just a “good enough” QB like Jevan Snead or Colt McCoy in next year’s draft.

D3- dude, this is has become your blog, in effect. Will work on my mock and get it to you when I get a chance. But I still don’t see Pettigrew being the right choice for the Falcons. I’m hoping like heck that there’s an OT and WR run that panics someone enough to trade up into the 24 spot, and gets us a 2 and a 3 (or whatever the magic value matrices say it’s worth). Frankly, I think that the offense will be better this year than it was last without additions, with the unit becoming more experienced together. I’d love the Falcons to take a TE, but would rather they did it in the 3rd round. Never take the first player in a “deep” position, unless that player is a future hall of famer, and I don’t think that Pettigrew is that player. I don’t argue with the logic that a good TE would help the offense, I just feel like the defense needs too much to spend that #1 on a “nice to have” position like TE, especially when a pretty good TE like Ingram or Coffman can be found in the 2nd or 3rd round (or Quinn in the 4th or 5th).

My ‘druthers:
The Falcons trade down and get a high 2nd and a 3rd, and take a combination of Sintim, Sidbury, Coffman (or Vrabel clone Connor Barwin with the 2nd, if he lasts that long), and wait ’til the 4th and 5th to take their big body up front in Dorell Scott or Roy Miller. A twist on that would be to wait until the 4th or 5th to take a decent TE like Quinn, and use the 3rd on an O-lineman, if a good one’s there. Frankly, I think I’d rather have a good long term O-lineman to use as a near-term backup and develop for the future than a TE. That may stir up the storm on here, because there’s a lot of very well-reasoned sentiment for a good TE, but I think that the Falcons’ priority on Offense should be ensuring that the O-line will be good for years to come. They can get by with just a decent TE. Look at the Giants. They won a Super Bowl with a great defensive front four, a great offensive line, and a pretty good QB. The only reason anyone knows who their TE is (K Boss) is because he plays for the Giants, not because he’s that talented. I’d rather the Falcons go that route, and build dominant D- and O-lines. In another parallel to the Giants, the addition of a healthy Thomas Brown to Turner and Norwood could potentially give the Falcons a three headed monster in the backfield a la the Giants’ Jacobs-Ward-Bradshaw combo of the last few years. Just something to chew on.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
12:58 pm

Afternoon, my brothers. Been doing some extensive reading this morn as I begin to assess my final additions/subtractions to my mock. The blog has been very revealing over the last few days. Of particular note, I have been re-playing the interview with TD on the website as well as re-reading the text on Yahoo Sports. As some of the posse knows, I have been questioning the readiness of BVG as an NFL coordinator. Now, It appears that TD has convinced Smitty to shift to a 3-4 scheme at times as well.

A second article caught my attention on yesterday as well. This one was in ProFootball Weekly. Note this:

Atlanta Falcons
Brian VanGorder may be the defensive coordinator, but make no mistake about it, head coach Mike Smith’s fingerprints are all over the Falcons’ 4-3 base defense, which relies heavily on ends to turn the corner, featuring big bodies inside to plug the middle and heavy zone coverage on the back end. The Falcons’ ability to create more pressure inside with an in-the-middle, upfield penetrator would take significant pressure off the back end and lessen the need for corners to have to cover long, lessening the demand for an elite cornerback. Athletic big men who can rush the passer come at a premium, and the Falcons could use another to work in a rotation with underrated Jonathan Babineaux to maximize the effectiveness of the rotation.

Third point…I’m still hearing echoes of Coach Hamilton and I honsetly feel that he provided an early clue to this transition last season. See, it is becoming harder and harder to find the bigger, run-stuffers of years past. Yes, a few come out each year but speed is the name of today’s game.

Fourth point, a part-time 3-4 scheme would possibly allow us to use try Lewis as a NT and lessen his role as an everydown player. That would be a plus in helping protect that knee. A later round selection such as Hill or Taylor would re-enforce the 3-4 NT need.

Final point. Enhancing the pass rush is the deal here. If we use the 4-3 (Tampa 2), then interior speed becomes a key.

I’m REALLY feeling Peria Jerry or Ziggy Hood here at 24. Comments my friends? Am I reading too deeply into these articles and interviews?

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 22nd, 2009
12:59 pm

Ohhhh, I remember Tony Smith, WR. Wow! Good memory (I’ve burned all my memory cells. I’m in college). And slow down with the Red Scripes, my friend. I’m just on my second one and its not even one o’clock. I’m trying to get where you are. I want my words to be slurred too.

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
1:01 pm

Comment just got eaten. Another long and rambling soliloquy, up in smoke. Man, that is frustrating.

Ken Strickland

April 22nd, 2009
1:01 pm

ANGRY BANKER-massive big as a house GJackson was our starting DT for most of 3yrs, and we still ended up with one of the worst rushing and passing DEF’s in the NFL. TD and Smitty found out last yr that he was a liability, not an asset, which is why he wasn’t resigned even though we’re thin at DT. TLewis is quicker, faster, more mobile, has more endurance and at 323lbs isn’t exactly a light weight. GJackson is a classic 3-4 NT and is not suitable or effective as a 4-3 DT, and that’s been proven over the last 3yrs. The Jaguars found that out after they signed him in 07, which is why they released him and made him available for us to sign last yr.

You seem to think GJackson’s massive size qualifies him as a starter. Exactly what is it about DT TLewis, who is superior in every category except being overweight, that makes you feel he should be a backup. What makes you think any DT we take in this draft will automatically be able to outperform TLewis? Condidering the amount of rehab TLewis has gone through the last 2 yrs, he could very well come back stronger and more motivated than he was before his injuries.

As far as the possibility of us drafting a TE with our 1st pick is concerned, remember, the Patriots have been dominate over the last several yrs by featuring a dominate OFF, not a dominate DEF. Their DEF has been good, but seldom dominate.

irvin

April 22nd, 2009
1:25 pm

Amen to that K. Strick. I am opposed to drafting a DT before round three. It is essentially trumping T.Lewis and/or Babs.

I MUS.WRITE

April 22nd, 2009
1:37 pm

Happy Hump day everybody………. 3 days and counting, I dont think Maybin slips that far and even if he does i dont think he’s the pick….. I dont like the idea of our DE being 236 Lbs- he will be a good player but I would pass. MJ in the 3rd round-Come on ….. Thats rediculous -If he’s sitting there at 55 then he has got to be the pick. Good mocks Dacha and D3- if we had a chance to get Mj in the 2nd my Draft would go a little sumthing like thiiis- Drum Roll Please….

1-CB Darius Butler

2-DE Micheal Johnson

3- LB Zach Follette

4-SS Chip Vaughn

5. DT- Roy Miller

5 OT Andrew Gardner

6 TE- Purvis or the guy from Maryland

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
1:47 pm

Nookah and Strig are on the mark as usual. The re-union of Linehan and Culpepper will serve Detroit well. Culpepper brings stability and with SL, a new sense of focus on offense. Kevin Smith flashed potential at RB last season and we know CJ is a beast. I am revising my top order and I will be taking Jason Smith with the #1 for the Lions. Linehan can keep things in check for a year or so. Besides, Kyle Orton is a free agent next season and the jury is still out in Denver.

Speaking of free agency, looking ahead to next season, and keeping in mind the “possibility” of more 3-4 play in ATL this season (per TD), keep a close eye on Vince Wilfork. TD scouted him, TD drafted him, and TD loves this kid.

Ken Strickland

April 22nd, 2009
1:50 pm

D3-think about the number of people who thought we were definitely going to draft DT GDorsey, considering how badly we needed a DT. A complete TE like Pettigrew, considering his superior blocking skills, would allow them to get by with a serviceable OT. Besides, it’s a lot easier to acquire a serviceable OT than a complete TE like Pettigrew. I remember how the DIRTY BIRDS went to the Superbowl using a dominatte rushing attack and a serviceable OT named Mohammad. It was the superior blocking ability of TE Santiago, who had limited receiving skills, that made it work.

SEMINOLE WARRIOR-we don’t have to take a DT at #24 to get what we need at the position. We can wait until the 2nd rd and take Auburn’s Sen’Derrick Marks or USC’s FMoala. The difference in skill level and overall ability that exists between TE Pettigrew and the #2 rated TE is vast. The difference in skill level and overall ability between Jerry or Hood and Sen’Derrick Marks or Moala is not that evident.

If we needed a quick, fast penetrating playmaking DT because we didn’t already have one, then we go with the 1st rd DT selection. Since we already have that in JBabineaux, all we need is a simular type of DT to compliment him, and that can be done with a 2nd or 3nd rd selection.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
1:53 pm

K-Strick, well stated. Take a look at the Patriot way. Be solid and be flexible on defense. Run well and spread the field on offense. Get some turnovers, get points off turnovers, and play TOP-NOTCH special teams.

That is what TD is establishing here. And again, his interview and the hint of periodic 3-4 play is quite telling. Again, am I missing the mark or reaching my brothers?

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
1:58 pm

K Strick, I share your points. My gut, and it is simply that, my gut tells me that the choice will be on the defensive side of the ball. ‘Grew, as D3 calls him, would be a fine choice I will admit it. But I just feel in my soul the pick will be Jerry or Hood. I think Smitty and TD want that impact interior pass rusher sooner rather than later.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
2:05 pm

Detriot will take Jason Smith, then shock the world with the selection of QB Josh Freeman with the second pick in the first round. He could learn under Linehan for a year or two behind Culpepper. And they will get defensive in the second round. The model used last season by the Falcons with slight variations in order of selection.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 22nd, 2009
2:06 pm

Hello All,

When we ask Coach Smith at the Owner’s meeting if any schematic changes were on the way, the answer was “no.” Hey, things change. It must be kept in mind that the Falcons used some 3-man fronts last season with Stephen Nicholas at defensive end.

D. Led

irvin

April 22nd, 2009
2:07 pm

Okay guys, here is my first attempt at a mock draft.

01- DET- QB Mathew Stafford
02- STL- OT Jason Smith
03- KC – LB Aaron Curry
04- SEA- OT Eugene Monroe
05- CLE- WR Michael Crabtree
06- CIN- OT Andre Smith
07- OAK- WR Jeremy Maclin
08- JAC- DT B.J. Raji
09- GB- OT Michael Oher
10- SF- DE Brian Orakpo
11- BUF- DE Aaron Maybin
12- DEN- Tyson Jackson
13- WAS- QB Mark Sanchez
14- NO- LB Rey Mauluga
15- HOU- DB Malcolm Jenkins
16- SD- OT Eben Britton
17- NYJ- WR Darrius Heyward-Bey
18- DEN- LB Clay Mathews Jr.
19- TB- DE Robert Ayers
20- DET- OT William Beatty
21- PHI- RB Knowshon Moreno
22- MIN- OT Phil Loadholt
23- NE- LB Brian Cushing
24- ATL- TE Brandon Pettigrew
25- MIA- WR Hakeem Nicks
26- BAL- WR Brian Robiskie
27- IND- DT Peria Jerry
28- BUF- C Alex Mack
29- NYG- WR Kenny Britt
30- TEN- DB Vontae Davis
31- ARI- RB Chris Wells
32- PIT- DB Darius Butler

ATL
1- TE Brandon Pettigrew
2- DE Michael Johnson
3- S David Brutton
4- DT Dorell Scott
5- OT Fenuki Tupou
5- TE Dan Gronkowsi
6- CB Morgan Trent

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
2:08 pm

Seminole, will Freeman pass the J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets? I don’t think so.

Go Falcons!!

irvin

April 22nd, 2009
2:20 pm

Sorry about the error. Put WR Aaron Kelly in for Dan Gronkowski.

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
3:05 pm

Curry to Detroit!!!!????? You heard it here first!!!!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
3:16 pm

Stirg – you know you da’ man. But I have one small change to your following-Falcons route. They drafted Kevin Smith in the second round last year and he showed glimpes as a rookie behind that pathetic excuse they called a line. They can add Stafford as their francise QB (granted he’s no Matt Ryan, but he’ll be great with the proper time, MHO), draft the best available tackle at #20 (Eben Britton or William Beatty), and that would give them a good young core: Calvin Johnson, Kevin Smith, Stafford, Britton/Beatty. They have tons of picks they can use on DEF the rest of the way out. I will say that if Detroit goes Tackle first, that will absolutely destroy my mock draft.

Marko – the blog eating monster is very sporadic. Choosing meals at random to hold in purgatory moderation. In all seriousness, it ate like 4 of mine earlier. I’ve started to save all my posts assuming they will be eaten.

Nookah – good point home-skillet. You’re correct about the Bills, but I still don’t see them taking Pettigrew that early. IMO, they’re not as close to a top-tier offense with their shaky QB play and Marshawn Lynch’s off the field troubles. One reason Marshawn Lynch has had his success is due to the fact of Peters being so dominant. Think about it like this, if we were picking #11, would we still take Pettigrew? IMO, I would say no. I’m just saying that they can go best available Tackle (Oher/Britton), get a OLB like Barwin or English @ #28, and still get a potentially great TE.

WR – you know it baby! Yeah, it just gets us more and more hyped up. Puttin’ away some brew and talkin’ Falcon Football. Besides the real thing, its the next best deal.

dacha – nice changes your mock. Might be the champ. I doubt MJ will be there @ #55, but if he is I can’t see us passing on him. Draft @ 4 sucks on one hand, but on the other thats more time to tailgate and sip brewski’s.

Seminole – whaddup my tomahawkin’ brother? I would say yes to Jerry, but no to Hood. IMO, they’re both too similar in build, frame as Babs. Gimme a Ron Brace, Sammie Hill, Roy Miller, Sen’derrick Marks, Terrance Taylor, or Myron Pryor. I’ll even take two of ‘em.

Reno – where you been my bro’? Gotta get in on this Mock Draft Competition. I just save my posts before I submit them, assuming the loch-ness blog eating monster will strike.

irvin – right witcha’ on DT as well. Too much run-stuffing depth in this draft. Give me Sammie Hill, Roy Miller, or Terrance Taylor over Peria Jerry and Ziggy Hood.

Mock Drafts received: Nookah, Falcon Devil, WR, D3, dacha, Seminole, Marko.

JJ & Strig’s on the way.

Reno, Ken Strick, Tyger, irvin, Supes, TheManMike, Cameron where you guys at? Get in on the fun.

Under the 3 day mark, Fank God!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
3:41 pm

Ken Strick – great point as usual. That definitely is a possibility if you consider him as 6th blocker helping the LT or RT. If Pettigrew’s gone that early than it just wasn’t meant to be. With ‘Grew gone, we should definitely go Sintim @ 24, but we’ll have to use our #55 on Nelson or Cook. Those two are heads and above the others in terms of upside, IMHO.

irvin – got it bro’.

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
3:42 pm

Is it just me, or does this seem, at times, to have become D3’s blog (or at least partially his?) My man is dedicated, no doubt. Nice work. My mock’s on the way, next few days. I have my team of monkeys working on it now.
I have to disagree with the Pettigrew pick at 24, though, despite the rationale for adding a potent weapon at TE to this already formidable offense. The Falcons’ needs on defense are too great to spend a first rounder on a non-essential position (especially in Mularkey’s offense) like TE. If the Falcons were to draft a TE—which I think they should, by the way—I’d rather they did it in round 3 with Coffman or Ingram or even rounds 4-5 with Richard Quinn. I think it’s a bad idea to take the first player in a deep position in any draft unless that individual is a “game changer” type guy, especially when that position on the field, in the Falcons’ system, is a “nice to have” rather than a “need to have”. Pettigrew is a good TE, but he’s not a game changer, and he probably wouldn’t see the ball enough in this offense to warrant a 1st.
It seems to me that the Falcons posted the 6th best offense in the league last year without much talent at the TE position, and there’s no reason to think that, with another year of experience together and a (hopefully) healthy Sam Baker, that offense won’t be better than it was last year without any significant personnel additions. Why not build a team that looks a little bit like the Giants did when they won the Super Bowl?: dominant O-line, great pass rush from the front four and pretty good surrounding players? Kevin Boss is ok, but he’s no first-round talent. And no, I am not a Georgia fan, but I do like Thomas Brown, and I don’t see why his healthy return to Turner and Norwood couldn’t potentially give the Falcons a three-headed monster like Jacobs-Ward-Bradshaw were the last two years. We already have the pieces in place to get to that place (or near it—I’m not saying Atlanta’s O-line is as good as the Giants’, but they play pretty well together).
In fact, if I had to argue for an addition to the offensive side of the ball for the near and long-term betterment of the team, I’d argue for another offensive lineman. Yes, I know they added Romberg in FA, which is good. But they lost Weiner and I’m not sure what to make of the Todd McClure holdout/unhappy camper rumors. While the O-line played as a unit way, way over their talent level (and good for them), I think if one were to look at the long-term health of the offense, I’d go that way and use a 4th or 5th rounder to draft a strong player who could be developed to play guard or right tackle.
Personally, I’m hoping that there’s a run on OT’s and perhaps WR’s and, panicked, some team pulls the trigger to get their man and trades up into the Falcons’ spot at 24, in return for a 2nd and a 3rd (or whatever the all-knowing value matrices say it’s worth). It’d be worth it, because the kind of talent the Falcons need will be there in the second round. I know I said it before, but would you rather have a day where you get 8 catches and 100 yards from your TE and give up 200 yards rushing, or a day when your TE catches 4 for 30 and the defense holds the opponent to 150? I’d take the latter, every time. All that being said, if no team wants to trade up into the Falcons spot, then I wouldn’t be surprised if Pettigrew was the choice at 24, but I’d much, much rather the Falcons were able to turn that choice into a couple of 2nd or 3rd round defenders.
By the way, I agree with the thinking that Detroit will go with Long at OT, or maybe Curry. I think Stafford’s a good QB, but the management of that team has to know that, if they go QB at #1, their fate is riding on his shoulders, playing behind a terrible O-line. Were I they, I’d much rather draft an OT with the first, and work on building as solid an O-line and defensive front 7 as possible in this draft, and pick up a QB for the future in next years’ draft. Shoot, the Lions might be bad enough they get to pick Sam Bradford next year. If they surprise everyone and win 4 games, they’d still get a shot at Jevan Snead.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 22nd, 2009
3:48 pm

Nookah, I like Curry; but I don’t think Detroit is going to spend thirteen million on an outside linebacker and expect fans to show up every Sunday. SAM is not attractive enough to sell tickets. Now, a good offense, on the other hand, will sell tickets. I think Detroit will draft an offensive tackle and Moreno in the first round. It made sense to us (and Miami) last year. It’ll make sense to a number of teams this year. I can see about seven tackles going in the top twenty and Detroit will be one of the teams that grab one.

We need to stop sharing our trade secrets if we want to win those bragging rights. Is that all we get, D3? I can’t get a Red Scripe gift certificate, or something?

D3

April 22nd, 2009
3:59 pm

Reno – just excited about the draft and I’ve found my new favorite hobby, talking intelligent football with cool fans. It’s my fix so to speak. I’ve lobbied the AJC brass for them to give us a better fans blog, in the likes of “The Junkyard Blawg, Hawks Hack, or GT’s blog” and got nadda response. Do you want me to limit the number of responses I post in a day? JK.

Stirg – we could make it interesting I suppose. Not sure what the best way to do that would be. If we wanted to do monetary we could share addresses I suppose. That’s up to ya’ll. I’m good either way.

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
4:21 pm

D3- no offense intended at all. Post all you want, it’s good stuff. Agree there should be a better fan’s blog, and if that ends up happening, then game on. Keep it up, brother.

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
4:26 pm

D3, Stirg, Big Ray, Ken Strick, WR, Marko, Reno 911, Seminole, need I say more? This is one of the most fun things I have done in a long while. I look forward to sharing thoughts and ideas with (to plagiarize D3’s phrase…….”talking intelligent footbal with cool fans.”

Folks, if I forgot your name….my bad!!! No disrespect!!

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
4:37 pm

D3, I’d be willing to participate in a Falcons fan blog anytime, anywhere, anyday. I am driven simply by the love for this team.

Go Falcons!!!!!

The process continues……….

Nuff respect everytime!!!

The Dean 21

April 22nd, 2009
4:44 pm

D3, I’ve been dealing with differents on the 1st pick of the draft and the 1st pick of the Falcons and it appears that no one has any idea or clue what those actually picks will be, but here are my choices for now, I do plan on a final mock before your deadline….

1. Detroit– QB Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis- OT – Eugune Monroe
3. Kansas City– OT Jason Smith
4. Seattle– OT – Mark Sanchez
5. Cleveland– LB Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati– OT Michael Oher
7. Oakland– WR Michael Crabtree
8. Jacksonville– DT B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay– DE Brian Orakpo
10. San Francisco– DE Aaron Maybin
11. Buffalo– DE Everette Brown
12. Denver– DE Tyson Jackson
13. Washington– OT Andre Smith
14. New Orleans– RB Chris Beanie Wells
15. Houston– CB Malcom Jenkins
16. San Diego- LB Rey Maualuga
17. New York Jets– QB Josh Freeman
18. Denver (from Chicago)– LB Brian Cushing
19. Tampa Bay– DT Peria Jerry
20. Detroit (from Dallas)– LB James Laurinaitis
21. Philadelphia– RB Knowshon Moreno
22. Minnesota– WR Jeremy Maclin
23. New England–LB Clay Matthews
24. Atlanta– TE Brandon Pettigrew
25. Miami– WR Percy Harvin
26. Baltimore– CB Vontae Davis
27. Indianapolis– WR Darrius Heyward-Bey
28. Buffalo – OT Eben Britton
29. New York Giants– WR Hakeem Nicks
30. Tennessee– CB Darius Butler
31. Arizona– RB Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh– OT- Max Unger

FALCONS SELECTIONS
24) TE Brandon Pettigrew
55) DT Evander “Ziggy” Hood or Ron Brace
90) LB Marcus Freeman or Micheal Johnson
125) CB Kevin Barnes
138) OG Herman Johnson or TGreen
143) DE M. Shaughessy
176) FS Emanual Cook

I have no idea what the Falcons will do in the draft at this time, but I do believe in our GM and HC and they will choose wisely.

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
4:45 pm

D3, your ‘Grew crew is growing. You should say welcome to The Dean 21.

Go Falcons!!!

The Dean 21

April 22nd, 2009
4:46 pm

D3, I’ve been dealing with different sources on the 1st pick of the draft and the 1st pick of the Falcons and it appears that no one has any idea or clue what those actually picks will be, but here are my choices for now, I do plan on a final mock before your deadline….

1. Detroit– QB Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis- OT – Eugune Monroe
3. Kansas City– OT Jason Smith
4. Seattle– OT – Mark Sanchez
5. Cleveland– LB Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati– OT Michael Oher
7. Oakland– WR Michael Crabtree
8. Jacksonville– DT B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay– DE Brian Orakpo
10. San Francisco– DE Aaron Maybin
11. Buffalo– DE Everette Brown
12. Denver– DE Tyson Jackson
13. Washington– OT Andre Smith
14. New Orleans– RB Chris Beanie Wells
15. Houston– CB Malcom Jenkins
16. San Diego- LB Rey Maualuga
17. New York Jets– QB Josh Freeman
18. Denver (from Chicago)– LB Brian Cushing
19. Tampa Bay– DT Peria Jerry
20. Detroit (from Dallas)– LB James Laurinaitis
21. Philadelphia– RB Knowshon Moreno
22. Minnesota– WR Jeremy Maclin
23. New England–LB Clay Matthews
24. Atlanta– TE Brandon Pettigrew
25. Miami– WR Percy Harvin
26. Baltimore– CB Vontae Davis
27. Indianapolis– WR Darrius Heyward-Bey
28. Buffalo – OT Eben Britton
29. New York Giants– WR Hakeem Nicks
30. Tennessee– CB Darius Butler
31. Arizona– RB Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh– OT- Max Unger

FALCONS SELECTIONS
24) TE Brandon Pettigrew
55) DT Evander “Ziggy” Hood or Ron Brace
90) LB Marcus Freeman or Micheal Johnson
125) CB Kevin Barnes
138) OG Herman Johnson or TGreen
143) DE M. Shaughessy
176) FS Emanual Cook

I have no idea what the Falcons will do in the draft at this time, but I do believe in our GM and HC and they will choose wisely.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 22nd, 2009
5:07 pm

Got this from Andrew Rothberg from Promark productions. They host the websites for potential Falcon picks Brian Cushing and UConn CB Darius Butler.

Orlando,
Check out imbriancushing.com and imdariusbutler.com , we host Brian Cushing and Darius Butler’s sites. A lot of writers are projecting the Falcons to pick one of these guys. It could be a great way for Falcons fans to learn more about them as players and people. Let me know what you think. Spread the word!
Best,

Andrew Rothberg
Promark Productions
P.O. Box 1083
La Jolla, CA 92038
cell 610 316 0948
fax 858 777 5476
http://www.promarkproductions.com

webhead

April 22nd, 2009
5:31 pm

Can’t wait to see Brooking lay the wood to Ryan and Turner. Just watch as Turner runs then falls down just before he’s hit. Woosy. Pettigrew better watch his sorry arse too!

mars

April 22nd, 2009
5:44 pm

Falcons will pick anyone but Pettigrew. Don’t want ‘im, don’t need ‘im. Untalented, unneeded. Defense is where the need is. Tightends, we have.

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
5:53 pm

You tell ‘em, webhead. That’ll show people to mess with KB’s crew. I myself fell down just a moment after I saw your post, anticipating a hit from crabapplejoe. Fierce!

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
6:16 pm

It’s an especially relevant post now, before the draft, considering that KB hasn’t been a subject of conversation on this blog for almost two months. Way to cut through the meaningless chaff of draft speculation and get to the real meat of the issue: the Falcons’ inability to cope with the one-man wrecking ball that is KB. He’ll show all of those ingrate Falcons what pain is. No one turns 14 yard runs into 13 yard runs like he does! I can’t believe the Falcons would rather draft someone younger and faster with more upside and pay him fraction of what the Cowboys are paying Brooking, can you? Man, the Falcons are dumb. But I guess that’s what you get when you hire idiots like Dimitroff and Mike Smith to run your team, instead of running it yourself like Jerry Jones does and letting Wade Phillips coach circles around the competition. Wooooh!

chuck

April 22nd, 2009
6:24 pm

I think Kiper is great and he has been an integral part of building the excitement and anticipation of the best draft in any sport! i don’t care whether or not he’s right-he provides lots of food for thought!

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
6:29 pm

My..My..My. Look at all the passenger’s on D3’s ‘Grew Cruiser. That ride is getting crowded but that’s cool. I’m going to hold out but will be the first in line with the Red Stripe if D3 nails this pick.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
6:33 pm

Nookah, my man Freeman will get into the second round. I had hoped that we would be able to get him in the third but his value is rising each day due to his speed and ability to play all three positions. Rex Ryan knows the value of flexible LB play so it would not surprise me at all for him to go after him in round two.

WR

April 22nd, 2009
6:46 pm

Reno911 your last post is an instant classic. Hey fellas the word is officially in Detroit is negotiating with the agents for Matthew Stafford to be the number one pick, gentlemen we are now on the clock.

ABC123

April 22nd, 2009
6:48 pm

OKKKKKK soo why not
1) Darius Butler
2) Michael Johnson
and then maybe 3) dorrell scott

commenton dis picks

The Dean 21

April 22nd, 2009
7:01 pm

From Ken Strickland:
I just don’t understand this obsession with the idea we have to get everything we need in this yrs draft. We’ll have the equivelent of an entire draft returning to the active roster from Injury Reserve, and some of them have starting experience. OT RFoster(starting exp), CB’s VHutchins(starting exp), DIrons & BGrimes(starting exp), SS AHarris, LB RJames and DT TLewis(starting exp).

You can’t realistically ignore or dismiss the talent and impact these players can and will have on this yrs team. There’s no logical reason to believe the players in this yrs draft can or will have a greater impact than these returning players, especially as potential starters

Great Point Ken: I couldn’t have typed or said this better! We have to realize that you can only do so much with 7 draft picks. We will have a better feel of this team after next years draft class becomes a year old.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
7:04 pm

Offensively, I’m in line with some of the thoughts echoed by Reno. Continued solid line play and we should be at least as consistent as last season. Team will be more focused on stopping the run, therefore more attention will be placed on containing Turner. Given that, I would think that the seem routes will become more important next season and that is where Fin and Douglas, along with improved TE play will be very important. Jenkins and White have the outsides handled; got to get the deal done with RW or we will have big issues next season unless we do the franchise tag.

Improving both run and pass defense is paramount to any success we hope to achieve in ‘09. And that means better interior play at the tackle and LB positions. That said, the picks have got to make us stronger and larger inside and faster/flexible at LB.

Reno 911

April 22nd, 2009
7:06 pm

Right on. Ken Strick knows his stuff.

The Dean 21

April 22nd, 2009
7:06 pm

webhead: If you are a Dallas fan, just in case you didn’t know, this is the Falcons blog. You might want to make sure Dallas improves their defense to hit anybody considering how they looked last year. Making the playoffs should be the goal for your team!

The Dean 21

April 22nd, 2009
7:09 pm

Now Reno911, you sure webhead got all that>? Maybe he will understand the PROCESS..

ABC123

April 22nd, 2009
7:10 pm

YO SO MY PICKS SUCKKK

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
7:13 pm

WR, just remember, the Lions are negotiating with the same team on both Smith and Stafford. And now, Curry supposedly has offered to come in at a “Wal-mart” discount. Things definately are heating up though…

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
7:17 pm

Hey Posse…what are the thoughts on our own fellow Bird and NFL Network analyst Jamie Dukes’ suggestion in his latest mock that we are seriously looking at Malcolm Jenkins at 24?

Now that puts some pep in the gumbo…

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
7:26 pm

Seminole, I have Freeman going in the 2nd round on my mock. I know he is a very good prospect, just what the Dynamic Duo are looking for.

Go Falcons!!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
8:00 pm

Now Jenkins at 2 would not make me complain. Will he be there? I know some players will slip but will he slip all the way to #24?

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

Marko

April 22nd, 2009
8:25 pm

Wow you guy’s are really churning it out tonight. I don’t know if you’re inspired because we’re only hours away, or hitting the red stripes a little heavy. Perhaps a little of both I suspect. Anyway, I’m taking the night off. It looks like you’ve got every thing under control. Keep up the good work.

ABC123

April 22nd, 2009
8:26 pm

After hearing seminole if these first 3 picks happen i think any falcon fan would love this draft
1) CB Malcom Jenkings
2) DE Michael Johnson
3) S David Brutton
4) DT Dorell Scott

Anybody agree or disagree

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
8:33 pm

It’s a slow night in the world of meteorology, Marko. Rest well bro. Nookah, I’m feeling you on Freeman and I hope we get him. I may have as many people on the Freeman Roll as D3 is getting on the ‘Grew Express.

I’m working on the final edition of both my Falcons and first round mocks. Change is supposed to be good but this year, this draft is one of the most maddening in recent memory. We could go all over the place. Going to very interesting to see who comes out on top.

danny ray

April 22nd, 2009
8:46 pm

Alex Mack in the first. Roy Miller in the second. Both players have
the intensity the Falcons want.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
8:51 pm

Danny Ray, I like Roy Miller but do not think that he will be taken by anyone in the second round. Falcons could make that move in the fourth or fifth.

crabapplejoe

April 22nd, 2009
8:55 pm

Reno 911 wrote: “You tell ‘em, webhead. That’ll show people to mess with KB’s crew.”

Dam#, Reno, you just can’t let the man go. I know you’re still upset that another team picked up KB 36 hours into free agency. Kinda’ makes you KB56 haters look silly….but just let it go dude. I know you’re smarter than the entire Cowboys brain trust i.e. KB is a washed up LB, not worth anything…how could the Cowboys pick him up so fast. ROTFLMAO. Enjoy your Mike Peterson era. LOL

D3

April 22nd, 2009
9:21 pm

Good Evening Boys! Is it really almost here? Wow, what a ride its been. I’ve gone back and forth on who the Falcons will pick @ #24 like Tony Romo’s little pinky finger. Its that time to start planning a menu for saturday, the remote ready to go, and most importantly………….. what brew to get for the big day. I’m thinking of harkening back to my college days and grabbin’ some Newcastle. Nothin’ like the Brown Nut Ale, baby! The Bird-Cage is rockin’ tonight. Anyway, I digress………

So Detroit looks like they’ve zeroed in on their man Stafford. Still believe they continue to go the Falcons route: grab your franchise QB and get the best available Left Tackle to protect him, ala Matty Ice and Sam Baker. That worked out pretty well for us, eh?

Concerning our Falconi’s – I still think its gonna be ‘Grew @ #24. Got to give credit where its due: Stirg had him the whole way, while I bounced back and forth like a crazy man. I was in Matthews kitchen, but with the help of DOL and Nookah, I finally realized that Sintim is a much better, safer, tougher pick than Matthews. I thought Cushing was a sure thing, boy was I wrong after doing research. He basically equates to the same as Matthews.

Pettigrew is not a burner, but as I’ve mentioned before of the best TE’s (Witten, Gonzo, Gates) who are? Great blocker, big frame, great hands, and a 3rd down conversion machine. Who do the Cowboys go to on 3rd and 7? Many question how much of an immediate impact he makes? With our OFF on the verge of being one of the best, he doesn’t need to become our whole OFF, just complete it by blocking, filling the middle of the field, helping to keep our OFF on the field, and being a huge red-zone target. Remember how many field goals we kicked from inside the 10? If he’s there just go to the podium and make it official and get those Red Scripes/Sierra Nevada’s/Newcastles/St.Pauli Girls or whatever your fancy and put in for your new red & black ‘Grew jersey!

With all that being said, the key pick to watch is San Diego. Philly is enamored with Moreno, justifiably so, and that’s their man. However, if San Diego throws a curve and takes him, then we may very well be waving good-bye to ‘Grew as he heads to the Cheese-steak capital (cheez wiz or no?). Personally, I think San Diego takes Mauluga and pairs him with Merriman (sick or what?). Even so, if they take an RB I’d say Beanie Wells, because I don’t think they’ll be letting Sproles go after letting Michael Turner run to the Pro Bowl in the ATL. We’ll see. Startin’ to see some hate baiters out there. The force is strong with you my Bird-Cage brethren!

2 DAYS, 14 DAYS, & 38 MINS & COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!

JJ

April 22nd, 2009
9:27 pm

My falcon brothers’: just got home, hillarious stuff!..

Working on my sheet of integrity with one hand on our “red-stripe” and one eye on our “other” birds – (54-41).

….he who antisipates the 1st rd. trades, will likely win the kash!

RENO 911: Love your 6:16 pm post..give D3 a chance, he’s been leading by particapation, not self-annoytment. spell check? lol

…at least 2 major draft changes in 1st rd. IMHO… who? yea, I have no idea…yet!!!!!!

Nookah

April 22nd, 2009
9:41 pm

Man you guys are bringing it tonight. It’s so exciting as the day draws nigh.

So far I’m sticking to my guns, Clint “Dirty Harry” Sintim, unless someone else falls. English and Ayers are moving up draft boards. What is this I hear about Jamie Dukes and Jenkins at #24?
Doesn’t that make Saturday more interesting? Man, this is unbelievable fun.

Go Falcons!!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!………………………..THE PROCESS CONTINUES!!!

JJ

April 22nd, 2009
9:42 pm

D3: You know I’ve presented my biotch St. Pauli girl with out much response. Then I recommended King GROLSCH, once again to no avail. BUT DAMN SON, NEWCASTLE BROWN ALE IS THE BOMB!!!
I know this is a jamaican flav. blog and thats cool, but the CASTLE will be in house sat. Have not had those hops in many years, since I was walking the concrete campus!
Sorry, its a beer thing, continue fal. blog…

D3

April 22nd, 2009
9:52 pm

Nookah – thanks for the props, bro’. What’s goin’ on with our other birds? Down by double digits at the half. This is fun, fun stuff. When Football season is over the only other sport I watch is…….Combines, Free Agency, Schedule Release, Draft Prep, Draft Day, Post Draft, OTA’s, Mini-Camps, Training Camps, Pre-season, and…..back to regular season. As NFL Network’s slogan goes, “when all you want is Football!”

The Dean – nice mock money-G. Got it saved for now, but if you want to change just get it in Sat. before noon. Can’t decide between Smith or Monroe. I had Beanie Wells going to the Saints as well, but their OFF wasn’t the problem last year, so I slotted Jenkins.

mars – a little harsh, eh? I definitely wouldn’t want Vontae “mini-meangelo hall” Davis instead of Pettigrew. Understand your DEF position though.

chuck – gotta love Mel for his “Audacity of Hair,” if nothing else. The guys knows his stuff for sure. Give me Kiper over McShay any day of the week.

Seminole – you finally got me over to the Freeman caboose. There at #90, snag him up like Big Grady @ The Varsity.Any way he drops there? Honestly, Dukes gets on my F’n nerves. He’s not so bad on NFL Network, but I can’t get the old 680 The Fan days out of my head. Seriously doubt Jenkins drops to #24 and adds a little Texas Pete to the gumbo. Better Hot Sauce: Texas Pete, Louisiana, or Tabasco? Right on with Roddy deal. Just pay the man his money, he’s earned it.

So, guys do we want to play the Mock Draft Competition for Braggin’ Rights or add a little sauce in the mix? I’m good either way. Is it wednesday? D@–! Thought it was thursday. Oh well, a little Coke Zero, NFL Network, & Seinfeld to bed.

GO HAWKS!

2 DAYS, 14 HOURS, 9 MINS, & COUNTING!!!!!!!!

D3

April 22nd, 2009
9:57 pm

JJ – you got it with Grolsch and St.Pauli, 2 of my favs for sure. Wish it were Thursday so I could pop myself one. You know the CEO of the house frowns on week drinking. You got me fired up for some brew.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
10:15 pm

Hawks are killing me here. Wish I had some weather to forecast so I would not be crying at their play. Maybe they will get hot here in the next 10 or so.

Nothing like the loyalty that is taking shape here in the home stretch. Like some of my brothers here in Blog Central, I’ve been all over the place. Feeling Chung, Hood, JL, Jerry, and I think I even had another in there. I’ll admit that it is looking like ‘Grew may be the man but I’m still thinking defensively. K-Strick keeps reminding me that we should not take a tackle in the first round due to the depth we have already there (3 technique-wise). But I just can’t shake my gut feel that we are inching closer and closer to either Hood or Jerry.

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
10:25 pm

D3, we will have to get my man Freeman NLT the third. His stock is on the rise and he may even crack the latter part of round two. If it was me, I would get him. That speed, versatility, and pass coverage skill set simply can not be lost in my opinion. He will be a good one for a long time.

youngjezzyy

April 22nd, 2009
10:26 pm

abc123 your first four picks would be amazing for the falcons i think. also trading the 24 3rd round and 5th round for tony gon and glen dorsey.. and also D3 YOU ARE BEASt! YOUR COMMENTS ARE AWESOME.. WHAT DO U THINK OF ABC123 FIRST FOUR PICKS

SeminoleWarrior

April 22nd, 2009
10:35 pm

This one is for D3 and Stirg:

http://www.kspr.com/sports/43289652.html

richbrave

April 22nd, 2009
10:55 pm

Again and again I pound the table for LAWRENCE SIDBURY JR. from U of RICHMOND, CORNELIUS LEWIS OG from TENNESSEE STATE, and GREG TOLER CB from St. PAULS COLLEGE. I’ve seen quite a bit of SIDBURY and TOLER. I’m a believer. Evidently so is MEL KIPER who has pushed him into the late second-early third round. SIDBURY ran CONSISTANT 4.64 40’s in the NFL combines. Consistantly the fastest D-LINEMAN participating. 6′3+” 266 with 35+” arms and 11+” hands. This guy’s gonna’ be a monster DE in the NFL. TOLER is blazing fast with a 4.27 best and consistant 4.39 40 times. 5′11″ 192. Flexible and smart. LEWIS is 6′2″ 330 OG. Never seen him personally, but I’ve got a hunch both he and CECIL NEWTON C 6′2″ 302 on the same team will become solid NFL players.

richbrave

April 22nd, 2009
10:57 pm

D3:

Sauce? How about some MAKERS MARK?

D.Ellis

April 22nd, 2009
11:02 pm

I don’t see the birds taking a TE with the 24th pick. There are plenty of “good” TE’s that can be picked up in the 2nd or 3rd round. I suspect TD would move up with some of the package he required in the LR deal with the Rams if he thought a TE they “targeted” was going to go earlire than expected. Come on Pett. is the sexy pick. Who wouldn’t want him? I’d take him. But a draft is more about NEEDS than taking the best avail. in my opinion. I may sound boring but football is about basic fundamentals, and the basic fundamental make up of this team at this moment…..going into this draft is DEFENSE FIRST…offense second.

-I don’t have to go down the list of key spots we are thin at, but DL,LB,S in my opinion far out shine the need of taking a TE with our first pick. The DEFENSE needs serious help first, while a good TE in the form of Ingram or Cook can be picked up at a later round.

I would love for Jerry from Ole Miss to drop to us but the wway i see it LB is a need first. Alot of Talent at the LB spot awaits The Falcons at #24….and more than likely 2 will be on the board.

A TE will happen no doubt, but in my opinion our offense was DANG good last year and evryone returns, The defense was “DECENT” and we lost 4/5 starters from the ‘DECENT” defense.

Big B CH 99

April 23rd, 2009
1:48 am

I don’t want to see the Falcons take Pettigrew b/c:

1. He’s another blocking TE, we have Peele that can block. I prefer Pass Catching TE’s
2. Never was a big time receiver at Ok. St. (2 catches/game, <30 yds, 0.2 TD’s)
3. Ran SLOW at the combine, doesn’t have the speed to stretch the field, we need a TE w/ speed to stretch the field.

If we’re gonna draft a TE, I like Cook out of S. Carolina, he’s a great athlete. And that pains me to say, b/c I’m a Collins Hill H.S. alum & I HATE Cook’s North Gwinnett H.S.

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
6:26 am

Morning all, just a Little news on the Gonzalez front, the Eagles are said to have offered their third round pick for Gonzo. Like I said it doesn’t look good from our perspective. We couldn’t just match the offer as their third rounder is five picks ahead of ours. So Far KC is standing firm in their demand for second round compensation for Tony. I would think that it might still get done if we gave the Chiefs our second and switched places in the third round. It would mean that the gap between our first and second round picks wouldn’t be as long. With just a bit of luck, we might still wind up with a player we had targeted at number two.

Another intriguing possibility would be a blockbuster deal involving both Dorsey and Gonzalez. KC is moving into a three four scheme and Dorsey doesn’t seem a very good fit. The folks in KC have soured on the kid. It’s sad they should have read Strig’s piece on defensive linemen taking a little time to mature. I never expected Dorsey to be a world beater right out of the gate. I still consider him a better player than any we’re likely to see at Twenty-four. I haven’t seen any rumors about any trade of this nature, but if Thomas were to pull it off, he wouldn’t get any arguments out of me.

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
7:07 am

Morning brothers….

I say we should move on and not worry about either Gonzo or Dorsey. We can fill the needs and grow our own. KC seems to be asking a tad too much it appears for him. If we do not get Stirg and D3’s man “Grew or Nelson in the draft (oops, forgot K-Strick’s Moorah), then we will just make do with what we have. The number six offense in the NFL last year was not a bad ranking to have…25 other teams would have loved it.

youngjezzyy

April 23rd, 2009
7:27 am

wait do u guys know if jared cook would last till the 2nd or maybe even if were lucky 3rd

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
8:23 am

Seminole, you might be right, but it was Thomas that’s quoted saying he couldn’t imagine a team in the league that wouldn’t want to run out of the tunnel with Tony Gonzalez. I’m not calling the Gonzo deal dead till its dead. New England was built with Home grown talent and ageing stars plucked from other teams. Randy Moss and Jr. Seau come to mind. While you, Strig, JJ, D3, Ken and others I apologize to for not mentioning, have earned my respect, I’m not always in total agreement with you guys. Pettigrew in particular is a guy I’m not totally sold on. No one doubts his skills as a blocker, but we already have tight ends that can block. I think that you’re asking me to make a leap of faith with regard to his skills as a receiver. I’d feel much better about him if he was a bit faster. The Last time Thomas was involved in selecting a tight end in the first round, it was Georgia’s own Ben Watson. Watson’s a great blocker and he also runs 4.5 forties. Thomas might have also been impressed with the fact that he scored a mind boggling 42 on his wonderlic. If Ben Watson was coming out this year, Id suggest that we draft him. At this point I see Pettigrew as a good choice, but I’m not sold on him as our best choice. Our biggest short comings last year were on defense. If we can land an impact player on that side of the line, I think that’s the way we out to go Disagree if you will , but keep in mind the fact that my opinions and Five bucks will score you a cup of mocha latte at Starbucks.

WR

April 23rd, 2009
8:38 am

Marko, kind of interesting scenario you have going on, here’s another one for you. Falcons trade their 1st,2nd, and 3rd to K.C, for K.C’s 1st, Dorsey, and Gonzo. With the third pick in the draft the Falcons take Aaron Curry out of Wake Forest. So essentially the Falcons first round pick would be Aaron Curry, 2nd-Dorsey, third-Gonzo, probably would never happen but what do you think?

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
8:55 am

WR,in theory I’d do it, But Dorsey,Gonzo and Curry would eat up a lot of cap space. We gave Matt enough to support a third world natiion,and it’s looking more and more like we’re going to have to eat Michael’s contract. I’m not sure that it’s doable from that angle. Gotta go, I’ll check in later.

WR

April 23rd, 2009
8:56 am

I wonder how a front seven of Andersen,Dorsey,Babs,Abraham as your line with Nicholas,Lofton,Curry as your backers, would look. Talk about speed, a group like this could blossum into the front seven that Tampa used to be.

D3

April 23rd, 2009
9:59 am

Great Thursday A.M. Gents! Under the 2 day mark and man does it feel good. It’s been a pleasure and a joy bloggin’ with you fellas and this has made this upcoming draft the most exciting yet. It’s almost here! Get those recipes ready, your favorite brew on ice, and your final mocks in b/c IT’S FINALLY HERE!!!!!! Let’s jump in head first…….

‘Grew Defense #1
On the surface due to the overwhelming picks for the Falcons taking Pettigrew, a ton of people have been bringing up the smoke-screen possibility. It does seem that it may be a possibility, given that so many people are mocking ‘Grew for the Falcons (Mark Bradley’s article below: 8 pick ‘Grew, 2 Hood, 2 English, 1 Butler, 1 Jerry). Sometimes it may be a smokescreen, but sometimes its not. I think most ‘experts’ are picking Pettigrew b/c that’s a fairly logical range for him to be taken in and it addresses a need. For many fans who say its not a need, how many 3rd and longs & 4th and shorts did we fail to convert, and how many 11 – 18 yard field goals did were we forced to kick? I’m not saying ‘Grew will come in and be dominant, but he doesn’t HAVE TO. We will not depend on him to be our primary target, more like a 4th, 5th, or even 6th target. He will be asked to COMPLETE our OFF, not carry it. Hartsock was a great blocker, but not a receiver and Peele a good receiver, but that his presence tipped our hand to the DEF on our intentions.

‘Grew Defense #2
The chants have been long and fast. “We Need Defense! We Need Defense!” And we do need defense, no mistaking, but as Ken Strick and others have pointed out many times, we have guys ready to step up and step in. Nicholas, Wire, Peterson, C.Davis, C.Jackson, DeCoud, A.Harris, Hutchins, Trey Lewis,Biermann, R.James(in some capacity). Not saying all will turn out to be great play-makers, but I bet at least half will. There are rounds than just the first. Certain picks I will be happy with if pass on ‘Grew, such as Clint Sintim, Larry English, Aaron Maybin, or even Connor Barwin, but why would we go with someone like Jerry or Hood when that would be a terrible complement to Babs? H—, even give me Ron Brace in the first over Hood or Jerry. If this class was stock-piled with DT top-end depth, I’m all for it. But that is not the case this year. There is a ton of middle-round depth for run-stuffing DT’s. If they’re so concerned about it, than take two of them: Roy Miller and Sammie Hill for instance. Or Terrance Taylor and Dorell Scott. TD, Smitty, and Co. know what they’re doing, and I’ll concede if they think Hood or Jerry is the best fit than I’m all for it.

“Well, Pettigrew’s not even that fast and can’t stretch the field!” Does he need to in our offense? Or does he just need to occupy the middle. Does Witten stretch the field, per se? Or is he one of the best in the business go-to guys on 3rd down and red-zone?

“The selection of first round TE’s is really mixed over the last 8 years.” Aren’t all positions? 2007 – Jamarcus Russell; 2008 – Matt Ryan for instance. I heard a caller talk about the failures of TE’s taken in the first. Well, you have to look at all variables, especially who was throwing them the ball?

2008-Dustin Keller (pure RCV TE, jury still out); Brett Favre
2007-Greg Olsen(much better w/Orton);1st Grossman, need I say more?
2006-Vernon Davis; Alex Smith, need I say more?
2006-Marcedes Lewis(better w/Garrard); 1st Leftwich, need I say more?
2005-Heath Miller (stud); Roethlisberger throwing the ball.
2004-Kellen Winslow(stud); Despite terrible QB’s
2004-Ben Watson(stud); No explanation necessary
2003-Dallas Clark(stud);Ditto from above

Again, I am not against us picking DEF first, just the right player. Hood and Jerry are not those players, IMVHO.

Can taste the cold brew on a gorgeous Draft Saturday?

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
10:05 am

Nothing but love in the Teepee for ya, Marko. We are actually on the same page when it comes to the ‘Grew. Speaking of him, D# and Stirg be sure to make room on the Express for Mark Bradley. He is on board with the ‘Grew action now as well.

I was not feeling the Gonzo/Dorsey deals until WR put some serious peep in the gumbo. I mean my man opened up the heat. Gonzo, Dorsey, and then Curry at the OLB. Now, that is an intriguing setup. If TD hears WR, it would leave us with four picks on the second day. Could we fill the needs remaining with those picks? It would be interesting to see if there is enough faith in the roster to go this route.

It will be interesting to see what the rest of the posse feels about this one. On paper, it has the look of one h**l of a defense though, WR.

What a way to start the day….the man brought it strong early!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
10:19 am

Are those fire department furloughs still in effect in ATL? Send a few units over to D3’s place. The brother is on fire this morning.

Seriously though, D3, your points are well noted. As you know, I am one of those that has been a strong advocate of the defensive upgrades. I like some of the talent we have (DeCoud, Nicholas, Hutchins) and agree it is time to see what they can do. I’m even warming up to the chance of the pick being the ‘Grew. Honestly, he reminds me of a young Alge. And I would wage to say that Alge was the best TE shy of Junior Miller that I can recall in a Falcon uniform.

I agree that big DT depth will be addressed in the later rounds. But I think that Smitty and TD (along with the invisible one, BVG) want to have speed and penetration on the defensive line. As I have stated on several occassions, I think there is something to what Coach Hamilton said about smaller, faster, penetrating tackles.

If it is true that TD was that close to pulling the trigger on Dorsey last year, Dorsey is that type of tackle. For KC, he listed at 6′1″, 305. Sounds like Hood and Jerry.

I still think the pick will be Hood or Jerry with a later selection of Taylor, Hill, or Miller. That would allow us to have two pair of tackles, a safe and effective rotation. Pair Jerry (305) with Lewis (320) and/or Babs (285) with Taylor/Hill (320). That would be of the same pattern that Smitty used in both Baltimore and Jacksonville.

Thoughts??

D3

April 23rd, 2009
10:34 am

richbrave – nice work on gems in the rough. If given the choice in the 2nd or 3rd: Michael Johnson or Sidbury? Toller is shooting up the charts as well. Maker’s Mark hot sauce? Now that sounds d@– good!

dellis – completely understand your POV. And as long as its the right DEF pick, I don’t have a problem, but I’m not sold at all on Hood or Jerry. I’d take Ron Brace anyday over those guys, IMO. If we didn’t already have Babs, than I’d say pull the trigger. About our OFF and DEF, see my earlier post about the missed opportunities we had on OFF, especially the red zone. Of the 5 guys we lost, Foxworth is the only one we may not have an improvement over, JMHO.

Seminole – you da’ man, but you already knew that. Thanks for that snippet. It may not be ‘Grew, and thats fine as long as its the “right” DEF pick.

Big Ray – right on with Sintim or English. After ‘Grew, Sintim next, and English after him on “my” preference board. You gettin’ your mock in? You know you’ll rock it out.

Big B – I feel your concern on Pettigrew. His slow 40 time does concern me, but he’s the best complete TE that would make the most immediate impact on our OFF. I’m all for Pettigrew @ #24, but if we go DEF first, I’m right in line with you on Cook. If we go DEF first, we need to spend a 2nd pick on Cook or Nelson. Those two are heads and above the rest.

Marko – yeah, I heard that thrown around the other day on NFL Sirius Radio. They actually talked about it for like 10 minutes. I just don’t see TD giving up picks, because that’s what he’s best at is mining talent in “his” mind. If anything I see us trading down to get more picks. Hey, I feel you on not being sold with Pettigrew, because those 40 times are slow and thats a pretty big red flag. I guess I’ve just wrapped myself around the fact of getting a huge upgrade at TE and watching Matty Ice with all those weapons. Hey, if its Sintim, English, or Maybin I won’t be upset in the slightest.

WR – now that’s some serious scenarios right there brother. If that happens and you called it, you need to get a ticket to Vegas ASAP!

For the Draft Day menu: I think I’m gonna do a little hodge-podge of appetizers (you know small stuff, leave room for more brew!). Maybe a little pork stuffed potato skins, hot wings, & stuffed poblano peppers. And pair it with some Newcastle. Mmm, mmm, good!

D3

April 23rd, 2009
10:40 am

Seminole – my tomahawkin’ brotha’, great points as usual. If they go Jerry or Hood, than they got my vote because I trust TD & Co. Honestly, I would much rather have Jerry than Hood. I can’t pin-point it, but there’s just something I don’t care for. I dunno. But using your theory, that would rock the house. Getting the best of both worlds by drafting 2 DT’s. I’m all for that. If we do that one position will have to wait until next year, most likely S.

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
10:49 am

K Strick has been stating that the safety needs is not as great as it appears. I think DeCoud is going to handle his business. He was a beast on special teams and I think he is up to the challenge. Speaking of beasts, James will replace him as the head hunter on special teams. I saw some video of him while at AZ and the man is ridiculous!! Put 20 pounds on him (give him a Varsity discount) and let’s see if that can tranlate to SLB potential in a year or so. More depth and flexibility.

D3

April 23rd, 2009
11:07 am

Wow, is my boy ‘Grew getting killed or what over on Mark Bradley’s blog. Gotta love those, “this is the worst idea ever,” “I’m so done with this crap,” “would be a waste of a pick,” “idiotic pick.”

Substitute Matt Ryan for Brandon Pettigrew in a time travel machine to exactly one year ago. Sound familiar?

D3

April 23rd, 2009
11:20 am

Sorry guys, I’ll shut up now. please return to the Bird-Cage.It’s testing week at school, so I have a little extra time on my hands.

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
11:44 am

Yeah D3, that are waging war on him over there. Better send over the Express and bail the young brother out. Feeling you on the testing. A quiet night ahead in the weather world…maybe a thunderstorm or two.

WR

April 23rd, 2009
11:46 am

Seminole the trade most likely wouldn’t happen but if it did, with the remaining picks on day 2, birds take Hill or Taylor(DT), scoop up Sherrod Martin(CB),Purvis (TE)), Troy Nolan or Pegues(S), Vasquez(OG). Your defensive front seven would be DL,Andersen,Dorsey,Babs,Abraham, LB,Nicholas,Lofton,Curry, with a reserve DL of Biermann,Lewis,(Taylor or Hill),Davis, reserve LB Wire,Peterson,James, now thats a nice two deep unit, the second string actually could start for some teams.

Nookah

April 23rd, 2009
11:49 am

Marko, whew!!!!! That’s some hot stuff there. I’d love to do that deal but let me put on my other GM hat. As Seminole suggested, that “cap” would not fit. Remember we still have Roddy to sign. However, look at the other side, is AB getting antsy and saying to TD (the conversation may go like this)…..

AB: “Listen TD/Smitty, we made a big step last year, what can we do to enhance the product this year? How can we put more people in the seats, sell more merchandise nationally, add some more excitement and anticipation and perhaps even attract additional prime time attention? I need to turn this franchise into the “Home Depot” of football, when I was there I might add. I need to be the leader in my industry. What do you say TD?”

TD: Mr. Blank, I appreciate your passion and enthusiasm but when I came here you outlined to me the goals and objectives. I inherited a damaged product and I outlined to you a plan that will not only allow you to win a Super Bowl or 2 but also to be an elite franchise for a long time and also to enhance the cash flow stream of this franchise over the long haul. So Mr. Blank whereas that deal would really excite the fans, I have to be fiscally prudent and advise you that that would be biting off more than we can chew. Please Mr. Blank, remember this is a PROCESS and we do not have to do all of that to have a better product this year. Trust me. I’ll stake my future on it. I say we go with our player in the first round, Clint “Dirty Harry” Sintim and “he’ll make our day”. Unless some other player unexpectedly drops to us, he will be our man.

AB: OK guys, but make it work. I’ll defer to you because that’s why I employed you. I’m no Al Davis or Dan Snyder. So do your thing.

Go Falcons!!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!!

Get up stand up, stand up for your rights,
Get up stand up don’t give up the fight (Robert Nesta Marley)

D3

April 23rd, 2009
12:50 pm

Wow, you can really tell this difference between a blog solely dedicated to football (The Bird-Cage) and a general population blog about football (MB’s recent post). Get a really big kick out some of their comments. They just throw s— against the wall hoping something will stick. It’s really pretty funny actually.

DOL just picked Brian Cushing for our Falconi’s on ESPN’s mock draft. Boo. Rather have Sintim or English, b/c Cushing is a pretty big risk IMO. Won’t be upset with the pick, but I’d rather have ‘Grew, Sintim, or English.

Big Ray

April 23rd, 2009
12:55 pm

D3,

I am absolutely no good at mocks. NO GOOD. Now if y’all need a good laugh or two, or D. Ledbetter wants somebody to fade the heat to, I’m good for that. Otherwise, my mock would just suck…. seriously

I see you are still all fired up about Pettigrew. Two days away from seeing if it’s true, bro’!!! Can you stand it? I’m practically quivering with excitement…

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
12:55 pm

Nookah, I love the conversation between AB and TD. Great stuff man!! I guess Rich was out at the old GM plant site surveying for the new digs.

I have full faith in TD to get this one right. Even if he goes against my wishes (I’ll talk to him at the post-draft mini trust me…LOL), I am happy knowing that from a management point, the Birds have NEVER been in better hands.

Still working on the final revisions to the first round and Falcons mocks. Will probably get the revisions to D3 sometime before sunrise on Saturday morn. My gut tells me the final three on the Big Board at the Branch are: 1) “Dirty Harry” Sintim, 2) The ‘Grew, and 3) Ziggy.

Thoughts??

Khao$

April 23rd, 2009
12:58 pm

Honestly, even if we went all defense in this draft, it would not improve our defense next year. In fact, I believe it may take two drafts to do so. Perhaps our best defense may be our offense. And the longer we can keep our offense on the field, the better our defense will look.
I would not be surprised if we drafted Pettigrew (provided he’s there at 24) and took the Colts blue print: score lots of points and slowly improve the defense.
I’m not saying I agree with this approach, but I understand. I heard Chuck Oliver present this arguement while making a case for trading for Tony Gonzalaz.

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
1:09 pm

WR…assuming your trade does go through (and I agree, I have my doubts), I would give you this draft:

4) DT Terrance Taylor
5a) DT Roy Miller
5b) OT Joel Bell
6) OG Andrew Kemp
5b)

SeminoleWarrior

April 23rd, 2009
1:14 pm

Khao$, you are on to something there. Not only is that the Colts way, but that has been the Patriot way as well in recent years. A controlled offense with a Tampa 2 style, Tony Dungy-minded bend but do noe break D. Can’t argue the results. Super Bowl win in Indy with it; a middle of the road 3-4 in NE won the big one as well. Nice thoughts bro.

Nookah

April 23rd, 2009
1:20 pm

D3, did DOL really pick him? I guess that’s who he’s gonna drop on us tomorrow with his final mock. I get the feeling that Cushing and possibly Matthews Jnr. have been dropping in the draft. I am not sold on either I must admit, I have 4 guys on defense that I would have no problem taking either in the first round, Sintim, English, Ayers or Jenkins. One on offense, your guy, ‘Grew.

By the way what are our chances of taking a WR in this draft? I have a feeling we might spend a later round pick on one. A burner like Mike Wallace (no not 60 Minutes, but Mississippi State.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect evertime!!!…………………..THE PROCESS CONTINUES!!!

Nookah

April 23rd, 2009
1:29 pm

Seminole, I like that list. However, as Big Ray alluded to some time ago, there is going to be a run on some position(s) and that will allow some other team to depart from their draft boards and someone high on our draft board that we did not anticipate falling to us may do so and we will have to pull the trigger as long as it fills our needs.

A few names that may come to mind, Tyson Jackson, Robert Ayers, Larry English, Michael Jenkins, Aaron Maybin…need I say more? Now who would argue if one of these players fell to us?

Go Falcons!!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!…………….THE PROCESS CONTINUES!!!

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:16 pm

Well, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Peria Jerry
25. Miami – Everette Brown
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Ziggy Hood
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Falcon dream scenario, imo:
one of the teams at the top of the 2nd round trades up to the Falcons to grab a good WR or OT prospect who’s fallen unexpectedly, and the Falcons come away with two 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, and get Sintim OLB, Ron Brace DT, Ingram TE, Rashad Johnson FS. I also like DTs Roy Miller or Sen’derrick Marks in round 4 or 5, along with Asher Allen out of uga.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:20 pm

Well, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Peria Jerry
25. Miami – Everette Brown
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Ziggy Hood
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Falcon dream scenario, imo:
one of the teams at the top of the 2nd round trades up to the Falcons to grab a good WR or OT prospect who’s fallen unexpectedly, and the Falcons come away with two 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, and get Sintim OLB, Ron Brace DT, Ingram TE, Rashad Johnson FS. If they can’t swing a trade down, I think the Falcons go with Pettigrew, though I’d still prefer if they went Defense with their first two or three picks. As late rounders, I like DTs Roy Miller or Sen’derrick Marks in round 4 or 5, along with Asher Allen out of uga in the 5th.

darrell starks

April 23rd, 2009
2:30 pm

TD DONT MISS OUT ON SEAN SMITH OF UTAH HE WILL BE A BEAST IN THE NFL HIM AND COLEMAN AT THE SAFETY WILL BE AWESOME . GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great Falconi

April 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm

ESPN’s Michael Smith says it’s Tony Gonzalez to the Falcons, and not for our second-round pick this year.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm

The blog monster seems to be eating everything I submit in the last 20 minutes, but I’m following sage advice and saving prior to submitting. If they all show up at the same time, and this ends up being a repeat, I apologize for the redundancy.

After much hand-wringing and anticipation, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Everette Brown
25. Miami – James Laurinaitis
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Falcon dream scenario, imo:
one of the teams at the top of the 2nd round trades up to the Falcons to grab a good WR or OT prospect who’s fallen unexpectedly, and the Falcons come away with two 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, and get Sintim OLB, Ron Brace DT, Ingram TE, Rashad Johnson FS. I also like DTs Roy Miller or Sen’derrick Marks in round 4 or 5, along with Asher Allen out of uga.

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm

We just got TG for a 2010 2nd rounder. TD is the man.

chc4

April 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm

Fox Sports is reporting the Falcons have traded a 2nd round pick for Tony Gonzalez. Not a big of this move at all.

darrell starks

April 23rd, 2009
2:38 pm

TD do not miss out on sean smith of UTAH he will be a beast in the nfl him and coleman at safety will be awesome. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great Falconi

April 23rd, 2009
2:39 pm

Jay Glazer says it’s for a second-round pick next season. Nice deal for us, folks.

Knuckle Sandwich

April 23rd, 2009
2:40 pm

Gonzo for 2010 2nd round pick

chc4

April 23rd, 2009
2:40 pm

Yea, its our #2 in the 2010 draft. I can live with that since, in current compensation, that equates a a #3 in 2009.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:41 pm

I can live with Gonzalez for a second rounder, I guess, if it’s straight up. The Falcons stand to have quite a few compensatory picks in 2010, so they won’t be short picks. (Hopefully, that 2nd round pick will be a LATE second rounder.) And yes, TD is the man.

darrell starks

April 23rd, 2009
2:41 pm

TD a second round pick of 2010 for TONEY GONZALEZ THIS IS AWESOME. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:45 pm

The blog monster ate this the first few times I submitted. If those eaten submissions do show up, I apologize for the redundancy. And it looks like Pettigrew’s going to the Eagles or the Bills, guys. Even better for us, imo. Means we can spend three of the first four picks on defenders, and the fourth of those on an O-lineman. Good for us, and thank goodness for TD. Dude is smart. Looking at TD reminds me of my fave bumnber sticker of all time: “Guns don’t kill people. People with mustaches kill people.”

After much hand-wringing and anticipation, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Everette Brown
25. Miami – James Laurinaitis
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Falcon dream scenario, imo:
one of the teams at the top of the 2nd round trades up to the Falcons to grab a good WR or OT prospect who’s fallen unexpectedly, and the Falcons come away with two 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, and get Sintim OLB, Ron Brace DT, Ingram TE, Rashad Johnson FS. I also like DTs Roy Miller or Sen’derrick Marks in round 4 or 5, along with Asher Allen out of uga.

The Truth Hurts

April 23rd, 2009
2:45 pm

Re-do those mock drafts, boys!

Defense, defense, defense…welcome to the 2009 NFL Draft.

Reno makes a good point about the compensatory picks due next year.

Okay, so now what?

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:47 pm

The blog monster ate this the first few times I submitted. If those eaten submissions do show up, I apologize for the redundancy. And it looks like Pettigrew’s going to the Eagles or the Bills, guys. Even better for us, imo. Means we can spend three of the first four picks on defenders, and the fourth of those on an O-lineman. Good for us, and thank goodness for TD. Dude is smart. Looking at TD reminds me of my fave bumnber sticker of all time: “Guns don’t kill people. People with mustaches kill people.”
After much hand-wringing and anticipation, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Everette Brown
25. Miami – James Laurinaitis
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Falcon dream scenario, imo:
one of the teams at the top of the 2nd round trades up to the Falcons to grab a good WR or OT prospect who’s fallen unexpectedly, and the Falcons come away with two 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, and get Sintim OLB, Ron Brace DT, Ingram TE, Rashad Johnson FS. I also like DTs Roy Miller or Sen’derrick Marks in round 4 or 5, along with Asher Allen out of uga.

angry banker

April 23rd, 2009
2:47 pm

Ken – you raise an interesting point. I suppose Trey doesn’t have to be a back-up; but a guy whose esentially a 24 year old rookie becasue of his injuries seems like a back up to me. ok, so lets assume he stays healthy – dont we still need to add depth to the line? I like the way we had it last year with a smaller DT that can penetrate and a big guy that can just sit there and take up a hole and 1/2. What Grady lacked in skill he made up for in sheer size – and to some degree, theres no substitute for size.

but I suppose Trey is as big as anyone we’re going to get our of the draft this year, except for the guys at BC – Brace and Raji

at our weaker positions – I would say trey is suspect at DT, Wire at OLB, and Decoud at Safety. The way I see it, DT is not only our area with the least depth, but also the most questionalbe one considering Trey’s health. Thoughts?

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:50 pm

The blog monster ate this the first few times I submitted. If those eaten submissions do show up, I apologize for the redundancy. And it looks like Pettigrew’s going to the Eagles or the Bills, guys. Even better for us, imo. Means we can spend three of the first four picks on defenders, and the fourth of those on an O-lineman. Good for us, and thank goodness for TD. Dude is smart. Looking at TD reminds me of my fave bumnber sticker of all time: “Guns don’t kill people. People with mustaches kill people.”

After much hand-wringing and anticipation, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Everette Brown
25. Miami – James Laurinaitis
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:52 pm

The blog monster ate this the first few times I submitted. If those eaten submissions do show up, I apologize for the redundancy. And it looks like Pettigrew’s going to the Eagles or the Bills, guys. Even better for us, imo. Means we can spend three of the first four picks on defenders, and the fourth of those on an O-lineman. Good for us, and thank goodness for TD. Dude is smart. Looking at TD reminds me of my fave bumnber sticker of all time: “Guns don’t kill people. People with mustaches kill people.”
After much hand-wringing and anticipation, my team of monkeys with typewriters has finally finished my mock draft. It’s a bit of a mysterious process. They don’t let me watch, but every once in a while, when I’m filling one of their ridiculous late-night requests for booze and munchies, I’m able to peek in and see them drawing on their “big board” wall with crayons, eating parasites, and throwing feces at what I can only make out to be a poorly-made effigy of Todd McShay. Well, after two months of the team’s pounding on their typewriters in 12 hour shifts, $583 in Papa Johns orders, 32 gallons of banana cognac, and three pepperoni-stained masterpiece treatises that read like Tolstoy (which I promptly threw out), they have submitted for my approval the Reno 911 mock draft, structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Everette Brown
25. Miami – James Laurinaitis
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 23rd, 2009
2:52 pm

I knew it was a reason I waited to do my mock.

darrell starks

April 23rd, 2009
2:53 pm

DEFENSE DEFEENSE DEFENSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BABBY LETS GO
I HAVE FOUR DAY ONE STARTERS

1ST PICK CUSHING LB
2ND PICK SEAN SMITH SAFETY A BEAST
3RD PICK ALLEN ASHER CB
4TH PICK DORRELL SCOTT DT 64 320POUNDS STRONG UP THE MIDDLE

GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:54 pm

No kidding, Stirg. Ok, everybody, off the Pettigrew bandwagon. Feel free to climb on the “trade down” bandwagon. Still some room here.

Nookah

April 23rd, 2009
2:54 pm

What does this tell you guys? This says to me that our staus quo feel we are further along than some of us think. This move is saying to me, we are confident the Falcons can go further in the playoffs. To me it is confirmation not only from our top brass but also from TG. As a veteran he must have some say in which team he goes to and he is indirectly cionfirming that the Falcons are indeed serious contenders for 2009.

Next step………..sign Roddy to an extension!!!!

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!….THE PROCESS CONTINUES…….and just got accelerated!!!

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:56 pm

D3 – I keep trying to post my mock draft, but the blog monster doesn’t like it, and it never appears. Will try to manipulate it a little and see if I can trick it into accepting it.

structured to reflect expected trades (do we get credit for those, D3?)

1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Eugene Monroe
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Jason Smith
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree
8. Jax – B.J. Raji
9. Green Bay- Brian Orakpo
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Eben Britton
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Knowshon Moreno
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Rey Maualuga
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Brian Cushing
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Everette Brown
25. Miami – James Laurinaitis
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Peria Jerry
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants (traded to Cleveland for Braylon Edwards) – Kenny Britt
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
2:58 pm

Falcon dream scenario, imho:
one of the teams at the top of the 2nd round trades up to the Falcons to grab a good WR or OT prospect who’s fallen unexpectedly, and the Falcons come away with two 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders, and get Sintim OLB, Ron Brace DT, Paul Kruger DE, Rashad Johnson FS. If no Ron Brace, then go for DTs Roy Miller or Sen’derrick Marks in round 4 or 5. Also like Asher Allen out of uga in rd 5.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
3:01 pm

I still think the Falcons may go TE in this draft, seeing how deep the position is, but maybe late with Richard Quinn or Cameron Morrah, or one of the 3rd-round projection guys if they slip down into the 4th or 5th. (That’s when the Laurent Robinson trade may come in handy.) I don’t see Gonzalez playing past the 2010 season, so they still need to get a TE for the future.

angry banker

April 23rd, 2009
3:02 pm

Seriously??!?! We got TG for a 2010 2nd round pick?! Thomas Dimitroff – you are the man!!

I thought it was some kind of sick joke at first!!

So, new mock drafts?!?

D3

April 23rd, 2009
3:06 pm

Great Afternoon Bird-Cagers! Man, I opened my mouth too D@– soon and said, “Oh, this week is going by pretty fast for draft week.” What a mistake that was. Time has screeched to a halt. Can’t tell you how nice it is to return to the place of ‘talking intelligent football with cool guys,’ after returning from a general population blog. Whew! Some good arguments, but overall everyone speaks in absolutes with no room for gray area. “I hate Pettigrew, he stole my car!”….Maybe exaggerating a little, but close. To the matter close at hand……….

Seminole – Like your version of TD’s Big Board, except switch ‘Grew and Sintim. You know my feelings on Hood. Given the choice, I’ll take Jerry. Hood might turn out to be good, but you’re right on whoever they draft, they got my vote. Are we totally off on Sintim, b/c I can’t find anyone except a couple guys on NFL N that have Sintim rated high.
1)’Grew 2)Maybin 3)Sintim 4)English

Khoa$ – great, great argument. As was mentioned by Stirg(I think), championship teams are those that are balanced and not solely reliant on their OFF or DEF. I young or rather inexperienced D will need some clock eatin’ from the OFF this year.

Nookah – disappointly, YES! He took Cushing. Shouldn’t there be a reason behind someone dropping like a stone, previously considered a Top 10 pick? Someone still has to explain to me how Cushing is any different than Matthews, experience wise. Agree on your selections, but maybe not Ayers, just because of other needs. At WR, check out Aaron Kelly from Clemson & Marko Mitchell from Nevada.

darrell – like Sean Smith too, but I think he may have dropped a little due to his perceived lack of position and time to adjust to the NFL, JMO.

D3

April 23rd, 2009
3:12 pm

EGG ON FACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Take the ball and run with it gentleman! Let me be the first to say that I just cracked and egg, let it seep out onto my face, and it tastes oh so good.

Sorry ‘Grew, I rode the wagon until the wheels fell off!

Turtsnap

April 23rd, 2009
3:17 pm

Maybe I am missing something here. I don’t understand the excitement of giving up next years second round pick for Tony Gonzalez? Even ESPN is reporting that Gonzalez is only planning to play this year, and POSSIBLY next year before retirement. We sacrifice a 2nd round pick for that?

The Truth Hurts

April 23rd, 2009
3:22 pm

As a BC alum, I watched every BC game with Raji and Brace. Raji was constantly double-teamed and still managed penetration. He’s the real deal. Brace had the benefit of having Raji next to him drawing double teams and too often didn’t make a big impact. IMHO, he’s not quite a top of the 2nd round talent. He just isn’t. A potential run-stuffer, but doesn’t make a habit of disrupting anything beyond the line of scrimmage.

The guys on ESPN were EFFUSIVE in their praise for the trade. “Best trade I’ve seen in a long time…” “Super Bowl contenders…” just a couple of comments you heard. They noted the compensatory picks next year for KB, DF, and MB, allowing them to maybe move up if need be.

This offense, on paper, could be scary good.

chc4

April 23rd, 2009
3:24 pm

Comp picks in cannot be traded so whatever we receive in 2010 will be of no help as far as getting back into the 2nd round.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
3:30 pm

True, chc4, but it softens the loss of a 2nd rounder when a team gets extra compensatory 3rd-5th rounders. It also makes it easier to trade one’s regular 3rd-5th rounders for a 2 if a team knows that they’ll still have the compensatory picks there.

Khao$

April 23rd, 2009
3:33 pm

D3, no egg on your face. Actually Dimitroff’s move for Tony Gonzalaz backs up the statement I made. The Falcons made the offense strong to keep the defense off the field. Thus, the defense becomes stronger and grows all at once. If EVERYONE stays healthy and productive on O, we will be CRAZY on offense!

D3

April 23rd, 2009
3:36 pm

Worried about the number of years TG has left:

From TG himself: “But I’m looking forward to making a Super Bowl run in Atlanta every year for the next three or four years. With Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Roddy White and now myself, we have the chance to be in the top five in the league in offense every year. How could I not be excited to join that team?”

Also reportedly on the verge of finalizing a new contract.

Khao$

April 23rd, 2009
3:40 pm

If our offense clicks like we think it could and we score tons of points, our defense will look 10 times better? Why? If you’re up 14-21 points, the offense can’t run the ball. Our guys on defense could pin their ears back and go after the quarterback. Of course, this is an ideal situation. But acquiring Gonzalaz could have actually IMPROVE THE DEFENSE

TommyP

April 23rd, 2009
3:42 pm

I believe the blog starts with DOL saying, “Cool out with the Gonzalez trade talk.”

Oops….

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
3:47 pm

D3, no egg dude! Trust me, we all now will come to realize what GEM we have in Thomas Dimitroff!!! This guy has brought excitement back to the ATL per pro football!! All of us who have submitted our mocks are now in the trenches are re-working them ASAP!!

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
3:48 pm

D3- thanks for the quote. I like the way that Gonzalez sounds. I hope his body agrees, though. Needless to say, there’s only a handful of players who can play past the 13 year mark, much less up to 16 or 17 years. Call me cautious, but I still wince a little, imagining that we might be giving up a #40-50 pick next year, who could be a good player one day…but I do love what Gonzalez brings in the hear term, to include the “intangible” factor of his experience, character, and stabilizing influence on the team. The other thing I love about this trade is that is frees up the Falcons to go defense with four or all five of their first five picks, which I think they need. So, what does everyone think the Falcons do with the top 2 of those picks? Though the conventional wisdom points to an OLB, something tells me that if there’s a good DE who drops to 24, the Falcons will go that direction. Abraham is good, but is aging, and while I am hoping against hope that Anderson all of the sudden turns into a strong edge-rusher, I don’t think it’s going to happen. What if they addressed both? I go back to the prospect of drafting hybrid Connor Barwin to play some snaps at Sam and some 3rd downs opposite Abe at DE. Barwin will be gone soon after the Falcons at either 25 (Dolphins) or 34 (Patriots in the 2nd). Just a thought.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
3:50 pm

near term, that is. not hear term.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
3:52 pm

The Falcons have decided to keep their information air tight because they have experienced enough egg processing, so don’t blame DOL, he is the last person they would leak information to. This is what happened to the Braves recently with leaking information to the AJC before the ink was laid down.

Bird Cage: I think the birds will trade down now. I still see Evander Ziggy Hood in their sites. I think we will go DT & LB…

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
3:56 pm

TD should be arrested because he just stole TG from Kansas City!!
Let’s just say if the Falcons trade down to pick up not only a 2nd round in this draft but could also re-coup the 2nd round in 2010 draft as well. This guy is the MAN!!

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
3:58 pm

This trade changes the draft in a good way for us. Word is that Baltimore is also interested in Pettigrew. It could be possible to garner a trade for someone wanting to snag him ahead of them like Buffalo at no. 28! Thoughts.

chc4

April 23rd, 2009
4:01 pm

Reno — I agree but was responding to the person that said we could use the comp picks as ammo to move back into the 2nd round next year.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm

Right on.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
4:07 pm

Reno, nice points – I also agree we need to look at the DE position in this draft. I do feel that TD will get exactly what he is looking for in this draft to improve our defense. These are not your daddy’s Falcons; these are the new and improve Falcons that are looking to move toward your elite Franchises.

TheManMike

April 23rd, 2009
4:12 pm

Great pick – Just…Goodness……No time for a real comment – so, enjoy.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
4:21 pm

We also need to still address the Offensive Line in this draft!! Got to protect Matt Ryan as he throws to Roddy, Jenk & now TD!!

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
4:34 pm

Here is a trade scenario to think about. The Bills need help all along their O line. They also need a pass rush and a TE. We could trade our #24 for their #42 and #75. That would give us a top and bottom third selection in rounds two and three. It would satisfy their needs also giving them three in round one. Maybin, Pettigrew and Alex Mack for them. Plenty for us to play with.

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
4:36 pm

I almost sound like a Bills fan. LOL!

tbhawksfan

April 23rd, 2009
4:42 pm

WOW, oh hel yeah. Great trade. Now I can put even more of my mock into the D. TG is so much better than P’grew would have been and we will be that much stronger on D.

Looks like either Jerry, Cushing or Maybin with #24.

Shamus Thacker

April 23rd, 2009
5:04 pm

This thang is turnin out perdy good I’d say.

We instantly have a perennial Pro Bowler (instead of rookie) at TE. We still have our 24th pick, which can now be used for defense or to trade down.

The greatest pickup in the history of the Atlanta Falcons franchise is our General Manager, TD.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
5:07 pm

D3, Stirg, Nookah, Seminole, Ken Strickland: what does the braintrust think? Anyone else thinking that the Falcons trade down now? I think Sintim is gettable in the middle of the 2nd, for the people who like him. DE Paul Kruger will be available toward the end of the 2nd, and would be a good addition, assuming Jamaal Anderson doesn’t suddenly turn into Justin Tuck. The Connor Barwin wildcard intrigues me, but is more a fit for a 3-4 team, though I’d love it if the Falcons’ picked him. So many possibilities. Thoughts?

Ken Strickland- do you see the Falcons taking a defensive back in the first two rounds, or standing pat with the secondary as is and loading the front seven?

D3- no egg on your face at all, my man. I didn’t think the TG trade was either feasible or smart, until I heard that it was done (and found out it was for a 2010 second rounder) I thought Pettigrew would likely be the pick. It was only logical that TE was a huge need, and he was likely to be the only legitimate first round talent in a position of need available to the Falcons at 24. So, props to the logic: that the Falcons’ viewed the addition of a legit TE threat as an overall team improvement in red-zone efficiency, time of possession, alleviated pressure on the defense by keeping them off the field, etc. They were just able to get it with their 2010 second rounder, instead of their 2009 first. I likes it.

Ironically, doesn’t it seem like KC immediately lowered the value of their own 2nd round compensation when they gave a red zone threat to a strong running team with a good #1 WR and a solid QB who was, really, only missing a TE red zone threat? The Falcons still have a tough first 11 week schedule, but I can’t help but think the Falcons just picked up a win in those 11 weeks with this trade, and the Chiefs just lowered their own compensation by a few slots in 2010. Anyone else think that TD might have just taken advantage of his former boss?

youngjezzyy

April 23rd, 2009
5:15 pm

with TG BABY IM THINKING
1. BUTLER
2. M. JOHNSON

yeah baby yeah

April 23rd, 2009
5:18 pm

NOW WITH TG
1.BUTLER/ENGLISH
2. M. JOHNSON

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
5:24 pm

My brothers…TD is a mastermind!! What a coup. TG will bring solid leadership into the Falcon locker room. And most importantly, he is HUNGRY!! He wants to help take this team to the next level.

Still assessing the breaking news as I am working on this forecast. I’ll comment later.

D3/Stirg: I’m telling ya…get on the Ziggy Hood/Peria Jerry train now. This draft is going to be about two key elements: 1) Upgrading the interior run and pass defensive tempo; 2) Speed and coverage skill enhancements in the LB corps.

WR

April 23rd, 2009
5:29 pm

As great as this trade appears, it has given me a great feeling of depression. I feel like a balloon, the trade blew me up, and the wait for the season to start popped me. Now instead of calling each of you fellow bloggers, I have to refer to you as my support group, well at least part of my support group along with Red Stripes. Back to reality, the Grew bus just flipped over and as I was hanging on for some last minute hope the Peria Jerry bus approached so I quickly gave the Cushing bus in the distance a quick finger and jumped on the Jerry Bus with an eye on the Hood bus which was quickly approaching.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
5:30 pm

The compensatory picks issue is critical to understand. TD is a master of strategy. By not being over-aggressive in F/A, with what we lost, we are in position to obtain at least three comp picks next season. They would fall in rounds three thru seven.

That facet alone would put the Birds near double digits for picks next season. TD mastered this craft from Pioli and Belichek as NE is always in position to obtain comp picks. Lots of value and depth can be found with these. So the loss of a 2 next year is immediately offset by the fact that we will pick double in the ensuing rounds.

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
5:32 pm

I think that Pioli was thinking that if they tried to force the issue in keeping TG, that they might end up not getting any value for him due to early retirement in 2010. So just take the value for next year. Besides, they are in a total rebuilding stage right now. Plus TG deserves to get what he wants. The guy is a player’s pro.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
5:32 pm

DO Led, I love it. Brings leadership into the locker room, great value, and immediate offensive production. TG is good for another two years or so because he takes pretty good care of himself.

Am I on the right track with my preliminary F/A and comp pick assessments?

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
5:33 pm

WR…there is room on the Ziggy Hood express. Come on board.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
5:34 pm

Seminole- I think if I had to pick between the two, I’d take P. Jerry. He’s disruptive, active, and can rush the passer from the inside. Ziggy Hood looks really good putting swim moves on tackling dummies in workouts, but the word from some is that he really didn’t produce in games the way he should have (I wouldn’t know, I haven’t watched tape. Nor do I really know what I’m talking about, for that matter.)

I still look at the Giants’ team from a few years ago and think that the Falcons could be within a year of putting something like that together, if they get the right picks in this draft: a three-headed running back attack, an opportunity passing attack that doesn’t take undue risks with the ball, and a front four that can generate pressure on the QB without blitzing. Jerry might fit that mold, with the quickness to get off inside blocks and into the backfield. (I’d still rather the Falcons trade down, though.)

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
5:37 pm

(the running attack being Turner, Norwood, and T. Brown, I should say.)

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
5:38 pm

Good point on the comp picks Seminole. We can use our regular picks next year to position ourselves for one of the premiere safeties next year such as Taylor Mays out of USC or Eric Berry out of Tennessee.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
5:42 pm

Reno, I’m cool with either. Perry has the edge initially but I have full faith in the Sugar Bear to coach either of them up. And don’t forget the other half of my plan. Pair Jerry/Hood with Lewis and then pair Babs with later round selection Taylor/Hill and we will have one H**l of a set of DTs..

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
5:44 pm

Mays or Berry would be awesome, but I think the cost will be too high. I’m not sure anyone would take a late first rounder and a 3rd rounder for a high 1st, unfortunately. Though I’d love either one of those guys (I’d liken Berry to Ed Reed and Mays to Troy Polamalu), I think they’ll both be top 10, and the only way the Falcons will get a shot at them will be to go 5-11.

irvin

April 23rd, 2009
5:51 pm

That may be true Reno. But how about throwing in the 2011 first or second rounder to help bolster the value. Do you think that if we have a contending team with good depth after 2009 that we could relinquish that type of value for either of them?

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
6:02 pm

seminole- you’re right on, brother. The thing about this team, I feel, is that TD can pick the players with the right tools, and the coaches are good enough to actually coach them into being better than they otherwise would be. Look at the O-line situation in 2008, for example. Playing way, way over their heads, I’d bet quite a bit attributable to getting the right mentality players (guys like Dahl and Clabo, who have the nasty attitude, but not all the talent in the world) and giving them the right kind of coaching to build them into a good unit. We know that the staff likes Babs and Trey Lewis. Add another good inside athlete to that mix and they could be good to go.

irvin- yes, I do. I’d do whatever it took (within reason) to get Mays or Berry, frankly. Earlier this year, when Mays announced he was returning to USC for his senior season, I thought the Falcons should trade a potentially terrible team for their 2010 first rounder (like Cincinnati or St. Louis) just for a shot at Mays.

WR

April 23rd, 2009
6:06 pm

Reno, its funny should mention Brown, I wasn’t even thinking about a three-headed rushing attack but there’s something about that guy that tells me teams are going to regret passing over him. Seminole keep the engine running on the Ziggy express, from now until saturday we are in for a bumpy ride and I might just have to bail out at the last minute. Haven’t heard anyone mention it in a while but the Chung bus should be cranking back up soon.

Intramural Team is Aggressive

April 23rd, 2009
6:07 pm

Reno I was wondering how it would make you feel to hear that we traded for TG with a 2010 second-round pick. I know I was ecstatic about it.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
6:10 pm

Fellas~ I just heard TD on 680 the fan and it’s a strong possiblilty the Falcons could trade the 24th pick for additional picks. I do believe they will go defense when they finally pick, actually I think the first 4-5 picks will be for the defensive side.

Reno 911

April 23rd, 2009
6:12 pm

Heck yeah, man. Santa Claus uses hair gel and a mustache comb.

Nookah

April 23rd, 2009
6:13 pm

D3, no egg my friend. Don’t worry about it. There will be more trades to come even on draft day. Personally I think the first round will have about 2 or possibly more. I know because of the Snyder
threat and his coveting Sanchez may lead to some disruption at the top of the draft. Seattle needs Sanchez to be schooled by Greg Knapp, yes Knapp, in the West Coast offense, especially since Hasselbach is so frail. Oh by the way, ?I don’t think KC is done dealing.

So, it is safe to say it’s going to be defense in round 1. TG is such a great pickup, he converted 28 third downs last year for the Chiefs (NFL Network). What was one of our weaknesses on offense last year? You guessed it, third downs. So that addresses that.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!! …….THE PROCESS CONTINUES……

“Chase dem crazy baldheads outta town”……..Robert Nesta Marley… (that’s what we’ll be doing next year)!!

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
6:14 pm

Reno, again you are right on point….It appears that P Jerry, Sintim, Ziggy Hood, DE Paul Kruger or Connor Barwin could be Falcons!

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
6:56 pm

WR…the Ziggy Express or Jerry Land Rover is ready to roll into ATL. Remember, small, disruptive, pressure the pocket.

WR, funny that you bring nack my original ride, SS Patrick Chung. And like the Dean, I just heard TD’s remarks. I do not think he is done yet. It appears that we may be on our way to two picks in the second round with possible another one or two picks. Curious as to who the trade partner would be? DO Led or posse, any ideas?

WR, funny that you bring nack my original ride, SS Patrick Chung. He may be there in the second (I know Stirg, Big Ray, and D3 told me this weeks back). According to the depth chart, we need depth at FS behind Coleman. DeCoud, Harris, and the others are projected as SS though DeCoud could play either. Question is whether we will consider that a key need in the second or go for LB help.

The Truth Hurts

April 23rd, 2009
7:00 pm

The compansetory picks can be used in lieu of regular picks if you choose to use the regular picks to move back up. That was my point. chc4. Or whomever.

I wonder how many bloggers have actually seen Hood, Jerry, Butler, Cushing, Sintim, Brace or whomever else they’re clamoring for….play. Not just once. But over and over. Youtube highlight packages don’t count.

I’m guessing….not many.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
7:30 pm

Truth, I have seen Brace and Sintim in person (I’m a ACC guy). Sintim is a beast and I could be there for us in the second as it seems his stock has slid. On my dish, I followed Jerry and Hood; impact players who minor issues could easily be addressed by the Sugar Bear. Brace is questionable with me; Raji made that line and I’m wondering about Brace and his health issues (back).

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 23rd, 2009
7:35 pm

Y’all, I am sitting over here, gettin’ tore up. I am so excited about this trade, I don’t know what to do. I have preached time and time again about the possibility of using the two-tight end set to beat this new Tampa 2 defense. It’ll only work, however, with a combo blocking/catching tight end, at least one. I, still, look for TD to take another TE in later rounds, someone like Morrah (I think Reno 911 suggested this earlier). That way, the rookie would receive the tutelage of an all-pro, who’ll be retiring soon. Wow! TD thinks just like this blog. I swear that I’ve suggested this tactic before.

While we’re in a celebratory mode, gentlemen, lets tip our hats and lift our brews to TD, Arthur Blank and Bill Parcells.

I’m going to go ahead and put it out there…Atlanta Falcons vs. Miami Dolphins, Super Bowl 44!

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
7:37 pm

Posse, here is one for you to ponder. TD says he is still open to trading down. Connections are everything right? Check this:

Atlanta trades pick #24 to the New England Patriots for the rights to picks 34 and 37 in the second round. New England uses the 24th pick to trade to Carolina, along with a third round pick, for Julius Peppers.

Atlanta uses three #2 picks on Hood, Sintim, and Laurinaitis/Freeman. Sintim starts at SLB and Laurinaitis/Freeman projects at WLB.

Thoughts…..

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
7:39 pm

Stirg, I’m at work so I will toast with a Coke Zero. But when I get to the Teepee, it’s own with a shot of Crown.

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
7:40 pm

Well it looks like I’ve found the usual suspects hanging out with Orlando. What do you think guys? Did anybody really think the D-man could land Gonzo for a whole year rent free? The Falcons used to be like congress, totally lacking in adult supervision. Well look at them now. The new and improved Dirty Birds have got be favorites to win the division. The no back to back winning seasons crap stops here. Falcon’s for Ever!

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
7:48 pm

Strig, you know how much I respect your judgment, but give Gonzo a couple of winning seasons and you have to beat him senseless with his cane and drag him off the field to get him to retire. The evil doers will fear our Gonzo for years to come.

Bill in Dallas

April 23rd, 2009
7:49 pm

I’m very happy about the trade. Now I won’t have to throw things.

Nookah

April 23rd, 2009
7:49 pm

Seminole, I’ll have to start calling you “EZ (End Zone – you are the perfect TD complement). I love that trade and I’d do it in a heartbeat. I know I’d put some pressure on all QB’s and not miss a beat!!!

Love it man!!!

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!…….the process continues!!!

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
7:54 pm

Thanks Nookah. It seems the Patriot way is working in ATL and KC so why help out the mother ship if it helps us too.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
7:55 pm

Worse case, it gets rid of us dealing with Peppers twice a year…LOL.

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
8:03 pm

Seminole, sounds good to me. If we can’t have Peppers, we’ll at least get him out of our division. We get stronger and the godless heathens up north get weaker. what’s not to like.The problem as i see it , is that New England wants Julius, they just can’t afford him. You know typical cap crap.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
8:04 pm

Seminole – I agree. My question is what homerun will TD pick this year?? The man has a crystal ball in his pocket, office, etc. I’m interested to see if we indeed use the 1st pick or trade it. Considering that we do need starters, TD may trade it to get extra picks or it may comes down to whomever has slipped to us and we had them on the board to begin with.

chc4

April 23rd, 2009
8:04 pm

Seminole — No way the #24 is worth #34 AND #37. To go from 34 to 24 the Pats would probably have to give up a 3rd.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
8:08 pm

23 or 23 would be worth it if they could get Peppers with it. And Pepper may do a Randy Moss and take less cash in order to get a shot at the ring. Just a thought.

I threw it out there to see how it would fly..

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
8:10 pm

And chc4, TD gave up 2 #2 picks last year to move up to get Sam Baker. So, as I stated, the Patriot way is not as orthodox as one would think.

richbrave

April 23rd, 2009
8:11 pm

We can blog all day and debate who will be the picks the falcons ULTIMATELY SELECT. tHE TRUTH IS HOWEVER, IT ALL DEPENDS ON WHO’S ON THE BOARD WHEN IT’S THEIR TURN AND WHETHER HE’S A GUY THEY HAVE EVALUATED AND WANT.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
8:14 pm

This trade changes a lot for the birds! It also makes it harder for a brother to mock! Options! Options! Options!

I assume D3 is still taking on mocks which everyone will have to re-do before noon on Sat. I guess it’s on who gets closer to TD’S thought process on his next moves…

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
8:19 pm

Seminole, you might be on to something big! Here is the layout from that move up by the Birds last year:

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Falcons traded two of their second-round picks (No. 34 and No. 48) and a fourth round pick (No. 103) with Washington to move to No. 21 overall and select USC tackle Sam Baker Saturday during the NFL Draft.

The Redskins also sent the Falcons the No. 84 and No. 154 pick, giving the Birds three, third-round selections and two picks in the fifth round.

The Dean 21

April 23rd, 2009
8:22 pm

Seminole. you just might be on to something Big with that move up trade regarding the Pats & Peppers. Here is how the Birds moved up last year:

The Falcons traded two of their second-round picks (No. 34 and No. 48) and a fourth round pick (No. 103) with Washington to move to No. 21 overall and select USC tackle Sam Baker Saturday during the NFL Draft.

The Redskins also sent the Falcons the No. 84 and No. 154 pick, giving the Birds three, third-round selections and two picks in the fifth round.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
8:29 pm

I’m telling you brothers….don’t underestimate the Patriot way.

Marko

April 23rd, 2009
8:29 pm

I was just checking out Walter Football.Com it’s a great place to check out a lot of mocks quick. It seems that a lot of folks will have to do a little last minute scrambling because most of them have the Falcons taking Pettigrew.I’ll spend tomorrow polishing up mine. I’m leaving Brandon where I’ve got him, an Eagle.

yeah baby yeah

April 23rd, 2009
8:35 pm

seminole. i have no idea where you get these awesome ideas of trades and stuff, but 3 picks in the 2nd would be awesome, and maybe we could get 2 2nd and one 3rd from the pat. but either i think would be good. also if we could get alll 3 players you listed then that is def a good draft for the falcons. dude keep up the good blog info, I LOVE IT

CC

April 23rd, 2009
8:37 pm

Seminole — According to the unofficial trade value chart, the #24 pick is worth 740 points. #34 & 37 combined total 1,090. If we get #34, the corresponding pick that would add up to 740 points is #95 which is a late 2nd.

richbrave

April 23rd, 2009
8:39 pm

HEADS UP FALCONS STAFF:

The latest on GREG TOLER from my neck of the woods, ST. PAULS COLLEGE.

“Shawntee Spencer was not invited to the NFL scouting combine in 2004. So the NFL had to play catchup on the Pitt cornerback in the draft process after he ran a 4.48 40-yard dash at his campus workout. So 24 teams flew Spencer in for pre-draft visits, and he wound up getting selected in the second round by the San Francisco 49ers.

Gregory Toler of tiny St. Paul’s threatened Spencer’s record in the 2009 draft process. Toler reportedly visited 22 teams in March and April after running in the upper 4.3s at a pro day workout.

Playing at a Division II school in Virginia, Toler dominated his level of competition. He intercepted six passes and also returned a punt for a touchdown last season. Then he was invited to the Cactus Bowl, the Division II all-star game. He intercepted a pass and made four tackles there. Then came his 40 time. Then came all those frequent flyer miles.”

He has a 4.27 personal best with consistant 4.39 times, is flexible and smart with the build at 5′11′ 192 to excel in the NFL.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 23rd, 2009
8:41 pm

I’m sitting over here gettin’ tore up. I am so excited about Gonzo coming to the Bird Cage, I can’t even be still. I have preached time and time again about using the two-tight end set to beat this Cover2 defense. To pull it off, you’ll need a combo blocking/catching TE, at least one. I suggested a Pettigrew/Morrah, Pettigrew/Peele, Gonzo/Pelle, Gonzo/Morrah. Look for TD to grab another tight end late in the draft (I’m cerain someone good will drop down) and receive the tutalege of a Hall of Fame tight end. Wow!

On to the defense, gentlemen. I’m not the smartest football fan in the world; but if I can research the statistics for the time it takes for a defensive end to mature, I’m certain NFL Scouts have learned the same thing. They have the confidence and patience in Jamaal Anderson and so do I. That logic, alone, will eliminate drafting a defensive end for “24″.

I’d take a linebacker at “24″ but there are so many to choose from. Trust him, with Coach Smith’s defensive scheme, we’re set with our “interchangeable” linebackers, right now. Still, we do need SAM to combo at defensive end. I agree with the pundits, if Michael Johnson dangles around “55″, grab him! Otherwise, we need a true linebacker. After Clay Matthews, Jr., Clint Sintim and Tyrone McKenzie are the only two that would fit our scheme. Considering two of those three names will be available in the second round, I’d take my chances with waiting until then.

We have a number of cornerbacks, already, that can play zone very well. I would love for the Birds to grab a combo cornerback/safety but who can tackle and cover the defensive backfield at the same time? Can one of you fellows get back with me on that one? Tell me which defensive back can come up to support the run and/or cover a wide receiver, worthy of “24″.

With the process of elimination, we all know (considering Coach Smith’s history) that we’re going defensive tackle. With the Gonzo trade, we’re going to eat up alot of clock, offensively. Which means offensive opponents are going to have to get out the mustard, to catch up (get it? CatchUp? Okay, I’ll keep my day job). To stop an offense, YOU MUST START UP FRONT!!! Every Super Bowl contender had a strong frontline. I am really feeling Seminole Warrior’s tactic with “Jerry/Hood and Trey Lewis or a Babs and Taylor/Hill”. That will make Chevis Jackson and Chris Houston look like Pro Bowlers. That, my friends, is the reason we’ll draft a defensive tackle with “24″. Question is who?

While we’re in a celebratory mode, gentlemen, let’s tip our hats and lift our brews to Thomas Dimitroff and Arthur Blank; but let’s give and exceptional gesture of gratitude to Bill Parcells. We’ll see you in the Super Bowl.

Yes, I said it! Atlanta Falcons vs. Miami Dolphins, Super Bowl XLIV, Miami Gardens, Florida. Get your tickets, now.

richbrave

April 23rd, 2009
8:42 pm

And they never mentioned his three blocked field-goal attempts.

Ed

April 23rd, 2009
8:50 pm

Seminole the two second rd picks you mention for our #24 is way over value for the Patriots to do it. In the pt system (which I know is not the end all when it comes to trades) shows the #24 worth 740 pts & the 34th worth 560 pts with the 37th worth 530 pts. Thats 740 to 1090…it would have to be the Pats 3rd rounder most likely to go with the 34th pick.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
9:01 pm

Ed and CC, I feel you on the point evaluations. Jsut saying that the Patriot was is not always what we think it is. Again, I threw the scenario out there for provocative thoughts. And man, we getting it.

I love this blog and I love my posse brethern within!!

WR

April 23rd, 2009
9:03 pm

Stirg, some of the points you brought up were so good that they actually made me change my opinion of taking Jerry/Hood and maybe looking at Malcolm Jenkins if he falls to 24. He’s about 6′2 physical, more of a zone guy than a man guy which fits what the falcons are trying to do. As much as I hate to admit it, for the first time I think the USC kool-aid is about to come back into play. Jerry or Hood would be great picks, but I don’t think the falcons take one of those guys unless they can trade back in the draft, Jenkins is expected to be off the board by pick 24 which leaves LB, a need position. I believe Clay Matthews Jr. will be the pick at 24, not my choice but if he ends up being anywhere as good as whats being predicted, I definitely would be okay with the pick, so yeah the Matthews bus is now operational.

D3

April 23rd, 2009
9:04 pm

GDWTF, Gentleman! H— YEAH!!!! It’s great to be an Atlanta Falcon. So just as this trade is coming upon us, my computer cord (yes, a cord) died out on me so I don’t have Wi-Fi access to my work computer. But man, what a difference a couple of hours make. I was just running through some scenarios as the story broke today and broke quick. I was actually on the comp. around that time and it just started poppin’ up everywhere on the ‘net. Couldn’t have asked for anything better. TG AND we keep this years #2 in such a great year to keep him. So much to analyze and, of course, no easy computer access. I rode the ‘Grew Wagon until the Big TG Express rolled into town as, quite possibly, the greatest TE to ever play the game(at least one of). Just some quick tidbits and gotta get back to the house CEO. Wow, and just when I thought this draft couldn’t get any more exciting.

Ziggified – Gotta do some more research on Hood, b/c my boys on here are pushing me towards the Ziggy Cadillac. Question#1: Do we take him at #24 regardless or only if we trade back? If we take Ziggy, I still say we grab us a run-stuffer because this is THE year to do it. Can you imagine the rotation of Babs, Lewis, Hood, & Sammie Hill? Yowsa.

If I could be like MJ – I definitely want to trade back for sure, even if that means giving up on Hood, because I think he doesn’t get past Indy. But could imagine if we did trade back and picked up: Sintim, Moala, & MJ? Man, would that be sick or what? Question #2: Would you rather have Ziggy and Sintim, or Sintim, MJ, & Moala? Personally, I’ll take option number 2.

Buffalo, NE, Cleveland, and Detroit are all potential trading partners. And don’t rule out Chicago either. They have 8 picks and would LOVE to jump up and grab a Nicks, Britt, Robiskie, or Harvin.

More later, hopefully, but could you imagine something like this:
2a)Clint Sintim – OLB
2b)Michael Johnson – DE
2c)Sen’Derrick Marks – DT
3)Chip Vaughn – S
4)Roy Miller – DT
5a)Keenan Lewis – CB
5b)Aaron Kelly – WR
6)Lydon Murtha – T

Gimme a Red Scripe/St.Pauli/Newcastle and even a D@– Bud!!!!! Strike upt the band…….”ITS GREAT TO BE AN ATL FALCON!” said “ITS GREAT TO BE AN ATL FALCON!”

Obviously some of us will need to re-do our mocks.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
9:05 pm

Excellent breakdown Stirg…the defensive tackle position will be the choice at 24. Bank on it..

D3

April 23rd, 2009
9:09 pm

Too many second rounders, more like:
2a)Sintim
2b)MJ
3a)Marks
3b)Vaughn
4)Sammie Hill
5a)Keenan Lewis
5b)Aaron Kelly
6)Lydon Murtha

Ed

April 23rd, 2009
9:22 pm

There’s a CB from Troy whose name I cannot immediately recall that the Falcons are supposedly interested in as a 2nd round pick. Also, Delmas from Western Michigan would be a likely pick if we trade down from #24 & he’s a huge hitter in the Colts’ Sanders mold.

yeah baby yeah

April 23rd, 2009
9:51 pm

Okay guys, here is my first attempt at a mock draft comment on it if u like this is staright up with no trades

01- DET- QB Mathew Stafford
02- STL- OT Eugene Monroe
03- KC – LB Aaron Curry
04- SEA- WR Michael Crabtree
05- CLE- DE Brian Orakpo
06- CIN- OT Jason Smith
07- OAK- WR Jeremy Maclin
08- JAC- QB Mark Sanchez
09- GB- NT B.J. Raji
10- SF- DE Tyson Jackson
11- BUF- OT Andre Smith
12- DEN- DE Tyson Jackson
13- WAS- DE Aaron Maybin
14- NO- DB Malcolm Jenkins
15- HOU- LB Clay Mathews
16- SD- LB Rey Maualuga
17- NYJ- QB Josh Freeman
18- DEN- DE Everette Brown
19- TB- DE Robert Ayers
20- DET- OT William Beatty
21- PHI- RB Knowshon Moreno
22- MIN- CB Darius Butler
23- NE- LB Brian Cushing
24- ATL- LB Clint Sintim
25- MIA- WR Hakeem Nicks
26- BAL- WR Darius Heyward Bey
27- IND- DT Peria Jerry
28- BUF- LB Larry English
29- NYG- WR Percy Harvey
30- TEN- DB Vontae Davis
31- ARI- RB Chris Wells
32- PIT- C Alex Mack

ATL
1- LB Clint Sintim
2- DE Michael Johnson
3- S David Brutton
4- DT Dorell Scott
5- OT Fenuki Tupou
5- TE Dan Gronkowsi
6- CB Morgan Trent

yeah baby yeah

April 23rd, 2009
9:53 pm

sorry messed up on some

yeah baby yeah

April 23rd, 2009
9:54 pm

you guys can copy it and change things and post it back upp i would love to see what u guys think i should changeee

Ken Strickland

April 23rd, 2009
10:03 pm

I hate to toot my own horn, but I said this trade could go down if KC was willing to accept a 2010 2nd rd pick. Now, the Falcon OFF can consistently ram the ball down teams throats on the ground or through the air. TGonzalez will also allow us to eat cover 2 zones for lunch. Teams will have to keep a LB or SS over Gonzalez to keep him from getting behind the DEF.

This trade allows us to draft a DT, LB and/or DE/LB hybrid with our 1st 3 picks. Or, we can go for a CB with one of those picks. We could still draft a TE in the middle rds. The pick we saved this yr, by not having to draft a TE, can be used to trade up. This trade allows us sooo many options. This trade will do for our OFF what the RMoss trade did for the Patriot’s OFF. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CC

April 23rd, 2009
10:09 pm

Sherrod Martin is DB from Troy. 6′ 1″ 198lbs and runs a 4.43. Here’s his skinny:

Cornerback or free safety? That is the question teams have to kick around when they consider Sherrod Martin. Versatility is a good thing to have and the Troy defensive back is an intriguing prospect for a number of reasons, not the least of which is his 6-1, 198-pound frame and the 4.38-second time he turned in for the 40-yard dash at the scouting combine in Indianapolis. Martin played free safety at Troy but got some work at the Senior Bowl at cornerback. He might not be quite thick enough for NFL standards at free safety but as Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News pointed out, Martin measures as one of the top five biggest corners in the draft, an asset against bigger wide receivers. “We’ve talked internally about it,” Bears general manager Jerry Angelo said about Martin’s position when we inquired about him this afternoon. “We like the player. He certainly has outstanding athletic ability, he’s got a good makeup but again that is beauty in the eye of the beholder.” To Martin, it doesn’t matter where he winds up. “I’ll be comfortable anywhere in the secondary,” he said. “I have more experience at safety but at corner, I’m a fast learner. At safety in the NFL there would be more things for me to learn. Coming into the NFL, it’s going to be a learning period anyway. Each day I am there I am going to get more comfortable. I feel comfortable playing either spot. “For the most part, they are going to let me determine where I am going to play. They’ll try me at corner and if I am good there, I’ll play corner. If not, I’ll try safety. They’re looking at me as a versatile guy.”

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
10:30 pm

K-Strick, you did call this trade. Now, I’m sending the Hood Express over to pick up yourself, Big Ray, D3, Nookah, and Stirg. If I forgot anyone, I’m sorry. But the Express is rolling from Mizzou towards the ATL.

But don’t fret K-Strick and Big Ray, I still think we will get a big body as well. Hill, Miller, or Taylor are definately in the cards. I have no doubt that the Birds will take two tackles in this draft.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 23rd, 2009
10:40 pm

I’m not ready to submit my mock draft, yet, for the entire league but I do want to enter my mock for the Falcons. I predict that the Falcons will trade their “24″, like most have suggested; but I think they’ll trade up, not down. I think the Falcons will trade a first round (24) and a third round (90), for Kansas City first round (3). With that pick, I think Atlanta will choose Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest, with their first pick. I referenced Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star to make this choice. Its a good commentary. You should read it: http://www.nwanews.com/adg/Sports/257941/

Round 1 (3) Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
2 (55) Lawrence Sidbury, Jr., DE, Richmond
4 (125) Courtney Greene, DB, Rutgers
5 (138) Cameron Morrah, TE, California
5 (143) Sammie Lee Hill, DT, Stillman
6 (176) T.J. Lang, OT/OG, Eastern Michigan

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
10:42 pm

D3, I see you are feeling my rotation of tackles. DT, LB, LB, SS/FS, DT, depth pick with the second fifth and the sixth round picks.

This is of course, barring any Friday or Saturday morning surprises.

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
10:44 pm

Wow…Stirg, now that is what I call breaking news. You are feeling the Patriot Way as well huh. And I thought my trade was a blockbuster.

I would be totally wild if one of us nailed this. Man, I am enjoying this ride too much, especially with severe storms moving across the state. Don’t worry…my Doppler radar is in full effect and the warnings are out.

yeah baby yeah

April 23rd, 2009
10:50 pm

\ YEAH STRIG YEAH that sounds good to me!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 23rd, 2009
10:52 pm

You like that, Seminole Warrior? I figure, TD likes to play safe but aggresive. I don’t think that there are any “safe” picks (DT, OLB or DB) at “24″. Clay, Jr. and Cushing, both, have questionable issues off the field. Everybody else (LBs) are second rounders. Peria Jerry will get picked up before “24″ and I’m just not feeling Ziggy Hood (too inconsistent, to me). If we don’t trade our first rounder to Kansas City for Glenn Dorsey, I think we can entertain trading for their number three pick (read that article). Feel me, now.

Shamus Thacker

April 23rd, 2009
10:57 pm

I love Sammie Lee Hill (not in biblical sense) and might even jump on him a round early if there’s a chance he’d be gone next pick. His frame could hold 25 additional lbs. Almost 6′4″, and an eventual 350-lbs? Yeah, he’s my guy somewhere in this draft.

Never been so damned excited bout a draft. Always loved em, but always knew we’d find a way to blow it in some regard. Feel like every pick now is an actual, physical, pertinent, piece of the future.

Praise the Lawd, and TD

Shamus Thacker

April 23rd, 2009
11:02 pm

Well, it’s close enough to Friday to find a reason for getting liquored-up. The TG trade does it for me.

Cheers!

Seminole Warrior

April 23rd, 2009
11:03 pm

Feeling you brother but Sugar Bear is ready to take Ziggy to All-Pro status. In the Bear, I trust.

Here is an excellent piece on TD. I would nominate TD for governor but I’m a selfish fan who has been waiting a long, long time for my world championship.

http://www.ajc.com/falcons/content/shared-gen/ap/General_Football_News/FBN_Jim_Litke_4239.html

Ed

April 24th, 2009
1:56 am

Just heard Jason Smith on ESPN radio say the Falcons are now a favorite to make it to the Super Bowl. He was effusive in his praise of the Falcons getting Tony G.

Big Ray

April 24th, 2009
4:56 am

Ha! Did I not say this deal wasn’t completely dead?

To be honest, I thought it might be happening on draft day if we couldn’t get Pettigrew. I also thought that TD and MS would prefer a veteran tight end for their young ICE MAN to work with, as only picking up a young one would require a good bit more time to get it working right. And they kind of made that obvious when they talked to LJ Smith.

Well, ICE gets his present early this year. Christmas in April!

By the way, I know KEN STRICKLAND was the one who called this trade, down to the last detail. The kudos go to him…

Big Ray

April 24th, 2009
5:46 am

SeminoleWarrior,

I don’t mind taking a ride on the Hood Express, if that’s where we go. Don’t mind at all.

But I have to admit, I’m not sure WHO the heck we’ll take first NOW.

Or second, or third…but I’m excited as heck about it.

And as STIRG suggests, don’t rule out taking a young tight end for Gonzalez to help groom.

D3,

What’s shakin’ brotha! Tell me you ain’t too sad about all this. I know you were lookin’ for ‘Grew in round 1. And what’s all this noise I hear about trading back into the 2nd round? I must’ve missed that rumor…

Big Ray

April 24th, 2009
5:50 am

I wouldn’t place us in the Super Bowl just yet. We’re definitely going to be that much tougher to deal with, now that Gonzalez is on board. With an addition like this, I think some OTHER teams’ schedules just got tougher…heh heh heh

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
6:45 am

Good morning my brothers. Getting an early start; have a feeling it is going to be a busy day.

Stirg, though your trade proposal interests me and Curry would be a big time pickup, the cap cost associated with moving up to #3 would be too much considering the unresolved MV contract issues. Until we get put it (MV’s contract) to final rest, we have to be very careful. Equally as important, we need to take that type cash and lock up Roddy White with a new deal, especially considering the TG acquisition. The offense is primed to explode now.

Big Ray, what’s up bro! I’m with you on slowing the SB talk just yet. But I AM feeling history this upcoming season. Yes, you heard it here. History will be made. The Falcons will post their FIRST back-to-back winning seasons as well as their FIRST back-to-back appearances in the NFL playoffs.

How Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet it is to awaken today and be a Falcon fan!!

tbhawksfan

April 24th, 2009
7:11 am

I also thought the TG trade would go through. Now we can do the D Draft that I’ve been longing for. I didn’t think P’grew was the choice before the trade.

What’s up with the DOL DT preview. Doesn’t even mention Jerry who should be our first choice. If Jenkins falls, got to take him. He won’t though.

This could be a great and plausible senario

#24: Cushing OLB
#55: Brace DT
#90: Vaughn SS
#125: Williams C
#138: Shaughnessy DE
#145: Maiva OLB
#176: Underwood CB/S

Trading out of the first is an option, but do we trade out of Cushing? Jerry to Moala isn’t that far. Cushing to anyone available after the first few picks of the second is a big drop.

Underwood is a talent with size and speed, highly rated, but under the radar.

Big Ray

April 24th, 2009
7:12 am

SeminoleWarrior,

I’m buyin’ what YOU’RE sellin’! Back to back winning season and playoff appearance it is!

Now, time for my night patrollin’ self to get to bed. If it ain’t too busy, and my guys are takin’ care of business, I’ll be back to chat with y’all tonight…about tomorrow!

Peace to all my Falcon-loving brothas and sistas.

richbrave

April 24th, 2009
7:47 am

For all you mock draft guys, pencil in MARK SANCHEZ to the REDSKINS and JASON CAMPBELL out in a trade for a fourth rounder. SNYDER is determined to replace GIBBS’ boy no matter how it effects the overall health of the franchise. He will give up the #13 this year, plus a one and a fourth in 2010.

WR

April 24th, 2009
7:54 am

Seminole doesn’t Stirg suggestion sound like something you heard before, something like I posted first thing yesterday morning. Stirg go back to the early morning postings from yesterday I believe it was maybe the day before, great minds think I like. I had this scenario going even before the Gonzo trade, now that the trade is done one piece of the scenario has fallen into place, and the other pieces don’t seem so far fetched.

JJ

April 24th, 2009
8:26 am

Mornin’, man what a suave move by TD! The other great news in the nfc south was carolina giving choke-delhomme an extension.

Can you imagine what the other teams (especially in our div) are thinking after this trade? lol

D3: Did you get all the egg off? j/k buddy, you were on the right track with TE and grew would have been the pick. I preferred nelson but it’s A NEW DAY IN GA, WATCH OUT NFC!!!
Re-working my sheet of guesswork and will submitt tonight.

Richbrave: (new regime-new qb) I bet Denver takes sanchez in 4th, they have to save face after the cutler screw-up and they have more ammo than nutt job-snyder.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 24th, 2009
11:00 am

Good Mornting! JJ, you bring an interesting point to mind. “Can you imagine what the other teams in our division are thinking?” If I’m on another team (GOD-forbid), I’m thinking that I need to amp up my defense. Matter of fact, didn’t Tampa grab Leftwich and Winslow, Jr in free agency? Throw in a Moreno and a starting tackle and they’ll look a lot like dirty birds.

This is why we need to draft quality starters and not settle for the bottom of the barrell, just to fill a position. If its defensive tackle we need, move up to take the best. Jacksonville has expressed willingness to trade down from their first round pick and I’m sure B.J. Raji will be available at number eight.

With this economy, teams are struggling to keep their franchise afloat. Who wants to pay top-five-pick salary to unproven talent? According to the commentary I referenced lastnight, teams like Kansas City are more willing to move away from the top five. We can offer rounnds one and three, with the rights of Michael Vick (that would solve the problem Seminole Warrior presented to me about Vick’s impact to our salary cap), and utilize the number three pick to draft Aaron Curry. With Lofton, Curry and Nicholas (and possibly Peterson, in a 3-4 set), we can attack this two-tight end set theory that, I think, most teams are going to establish. After Curry, defensive help will still be available for the picking. We’ll still have “55″ and can use it on someone like Sidbury, Moala, Chung or Brace.

You know what I noted about tight ends last season? There were a number of teams that had multiple tight ends averaging over ten yards per catch (with more than thirty catches). Which tells me that teams are playing more two-tight end sets; or, they’re beating cover-two defenses with combo blocking/catching tight ends. Look for Atlanta to target Cameron Morrah in later rounds. Guess what Morrah and Gonzalez have in common? They both played for the California Bears. They’d make a wonderful student/teacher team. Big Ray, I think you’re right. Ken Strickland did develop this scenario. At least, he’s the one that introduced me to this Cameron Morrah kid. Good work, Ken. Glad you’re on our team.

FALCONSHATER2009

April 25th, 2009
7:00 pm

Ken i have found u once again. Tony Gonzales is done aight. he couldnt do it in KC and he aint gonna do nothing for the Falcons

Kiper has Johnson slipping to third round

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Kiper has Johnson slipping to third round

346 comments Add your comment

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