Mock Draft 6.0: Welcome to the ATL, Cushing
Falcons QB Matt Ryan shooting an ESPN commercial with Hannah Storm (l) and Josh Elliot. If they shoot another one, maybe he'll take linebacker Brian Cushing with him.
DRAFTVILLE — Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said the hay is in the barn.
The Falcons draft board is all arranged. The Green players are in the green spots. The blue players are in the blue spots. The red guys are in the red slots. The off-the-board guys can find their name plates in the trash dumpster.
The matrix is complete.
Loading ...The Texans could change the Falcons’ plans. But after much debate, we’re projecting that our friends from H-town will select Florida State’s Everette Brown, leaving Cushing to fall to the Falcons.
Cushing has some issues. But that’s why he’ll be there at No. 24. When he comes in to meet the media on Sunday he’ll have to explain the steroid accusations that have followed him since high school and why he and teammate Clay Matthews Jr. allegedly formed a group called “White Nation” on Facebook.
Now if the Cushing scenario doesn’t unfold for the Falcons, that means another good defender — could be Brown or Penn State’s Aaron Maybin — is slipping. Also on the board for the Falcons will be Northern Illinois defensive end Larry English or Missouri defensive tackle Evander “Ziggy” Hood.
If none of the desirable defensive players slip through, look for the Falcons to trade out of the position and pick up more picks. They will need to land near the top of the second round so they could select Western Michigan safety Louis Delmas.
The Falcons’ trade for Tony Gonzalez has restructured the first round. There are going to be several other trades. Cleveland is trying to dump Braylon Edwards and possibly quarterback Brady Quinn. Washington and Denver may try to get in position to select quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Before the Gonzalez trade, University of Georgia running back Knowshon Moreno was headed to Philadelphia. The Falcons, in part suspecting that Philadelphia was going to take Oklahoma State tight Brandon Pettigrew with the 21st pick, went ahead and got the Gonzalez deal done.
It took Dimitroff and his buddy Scott Pioli all of three hours on Thursday to have a meeting of the former New England minds.
With the Eagles taking Pettigrew, Moreno will slip to Arizona, which has the 31st pick.
More on the Mock Draft later. . . .
COMMUNITY CORNER
Punter Michael Koenen hostted the sixth Annual Dream House Golf Classic on Thursday at the Olde Atlanta Golf Club in Suwanee, Georgia . Proceeds from the event will benefit local children’s charity, Dream House for Medically Fragile Children, Inc. . . .
Falcons punter Michael Koenen was out in the community this week.
Cornerback Von Hutchins will serve as the grand marshal for the Walk for Lupus at Piedmont Park on Saturday. He will lead the countdown for the event to start. The walk will support the over 55,000 Georgians and 1.5 million Americans who suffer from Lupus. Those interested can start a team or walk as an individual by registering at www.lupusga.org or calling 770-333-5930. . . .
Wide receiver Harry Douglas will serve as the grand marshal for the March of Dimes Walk for Babies on Saturday, April 25 at Centennial Olympic Park. Douglas will sign autographs in the Kids Corner from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m., do the countdown for the walk, welcome runners back in and sign autographs again from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Back to the Mock Draft . . .
I’m reserving the right to come back in here and switch things up as the day’s trades and signings are executed. It’s a good group for tackles and there could be a run on wide receivers.
LEDBETTER’S 2009 MOCK DRAFT 6.0:
THE FINAL CHAPTER
Is Cushing the real thing or Memorex?
1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia. Stafford has to turn in his Chevy Tahoe and get him a Ford Expedition.
2. St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith, LT, Baylor. The Rams hope Smith can take Orlando Pace’s old spot.
3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest. The Chiefs get some more help for their defense.
4. Seattle Seahawks: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC. Didn’t play much in college, but can backup Matt Hasselbeck until he’s ready.
5. Cleveland Browns: Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas. Should fit nicely in Eric Mangini’s version of the 3-4.
6. Cincinnati Bengals: Andrew Smith, T, Alabama. Bengals make the day’s first big gamble.
7. Oakland Raiders: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia. He slides a little bit, but the Raiders will snap him up.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jeremy Macklin, WR, Missouri. The Jags shy away from Crabtree because of his speed issues.
9. Green Bay Packers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU. Packers have to improve their defensive line.
10. San Francisco 49ers: Michael Oher, T, Mississippi. 49ers take a slight reach to fill a need.
11. Buffalo Bills: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State. After picking up Terrell Owens, the Bills turn their attention to defense.
12: Denver Broncos (from Chicago): B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College. Broncos get an anchor for their defensive line.
13. Washington Redskins: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee. The Redskins are trying to get into the Mark Sanchez derby.
14. New Orleans Saints: Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB. Sean Payton is looking for someone to run the ball between the tackles.
15. Houston Texans: Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State. Look for the Texans to go defense. They could snap up Cushing right here.
16. San Diego Chargers: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech. Doesn’t slip too far out of the top 10.
17. New York Jets: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State. Jets get their Brett Favre replacement.
18. Denver Broncos: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois. Broncos attempt to plug their leaky pass defense.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi. The Bucs try to add some bulk to their front-seven.
20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas): Rey Maualuga, LB, Southern California. He slips, but doesn’t get past the Lions.
21. Philadelphia Eagles: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State: Andy Reid, who was a tight ends coach early in his pro coaching career in Green Bay, knows the position.
22. Minnesota Vikings: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida: Vikes add a playmaker to go with Adrian Peterson.
23. New England Patriots: Clay Matthews Jr., LB, Southern California. Patriots try to replace Mike Vrabel.
24. Atlanta Falcons: Brian Cushing, LB, USC. Everything breaks right and the Falcons get their man. He will compete for one of the starting outside linebacker spots.
25. Miami Dolphins: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State. Dolphins address one of their pressing needs.
26. Baltimore Ravens: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland. GM Ozzie Newsome adds a weapon for quarterback Joe Flacco.
27. Indianapolis Colts: Larry English, DE, Northern Illinois: Bill Polian finds another potential Pro Bowler late in the first round. Heir-apparent to speed rusher Dwight Freeney.
28. Buffalo (from Carolina through Philadelphia): Eben Britton, T, Arizona. They have to replace the traded Jason Peters.
29. New York Giants: Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State. This pick could change if the Giants make the trade for Cleveland’s Braylon Edwards.
30. Tennessee Titans: Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina. Can you name one of the Titans’ wide receivers?
31. Arizona Cardinals: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia. Cardinals need a running threat to help take some pressure off their vaunted passing attack.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Clint Sintim, LB, Virginia. A perfect fit after playing for Al Groh at Virginia.
FIRST ROUND FRINGE
Missouri defensive tackle Ziggy Hood has 15.5 career sacks.
James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State
Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
Louis Delmas, FS, Western Michigan
Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
Alex Mack, C, California
Max Unger, C, Oregon
Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut
Connor Barwin, DE/LB, Cincinnati
Would you be happy with the selection of Cushing? Do you care about the steroid allegations? Do you care about the “White Nation” Facebook group? Would you prefer a defensive tackle like Hood? If Cushing isn’t there, do you fall back and get in position to draft Delmas?
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729 comments Add your comment
crabapplejoe
April 24th, 2009
10:14 pm
Big Ray wrote: “Speaking of which…has anybody heard anything from ol’ CrabappleJoe since the LAST time somebody breathed the hallowed name of Keith Brooking? No? Well now that I’ve typed it, maybe we’ll hear something from him. Not about the Falcons of course. Just Brooking. Heh”
Dude, it makes me a little nervous when guys are thinking about me at 9:30 on a Friday night…not that there’s anything wrong with that. LOL. Actually, if you were an avid reader on this forum you would have seen me advocating, amongst other things, not taking Pettigrew at 24, but picking up James Casey from Rice in the 2nd or 3rd. That being said I will continue to defend KB56 from morons like “braveshater” who state that he could not cover in the passing game when the stats tell a different story (see previous post). I really hope we do not take Cushings because he will be subjected to the same racial hatred that “Brookings” has had to endure on these boards. Better to take a mediocre black LB that the fans can fawn over.
Seminole Warrior
April 24th, 2009
10:18 pm
What’s up Ray.. I can’t pop the top yet; still holding it down here under clear skies in the mid-state. No weather but yet the forecast must go out shortly. That’s cool. But once I get to the Teepee, I will be making my moves.
Dacha, I heard the interview with Laurinaitis. A few of the posse set here will attest that I was on him before I “flipped” to the DT act. He is a complete package; can play all three LB positions and brings high character to the team. He is selfish and works hard. I like that.
I have been thinking about this all day long so I will open it up to my posse brothers. I’m NOT feeling this Cushing thingy at all. I simply do not think he is all that. Personally, I would take Freeman over him. I know…everyone is ready to shot right now. How in the h..l could I say that?
Well, I ran the numbers. There really is not much of a difference between the two. Sure, Cushing has a few more “thunderous” hits than Freeman. But Freeman made the play when needed. Review their combine profiles and you will see that there is not much difference in the production over their college careers. As a matter of fact, Freeman OUTPRODUCED Cushing. Check me out if you do not feel me.
http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/olb/Brian-Cushing.php
http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingreports/olb/Marcus-Freeman.php
I’m all about filling the need with the highest quality at the best value. In this case, my man, Marcus Freeman wins. Is he worth the pick at #24. I won’t go that far but when all is said and done, we could use 24 for a lot better than Cushing.
Ready for my beatdown now….bring it on. I’m ready.
Marko
April 24th, 2009
10:23 pm
Seminole,I’m sticking with Matthews because I always felt he was the only one of the USC trio we might get a crack at. It made more sense a couple of months ago when he was a lot less popular than he is now. anyway I never gave up on Gonzo and I’m not giving up on Matthews. JJ, D3,Strig and everybody elseGood night and good luck.
Seminole Warrior
April 24th, 2009
10:31 pm
Dacha, I’m cool with you holding off on the Ziggy Express. As I have stated, there is just something that sit with me when I continue to reflect on the words of Coach Hamilton regarding smaller, disruptive defensive tackles. Babs should the value of his words this past season. I’m thinking that they feel good with two of them and the ability to rotate large if needed. With Babs and Ziggy’s abilities to disrupt and penetrate, I think that will add a new dimension to our defense.
As I said earlier, I’m thinking from the mind set of a pair of tackle similiar to what Jim Johnson used so darn effectively in Philly. He has Mike Patterson (USC, 6′0″ 295) and Brodrick Bunkley (FSU, 6′2″ 305).
I need not remind anyone how active the Philly front is…
Seminole Warrior
April 24th, 2009
10:34 pm
You have represented well Marko. Your loyalty to Gonzo was on point and I definately give you, Big Ray, and K Stirk your props on that. Great call!! See ya on the other side of sunrise bro..
Seminole Warrior
April 24th, 2009
10:44 pm
Posse…breaking news!! Our own Steve Wyche is breaking a story on NFL.com that Mark Sanchez is being flown into STL Sunday. Is it live or is it a hoax? Steve is checking for more information.
http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/04/24/rams-buy-sunday-plane-ticket-for-qb-sanchez/
JJ
April 24th, 2009
10:55 pm
Big Ray: 48 min. from you’re typing to crabapplejoes…pretty impressive!
D3: finished with my “greenie”, will send in the am, but a little tweener (like anyone cares):
#3 – #12 trade for qb sanchez
#16 – # 19 trade for freeman
The rest of my draft is a peter king/ walterfootball comp….go falcons!
cia on the flip…less than 16 hrs….
Big Ray
April 24th, 2009
11:04 pm
CrabappleJoe,
See?! I knew it would work!
No, I AM an avid reader of this board, and glad that we are doing more talking about football than fighting amongst each other. I don’t have issues with you and Keith Brooking, it’s just an easy target due to the fact that you are usually heavily involved in discussions of said former Falcons LB.
As to your point about not drafting Cushing, I don’t agree, as both a Falcon fan, and a black guy. I’m not trying to make this the race issue that it already unfortunately is. If Cushing is as talented as he seems, and if Dimitroff and Smith want the guy, I say we draft him. Why? Because they know what they’re doing, and I would HATE to miss out on a good player for a stupid reason. Brooking caught some heat here, and so have others. I know a lot of it isn’t fair. And Dallas fans act like they’re in love with him….so far.
Hey, wouldn’t we be doing the same if a former pro-bowl linebacker was headed this way for a reasonable price? Familiarity breeds contempt, my friend. Let Brooking not make a play here or there, and watch the vitriol get thrown. Not trying to depress you, but you know it’s true. What’s happened to Brooking is not a travesty as much as it is what happens to a lot of guys: people have opinions, some of them far less educated or rooted in sense than others. And from a realistic standpoint, I’d much rather get paid millions of dollars to be hated and unappreciate for what I do. I will never make that much money over a lifetime, and I get plenty of hate/unappreciation for what I do. Does that make it right for Brooking to be the target of such venom? No. But this is the way it is, especially in the world of professional sports. Imagine what Tony Gonzalez is probably getting from Chiefs fans after all those years of Pro Bowl performances…and not winning a dang thing because management over there has SUCKED for YEARS…
Let’s not make this about black and white, or any other color. And who says we take a mediocre LB of ANY color? I happen to think that Dimitroff is no such idiot. Besides, looks like Matty Ice isn’t suffering from any particular hatred (other than die-hard, delusional, MV fans who double as Falcon haters). We love him around here. Come on dude. KB56 was glad to be here, the fans who know liked him, and he’s moved on. I know you like the guy. So do I. All things change, though, and he wasn’t a part of the plan. He was able to move on, and so can you (though I don’t blame you for defending him every now and again).
Let’s not make it about something it shouldn’t be about (even though we know it IS in the minds of some a-holes). One last thing to make the mood light:
“Dude, it makes me a little nervous when guys are thinking about me at 9:30 on a Friday night..”
A good return joke, no doubt (though trust me, no man love from this homeboy, I can tell ya that). But if that makes you nervous, then you’d not want to be in the company of any of tomorrow’s college draftees….couldn’t tell you how many are sitting around right now, HOPING that SEVERAL guys are thinking about them…ALL NIGHT, LOL!!
Big Ray
April 24th, 2009
11:09 pm
JJ,
What can I say? I know how to push the buttons.
Naw, I was just kidding around with him, but I know what brings ol’ Joe to the table. Your trade scenarios for Sanchez and Freeman are interesting. Some people think Freeman isn’t going in the 1st round. I think he IS…
SeminoleWarrior,
We will know the truth of it tomorrow! I’m cool with Hood. He’s a baller, and will have an impact wherever he goes, as long as he’s given a chance to play.
crabapplejoe
April 24th, 2009
11:14 pm
@BigRay: One of the best posts I’ve seen on this board…good night and go Falcons in the draft tomorrow…(but I still hope we don’t take “Cushings” so that I don’t have to defend him for the next eleven years and five pro-bowls”). LOL
falcon21
April 24th, 2009
11:25 pm
Well said Big Ray, alot of us are not as well educated as some of the other bloggers, we just enjoy reading the comments and do the best we can. What the heck we have the draft tomorrow. Go TD and the Falcons.
Big Ray
April 24th, 2009
11:45 pm
CrabappleJoe,
LOL. I can roll with that, man. Thanks. I’m looking forward to tomorrow.
Falcon21,
That’s all we can do, man. I’m really looking forward to tomorrow. And for once, I’m over anxious about who we get…well, okay maybe a little bit, lol…
Big Ray
April 24th, 2009
11:48 pm
One more for CrabappleJoe:
If we get Cushing or Matthews, and they make NEARLY that many pro bowls, save me a seat on your anti-hate bandwagon. I’ll pick up the side-by-side double barreled stage shotgun and man the spot for ya!
Falcon21,
Just caught what you said earlier about Todd McShay. ROFL…
Nookah
April 24th, 2009
11:54 pm
D3, after careful consideration, this is my final draft:
1) Lions – Matthew Stafford (QB)
Jags – Eugene Monroe (OT)
2) Rams – Jason Smith – OT
3) Chiefs – Aaron Curry (LB)
4) Seahawks – Mark Sanchez (QB)
5) Browns – B.J. Raji (DT)
6) Bengals – Andre Smith (OT)
7) Raiders – Michael Crabtree (WR)
9) Packers – Tyson Jackson (DE)
10) 49ers – Brian Orakpo (DE)
11) Bills – Robert Ayers (DE)
12) Broncos – Everette Brown (DE)
13) Redskins – Rey Maualuga (LB)
14) Saints – Brian Cushing (LB)
15) Texans – Clay Matthews III (LB)
16) Chargers – Beenie Wells (RB)
17) Jets – Josh Freeman (QB)
18) Broncos – Brandon Pettigrew (TE)
19) Buccs – Peria Jerry (DT)
20) Lions – Michael Oher (OT)
21) Eagles – Knoshown Moreno (RB)
22) Vikings – Percy Harvin (WR)
23) Patriots – Jeremy Maclin (WR)
24) Falcons – Evander “The Real Deal/Ziggy” Hood (DT)
25) Dolphins – Michael Jenkins (CB)
26) Ravens – Vontae Davis (CB)
27) Colts – Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR)
28) Bills – Ebon Britton (OT)
29) Texans – Max Unger (C)
30) Giants – Hakeem Nicks (WR)
31) Cardinals – LeSean McKoy (RB)
32) Steelers – Alphonso Smith (CB)
Falcons Mock: 1 – #24) Evander “The Real Deal/Ziggy” Hood (DT) 2 – #55) Clint “Dirty Harry” Sintim (LB) 3 – #90) Chris Baker (DE/DT) 4 – #125) Woodney Tureene (CB)
5 – #138) Dan Gronkowski (TE) 5b – #143) Aaron Kelly (WR) 6 – #176) Robert Brewster (G)
After all that I am not sure what I’m doing but I did it.
……………..and then there were many trades on draft day that busted up all our drafts……..
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!………….THE PROCESS CONTINES…….
…….All of the dark clouds have passed me by, gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day…(Jimmy Cliff)
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
12:03 am
Posse, at the Teepee now so I can finalize this demanding and challenging draft.
Nookah, tomorrow will be our day as the Ziggy Express rolls into the Branch.
Big Ray
April 25th, 2009
12:09 am
I see the Hood Express has plenty of steam! I like the guy. Relentless motor. Won’t be the least bit upset if we get him. If he’s the pick, give the man his red and black, then let him go to work.
D3
April 25th, 2009
12:33 am
Yo Gents! Can you believe its finally here? I mean for godssake we’ve been at it on here for at least a month on who our Falconi’s take. It’s been a true pleasure and joy having some intelligent football talk with you gentlemen. Stirg, Ken Strick, Reno, JJ, Seminole, Big Ray, Nookah, Dean21, dacha, Marko, WR, Falcon Devil, irvin, and sorry if I left anyone out. It’s become my favorite new hobby. You guys have taken this blog to a new level, props! 12 hours away (counting pre-draft festivities). To the business at hand………
Mock Drafts in: Falcon Devil, WR, Nookah, Seminole, dacha, irvin, marko, yeahbaby, Reno911.
That’s all I have to date and if you’ve posted a new one, then I’m pretty sure I got it and replaced it. I’ll try to run a rough draft copy through around noon or so and make any changes if needed.
Draft Update: Stafford and Lions agree to 6 years, $41.7 million guaranteed, worth up to $78 Million. Wowser!
Agree with many of you guys that whom ever TD, Smitty, & Co. select I’ll be happy with. The TG trade just keeps adding to the his legendary status. We talk about locking up players to deals, well I say that Mr.Blank should go ahead and lock up TD to a lifetime deal!
Cushing – sure he did some really stupis @– Sh– in college. Well, I can tell you that I probably should’ve been arrested for half the stuff I did in college. Let’s just put it lik this: if TD thinks he’s all good then I’m all for it. I’ve come full circle on him, going from one of my favorite picks, to doggin’ him b/c of his lack of experience and risks (our discussions have been so good on here that every player gets doubted). The steroid thing needs to be let go. Nothing official, end of story, period.
Hood – my boy seminole finally punched my ticket to the Hood Express. I will definitely be happy if we go DT first. Great motor, leader, tough. Wouldn’t be the “big run-stuffer” we all want, but wouldn’t rule out picking up a big boy later.
I’m thinking the pick will be Hood or English. Me-thinks Jerry and Cushing will be gone. Take Hood and MJ, locking up the D-Line for a decade.
More to come……..
Big Ray
April 25th, 2009
12:35 am
Have to admit, I can’t argue too much with the mock on Walter Football. First three rounds, he has us picking Ziggy Hood, Clint Sintim, and Chip Vaughn. Has us taking Donald Washington (CB from Ohio St) in the 4th. Hold the radio boys, time for me to go diving back into research..
D. Ledbetter must know something we don’t, because I’m hard pressed to find a mock that has Cushing OR Matthews falling to us…
D3
April 25th, 2009
12:38 am
Got it Nookah. “Lively Up Yourself and don’t be no drag!”
Hours, NOT Days!
Big Ray
April 25th, 2009
12:52 am
D3,
I think you’re right. Cushing may not be a discussion, as he is picked in SO many mocks to go around pick #15 or so. I really wonder what D. Ledbetter knows that has him thinking he’ll drop to #24?
Of course, any trades could affect this, as well as the recently mentioned (but recently forgotten) run on other positions. But again, the biggest “run” will probably be on linebackers. Hmmmm. Hard to say.
I agree on the subject of Ziggy Hood. High motor, very disruptive. We can get the bigger guy later, and probably will if I had to hazard a guess.
Big Ray
April 25th, 2009
12:53 am
One other thought: You don’t have to be a run-stuffer to be effective against the run.
Big Ray
April 25th, 2009
1:06 am
From Scout.com :
In 2008, rookie quarterback Matt Ryan was among the most efficient quarterbacks in the NFL by any measure — he placed fifth in yards per attempt (7.97), 11th in passer rating (87.7), seventh in Football Outsiders’ DYAR ranking (explained here), and fourth in DVOA. Ryan had just about everything — poise, accuracy, maturity and football intelligence beyond his years, and the perfect system in which to grow and progress.
What he did not have, however, was a productive tight end. If we look at those same DVOA and DYAR stats for tight ends, we see that no Falcons player qualified for the top list with 25 passes in which they were the primary target. Justin Peelle topped the list with 23 targets. If you look at the top of that list and find the leader in DYAR (FO’s season-cumulative stat), you’ll see one Tony Gonzalez. His DYAR of 243, 155 targets, 1,058 yards, 1,392 Effective Yards (which translate value over average into a yardage figure), and 10 touchdowns led all NFL tight ends last year by sizeable margins.
And that’s why the trade with Kansas City, in which the Falcons acquired the 33-year-old perennial All-Pro for a second-round pick in 2010, looks like highway robbery on its surface.
Gonzalez excelled in a KC offense that resorted to the Pistol formation to make quarterback Tyler Thigpen more comfortable in 2008, and new GM Scott Pioli’s aggressive pursuit of former patriots quarterback Matt Cassel, seemed to say all that needed to be said about the Chiefs’ passing game. Going from Thigpen from Ryan would seem to be a godsend for both parties.
How do the Chiefs faithful feel about the move? We asked C.E. Wendler of Warpaint Illustrated, Scout.com’s Kansas City Chiefs site, for his take on The Great Gonzo, and how much he has left in the tank. (Click here for the full scouting report).
“Tony Gonzalez is in his prime.,” Wendler said. “The man has barely aged despite being 33 years old. Last season was his best year since he dominated the NFL in 2004 with 1,258 yards in the league’s top ranked offense. How he managed to rack up 10 touchdowns and another 96 catches playing with three different quarterbacks – all of whom were inept in some way – is beyond me.
“About the only defender who has been able to stop Tony Gonzalez over the past five or six years is Champ Bailey. The Broncos would frequently match him up one on one. Any other defender was asking for trouble. Linebackers weren’t quick enough. Safeties weren’t big enough. Zones were useless, because Gonzalez is a master at finding the hole in the zone and presenting himself to his quarterback.”
Wendler also pointed out a truly astonishing stat — Gonzalez has lost exactly one fumble since 1999.
“Tony brings a new dynamic to the Falcons offense and we are very pleased that we were able to make the trade with Kansas City,” said Falcons General Manager Thomas Dimitroff in the team’s official press release. “His career numbers and records are top notch and he will no doubt be an integral part of our offense.”
Gonzalez has played in 190 career games with 174 starts in a Chiefs uniform. The Cal graduate has four 1,000-yard receiving seasons, 26 100-yard receiving contests and is just the fifth player and the first tight end in NFL history to produce 11 consecutive seasons with 50 or more receptions. Gonzalez’s career numbers lead all Kansas City receivers in franchise history and his 916 career catches are the ninth-most in NFL history and fourth-highest among active players.
“Tony is one of the best tight ends in NFL history and will be a great addition to our team,” said Head Coach Mike Smith. “He will be a leader both on and off the field for our organization.”
The Chiefs seemed to know what they were letting go in Gonzalez, who had long made his frustrations known when it came to playing on a losing team. “On behalf of my family and the Chiefs, I want to thank Tony for his time in Kansas City,” team chairman Clark Hunt said. “Over the last 12 seasons, Tony has been one of the finest players in Chiefs history, and he will always be remembered as a member of the Chiefs. His play on the field speaks for itself – he holds almost every major NFL record for tight ends, and he is arguably the best to ever play his position. We wish him the best in Atlanta.”
“From an organizational as well as personal standpoint there are mixed emotions,” said Scott Pioli, Chiefs GM, in announcing the trade. “I have the highest personal and professional respect for Tony and consider him to be a future Pro Football Hall of Famer.”
The most productive tight end in NFL history couldn’t be happier about the move. “It’s somewhat bittersweet,” Gonzalez told Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com. “I love Kansas City. I grew up in Kansas City. The city means a lot to me. 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 5 in the league in offense every year. How could I not be excited to join that team?”
Ryan, as one might expect, was overjoyed at the news. “Tony’s arrival will make an instant impact not only on the offensive side of the ball, but on the overall team in general,” he said in a statement. “I feel privileged to be throwing the ball to a future Hall of Famer and I’m anxious to get on the field to start working with him.”
The Falcons filled their one glaring hole on offense, allowing Dimitroff and his staff to put their focus on a defense full of holes after the defections of Michael Boley, Keith Brooking, Domonique Foxworth, Grady Jackson, and Lawyer Milloy. And they don’t even have to pay for the trade with a draft pick until next season. Initial reports have indicated that the Falcons are already talking to Gonzalez about a new contract, and the team couldn’t be in a better state heading into draft weekend.
Nobody thought that Dimitroff could pull off another miracle like the 2008 season. But if the Gonzalez trade is any indication, last year may have been little more than a warmup for the future.
Big Ray
April 25th, 2009
1:09 am
Scout.com’s Chris Steuber has us picking Robert Ayers. Yeah. Sure. Huh?
Stirg d'Nahsif
April 25th, 2009
3:12 am
Psst! (whispering) Y’all hear that? Do you hear the mechanics in the minds of the most talented executives, managers and coaches this franchise has ever seen? I can hear them working now; its explosive in the war room. If you’re reading this TD, get some rest, brother. We appreciate your work.
D3, I started this danm mock draft about seven hours ago and, I got to be honest with you, I am exhausted. I procrastinated because I couldn’t find the interest in mocking for other teams. Not only did I feel dishonorable to the Falcon Fanily, I was very selfish and prejudice with my pickings. My mock is comprised, mostly, of wishful thinking than adequate knowledge of the game. Nonetheless, I’m a team player and I think I’ve created enough points for this posse to surrender all bragging rights to me. Still, it was very difficult to anticipate each team’s needs and desires. If this is a minor indication of what goes on in the war room, then I lift all dozen of my Red Scripes to you, the staff of the Super Bowl XLIV Contenders, Atlanta Falcons. Its football time, fellows. Lets get it on.
Its near ’bout time for the draft and we’ve waited since January for this very moment. I want to say that it has been real real, discussing Falcon football with all of you. The rapport that has developed between us all, is genuine. I can’t say how much I appreciate being a part of this group. D3, Ken Strickland, Nookah, Seminole Warrior, falcon 21, WR, Big Ray, JJ (The Original), Marko, tbhawksfan, I.MUS.WRITE, Reno 911, Irvin, dacha, Dean21 and the many others (just can’t think of the names off the top of my head; its late and I’m tired. Don’t mean to offend you), you guys are true Falcons. I never imagined that there were fans out there that appreciated the birds more than I do; simply unimaginable. I want to, especially, thank D.Orlando Ledbetter for his outstanding work. Here’s to you, buddy (drinking!). I’ll see you all in Miami, fellows.
“Behold, how good and pleasent it will be…”
1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford, QB, UGA
2. St. Louis – Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
3. Kansas City – Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
4. Seattle – Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
6. Cincinnati – Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
7. Oakland – Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
8. Jacksonville – Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
9. Green Bay – B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
10. San Francisco – Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas St.
11. Buffalo – Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn St.
12. Denver – Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
13. Washington – Andre Smith, OL, Alabama
14. New Orleans – Chris Wells, RB, OSU
15. Houston – Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee
16. San Diego – Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
17. New York Jets – Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
18. Denver – Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
19. Tampa Bay – Everette Brown, DE, FSU
20. Detroit – Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
21. Philadelphia – Knowshown Moreno, TB, UGA
22. Minnesota – Will Beatty, OT, UConn
23. New England – Malcolm Jenkins, DB, OSU
24. Atlanta – Clay Matthews, III, LB, USC
25. Miami – Darius Butler, CB, UConn.
26. Baltimore – Ray Maualuga, LB, USC
27. Indianapolis – Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
29. New York Giants – Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith, DB, Utah
31. Arizona – Connor Barwin, DE, Cincinnati
32. Pittsburgh – Jarron Gilbert, DE, San Jose St.
Atlanta Falcons
1. Clay Matthews, III, LB/DE, USC
2. Fili Moala, DT, USC
3. Chip Vaughn, SS, Wake Forest
4. Victor Harris, DB, Virginia Tech
5. Sammie Lee Hill, DT, Stillman College
5. Cameron Morrah, TE, California
6. Ramon Foster (Renardo Foster’s Brother), OT, Tennessee
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
3:45 am
A VERY early good morning posse.
It’s been a challenge with all the activity that is going on or rumored to be going on around the league. But here it is: My REVISED first round mock draft to be followed by my FINAL Falcons draft selection picks. This has been an incredible ride and the posse is tremendous.
My brothers D3, Nookah, Stirg, Big Ray, D. Orlando, Mark B., K-Strick, ChC4, it has been and will continue to be awesome. For those I forgot, nothing but love in the Teepee and in the Falcon nation. We are #1!!!
The Falcons just don’t know the intensity that these fans have and the burning desire held within for a title and league-wide respect. TD and Smitty, along with the assistants, will take us to greater heights. We are on our way. With that said, it’s time for business:
2009 NFL Draft Round One (Revised and Updated as of 25 April 09):
1. DET: M. Stafford
2. STL: M. Sanchez
3. KC: T. Jackson
4. SEA: J. Smith
5. CLE: A. Curry
6. CIN: E. Monroe
7. OAK: M. Crabtree
8. JAX: J. Maclin
9. GB: BJ Raji
10. SF: M. Oher
11. BUF: A. Smith
12. DEN: B. Orakpo
13. WAS: E. Brown
14. NO: M. Jenkins
15. HOU: C. Matthews
16. SD: R. Maulauga
17. NYJ: C. Wells
18. DEN: A. Maybin
19. TB: J. Freeman
20. DET: P. Jerry
21. PHI: K. Moreno
22. MIN: E. Britton
23. NE: B. Cushing
24. ATL: Evander “Ziggy” Hood
25. MIA: D. Butler
26. BAL: B. Pettigrew
27. IND: B. Robiskie
28. BUF: L. English
29. NYG: J. Laurinaitis
30. TEN: V. Davis
31. AZ: D. Brown
32. PIT: A. Mack
33. DET: W. Beatty
ATLANTA FALCONS DRAFT PICKS (BY Round):
1) DT Ziggy Hood: strong; cat-quick, disruptive behind the line.
2) OLB Marcus Freeman (WLB): Speedy; equally good run and pass defense; a great special teamer as well. Does not relent.
3) OLB Tyrone McKenzie: Thumper; excellent field vision; non-stop motor.
4) DT Roy Miller: Big, strong interior plugger; easily handles doubles.
5a) FS/SS Courtney Greene: Will knock you out crossing the middle. Versatile; aware; leader.
5b) CB Bradley Fletcher: Big corner; secure tackler; active hands; disruptive to receivers as they attempt to get into their routes.
6) C Cecil Newton: tenacious blocker; great balance; secures the middle.
Well, there it is. Now it is time to get some needed rest and await the working of the magic by TD and company. Laters, my brothers. Got to get some rest for the arrival of the Ziggy Express.
Marko
April 25th, 2009
6:46 am
Seminole, Strig, What’s with the three o’clock post? We’ve got to get some rest; we’ve got a big day ahead of us. I like both your mocks, but I have to go with Strig with regard to his Atlanta picks. In fact we share the first two selections. I think USC all the way as far as our defense goes. If they’re still on the board, Matthews and Moala are the picks I’d make.
Seminole, why not Hood? Mostly I see it as less immediate bang for the buck. There are several rookies of the year awards. The oldest, and most prestigious, is the AP award since 1967; Twenty-two of the forty-one defensive selections have been linebackers. They have won the award the last six years in a row. Most recently Jerod Mayo of the Patriots edged out our own Curtis Lofton for the award. I share your high regard of Hood as a player; it’s just that I don’t see a lot of first year impact out of him. Defensive linemen are like fine wines. They take time to mature. Linebackers on the other hand are more like moonshine. Quick and lethal, nothing fancy kills brain cells right out of the bottle. Actually just the weak ones. Matthew’s is my guy He’ll roam the flats like a kamikaze terror machine for a decade or more. When he retires he might just join Uncle Bruce in Canton. He comes from a family with pretty high standards.
The Falcon’s have not won the Rookie of the year award on defense since 1980. Al Richardson and Buddy curry shared the honor. That’s the only time that’s ever happened. Astute Falcon fans like you will remember the 1980 edition as a pretty special team. I’m hoping that we can repeat a little history here.
If the Falcon’s pick Hood, I’ll shed no tears in my beer. First of all I sincerely like the kid, but more importantly it waters the stuff down. Let’s hope that we spend the day toasting some of our greatest picks ever. If the D-man and Smitty can pull off a draft anything like last years, it’s going to be pretty tough scoring Falcon tickets for a long, long time
NaGaNole
April 25th, 2009
8:37 am
My predictions for tonight’s draft.
1) The Falcons will move up, down, or trade, but I don’t see them picking at 24.
2) No DB will be taken before the 4th round for us, not just because TD likes late round DBs, but he’s alluded to the fact he doesn’t think there are any game changers at DB in the draft.
3) Only way we take a DT with the 1st pick is if we trade down out of the 1st round. Only Raji is a 1st round talent that can play NT. Everyone else is a reach. I like Hood, but he’d be competing against Babs, and we don’t want to spend our 1st rounder on depth. We want starters.
My BOLD prediction for the draft…lol
The Falcons trade JA and their 2rd rounder this year to KC for Dorsey. We coveted Dorsey last year, and still do. JA in the ideal SDE for the 3-4 because he is huge, and can crash the OT down into the 3 gap. OLBs are the play makers in that defense. He’ll get a fresh start, and we’ll have that dominate NT we want. This allows KC to get Curry and land Brace, who would be the anchor of their D line. I think we will trade down with NYG from 24 to 29 (to have a shot at Jeremy Maclin), and get their 1st pick of the 3rd round (which is only 1 spot below our own, #91). So, here is my guess as to who we pick…
Gain:
Dorsey (through trade) Awesome barring knee problems. Enough said.
1sr round (#29) James Laurinitis- He’ll move to SOLB. Check out the measurables vs Cushing’s. They are identical, but he is a better tackler. Mike Smith loves versatility, he can move inside to spell Lofton, or if he goes down. We’d have 3 LBs that could play at every spot. WOW.
3rd round (#90) Antoine Caldwell- Even if the McClure mess was blown out of proportion, we need to start looking for the vet’s replacement.
3rd round (#91) Chris Baker- He’ll be the depth for Dorsey, allowing Lewis to be the depth for Babs.
4rd round (#125) Brandon Long- Fastest DE at the combine, also very strong. Some have doubts about him because of his height at 6′3 and weight at 254. I think this is a steal.
5th round (#138) Jamarca Sanford- At 4.43, he’s very fast, and also had 29 reps @ 225 lbs at the combine. That’s more than any other safety that did the reps. Could be special.
5th round (#143) Andrew Gardner- He will be provide depth at worst, but I wouldn’t be suprised if he took the job at RT.
6th round (#176) Brandon Tate- This is a late round risk/reward pick. The kid was a play maker at UNC before his ACL tear. No doubt he would have gone in the top 50 if not.
Undrafted FAs
Greg Carr- Sorry for the homer pick, but this kid is college’s premier fade route WR. It’s the only route he was ever taught due to FSU’s horrible quarterback play. Sorry for the rant. Can you see him and TG on the field together inside the 20?? I think you’d see the opposing safety’s heads explode. Worst part for them is it would probably just be Turner walking into the endzone. =)
Willie Williams- For a kid with a bad rap, he’s only gotten into trouble once in college. He was immature, and you’d have to do a background check to make sure he’s really straightened himself out. If so, he’s more talented that ANY other OLB prospect in the draft, IMHO. Sorry for that, Mr Curry.
CJ Davis- Was a Big East 1st team selection, played OG and C in college. Nice versatility. Started 42 consecutive games. He’s a project behind Justin Playblock, I mean Blalock. Yikes.
Losing:
Jamal Anderson- Great guy who needs a fresh start. His skill set will make him very valuable to KC.
Bonus:
In a show of remorse, that suspended player will renegotiate his contract for a lot less, thus allowing the Falcons to trade him to SF for next year’s 7th round pick.. At the draft, Mike Singletary drops his pants to reveal the woody he has now that V—/Gore will lead the #1 rushing attack next year.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
9:06 am
Good morning my brothers in the Posse. I’t a D….d good day to be an Atlanta Falcon fan.
Marko, I respectfully see your points. I would love for Ziggy tobe the Defensive Rookie of the Year. But it will not happen. What is MORE of critical importance to me (and hopefully all of us) is that we need to be MUCH more disruptive on the defensive line. That is what I think we get out of Hood.
Hood will be part of a well-conceived DT rotation. The Sugar Bear and Smitty, with BVG holding the clipboard, will put together a large/small rotation package. The ability to disrupt a play before it even gets a chance to evolve is an HUGE asset to have. MUCH improved play at the LB position will negate the 3rd down conversions that sustained so many drives last season.
Balance is the key. We must have large bodies to pulg the holes as needed but being fast and disruptive is where it is in today’s game. I remind my brothers that it was a fast defense from the desert with small, disruptive tackles, that took down THREE of the NFC’s best offenses on its way to the NFC title last season.
Hood may never win ROY or DPoy acclaim. He may receive the nod for a few Pro Bowls in his what I hope is a nice, long career. But what he will bring is heart, hard work, grit and determination, and a hunger to win. Sounds a lot like a guy that we just picked up this week.
In the end, I have FULL faith in AB, TD, and Smitty to get this right. NO matter what, I will wear my colors with pride, I will be in my Dome, and the Falcon nation, WE, the Falcon nation are destined for the long desired parade down Peachtree. GO FALCONS!!
Ken Strickland
April 25th, 2009
9:16 am
Good morning everone. It’s Saturday morning the 25th of April, 2009, the day all of us have been waiting for.
It’s been said that adversity makes you stronger. Well, in this case, it has made me much, much, much more appreciative. After the vile, often hate filled, even racist posts that flooded the Falcon blogs over the last couple of yrs, words can’t express the sheer pleasure I’ve experienced being able to share and discuss our beloved Atlanta Falcons in such a civilized and constructive manner. I have come to embrace all of you guys spiritually through our dicussions and exchange of ideas and opinions. PHASE 11 STARTS MONDAY MORNING AFTER THE DRAFT.
I just finished looking at an updated mock draft the was interesting. It has us taking:
1-DT Ziggy Hood
2-OLB Clint Sintim
3-SS Chip Vaughn
4-CB Donald Washington
5-DE Matt O’Shaughnessy
5-OT Cornelius Lewis
6- C Edwin Williams(this pick was said to be due to the possibility of C Todd McClue skipping workouts and retiring).
This mock draft certainly addresses all of our positions of need.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
9:24 am
NaGaNole, What’s up? Like some of your thoughts but Babs would not be in competition with Hood in my scheme. Again, they would be part of a disruptive rotation and improved LB play. Smaller, aggressive tackles can get it done. You know how we mastered that at the Doak over the years with some of our DTs. It works!!
A word of caution my friend. There is no place for “homers” in two areas: 1) the NFL draft and 2) Fantasy football. It will kill you each time.
I love Laurinaitis..ask any member of the posse as I was advocating him before I purchased my front seat ride on the Ziggy Express. He will be an outstanding pickup for someone. Curits Lofton is locked in as the MLB of the Falcons for a long time. When he is done, we will recall him along with the likes of ATL MLBs like Fulton K., Buddy C., and Jessie T.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
9:35 am
K Strick, welcome aboard the Ziggy Express. And brother, I’m honored to call you and the rest of our posse in her my friends.
We are the Falcon nation and WE have arrived.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
9:44 am
Hey Posse,
While we await the final posting of mocks and the start of the actual draft, I have a little nugget of a question that we can feed on this morning. Think about this as you drink your OJ, Stripe, or coffee.
NAME ONE OT TWO FORMER FALCONS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE IN PLACED IN THE FALCONS’ RING OF HONOR THIS SEASON.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
9:45 am
Oops…that should be one OR two.
JJ
April 25th, 2009
9:50 am
JJ’S MOCK DRAFT 2009
1. DETROIT QB STAFFORD
2. RAMS OT SMITH
3. -TRADE- BRONCOS QB SANCHEZ
4. SEAHAWKS LB CURRY
5. BROWNS DE ORAKPO
6. BENGALS DT RAJI
7. RAIDERS WR MACLIN
8. JAGUARS OT SMITH
9. PACKERS DE JACKSON
10. SAN FRAN OT MONROE
11. BILLS DE MAYBIN
12. -TRADE- CHIEFS ILB MAUALUGA
13. REDSKINS OT OHER
14. SAINTS CB JENKINS
15. TEXANS LB MATTHEWS JR.
16. -TRADE- TAMPA BAY QB FREEMAN
17. JETS DE/LB BARWIN
18. BRONCOS DT JERRY
19. -TRADE- CHARGERS RB MORENO
20. DETROIT DE AYERS
21. EAGLES TE PETTIGREW
22. VIKINGS C MACK
23. PATRIOTS DE ENGLISH
24. FALCONS DT ZIGGY HOOOOOOOD
25. DOLPHINS CB DAVIS
26. RAVENS WR HEYWARD-BEY
27. COLTS LB CUSHING
28. BILLS RB WELLS
29. GIANTS WR BRITT
30. TENN CB BUTLER
31. ARIZONA RB BROWN
32. PITT OT UNGER
FALCONS:
RD.1 HOOOOOOOOD DT
RD.2 BRACE NT
RD.3 BECKWITH LB
RD.4 WASHINGTON CB
RD.5a SHAUGHNESSY DE
5b LEWIS OT
RD.6 WILLIAMS C
NaGaNole
April 25th, 2009
9:59 am
OK, but you got to agree we can use all the redzone weapons we can get. Who’s a better fade route runner that Carr? He’s tall like Finneran at 6′6, maybe with NFL coaching he could become a postion receiver. Plus, he’s a good blocker.
I hate to say this, but our undersized aggressive tackles have not translated well to the NFL lately. Who’s the last solid DT our of FSU? Guion? He’s added too much weight to his frame to be an NFL DT and is not really the same player. He’d never replace either of the Williams boys unless they leave MN. No, I’d say Bunkley. He’s a beast. I just don’t see Ziggy at NT. He’s undersized at that spot. I’ve seen only a few different scouting reports on him, but none believe he can tie up 2 OLs. If not, then he’s in the same spot as Babs and Lewis. I understand the idea of keeping the a group of 3 technique DTs rotated and fresh. The use of this system is especially useful against an OL that primarily use zone blocks (Gibbs style). However, I think we really would like a Raji or Dorsey. These are elite 1 technique DTs. Big, aggressive guys that command a double team AND can get to the QB on occasion.
Ahh, Jessie Tuggle. The only reason I bought nosebleed seats and walked down to the empty field level seats at the old Fulton County Stadium…lol
JJ
April 25th, 2009
10:01 am
Thank god that’s over with!
It was a fun but exhausting experience. I really hope we can trade down and get Sintin, Chung and Vaughn.
After 2 months of research and 5 hrs last night, I can honestly say: I do not have a clue what the “matrix” will spit out.
I trust in TD/SMITH! Never thought those words would come out about falcons management!
NaGaNole
April 25th, 2009
10:01 am
Correction: possession *
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
10:08 am
My first choice would be a classy little receiver from Morris Brown. This little man (5′10, 170) and Steve Bartkowski made a lot of big plays on the brick, clay, sometimes green surface that was Atlanta Fulton County Stadium. Alfred Jenkins was one of the best WRs you NEVER heard of. Smooth in his routes, had the complete trust of his QB, and he had an act for making the play when it needed. When Leeman Bennett arrived, Jenkins, Bart, Andrews, and the Falcons began a stretch run that still is unrivaled in franchise history with 3 playoff appearances in five years. Second in yardage, third in TDs, Alfred Jenkins was the man for the Falcons in his day as a starting WR.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
10:13 am
NaGA, you made my point. I see Hood as another Bunkley. Adn I would offer Greg Carr a post-draft F/A deal. I will admit that with more consistent QB play, he would have been a star WR and in the top echelon of this draft class. Great points.. I see the ‘Noles going 8-4 again this year in what will be BB’s final year. Let the coaching search now begin for I’m not on the Jimbo Fisher ride at all. OVERRATED!!
Sorry posse, passion took over the Teepee. Today, is about the Falcons. NaGA, we will have a side bar convo later.
SeminoleWarrior
April 25th, 2009
10:17 am
JJ, on behalf of Ziggy Hood, I welcome you to the Hood Express. And if we get both Ziggy and Brace, I’m going to be on my way to intensive care for that would PERFECTLY set up my small/large tackle rotation along with Babs/Lewis.
A fine looking mock, bro…as you see in mine, I take dead aim on a major liability last season, the LB corps.
darrell starks
April 25th, 2009
10:49 am
1. CUSHING
2. SEAN SMITH
3. ASHER ALLEN
4. DORRELL SCOTT
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
April 25th, 2009
10:53 am
IF CUSHING GONE
1. SEAN SMITH TO PLAY WITH COLEMAN AT SAFETY
2. RON BRACE DT
3. ASHER ALLEN
4. DORRELL SCOTT DRAFTING 2 BIG DT WOULD BE JUSTICE IN THE A
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nookah
April 25th, 2009
11:00 am
Brethren, (or for those who understand the lingo, breddrens), let me endorse the sentiment and comraderie that is being exuded on this blog. It has inspired the vibrant banter that is now taken a life of it’s own and over the last few months have definitely raised the bar and has created a monster that will not die any time soon……..that monster is FALCON NATION!!!
I would not have enough space on this blog to continue to articulate the respect I have garnered for all you guys. It’s just absolutely great. Can’t wait for the catalyst for even more banter….the 2009 draft.
Have a good one guys and enjoy the ride. I’ll be checking in every minute of the day.
Go Falcons!!!!
Nuff respect evertime!!!!…………THE PROCESS CONTINUES!!!!
darrell starks
April 25th, 2009
11:01 am
IF CUSHING NOT THERE
1. SEAN SMITH HIM AND COLEMAN AT SAFETY WOULD BE AWESOME
2. RON BRACE DT
3. ASHER ALLEN WHO WOULD BE MY OPION DAT ONE STARTER
4. DORRELL SCOTT OF CLEMSON DRAFTING 2 BIG DT WOULD BE ALRIGHT IN THE A
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
irvin
April 25th, 2009
11:03 am
Enter your comments here
irvin
April 25th, 2009
11:24 am
Here is my final version.
1 Det- QB Matt Stafford
2 Stl- OT Eugene Monroe
3 KC- LB Aaron Curry
4 Sea- OT Jason Smith
5 Cle- WR Michael Crabtree
6 Cin- OT Andre Smith
7 Oak- DE Brian Orakpo
8 Jac- WR Jeremy Maclin
9 GB- OT Michael Oher
10 SF- DE Aaron Maybin
11 Buf- DE Everette Brown
12 Den- DT B.J. Raji
13 Was- Mark Sanchez
14 NO- LB Rey Mauluga
15 Hou- CB Malcolm Jenkins
16 SD- OT Eben Britton
17 NYJ- WR Darrius Heyward-Bey
18 Den- DE Tyson Jackson
19 TB- Robert Ayers
20 Det- OT William Beatty
21 Phi- RB Knowshon Moreno
22 Min- CB Vontae Davis
23 NE- LB Brian Cushing
24 Atl- LB Clay Mathews
25 Mia- WR Hakeem Nicks
26 Bal- TE Brandon Pettigrew
27 Ind- DT Peria Jerry
28 Buf- C Alex Mack
29 NYG- WR Kenny Britt
30 Ten- CB Darrius Butler
31 Ari- RB Chris Wells
32 Pit- OT Phil Loadholt
1 LB Clay Mathews Jr.
2 DE Michael Johnson
3 S David Brutton
4 DT Dorell Scott
5 OT Fenuki Tupou
5 WR Aaron Kelly
6 CB Morgan Trent
Ken Strickland
April 25th, 2009
11:25 am
NOGANOLE-I like your analysis. The problem with your DT GDorsey trade is he didn’t have a really good rookie yr. Granted, he didn’t have a lot of talent around him, but you’d expect a DT with his size, speed, quickness and college dominance to come up with more than 1 sack. Then again, he just might respond from receiving the same coaching that helped DT JBabineaux have his breakout yr. I wpuldn’t trade JAnderson and a 2rd rd pick. Instead, I’d trade him and agree to swap positions with certain picks because both players are former #3 picks and neither has lived up to his lofty draft status.
Nookah
April 25th, 2009
11:57 am
Posse, I need some help here. Is JA that bad? Is it a situation that we are assessing him as a DE and his lack of sacks? Are we sure he is not contributing inside? What are the views of our coaches? He might have been a #1 pick and therefore the expectations are very high for him and this is why we are considering him a bust. Why did he start all 16 games? If he was so bad, is it that we had nobody else to start or was it that because he was a former #1 pick we feel compelled to start him?
I think he adds depth to our team and we are being too hard on him. Should his production be greater based on the position he was picked? Absolutely but for his next contract we may get very good value.
Thoughts and feedback posse?
Go Falcons!!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!!!………………….THE PROCESS CONTINUES………
Slave driver the tables will turn………………….(Robert Nesta Marley)
WR
April 25th, 2009
12:10 pm
Fellas, its been a pleasure, I won’t even try to name everyone but I can honestly say you guys have made this offseason go by a bit quicker and now my final mock.
1.Detroit-Matthew Stafford-didn’t take a genius to figure this one out
2.St.Louis-Eugene Monroe
3.K.C.-Micheal Crabtree-either straight-up or involving a trade, coach Haley gets his Fitzgerald
4.Seattle-Aaron Curry, seahawks take Julian Peterson replacement
5.Cleveland-Brian Orakpo
6.Cincinnati-Andre Smith
7.Oakland-Jeremy Maclin
8.Jacksonville-B.J Raji
9.Green Bay-Everett Brown
10.San Fran-Robert Ayers
11.Buffalo-Jason Smith
12.Denver-Tyson Jackson
13.Washington-Mark Sanchez-at this pick or through a trade
14.Saints-Chris Wells
15.Texans-Malcolm Jenkins
16.San Diego-Rey Maualuga
17.NY Jets-Josh Freeman
18.Denver-Brian Cushing
19.Tampa Bay-Peria Jerry
20.Detroit-Micheal Oher
21.Philadelphia-Knowshon Moreno
22.Minnesota-Percy Harvin
23.New England-Clay Matthews
24.Atlanta-Evander Hood, either in this spot or trading back with the giants
25.Miami-Darius Butler
26.Baltimore-Kenny Britt
27.Indianapolis-Brian Robiskie
28.Buffalo-Brandon Pettigrew
29.NY Giants-Darius Heyward Bey, giants trade up for this pick
30.Tennessee-Hakeem Nicks
31.Arizona-Donald Brown
32.Pittsburgh-Vontae Davis
Falcons
1.Ziggy Hood-DT
2.Micheal Johnson-De/Lb
3.William Moore-S
4.Sammie Lee Hill-DT
5.Sherrod Martin-CB
Antoine Caldwell-C/G/T
6.Aaron Kelly-WR
I MUS.WRITE
April 25th, 2009
12:22 pm
Strig- ur 3:12 am post …… If we got those players I would be really excited, I mean thats a mean mock for us and I think atleast 4 of those players would be contributors right away……. Dont be suprised if we take the CB -Darius butler with our first pick. I wouldnt mind Hood, Jerry or English at 24. Whass up D3, KS, Nooka, Big Ray,WR Etc…. 3 hrs 42 minutes til show time
Jeezuz sumone must really believe in Matt stafford 41 milli gauranteed ….thats insane for an unproven rook….. I for one think that Sanchez will be a better pro, also dont sleep on the Michigan state QB …Yung Hoyer-He reminds me a little of Joe Montana-undersized, average arm but just gets the job done …cool under pressurs
Irvin-good picks for the birds….I would luv that draft as well -yall are really on top of it today!!!!!!