Mock Draft 6.0: Welcome to the ATL, Cushing

Falcons QB Matt Ryan shooting an ESPN commercial with Hannah Storm (l) and Josh Elliot.

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.

Who should the Falcons draft?

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All that’s left is for the players to start flying off draft boards shortly after 4 p.m. on Saturday. At slot 24, the Falcons can kick back, eat some turkey sandwiches, sip on some fruit juice and hope that the Houston Texans don’t pick their guy — USC linebacker Brian Cushing.

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.

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?

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.

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?

729 comments Add your comment

tbhawksfan

April 24th, 2009
7:47 am

This time I agree with you. Cushing is a very good #24; unless Jerry falls too.

tbhawksfan

April 24th, 2009
7:54 am

I guess witht he way the second round may play out, Cushing becomes the best choice because; Brace or Moala will be there at #55.

Maiva will likely be available in the late fourth or early fifth. He could develop into an exceptional weakside LB.

#176: Brandon Underwood Cincinatti 6′1″ 200 lbs. 4.44/40

tbhawksfan

April 24th, 2009
8:08 am

Petersen, Lofton, Cushing with Nicolas, Wire and Maiva as backups is a big improvement. Gilbert and James become reserves.

Babs, Abraham, JA, Davis, Brace, Lewis, Biermann and Shaughnessy would be a very strong front four.

With that LBing and DL, the Falcons would have power, size and speed on their interiour D for the first time in a long time.

Underwood CB/S and Vaughn SS and the D is ready for the SB run.

Adding TG to the O is the best thing that could have happened. Three pro-bowlers at skill positions for ICE to work with.

Need some OL depth and the O is ready for the SB run.

Marko

April 24th, 2009
8:13 am

Orlando, I’d love Cushing, but I think you nailed it when you said he gets snapped up by Houston. We can hope can’t we? I’m not the first one to suggest it, but I could see New England snapping up Moreno. Maroney’s hurt and Fred Taylor is very old for a running back. The position might not seem their greatest need, but if they see the value being at RB they might go that way. If we needed a running back, and a linebacker, I’d go Moreno over Matthews all day long. Many of you know how I feel about Clay Matthews, but there’s no way I see him as a better player than Knowshon. Anyway, Moreno to New England wouldn’t come as total shock. New England is also said to be very high on Connor Barwin, and It wouldn’t shock me if they took him either. Good mock, all I can say is I hope you’re right.

[...] Read more… [...]

willsmith

April 24th, 2009
8:32 am

I like our current linebacker depth better than our d-line depth. I’d rather us get Hood with the 24 and pick up an olb later.

Wildebeast

April 24th, 2009
8:41 am

I thought we are looking for guys with “character.”

jimmy

April 24th, 2009
8:48 am

Can the Falcons take Hannah Storm?

WR

April 24th, 2009
8:52 am

Orlando I see your sticking to the Cushing pick at 24, I just worry that Cushing has that Brian Bosworth feel about him, so I’m leaning more toward Jerry if the Falcons can’t trade the pick. With the TE position now resolved trading up for Aaron Curry may also be a possibility. If Detroit gets the deal done with Stafford and Curry is there at three, look for the Falcons and Kansas City to start dealing again. Kansas City and Scott Pioli just happen to have what the Falcons want while TD and the Falcons have what KC wants. That is the Falcons are alot closer to getting their roster settled and KC has a DT that the Falcons love (Glenn Dorsey) and are in position to take a player in a position the Falcons really Covet (Curry), the Falcons have a first round pick and a second rounder which KC wants, KC can not get enough value picking in the number 3 spot and they don’t have a second round pick. Washington and Dan Synder could ruin the possibility of this trade happening if they decide to trade up to get Sanchez. I just get the feeling that theres a bigger picture going on between TD and Pioli

coach smith

April 24th, 2009
8:52 am

No way KNOWSHON MORENO is still there at 31!!!!!

If he is still there when th eFalcons pic, maybe we should trade NORWOOD for a 4th or 5th round pic and take MORENO

I know I know, we have Turner and you’ll all say I am just a Georgia homer BUT….THE NFL IS A TWO BACK LEAGUE now and Norwood always gets banged up….

The Falcons could have MORENO and TURNER for 2 or 3 years and then let TURNER go when his contract and body are used up

MORENO is the ONLY offensive player the Falcons should consider taking and IF he is ther at 24 HE WILL BE THE BEST PLAY ON THE BOARD

EJ

April 24th, 2009
9:11 am

I Love Moreno too but reality-check it aint gonna happen that would not be a good move. The Falcons are adressing Defense in all three stages Line, Linbackers, and Secondary. They need a DT first. Then second round get a S or FS. Third Round get a LB. Only offensive player we could use is depth on the O-Line

quez

April 24th, 2009
9:13 am

If we get Cushing, we might as well reinstate Vick! I thought we wanted guys with good character. This guy will be a bust anyway, he won’t be able to check the back out of the backfield just like brooking couldn’t. We need another good DE on the other side of Abraham first. We could get a good quality LB in the second round.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
9:19 am

Good morning posse. Do Led, I respectfully disagree here. Matthews and Cushing will be off the board before we pick.

We will choose Ziggy Hood with the choice and then later, we will get a second DT, a larger guy (Taylor/Hill/Miller). Rotations seem to be a catch phrase with the team this off-season so I am going to ride my pairings of Hood/Lewis and/or Babs/Taylor-Hill-Miller.

Great work with your mocks and reports my brother. You are a d….d good one!!

TheManMike

April 24th, 2009
9:19 am

Im not even going to speculate. Tomorrow is the big day – with the signing of TG this thing is ON!

Birds are going to have a high powered offense this season – bet the bank on that…

go birds.

QueDogTeaching

April 24th, 2009
9:24 am

This will not be a popular statment, but “I don’t want Cushing at all.” I just feel that Cushing is not only a system linebacker, but also a Tony Mandarich steroid type of guy. He will have to get off the juice when he gets to the league and then become a wasted first round pick. If we do get a USC linebacker, why not get the best athlete on the USC defense, Rey Maualuga. That’s a better solid choice, he will shore up a middle that has been inconsistent. Also paired with another young talent like Chris Lofton, who also played outside at OU, we will have much needed stopping power in the box. Bottom line, we need football players, not weight room phenoms.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
9:28 am

WR, no need to trade for Dorsey when we can get just as much out of drafting Hood or Jerry at 24.

The Falcons CAN NOT and should not move up to the top five. The cap situation will not sustain such as move until we resolve the MV deal. If he is re-instated, he will cost the Birds over $15 million this season according to reports. DO Led, can you ellaborate on this?

Keep the picks and continue the re-construction through the draft.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
9:30 am

I just heard the commish, Roger Goodell, state that the league will commit over $400 million in guaranteed money to the draft selections of the first round this year. WOW!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
9:35 am

QueDog, I think all three USC guys will be off the boards when the Birds pick.

studd5

April 24th, 2009
9:36 am

No matter what happens, I trust TD and Coach Smith. But I have a strong feeling that Larry English should be our guy. Don’t know why, it’s just a feeling I’ve had since the first time I saw him. I do trust our decision makers, but I really feel we will regret it if we pass on him.

Unca' Bob

April 24th, 2009
9:37 am

This will be my first time posting anything, anywhere. I have been seeing a lot of the same names, both posters and picks. Let me toss a name out here that I have not seen. Jarron Gilbert, San Jose St., 6′-5″, 290 Lbs. He was described as “Freakishly Atheletic”. His senior year he recorded 22 Tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks. Has anyone heard of him?

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 24th, 2009
9:38 am

Hey y’all, the batmobile is in the shop getting some new tires and brakes. So I’m sitting here at the Atlanta Bread Company working the phone. Got any questions fire away.

tbHawksFan: Can we teach the bird how to fly? That was crazy the other night. Like your picks, but look for Safety Sherrod Martin from Troy in the second, possibly third. Cornerback Glover Quin of New Mexico is a possibility, too. Secondary will be addressed.

Marko: Word on the Street is that New England wants a Vrabel replacement and this is a deep draft for those 3-4, hybrid DE/OLBs. Connor Barwin is the wildcard of the group. He he sneaks in the first round, that’ll knock another good player down some.

WildeBeast: Can’t have a whole team of choir boys. That’s just a bunch of PR post-vick mucky muck. If you’re going to win, you need football players. They just have to do a THOROUGH background search (this didn’t happen with Vick, obviously). You need a LB or two with malice in their heart. LB have to do bad things (hit and tackle) to good people.

Jimmy: Let me check on that. Storm looks like a flanker. She’s from Texas and knows here football.

Dimitroff is Smarter than You

April 24th, 2009
9:40 am

What happened to Clint Sintim? I see the Falcons trading back to get an extra late pick for some WR depth on the second day…

wes

April 24th, 2009
9:41 am

I actually think Clint Sintim is better. Dude can flat-out play.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
9:44 am

Welcome Unca’Bob. We have heard of Gilbert and he has been mentioned in here. He is definately an intriguing prospect but if the Birds go with a DE in this draft, I see someone like Paul Kruger in the second.

Bub

April 24th, 2009
9:46 am

Orlando, if Jerry is still there at 24, the Falcons have to take him, right? DT seems like a big need for Atlanta, & from what I saw of Jerry in college he looks like a beast. I would much prefer him to Cushing & think he fills a more immediate need.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 24th, 2009
9:46 am

I was told to get “off” of Sintim. He’s a fit in Pittsburgh. Not quite a good fit here. I hope my personnel source wasn’t steering me wrong.

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
9:52 am

Im 50/50 on taking Cushing at 24, He seems to be a great talent, but maybe he’s a product of the system……Their team was loaded -of course he’s going to look good playing with 4 other possible NFL Starters. The steroids issue is kind of disturbing especially after watching the Tony Mandrich story.
I would go best available DLineman or trade down for more picks…. ZACH FOLLETTE will be a better player than Cushing IMO….. Lets adress other needs and get a SLB in rounds 3-5……………………….
1200.00 dollars a month on supplements = Premadona…….

Unca' Bob

April 24th, 2009
9:58 am

SeminoleWarrior Thank you for your warm welcome. Ya’ll realy do your homework.

JB

April 24th, 2009
9:59 am

I thought the AJC reported Vick will count $7.1 million on the 2009 salary cap, which is about 5% of the $127 million team cap. Not chump change for a guy not even on the roster.

I don’t think TD will get Cushing, not with the allegations. There’s just too many other options so why take the risk?

Drew

April 24th, 2009
9:59 am

Pass on Cushing and put Vick at OLB!

PMC

April 24th, 2009
10:00 am

Works for me. Cushing in the 1st Moala in the 2nd.

I like Ziggy Hood, I’d be cool if he were a pick too but I wonder if he’s more suited to play UT than NT. We definately need depth at NT.

Also, keep in mind that we are razor thin at OT. if a quality tackle is on the board early. I think that could be the pick. It’s easier to find a NT later than it is to find starting OT’s. They could probably get Frank Okam too.

I’m really not sure what they are going to do in the secondary but there could be another trade as their was last year for a Foxworth type.

gdg73

April 24th, 2009
10:00 am

I told you Sintim didn’t fit here 3 weeks ago. You didn’t have to be a rocket scientist to see that. Why have a very good group of LBs now. Do some homework please. How many DTs (NFL caliber and healthy)are on the roster right now? Let me help you, ONE (Babineaux)!!! Tell me how Cushing is going to help putting pressure on the QB and stopping the run. Is he better than Stephan Nicholas? I doubt it very seriously. Why waste the pick on him? Either draft Jerry or Hood or trade the pick for Glenn Dorsey.

Tom

April 24th, 2009
10:01 am

I wish they would leave roid rage alone and go after a d lineman. If that doesnt work out why dont they go after the cornerback from ohio state.

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
10:02 am

UnCa Bob……. Jarron Gillbert is a beast- He is a little undersized at 288 but he makes up for it in raw strength-this guy is really powerful and quick off the line……I hope he’s there at 55 if we dont go DL in the first. He’s going to make alot of people look bad for passsing on him, he reminds me a little of Shawn Merriman………

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
10:03 am

Storm is okay but I’ll trade into the first and select Reischea Candidate.

DO Led, was I on target with my MV cap assessment?

TommyP

April 24th, 2009
10:03 am

Disagree 100% with you, Ledbetter.

First there are the steroid accusations not just in college but dating back to high school. RED FLAG.

Then this website he developed or group he started called “White Nation”? Are you friggin’ kidding me?????

Joke or not, this is not the type of player that needs a guy with that type of baggage.

And to think how much the Vick situation polarized the races in Atlanta….

Peria Jerry is the guy if he makes it that far.

The Grinch

April 24th, 2009
10:04 am

LB is about the 5th position in importance we need even after getting Gonzales, and we’re not going to draft one who’s needed steroids to get where he is. Didn’t you see “The Program,” D-Led? They lose strength after they get off the juice. We also don’t need an undersized “hybrid” 3-4 guy either (Abe and Biermann are both under 260). Unless a top-15 one just happens to fall in our lap, we should go best available DT, CB and S in no particular order with the top 3 picks. What we could REALLY use is what J. Anderson was supposed to be.

Footballastro

April 24th, 2009
10:05 am

Hey everybody, this is my first time writing on a blog on AJC.But anyways I think that if Cushing or Jerry is taken, then I think the falcons should trade down and draft Louis Delmas. Then we should pick up Maiva in the later rounds.

mudcat

April 24th, 2009
10:05 am

Hannah Storm can line up in front of me anytime!

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
10:06 am

gdg73, trust me.. It will be Hood. If not Hood, Jerry. If not Jerry, best LB available that could project at SLB.

MiltonDawg

April 24th, 2009
10:07 am

take the LB, should see instant action. DOL, any other rumors out there about possible using Vick as trade bait to maybe move up in the 1rst or 2nd rounds, possible later rounds??

chc4

April 24th, 2009
10:08 am

I want one of three players with our first pick. If we stay at 24 it has to be DTs Jerry or Hood. If we can move back 8-10 spots and the DTs are gone, then take SS William Moore. He is a true power SS that will start from Day 1. Then we take DTs Gilbert or Brace w/ our original #2. With the trade down for Moore, we’d pick up extra 3rd. Asher Allen and LB Marcus Freeman in the 3rd. Duke Robinson is possible as well… never hurts to load up on the OL.

**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**

April 24th, 2009
10:08 am

DOL,

Would be hard for me to accept passing up Malcolm Jenkins for Brian Cushing…I don’t see a HUGE difference between Cushing and Nichols (second year guy). I do believe that what we have a corner is suspect…Houston included (but he can start). Jenkins would give you a guy that could play both CB and S positions.

Gonzalez trade is solid…taking a page from my buddy westside J, I still think we should use a pick on C. Ingram from Florida and let him heal and learn from Gonzalez for a couple of years. That would make any transition seamless…

Whatever the case, it is encouraging to see the Birds being ACTIVE in acquiring talent. Still disappointed to see Laurent Robinson gone, but the play-action pass just got better with #88 running down the seam.

matty

April 24th, 2009
10:08 am

i dont want cushing at all. ziggy would be a much better pick here. wire, lofton, peterson are our starting LBs now, and idt cushing can come in and provide much right off the bat. i also agree with the system linebacker idea hes got mandarich written all over him. as weak as it may seem, LB is our deepest position on D. DL is hurtin bad, take jerry or ziggy.

Astro Joe

April 24th, 2009
10:09 am

DOL, if TD takes a LB before a DT, does that mean that he has more faith in Trey Lewis than Stephen Nicholas? I assume that means that Lewis is looking fully recovered.

Gatorzone

April 24th, 2009
10:11 am

DT, get the best one on the board, or either the best DE available.
I agree that LB is about 4th on our need list

ryanhiott

April 24th, 2009
10:12 am

think Connor Barwin (because of his versatility) or Evander Hood would be a better pick for the falcons at 24

Footballastro

April 24th, 2009
10:13 am

As much as I disagree with Cushing’s off-the-field issues, I think that he’s a guy we can insert into the game and give us a very good pass rush from the LB position

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
10:15 am

chc4, the safety pick will depend on how they feel about DeCoud. But if I had to choose, I would take Chung over Moore.

Mac

April 24th, 2009
10:18 am

Yes, steroid and “White Nation,” issues make me wonder if this guy will be a Brian Bosworth-type bust.

Whoever, Dimitroff takes will be fine. Hannah Storm is fine. I’d “draft” her.

Big B CH 99

April 24th, 2009
10:18 am

I’m a Tech fan, and I think that Knowshon is a potential game-breaker, but the Falcons Should NOT pick him b/c we dont’ need a RB, we have 2 (Turner & Norwood), the O is set, we need D desperately.

I do think that a trade for Dorsey is possible, but don’t think that a trade up to get Curry is possible, we’d have to give up way too much to get up into the top 5 that it’s not worth it. And we’d have to give up the farm (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and possibly more to get both Dorsey and move up for Curry).

The only O I see us going after is Line late in the draft to add some depth, maybe a Tackle.

Jerry

April 24th, 2009
10:19 am

Bill won’t take Mathews Jr. He would take Cushing before Mathews to replace Vrable.

Big B CH 99

April 24th, 2009
10:21 am

I would love to see the Falcons trade for Dorsey, and then be able to get Tech’s Michael Johnson (MJ) in the 2nd, although we’d probably have to trade up into the early 2nd to get him. I know about the heart & consistency ?’s, but at Tech he was asked to do a lot, Pass Rush, Run D, Pass Coverage, & Special Teams. The Falcons would hopefully use him only as a Pass Rusher. Him & Abes to Rush the passer on 3rd down.

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
10:21 am

Semminole Warrior you took the words right out of my mouth……Reischae Candidate would be my choice -she would be a fine center on my team as I am the QB LOL……

chc4

April 24th, 2009
10:22 am

Big fan of Moore. He’s bigger and more physical than Chung. Only knock on Moore is injuries… which obviously is a concern.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
10:25 am

I really hope we don’t take Michael Johnson unless it’s in the 3rd. He’s just another physical specimen whose play doesn’t match his appearance/measureables. Those guys rarely pan out. He’ll get mauled by NFL OT’s.

Gatorzone

April 24th, 2009
10:28 am

What is up with this “white nation” bs? What a jack@ss! Steer clear of this guy!

bn

April 24th, 2009
10:32 am

Look at the LACK of pressure last year on the QB..must be HOOD or JERRY…forget LBs until round 5….

QueDogTeaching

April 24th, 2009
10:34 am

I know there are a lot of good looking picks on paper, but watching college football, I remember football players, and that’s what the Falcons need. We need to go off of who made it happen on the field. Weight and size are great, but can he play the game, And we all know that the 40 yard dash is all technique at this point.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
10:35 am

Gatorzone, I hate to see that race has worked its way into the draft discussion. Cushing and Matthews should have known better. However, in a town than is a polarized at ATL can be at times, AB can not afford to have ANYTHING polarizing about his team. The MV situation revealed that we still have a lot to learn about one another in society.

I’m willing to forgive the young men and hope that it was a silly error in judgement. God knows, I have made my fair share. But I am not will not be looking to build a new 75,000 seat stadium or so in the future. I will not need to sell this guy and those issues, if they re-occur, to the greater, more diverse ATL community. Best to let that ship dock in another port.

Sorry for the sermon…just keeping it real.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
10:38 am

LOL…I Mus

Stay away from the center. She is one bad woman. Has me smiling like the pics of a young Pam Greer (aka Foxy Brown) that DO Led had with one of his mocks a couple of weeks back. But hey, Hannah makes the cut too.

hobbes

April 24th, 2009
10:39 am

There is no evidence Cushing has ever done steroids, that nfl draft bible story was never confirmed by anyone else. Cushing has been training with one of the best trainers in the country since his junior year in high school, then went to a NFL factory at USC, he is as legit as any other player in the draft. With that said, I am not enamored with him at 24. Gimme a break on the Facebook thing, I am sure he will be joining the Klan the day he gets into town.

rfsbkr

April 24th, 2009
10:46 am

I would trade the 24th pick and hope to pick up 2 second rounders. Then maybe we could get Delmas, Brace and possibly Sintim

WR

April 24th, 2009
10:48 am

Seminole you are not the first person I have heard mention the salary cap so I want to address this issue. The good teams have anywhere from 5 to 10 players who take up most of the salary cap,these are the core players. Ever notice how most people can name only so many players on an offense and defense for a team unless its their favorite team. Not saying it would happen but if the Falcons could trade up to get Curry, considered the safest pick in the draft the salary cap should not be the biggest issue. Yes Vick screwed the Falcons cap but they knew that coming in, referring to the new regime, so AB brought in a cap savvy, good talent evaluating GM. When referring to TD everyone talks about the NE way, Pittsburgh way, Colts way, but all of these teams have one thing in common, they keep their core players in tact even at the expense of the salary cap which is what good teams do. The Falcons largest cap figure is for Matt Ryan, but you can throw that one out because no team in the NFL will let a Franchise QB out of town no matter the cost. Now you look at Turner and hopefully soon White, these are your three core players on offense if one of the lineman becomes an out right inexpendable stud he will be the fourth, where are your core players on defense, not Abraham, he’s good but he’s long in the teeth, so who else,no one. No team has been a consistent winner without having core players both on offense and on defense meaning that when looking at the salary cap a GM knows that whatever it takes we will keep these players, and fill in the gaps around them until they get old and ineffective at which time GM’s look to add core replacements. Yes Curry could be a high cap hit but the Falcons could be willing to do it because theres no substantial money tied up on the defense. I am a ACC guy(GT) just as you are Seminole so I can honestly say that I have watched Curry play and he’s a stud, I’m not even an expert and I believe he may be the safest pick in the draft a player you can build around. Coach Smith will definitely get some DT’s out of this draft I say Jerry or Hood, at the same time I don’t think that they will let the salary cap affect the process they have talked about since day one, that is why this GM is so successful so far. He’s not going out spending boohoos of money on over priced free agents, he’s going to build his own core, pay them and continue to mix and match around them, he did it with the offense last year, now its time for the defense.

Flappin' Falcon

April 24th, 2009
10:50 am

The Falcons will NOT draft Cushing. If the ultimate hybrid DE/LB Larry English is gone, the Birds will go with a DT. English fits the mold to be able to switch from 3-4- to 4-3. Cushing’s character and self-adoration does not fit the mold in the ATL. Cushing might even drop into the 2nd round.

D3

April 24th, 2009
10:55 am

ITS FINALLY HERE BOYS!!!!!!!! T-MINUS 1 DAY, 6 HOURS, 3 MINS, AND COUNTING! I rode the ‘Grew wagon until the wood splintered and the wheels fell off, but getting Gonzalez makes as proud as I’ve been to be a Falcons fan. If I didn’t already have a Black Matty Ice jersey, I would be getting a Red #88 Falcons Jersey! Just when I thought this draft couldn’t be more exciting, “they pull me back in” (in my worst Pacino imitation you could imagine). Let’s rock it out……

After settling into the ‘Grew quick-crete a week or so before the draft i honestly have no clue who the Falconi’s will pick now and, honestly, I’ll be happy with pretty much any of the top-D candidates except for “Mini-Meangelo Hall” Davis. There are so many scenarios out there that I almost had an aneuyrism trying to re-do my mock draft.

Scenario #1
My initial reaction would be to think that TD & Co. would want to trade back because there will be no “lock” at the bottom of the first round in a year of big uncertainty. We don’t know much, but we do know there is a TON of talent in the second and third round. Trade out of the 1st and snag either 2 seconds or a 2nd and a 3rd (Draft scenarios to come later). Imagine Sintim, MJ, AND Moala!

Scenario #2
Go with Seminole on the Hood Express and select him at that spot. I’ve finally come around to him. Heard him on 680 the other day and love his attitude. I want this pick only under the assumption that we still use a late rounder on a big boy like Sammie Hill, Terrance Taylor, or Roy Miller(love that name). That would set us at D-Line for a decade. Talk about a rotation? Still rather have Jerry, but I’ll take Hood. Seminole, my brother: game, set, match! If you practice law, I’ll give you a call if you get in a legal jam.

Scenario #3
As DOL said, Cushing falls to us and we snag him. I’m at peace with Cush(I keep thinking of Jerry Maguire’s Franchise QB: “This is Cush). He will be a risk, no doubt, but his work ethic is what I like the most. Give me him over Matthews. Cush is more of a run-stopping SAM that we need and can rush the passer with ferocity and has all the intangibles. For those Bosworth comparers, Cush is a humble player with a great work ethic, Bosworth was a chump who ran his mouth and got smacked down by the great Bo Jackson.

Scenario #4
The Falcons “reach” for Sintim or English. Neither would be a reach in my opinion, but Sintim definitely seems to be slipping to second(that’s why we should consider trading down, IMO). English would be an interesting pick since Smitty wants to implement some 3-4 looks.

If I had to give an order of “my”preference as follows. But will be happy with any of them:
1)Trade down
2)Cushing
3)Jerry
4)Hood
5)English

So, who will it be boys? Think I’m gonna break out a summer ale due to the high temps. Grill, Food, Brews, & Draft! Does it get any better? Well, except for the real thing, but still!

shannyeight

April 24th, 2009
10:56 am

if the Falcons pick an LB i rather they look at Laurinaitis first before Cushing. Other than that, i rather they pick Ziggy Hood…he can be pretty versatile at DE/DT or even a little LB.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
10:59 am

I don’t get the infatuation w/ Delmas. He’s more of a FS than run defender. He’s undersized for a SS. Coleman is young a did a solid job last year so Delmas isn’t a great fit, at least not immediately.

QueDogTeaching

April 24th, 2009
11:02 am

Not all the way sold on English either. Did not see him play, so I am only going off of what has been written. He had only 37 tackles last year. But that could be because they ran away from him, plus injuries. Upside he did have eight sacks. I think we can get this kind of productivity in later rounds. Because we need so much on defense, the question is who will be the best athlete left on the board?

braveshater

April 24th, 2009
11:03 am

Cushing will be a Bust, he’s a weaker version of Keith Brooking who couldnt cover his head in the rain.

clthurman

April 24th, 2009
11:03 am

Steroid questions , white nation….what else are we gonna accuse Cushing of….hey how about being there at the Duke Lacrosse party….yeah I think I heard that somewhere(sarcasm). Look if you think we should draft someone else better or a place of greater need I get it. But accusing someone who has never been officially reprimanded of something is stupid. TD will have had all those questions answered before the pick is made. The trade for Gonzalez was genius and now its all about the defense. Lets talk facts not fiction. Hmmmmm for such a racist guy he managed to play on a team that is racially balanced and I haven’t heard any teammates disparage the guy. If he can play and TD wants him, go for it. If he likes to work out and “got big” the wrong way…hey he can always play baseball.

braveshater

April 24th, 2009
11:05 am

chc4 you need to find another to sport to witness if u think Coleman is the answer at saftey, how many picks did he have last year at the free safety postion. FREE Saftey, that means your free to raom and makes plays, and he didnt make any.

Dimitroff is Smarter than You

April 24th, 2009
11:11 am

Maybe Hood in the first round, a S or CB in the second, and how about Corey Irvin late 3? Babs, Lewis, Hood, and Irvin in rotation would be pretty solid IMO

chc4

April 24th, 2009
11:12 am

braveshater – You need to pay closer attention if you think FS is an immediate need. Coleman isn’t a Pro Bowler but he is solid. Did watch the Saints game in the Dome last year? He was all over the place. FS is the least of our worries on the defensive side.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
11:13 am

D3, welcome aboard the Hood express. The guy is going to be a good one. As far as the jerseys go, I’m definately adding Gonzo to my collection. The First Lady of the Teepee already keeps telling me I have too many jerseys (we are a house divided anyways as she is a Panthers fan being from southern VA). In addition, I will be the first in line at mini-camp to get that autograph on a mini-helmet.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
11:15 am

chc4, good point on Coleman. He is not a stud but he is steady and smart. He is a keeper on the roster.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
11:18 am

LOL D3, I wish I was a lawyer. Crazy me, I choose meteorology. So I have sit in my seats in the mezzanine instead of chilling in the Lexus suites. I’m cool with it thought…REAL fans in the mezzanine. LOL.

Joe Schmoe

April 24th, 2009
11:21 am

I dont know about you guys, but I like this trade now. I was against it, but that was because we had so many glaring needs on defense, but this allows us to pcik for those needs, and wait to give up the second next year. As far as who we pick up, to me it should be the best defensive player where we have a need, period.

Bobby Dowell

April 24th, 2009
11:23 am

Would really prefer English or Clay Matthews. Just need a playmaker with that first pick. Get our safety in the second round.

doc

April 24th, 2009
11:26 am

i wouldnt touch this brian as he will be as brittle as the other brian roider that came out of okielahoma. clay and brian are the equivalent of mandrich and big hit brian b who never made it in the nfl anywhere close to their expectations. they later said they were roid men. unless brian2 and clay can stay big on roids that stay ahead of the testers they will fail to stay big and fast. these guys are outed please do not take either one of them. get someone who has the natural build to carry the weight someone has to carry in the big nfl.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
11:27 am

Joe Schmoe, the trade was brilliant. TG keeps himself in great shape.He has only missed TWO games in 13 years and does not appear to have lost a step in his game. We don’t need him to run deep route but with him, Jenkins, and Fin, the red zone is an extremely dangerous place now. You will not be able to “stack” the line with TG on the field. And given the progession Matty Ice exhibited in the “No-huddle” last season, I think we will be awesome on offense. Only the injury bug will slow us.

The loss of the second round pick in 2010 will be offset by the number of comp picks we will obtain next season. Considering what we lost this year and the deals they signed (Boley/Jackson/Brooking), we stand to get a couple of three and a fourth. That is not a bad set up especially if the nucleas is in place and we are addressing depth next season.

D3

April 24th, 2009
11:28 am

Marko – agree on Cushing getting snagged. My gut tells me that the Texans take him. Anyway Barwin goes in the first.

willsmith – can agree with you no LB corps. DL has less depth.

WR – would like that scenario, but I think that TD is right where he wants and feels at home, multiple picks and finding multiple gems. If anything maybe trade down.

Coach – Oh, man don’t get me started on getting my UGA boy Moreno in the ATL. Would that be awesome or what? But, unfortunately won’t happen. We got our 1-2 punch on Turner-Norwood. And I think one of my all-time fav.s UGA boys TBrown gets some looks.

EJ – I think safety might not get the look that a lot of us think. TD loves getting safety deeper in the rounds and they’re enamored with what they see from Thomas DeCoud stepping up and stepping in.

Seminole – as mentioned, I’m torn on your boy. I’ll be happy with him, but I can’t punch the ticket for the Ziggy Express just yet. Call me greedy, but I’d rather trade back and get a ton of those second round studs. Can’t decide if Sintim goes in the first round or not.

QueDog – Cushing will be a risk for sure. Not b/c of the juice talk, but because of his relative inexperience. What tips me to his side is his work ethic. Guys can be huge if they have a fantastic work ethic. Until he officially fails a test, he’s innocent.

studd – right on brother. Whoever TD & Co. picks, I’ll be happy. It might just be English. He gives us a ton of versatility and will be our long-term answer to SAM.

gd – I got where you’re coming from, but there are tons of deep round talent @ DT. But I get what you’re saying. I can see us even grabbing two of them throughout the draft.

I.MUS – where ya been bro’? I don’t know about Gilbert. Maybe at DE, but he reminds me too much of Jamal Anderson.

Tommy – yeah, he made some stupid @– mistakes, but if he performs on the field, than a lot of that stuff will be forgotten. Until he’s been proven to fail a test officially, he’s innocent.

mudcat – wow, no kiddin’ right? I’m usually not high on really skinny chicks, but she works it for me.

Alright boys, for those of us on the Pettigrew train, revamp those mocks and get them in before noon tomorrow.

Mocks Received: WR, Falcon Devil, Seminole, dacha, D3, Marko, Nookah, irvin, The Dean21, Reno911, yeahbaby.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
11:38 am

D3, I’m saving seats on the Express; don’t worry. And I will forward my updated mocks before sunrise on Saturday.

I’m pretty much set on my Falcons mock but I’m thinking a about six adjustments to my first round picks.

D3

April 24th, 2009
11:45 am

Seminole – alright brother, closing argument and I’m paying hard cash for a seat: Like Hood, but does his relative smaller size not bother you some in stopping the run? Answer that question and you have my ticket.

Ken Strickland

April 24th, 2009
11:58 am

With the acquisition of TE TGonzalez, WR MJenkins and FB OMughelli are the only OFF skill position players that aren’t Probowlers. The Atlanta Falcons OFF is going to be awsome, simply awsome.

I recall how certain posters were complaining about TD’s lack of deal making, especially in FA. Well, what do you have to say now.

Smokey Bell

April 24th, 2009
11:59 am

Coleman is under-rated. Did you forget that he had to cover Milloy’s side of the field too!

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
12:02 pm

D3 and the rest of the core posse

I’m not worried about the size. I love his motor, his hands, and his ability to penetrate the line. If he is disruptive, then the play is busted before it starts. If he forces it to the inside or outside, then our improved LB corps should be able to close the deal. Place Lewis or another space eater next to him in the rotation, i.e., Hill, Miller, or Taylor, and the line is much more effective.

Ziggy or Jerry could easily post numbers on par with what Sedrick Ellis did for the Saints last year. If we could get 4-7 sacks out of our interior defensive line, and an additional 5-7 from the opposite end position of Abe, we would be fine.

I’m envisioning the Falcons defense moving to the same attacking mode as the Eagles. We may not be as aggressive with the blitz but the speed on the front line is very disruptive. The Eagle DEs average 6′ 2.5″, 260 and the tackles average 6′1″ 300. And that defense is consistently among the league’s top 10 or so.

If we can move into that company, we will, at last, enjoy the Lombardin Trophy’s roll down Peachtree in the hands of the awesome threesome: AB, TD, and the FALCON NATION!!

the interI would love to see him get numbers

Supes

April 24th, 2009
12:02 pm

D3, excellent post, and I like the 4 scenarios you layed out.

I’m with you, I’ve made my peace that if we draft ‘Cush’, we’ve gotta trust Thomas Dimitroff and Coach Mike Smith, that they do know what they are doing or getting themselves into.

I know this much about ‘Cush’…he was a head hunting, fierce hitting LB in college, with a nasty attitude. He also is a crazy SOB in the weight room and has a meticulous work ethic. Seems like a team oriented guy too, didn’t showboat as much as USC other defensive stars. He is a blue collar type worker, and a perfect replacement for someone like Keith Brooking (long term).

I’d also be happy if the Falcons didn’t see anyone they considered MUST have at 24, and dropped back to the 2nd and 3rd for the 24th. Picking up 2 extra picks…or I can see them trading for two 2nd round picks…one this year and one next (to make up for the pick we just traded away to KC).

Kim

April 24th, 2009
12:12 pm

Led,

Hanna might be claiming Texas, but she attended Westminister High her in the “A”. She is fine.

David

April 24th, 2009
12:16 pm

Stafford already has a $150,000 Mercedes…….

tony

April 24th, 2009
12:20 pm

If we can’t get a good DT in the 1st round, we need to take Clint Sintim-OLB with our 1st pick. He is the only sack technician in this draft at his position.

David

April 24th, 2009
12:22 pm

I have heard some mixed reviews of Hood from some people with Missouri. And if Moreno is there when we draft I would take him ALL DAY. Trade Norwood for a 4th rounder or something but that kid is big time. He won’t be there though. In the first round you should always take the player that has the best chance to be a pro-bowler, hands down, over need when you have so many holes to fill.

James

April 24th, 2009
12:23 pm

I understand that we need to draft defense.But do you bypass Moreno if he is there at 24? I guess this is why its called business because I would have to make the emotional choice.I’m sure the Falcons will make the right choice.They certainly did last year and I would have taken Dorsey.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
12:24 pm

Sacks are fine to have but disruption behind the line means lost yards. And that allows more fexibility in what a defense can do while placing restrictions on what the offense can do. That is where the speed and technique comes into play. The Eagles excel with that and they use the pairing of smaller 3 technique tackles. ATL can do the same but have the flexibility of using “biggies” in a rotation if the situation calls for it. TD and Smitty will address that this weekend.

Are you ready to ride now D3?

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
12:27 pm

Respectfully James, emotions do not win games. Got to trust the gut and go with the process. That is what is so exciting about TD and Smitty. They are sticking to the plan; long-term construction of a d…..d good football team.

Youth, energy, work ethic/commitment, and leadership in CLUTCH positions (TG/Elam). That is what will win us our Super Bowl titles. And yes, I’m stepping out there and saying we will win more than one of them within the next 5-7 years.

Falcon Devil

April 24th, 2009
12:28 pm

Talking about drafting Moreno is absurd. I would normally use more colorful language than that but I’m tryin to keep this postivie. Norwood is a big play threat and worth a hell of alot more than a 4th rounder. As for all this Cushing bashing, he has never tested positive for steriods so just because I accuse you of taking steriods it doesnt mean jack until its proven. The white nation stuff was a joke with his teameate who are guess what, mostly black. People are focusing on the wrong things. Watch his film, listen to him speak. Thats what TD has done because he is intelligent. Cushing is the real deal and I’d love seeing him in black and red.

Falcon Devil

April 24th, 2009
12:29 pm

Cameron

April 24th, 2009
12:38 pm

D. Ledbetter:

I would love for Cushing to drop to us. He has had steroid rumors following him around since high school. I have read planty of articles that talk about him coming from a well-to-do family. He has a nutritionist that follows him around and has him on srict, healthy diet. I just think the guy has good genes, eats right, and has an incredible work ethic. If he was on roids, I think his forty numbers would have been off-the-charts. They were in the 4.7 range. That is not steroid area. Mandarich ran a 4.7 at 300-plus lbs.

This is a different day and age than when Mandarich did his thing. If guys are on roids now-a-days, then people are going to find out. Look at Merriman and Luis Castillo. Romanowski. People get popped. If there truly is something to worry about, we will find out on draft day. If him and Matthews slide way, way down, then we will know that there is general concern about these guys. I don’t see it.

Cameron

April 24th, 2009
12:43 pm

I like Hood as a player. I even heard him on Buck and Kincade the other day and he actually sounded like a good, educated kid. I mean, I could actually understand him. He was saying all the right things as well. Sure talks better than Mike Vick. However, I don’t think Hood is good value with the 24th pick. I don’t think he will be there at 55 either.

I don’t think Ron Brace will be there at 55 either. I would rather have him out of the two, by the way. I think Ron Brace had a lot to do with B.J. Raji being B.J. Raji. Ron Brace is a 335 lb. anchor. He constantly held up double teams and let B.J. Ravi wreak havoc. He could do similar things with the Falcons and let Babineaux wreak the havoc.

I would love for TD (I am sure he would too) to trade down into the top of the second round (38th or 40th??) and draft Brace, Hood, or Delmas. I don’t think any of them are worth the 24th pick though. Just my .02.

Falcon Devil

April 24th, 2009
12:44 pm

Talking about steriods is futile because the best performance enhancing drug is HGH. HGH cannot be tested for and is in use on every team in the NFL. HGH is proven to be the most effective method of muscle growth and cannot be tested for so if you are gonna suspect someone who hasn’t been dumb enough to test positive to steriods you have to suspect EVERYONE.

mike

April 24th, 2009
12:45 pm

Brian Cushing and Clay Matthews, both from USC, tested positive for steroids at the NFL combine.

http://flashwarner.com/2006/07/what_happened_to_brian_cushing.html

check out the man boobs he has now from the steroid abuse.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
12:48 pm

Cushing and Matthews did NOT test positive. There were rumors they did but turns out they didn’t.

Justin

April 24th, 2009
12:48 pm

If they take Cushing they HAVE to make him stand in front of the whole team and explain the steroid allegations and the “white nation” crap. If not then take someone you have no questions about.

JohnGTFan

April 24th, 2009
12:52 pm

Most people probably wouldn’t agree…but I don’t see how Atlanta can pass up Alphonso Smith if he’s (and should be) available! I know people don’t like his size…but no way you can ignore the INTs, speed, and instincts that you simply cannot teach.

Big Daddy

April 24th, 2009
12:53 pm

Mike Vick was the real deal too. But he had a problem-that we didn’t know about! How do you go into this knowing a guy has some questionable and divisive attitutdes? That said, I trust Blank, Dimitroff, and Smith. If they choose him, I will give him the benefit of the doubt and welcome him to the ATL.

Go Falcons!

darrell starks

April 24th, 2009
12:59 pm

No way pass on cushing a true playmaker who make plays all over the field im not to big on clay matthews. GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cameron

April 24th, 2009
1:00 pm

Mike:

Let me get this straight. You claim Cushing failed a drug test for steroids at the Combine. You then post a link to a site with evidence of the fact. I clicked on the link and got sent to a…BLOG!!! VERY CREDIBLE!!! You have to be kidding.

Also, if Cushing and Matthews failed tests, then they will be suspended the first four games of their NFL careers per the NFL’s drug policy.

atl~fan

April 24th, 2009
1:00 pm

Hello people… It sounds like he is a bigot making a group call “white nation” on facebook! A social networking site that everyone knows is checked regularly by employers! This would be a horrible pick for the FALCONS, especially since we are now placing a high emphasis on good character guys! You all have or had problems with Mick Vick fighting dogs, but you would be fine hiring a bigot who uses steroids!?!?! I’m confused…

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
1:01 pm

We should find a way to get- Zach Follette and Chip Vaughn
Vaughn is 6′1 220 and has good speed-The guy is probably the best open field tackler in the draft and Follette just plays angry to me,luv this mans agressiveness

D3-whass up my man…. been a little busy working -Im grinding hard so that i can catch the draft Saturday……. O yeah -recliner, Guiness and the draft on 52′ of TV -What could be better

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
1:02 pm

Best open field tackler in the draft as far as Safties go……………..

Ken Strickland

April 24th, 2009
1:03 pm

Acquiring an impact playmaking LB is obviously a priority for the Falcons. Who or what we draft after acquiring that playmaking LB will depend on the value we place on the DT’s in this yrs draft. Does TD believe we can get the DT we want in the 3rd or 4th rds, or do they think we’ll have to use a 2nd rd pick.

There’s one thing I do know. We don’t need a primary playmaking DT because we already have one in the making in JBabineaux. We just need another talented DT to compliment both TLewis, JBabineaux and KMoorehead. Another thing. We know how HC’s and GM’s evaluate potential FA’s and draft picks. Well, how much off season evaluating do they do on the progress the players already on the roster, like DE JAnderson. His progress, and his potential for having a breakout season, can have a drastic effect on whether we draft a DE. The same holds true for DE/LB KBiermann.

Man, I’m trying to buy a house and move back to the ATL and I’m supposed to view a couple of potential purchases Saturday. Well, I’m so afraid of missing a minute of the draft I’m having 2nd thoughts about the trip. What I’m feeling now, leading up to the draft, is anticipation. What I’ll feel after the draft, when we’ve acquired the players we want, I’ll start feeling total excitement. Knowing the exact player that will be plugged into a certain position, and researching the strengths he’ll bring to the team, will be so exciting.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
1:06 pm

Isn’t Kindall Moorehead a FA? I don’t think we re-signed him.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 24th, 2009
1:10 pm

While waiting for the boys at Kaufman Tires to fix the brakes and slap two tires on the batmobile, I got the mock done for print, my five players to watch and researched Gonzalez’s contract numbers.
The price tag for Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez wasn’t cheap.

HERE’S THAT IS: In addition to the second-round draft pick the Falcons sent the Kansas City Chief, they accepted his contract, which gives him a chance to earn $14.25 million over the next three seasons.

Gonzalez just completed the second year of a five-year, $35 million contract extension he signed with the Chiefs in January 2007.

He received $17.5 million in guaranteed money in the deal. He has base salaries – which are not guaranteed — of $4 million in 2009, $4.5 million in 2010 and $5.75 million in 2011.

His salary cap numbers are $6.5 million in 2009, $7 million in 2010 and $8.25 million in 2011.

Gonzalez, the all-time NFL leader in receptions, yardage and touchdowns for a tight end, will be at a Arthur Blank Foundation event this evening.

UNCA’ BOB: Welcome aboard. Jarron Gilbert has a third round grade.

GDG73: Think you’re wrong my friend. There are only two DTs with first round grades, Raji and Jerry. Both could be gone by 24. Ziggy had a good combine workout, but had a second or third round grade before that. He has bad film. He doesn’t appear worthy of the 24th pick. TD won’t be fooled by a workout warrior. Deepest OLB/DE draft is years. Get one of them — Cushing, Maybin or English — and keep it moving. You can get big DTs as late as the fourth round — Sammie Lee Hill and Chris Baker. Work has been done thoroughly. You just don’t agree with it.

SEMINOLEWARRIOR: Let me pull out my Vick folder here. Vick’s cap number for 2009 is $6.43 and could accelerate to $7.1 if cut. It was $7,572,857 last season. Most team operate with some “dead” cap space, some as much as 10%.

I.MUS.WRITE & SW: Who is Reischae Candidate? Do we need to invite her to visit the blog? Research project for D. Led?

CHCT: Delmas plays and hits like Bob Sanders! That’s the fascination with him.

SMOKEYBILL: Coleman is a baller. Covers a lot of ground back there. Don’t know what he did to tick of Mangini in New York.

KIM: I knew she started her career there. From my NBA days all of the Texas guys use to claim here as a homegirl.

Looking forward to the 6 p.m. Gonzalez presser. Hope the batmobile gets serviced in time other wise I’m the Marta to Buckhead!!!

chc4

April 24th, 2009
1:13 pm

As good as Bob Sanders is, he misses about 50% of the Colts’ games. Durability is one of the knocks on Delmas. I’m not taking him in the 1st round.

Nookah

April 24th, 2009
1:15 pm

What’s up guys? How’s it going? I’ll be re-working my mock as the completion of the TG trade and the wheeling and dealing are going to make some players drop and even though I still like “Dirty Harry” Sintim, but I have made some careful consideration. I am in agreement with D3, Dirty Harry may indeed be a “reach” at #24 and I am hoping we can get him in the 2nd round. I still think some higher rated players are going to fall in our lap. After careful consideration and the comments of a lot of our draftniks on this blog, I am now convinced we will go DT.

Seminole, I am officially on the Evander “The Real Deal Ziggy” Hood bandwagon……

I really do not like Cushing. If TD picks him then I’ll just accept it. After all that’s why he is the GM and I’m a blogger. What can I tell you? Here goes:

D3, here is my final mock. Oh by the way D3, if a trade is made but the player we had at a draft position is still picked do we get the points for that?

1) Lions – Stafford (QB); 2) Rams – Jason Smith (T); 3) Chiefs – Aaron Curry (OLB);
4) Seahawks – Sanchez (QB); 5) Browns – B.J. Raji (DT); 6) Bengals – Monroe (T);
7) Raiders – Maclin (WR) 8) Jags – Andre Smith (T); 9) Packers – Orakpo (DE);
10) 49ers – Jackson (DE) 11) Bills – Ayers (T); 12) Broncos – Maybin (DE);
13) R/Skins – Maualuga (ILB) 14) Saints – Jenkins (CB); 15) Texans – Matthews Jnr.
16) Chargers – Wells (RB) 17) Jets – Freeman (QB); 18) Broncos – Pettigrew (TE);
19) Buccs – Jerry (DT); 20) Lions – Oher (T); 21) Eagles – Moreno (RB);
22) Vikings – Harvin (WR); 23) Patriots – English (DE); 24) Falcons – Hood (DT);
25) Dolphins – Davis (CB); 26) Ravens – Britt (WR); 27)Colts-Heyward-Bey);WR
28) Bills – Britton (T); 29) Giants – Nicks (WR); 30) Titans – Smith (CB);
31) Cardinals – Brown (RB); 32) Steelers – Butler (CB)

Go Falcons!!!

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

….If the cap fit, let them wear it……(Robert Nesta Marley)

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 24th, 2009
1:24 pm

chc4: Kindal Moorehead was signed to a two-year contract last season. He’s under contract for 2009.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
1:26 pm

Great news, thanks. I assumed it was a typical 1 yr contract for the vet minimum. Good to know we have depth.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
1:29 pm

Is it saturday yet? I’ll admit, it’s hard to keep up the energy…feeling a little bit of a lag since the initial buzz of the Gonzalez trade. Now it feels like there’s this 24 hour “sag” before the draft finally kicks. It will be interesting, though. At the least, ESPN has done a great job of duping me and quite a few others into thinking that there are going to be an avalanche of huge-name and high-pick trades; which may or may not turn out to be the case, but it definitely does get a few more ratings points for the telecast tomorrow. From the perspective of a Falcons fan, I think the real interesting part won’t start until Houston’s pick comes up, and we get to see if they’ll take Matthews or Cushing. I’m hoping that there is a run on both OT’s and WR’s, and when the 24 comes up, there is one 1st round quality pick of each left hanging, and a number of teams interested in getting into the slot to take them, offering the Falcons a 2nd and a 3rd rounder. Barring that, my wish list for the Falcons at 24, in order of precedence, would be:
Connor Barwin
Clay Matthews
Peria Jerry
I think that Matthews will be gone, and that both Barwin and Jerry will be there at 24. I’d take Barwin to work at both OLB and rush-down DE, and wait until the third or fourth round to pick up an inside space-eater. Shoot, it may be that Barwin will be gone when the Patriots pick at 23, in which case I’d go with Jerry, who’s not a bad choice either. He’s a disruptive inside presence that can work in rotation with the guys we already have, who are adequate, but not stellar. The only “stellar” addition would be Raji, but I don’t think it’s in TD’s DNA to trade up that high (top 8, likely Jax) to get someone.
When it comes to Cushing, there’s something about him that makes me feel uneasy. Not necessarily the unproven steroid allegations (though I do think it’s strange that, when asked about them, Cushing has never said explicitly that he’s never done steroids, he merely dismisses the matter as unfounded/unproven), but the fact that he didn’t play 3rd downs for his college team. I feel like with a first rounder, the team should be going after a guy who’s more than a decent situational player. We’ve heard Smitty say that they’re looking for versatility, and while I like Cushing, that’s just not something that he offers.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 24th, 2009
1:34 pm

Peter King has a fine post up. He has his regular array of information, but at the end cautions fans to not get too worked up about the draft and lists players taken in the top 15 who have not played that well. The group includes Alex Smith, former UGA Bulldog Jonathan Sullivan and the last name is Falcons DE Jamaal Anderson.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/peter_king/04/24/draft/index.html?eref=sircrc

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
1:34 pm

D3- what’s the deadline for amended “final–wait, one more change mock drafts? I just read mine and slapped my forehead a few times. The team of monkeys with typewriters I had working on it spent more time eating parasites and throwing feces at the TV whenever Todd McShay came on screen than they did doing good research.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
1:34 pm

DOL- thanks for the good info and links.

Falcon Devil

April 24th, 2009
1:36 pm

I already put $100 on the Birds to win the Super Bowl when I was in Vegas. I will be doing that every year till it happens. 25-1 payout back in March, prob won’t be that good again for a long time!

Tyger

April 24th, 2009
1:38 pm

Falcoons Easy Button, Final Version 4.0

1. 24 Peria Jerry – strong up the middle.
2. 55 Michael Johnson – too good to ignore your own backyard.
3. 90 William Moore – their loss, our gain.
4. 125 Victor “Macho” Harris – VT taboo, but talent rules.
5. 138 M. Massaquoi – big, pure receiver.
5. 143 Jasper Brinkley – local thumper
6. 176 Kyle Moore – 6′5, 270 4.7/40 w/ championship pedigree.

Make it happen!

D3

April 24th, 2009
1:38 pm

YOWSA, THE COUNTDOWN IS ON!!!!!! 22 HOURS, 44 MINS, & COUNTING! Can’t believe its actually here. I’m still torn to shreds over Hood and Cushing. I like both and can see either one fitting in great. My gut wants us to grab Sintim, Cushing, or English and grab a big run-stuffer later in the draft. But on the other hand, Hood solidifies our D-Line immediately upgrading it, especially if we snag a big boy later.

Looked at the trade pick value chart and the possibility of trading down into the second. Doesn’t look good. With the small amount of research I did, I looked at teams with multiple picks in either round 2 or 3. My results;

Teams that have multiple picks don’t really work out to equal enough points in a trade. Teams such as Detroit or Chicago either don’t have the right picks or enough picks to justify the value. And honestly, I don’t really see anyone willing to trade picks to get up and get anyone from the second to the first. The only exception I can think of is if there is a run on receivers like Harvin, Heyward-Bay, Britt, Nicks, and Robiskie. I’ll take a look at some 1st round switch scenarios in a bit.

Tryin’ to get my final mock together without blowing a fuse in my brain.

How does this look for firepower: Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Jerious Norwood, Thomas Brown, Roddy White, Michael Jenkins, Harry Douglas, Brian Finneran, & introducing…..Tony Gonzalez. Bam!

WR

April 24th, 2009
1:44 pm

Goodness, the Falcons trade for Gonzo and this blog blew up,where did all these people come from, you gotta love the excitement. D3, I believe you will get your wish for Sammie Lee Hill, I have been hearing about it for a while and I just saw that Mike Smith is thinking about incorporating more 3-4 alignments this year, which means the Falcons definitely have to go after a wide body type DT. I would like to see the birds pick up Hood or Jerry along with Sintim and in order for that to happen chances are they will have to trade back in the draft. You would think the mocks for the Falcons became easier with the addition of Gonzo, but it actually seems a bit more difficult because there are so many directions the birds can go in on defense. I’m pretty much ruling out English and Maybin unless they magically slip deep into the 2nd round, I think end is alot more of a perceived need than an actual need, same thing with safety pick, I can’t believe someone actually questioned Coleman’s ability, so that leaves DT and LB. We know what we have in Lofton and he can only get better, Nicholas may finally be primed and ready, but Peterson is obviously a stop-gap, I like his skill set and he probably has a couple of years left but the gums have definitely begin to recede. Babs is coming into his own and I like Trey Lewis, but I’m iffy on Moorehead and Jefferson.

D3

April 24th, 2009
1:46 pm

Reno, Nookah, and rest of Bird-Cage brethren, see what you guys think about this point system:

Direct Hits w/ Correct Team and Player: 2 Points
Player gets selected in same slot with different team: 1 Point

So, for instance you choose Matthew Stafford @ #1 going to the Lions and you picked it = 2 pts.
Say you picked Mark Sanchez @ #4 going to the Seahawks, but Denver trades up to #4 and grabs him: 1 point

Make sense? Any thoughts or needed changes, let me know.

Back to my mock………..

chc4

April 24th, 2009
1:49 pm

D3 — Hate to disappoint but the draft starts at 4pm tomorrow… you have longer to wait than you think! Adjust that clock!

chc4

April 24th, 2009
1:50 pm

Anyone else notice that Nookah’s mock doesn’t have Crabtree anywhere in the 1st round? That should be -20 points.

Nookah

April 24th, 2009
1:52 pm

D3, that answers my question. Good job amn, you the man!!! That will work.

Go Falcons!!!!

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

“We Jah people can make it work, come together and make it work……..(Robert Nesta Marley)

WR

April 24th, 2009
1:56 pm

D3, whats the dead line on the mocks, I’m working on my update but I doubt I will get it done today,prior engagement,but I know it will be ready by 2pm tomorrow.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
1:58 pm

D Orlando, hope that the Batmobile is back on the roll soon. And yes, Ms. Candidate is DEFINATELY worth a multiple invite to the blog.

She is atriculate, stunning, and…..oh, this is a football blog. Whew!
Thanks for the cap check. You are the man!!

Posse, I’m on board with D3’s scoring system. And D3, my WWE/Goldberg title belt is ready for pick-up right. Ziggy and I will roll over on Sunday afternoon after the presser…LOL.

WR

April 24th, 2009
2:01 pm

Nookah, your the only one that can be quoting Bob Marley in the middle of a mock draft competition, gotta give it too you.

Nuff respect everytime!!!!

D3, like the point system
chc4, I agree, anyone not having Crabtree in the 1st round should get an automatic 20 point deduction, but if their right they automatically win regardless

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
2:02 pm

Ohhhhhhhhh snap. Inside information? Will I have to roll over? I can’t but “The Caped Crusader” states that there is bad film on my man Ziggy. Did the dish betray me? Say isn’t so!!

WR

April 24th, 2009
2:06 pm

Gotta get going but I just had a thought, imagine what its going to be like having White, Jenkins, and Gonzo running defenses off the line and opps here comes douglas over the middle in the slot, I can’t wait this offense could be incredible.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
2:07 pm

I MUS, both Follett and Vaughn are definately thumpers but they could not cover a mattress with a quilt. Liabilities in coverage would steer me from them.

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
2:08 pm

Yeah D Led you might want to do sum homework on her……She’s nice, I mostly see her on (first take ESPN2) right after Skip Bayless throws his normal tantrum.
Two shots for Mel Kiper Jr…… Thats an intense dude right there, he shows real passion for what he’s doing. Wish i had the same kinda passion in my work place…….. Rock On Mr Hair Spray

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
2:10 pm

Peter King is usually on target. I personally like Jamaal Anderson. He is a great kid, my niece loves him (she’s 10 though), and he appears to be working very hard. I hpe this is the year he finally breaks out.

If Sugar Bear can’t get him over the hump this year, it may be time to move on.

SeminoleWarrior

April 24th, 2009
2:15 pm

Feel ya I MUS on Mel Kiper. I can’t imagine draft day without him. He IS the draft on ESPN!!

No Mel on draft day is as horrible to think of as it still is getting used to No Keith Jackson on college football and this season, no John Madden on Sunday night. Sometimes, life truly s…s.

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
2:17 pm

U might be right SW- I just remember TD saying he wants to draft football players and he didnt care if they were a step slow or just average in coverage.

D3 is amped -I luv the excitement around here. Chc4 is right tho lol….. we have about 25.5 hours to go.

D3

April 24th, 2009
2:22 pm

Sorry Seminole, can’t pull the trigger. Due to your research and thoughts, I will be happy with Hood if we pick him

Rough Draft Falcons Mock
1)Clint Sintim – OLB; Too versatile, experienced, tough
2)Michael Johnson -DE; Too good to pass up; Allows JA to be versatile
3)William Moore -S; We get the other Hawkeye
4)Sammie Hill -DT; Finally get our big Babs complement
5a)Keenan Lewis -CB; Big, fast corner
5b)Aaron Kelly -WR; Great 5th receiver;eventual replacement for BFinn
6)Lydon Murtha -T; Allows OL Depth

Call me crazy, but I still get this sneaking suspicion that we may not address safety at all.

Whatcha’ Think?

D3

April 24th, 2009
2:23 pm

chc4 – yeah, I’ve mentioned it earlier that MY draft festivities start at noon. A little brew, NFL N, and preppin’ food for the day. Also, gettin’ all our boys final mocks up.

I MUS.WRITE

April 24th, 2009
2:28 pm

Are there any Hockey fans here….. Just asking -Im not a Hockey fan but I like the Russian Nitmare -Alex Ovechkin…. I actually sat down and watched a Playoff Hockey game and it was pretty good……Much more entertaining than Baseball.

Ovechkin’s that dude reall wild child not like that panzy Sid the Kid

Im so not looking forward to MLB…. How many times is the pitcher going to grab his crotch, fondle the rozin bag, wipe his brow and spit between every pitch…….REDICULOUD

K DUKE

April 24th, 2009
2:29 pm

I don’t know, I thought that TD didn’t like players with “questionable Character” Steriods and the white nation , real problems or not might not be worth it.I say we get a DE or DT. LB’s can’t do thier job if the Defensive line isn’t up to snuff and the oline is smacking them. PLus or secondary is “okay” but not real good. We have to make the QB rush his passes with a good pass rush. If not then we have a real long season coming up.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
2:31 pm

Gotcha D3. My draft day used to begin that way. Now I have 4 and 1 year old girls so not so much anymore. My wife used to go leave town on weekend per my request. I turned the house into a Falcons shrine.

BILLY JACK

April 24th, 2009
2:36 pm

CUSHING OR MATTHEWS DID NOT TEST POSITIVE AT THE COMBINE.READ THE NEW SPORTS ILLUSTRATED ARTICLE OF THE USC LINEBACKERS BY WRITER AUSTIN MURPHY AND YOU WILL HEAR FACTS NOT LIES.CUSHING PLAYED WITH A SEPERATED SHOULDER FOR 3 GAMES AND DID NOT MISS MANY GAMES AT SC.MATTHEWS IS A PHYSICAL FREAK AND THE FALCONS COVET BOTH PLAYERS.I AM A GEORGIA GUY AND NOT A USC GUY, JUST STATING FACTS.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
2:49 pm

D3- not sure if anyone’s said it yet, but thank you for collecting the mocks and for keeping up the energy on the blog, my friend. In my opinion, it would seem that one should get an equal or greater number of “points” for predicting a trade correctly, in that one is actually making two correct picks: the trade, and the player to be taken with the pick. Just my take, but I’d say that if someone pins the tail on the donkey the day before, that’s a tougher prediction to make, and is risky, in that it potentially jacks up the rest of the order. It’s for fun anyway, so who cares (well, I guess I do, but will pretend like I don’t).

Marcus

April 24th, 2009
2:54 pm

Bro. Ledbetter,
Just Goolge the name or tune in to ESPN News (chan. 207 on DirecTV, dunno channel on other providers) Reischea (sp?) Canidate has probably been there a year.

D3

April 24th, 2009
2:58 pm

chc4 – yeah, my festivities will be MUCH more low key this year as I have a 2.5 week old baby boy. I got the grandparents coming down to help out with my little future wide-receiver.

Sorry Seminole, can’t punch the ticket on the Zig Express. But, due to your great research and discussion, I will be happy with the Hood Train coming to the ATL. If I were a betting man, I would say we go with Hood.

Rough Draft Falcons Mock Draft
1)Clint Sintim – OLB; Too versatile, experienced, & tough
2)Michael Johnson – DE; Too good to pass up
3)William Moore – S; We take the other Missouri Tiger
4)Keenan Lewis – CB; Big , strong CB for depth
5a)Sammie Hill – DT Depth finally added
5b)Aaron Kelly -WR; Future BFinn replacement
6)Lydon Murtha – T; OL Depth

This theory hinges on taking MJ and being able to shift JA inside at times, giving us a DT rotation of Babs/Lewis/Hill/Moorehead & occasionally JA inside. Taking Sintim and MJ would lead to their coveted versatility explosion.

BeeWeezy

April 24th, 2009
3:07 pm

I think we should trade our first round pick for Julius Peppers and another pick, draft a safety(preferrably William Moore,Rashad Johnson)in the second round, get a big DT in the third, a corner in the 4th(Asher Allen), and plug in the rest of the holes with the other picks. WE DO NOT NEED A LINEBACKER! Stephen Nicholas will be a beast, Curtis Lofton will have a breakout year, and Mike Peterson will bring leadership and great play. I think Asher Allen will be a big improvement over Houston because he will come up against the run and chevis jackson should be on their best reciever. I’m not too sure about Hutchins, but he got to be better than Houston and stronger. Push Houston to the nickel and eventually out of the lineup. If we do keep that first pick and Malcolm Jenkins falls to us, get him!Then we can go DT in the second round.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
3:11 pm

(Random non-sequiter, but does Aaron Curry remind anyone else of former Saint OLB (and long-time Falcon killer) Pat Swilling?)

long time falcon

April 24th, 2009
3:17 pm

Possible steroid guys scare me and cushing has that body builder look and strength. What happens is these guys use the steroids to enhance their athletic performance in college with the hope of cashing in big by becoming a first round pick. Then they get of the roids once they get to the NFL because of the testing. Prime example is Tony Mandarich. He weighed in at 315 lbs for scouts and was deemed the greatest offensive line prospect ever. But when he showed up at his first camp with the packers he weighed 300lbs and looked like a marginal line prospect. Today he openly admits he was scared of NFL testing and got off the roids once he got to the NFL. But it didn’t keep him from cashing in by being the second pick. Ditto for Brian Bosworth.

Personally I don’t think the falcons draft a linebacker in the first round because of the offseason addition of mike peterson. Don’t hear a lot of people talking about this guy but he is still a good player and has a few more years left. I believe that we will draft a developmental linebacker prospect later in the draft. Lofton, peterson, nichols will be the starters. I look for the falcons to do one of three things with that first pick: 1. look to trade down and maybe get two more second rounders 2. draft a defensive end or hybrid end 3. draft the best corner available

Unless Hood is their man I believe defensive tackle will be adressed later in the draft. Just my two cents.

Blaze

April 24th, 2009
3:19 pm

I love Cushing @ 24, however that happening is depending on a lot of things falling into place.

chc4

April 24th, 2009
3:24 pm

No way in he!! Carolina trades Peppers within the division.

Tyger

April 24th, 2009
3:32 pm

1st Rd. Mock is For Whimps…give me at least 3-4 rds. please!!!!

BLACK AND RED DAWG

April 24th, 2009
3:33 pm

ONCE SUPERMAN IS OFF THE “JUICE” HE WILL BE ONLY CLARK KENT AND THIS MEANS A “BUST”!!!!! FALCON’S SAY NO TO BRIAN CUSHING = BUST. I HAVE WATCHED THIS GUY AND HE IS NOT THE TYPE OF TACKLER THAT PUSHES THE PILE BACKWARD ON RUNS.WE NEED A PLAYER WHO WILL KNOCK YOU BACKWARD ON YOUR A$$ FOR A LOST ON A PLAY; LIKE CHUNG, MATTHEWS, ENGLISH, OR CONNOR BARWIN OR THAT DE OUT OF SAN DIEGO.ALSO, WITH ALL THE HATE IN THIS CITY ON THESE BLOGS’WHITE NATION’ WILL TURN THIS CITY OUT.TRUST ME BROTHERS.

Bernie

April 24th, 2009
3:36 pm

Falcons will draft Defense..the first 2 picks…then will look what falls next.. Knowing Dimi..I’m a PATS fan..I think he’ll go after E. Brown,instead of Cushing..guess? Either will be ok for the Falcons.Pats are going to try to trade up..???..Andre Smith or Tyson Jackson or stay at 23rd pick.. Raji comes to mind also?

JJ

April 24th, 2009
4:00 pm

uh that cushing guy has a face book group called WHITE NATION. Unless people want the football version of John Rocker 4get that b!tch.

richbrave

April 24th, 2009
4:13 pm

KEN STRICK:

I say I wish the REDSKINS had him.

Nookah

April 24th, 2009
4:17 pm

chc4, you are the man. You are my editor. Thanks for the highlighting the major *faux pas*. Got to wheel and come again!!!!

Now which other blog would you go and find someone to highlight a major omission like that without the hoopla? This is truly Falcon Nation!!!

Go chc4!!!!!

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

…….who the cap fit, let them wear it…………(Robert Nesta Marley)

CJ

April 24th, 2009
4:17 pm

Cushing is a monster. Athletic, great instincts, love for the game, and now has even more motivation to prove himself. I am not an expert at player analysis, but everytime I got to see Cushing play he stood out. He seems to read plays well, runs through the tackle, never over commits. He is by far the best of the 3 or 4 USC LB’s. This is our playmaker on D.

Please, Please let him drop to us. Heck, trade up to get him. I would rather have an absolute playmaker with my pick, than a couple of guys who ’should pan out’ but don’t make ‘the plays.’

Seminole Warrior

April 24th, 2009
4:27 pm

I am going to have to get some Secret Service protection for my girl Reschiea. Seems like too many of the posse want in on the game…LOL.

D3, I respect the choice bro. Even as we speak, posturing and smoke-screening is in full effect. NYJ, Washington, NE: all supposedly are trying to move up for Sanchez. Going to be a long night…

All I'm Saying Is...

April 24th, 2009
4:52 pm

Seems like the draft is full of linebackers…I say go with what’s harder to find and pick Ziggy…if you control the line of scrimmage then that reduces the need for studs at LB to either help on the rush or to stuff the run. Either way, for once in the life of the Falcons, we have a GM with some sense and an owner who finally realizes (and the Braves didn’t take off until Ted Turner finally has his epiphany) he needs to get back and let his men (TD and Mike Smith) do their job…

falcon21

April 24th, 2009
4:55 pm

I have been listening to McShay for the last 20 minutes and I have finally realized he is an idiot.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
5:00 pm

Not only an idiot, but an idiot who’s spent too much time in the tanning booth. That guy is orange.

lets be honest

April 24th, 2009
5:05 pm

falcons need a killer at LB…. kid is nasty….. IM TALKING WE NEED A6 3 245 LB hunting to kill ….. i havnt seen one yet for us…. a franchise LB

tbhawksfan

April 24th, 2009
5:10 pm

Only the early and late rounds are full of LB’s. Couple of very good DT will fall to #55 (Brace, Moala). Sammie Lee Hill seems to be flying up the charts. I saw him as a late second in one.

Check out this site if you haven’t found it yet.

http://www.walterfootball.com/draftdata.php

#24: Maybin OLB
#55: Moala DT
#90: Martin S
#125: Maiva OLB
#138: Taylor DT
#143: Shaughnessy DE
#176: Underwood CB

Yeah, two DT’s Lewis can produce with the young guys work into the rotation. Next season we keep the best three. Shaughnessy is a M. Johnson clone. A little less speed, butt all the size.

Underwood is an under the radar big, fast, but a little raw CB.

I think Maiva could develop into an excellent weakside cover/blitz LB.

mike addington

April 24th, 2009
5:10 pm

Does anyone know why M. Johnson from Tech has fallen out of favor? I only saw him in the GA game, but he looked great to me.

Ken Strickland

April 24th, 2009
5:16 pm

The more I think about it, and the closer we get to the draft, the more I start thinking we’ll draft a DT in the 3rd or 4th rd. DT Sammie Lee Hill demonstrated during the combine, and it’s been revealed in all of his scouting reports, that he’s quicker, faster, more mobile and has more upside than DT Ron Brace. Another DT that might be a better choice than RBrace is DE Chris Baker(6′2″ 326lbs) of Hampton Univ. He played 3yrs at Penn State and started 7 gms before being suspended his junior yr and transferring. If he’s able to play DE at that level at 326lbs, imagine how effective he’d be playing DT. Both players played DE and could also play NT in a 3-4 DEF. Now that’s versatility and value. And both can probably be had with our 4th rd pick, rather than wasting a 2nd rd pick to acquire RBrace. Talk about making a value pick.

Bottomline, we put talented DT’s on our DL that can push the pocket in passing situations and hold the line of scrimmage against the run. Then we allow our playmaking LB’s to make plays.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
5:18 pm

Mike- “experts” who watch the tape, led by NFL network’s Mike Mayock, say that Johnson is inconsistent, underperforms, takes plays off, etc. Mayock especially, hates Johnson as a pick any higher than the 3rd round. If you asked me, I’d say he’ll go by the middle of the second round. He just has too much physical potential. The Raiders might be wowed enough to take him at 40.

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
5:21 pm

Ken Strick- agree in full. Add to that list of 3rd/4th round DT’s: Roy Miller and Dorrell Scott.

WR

April 24th, 2009
5:25 pm

Addington, the so called experts are questioning M.Johnson’s work ethic. Apparently on tape he disappears to often for the experts, they don’t discount his talent but they just wonder will he put in the effort that needed at the pro level, I think he will.

tbhawksfan, you can tell the hawks pissed you off the other night, you had time to come up with a pretty good mock for the other birds,not sure about Maybin in the 1st though.

coach smith

April 24th, 2009
5:29 pm

Joe Paterno

April 24th, 2009
5:48 pm

I am 102 years old and can’t control my bladder but I know Mr. DOB is a complete idiot

Joe Paterno

April 24th, 2009
5:53 pm

we must draft an ol early could not run the ball against good defenses, a mauler at gaurd or center is a must

Reno 911

April 24th, 2009
6:01 pm

D3- pasting my revised mock draft below. Why even bother, though, really. The more I look at it, the more I cannot ignore the fact that I don’t know what I’m doing and, even moreso, I know even less about what teams that I know little about are going to do. But, nonetheless, here you go. Thanks again for collecting people’s picks. It adds an element of interest to the day.

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

See you guys tomorrow. Got some pennance to do between now and then so I can spend 5+ hours in front of the tube without going into the penalty box.

It's me Bobby P

April 24th, 2009
6:04 pm

If I was still coach we would have won the Super Bowl and would be going for two in a row.

Marko

April 24th, 2009
6:17 pm

Usual suspects, this will be my final Mock. Unless I get ambitious and change my mind. I predict two or more first round trades I only included one because trades are hard to predict. The one I have seems logical to me based on what the New England Alumni do when they set up shop elsewhere. First item of business, find your Quarterback. That’s what Dimitroff did in Atlanta, Pioli did in Kansas City and Josh McDaniel’s attempted to do in Denver. The Sad thing is that for the New England guys a man’s quarterback is Cassel, and no two teams can share the same Cassel. The result was Kansas City got custody of the Cassel and Denver was left without a Culver to call their own. Let this be a lesson to us all Quarterbacks are a jealous bunch; they don’t appreciate it when their GM’s start fooling around with strange new quarterbacks. My proposed trade gives Denver Mark Sanchez, and leaves Washington with a very upset Jason Campbell. What twisted webs we weave.

Marko

April 24th, 2009
6:17 pm

Marko’s Mocko

1 Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, QB Georgia,

2 St. Louis; Eugene Monroe OT Virginia, .

3 Denver from Kansas City: Mark Sanchez, QB USC

4 Seattle: Aaron Curry, LB Wake Forest

5 Cleveland: Jason Smith OT Baylor.

6 Cincinnati: Andre Smith,

7 Oakland: Michael Crabtree,

8 Jacksonville: BJ Raji,

9 Green Bay: Brian Orakpo,

10 San Francisco: Jeremy Maklin,

11Buffalo: Aaron Maybin, LB DE Penn St

11 Kansas City from Denver : Tyson Jackson DE LSU

13Washington: Robert Ayers DE Tennessee.

14New Orleans: Everette Brown, DE FSU,

15 Houston: Brain Cushing, LB USC,

16 San Diego Rey Maualuga, LB USC

17New York Jets, Tampa Bay Josh Freeman QB Kansas State

18Kansas City from Denver, Brandon Pettigrew, TE Oklahoma St.

19 Tampa Bay Peria Jerry DT Mississippi

20 Detroit Michael Oher: OT Mississippi:

21Philadelphia:darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland

22Minnasotta Eben Britton OT Arizona,

23 New England: Connor Barwin LB DE Cincinati

24 Atlanta:Clay Matthews, LB USC,

25Miami: Vontae Davis, CB,

26Baltimore. Percy Harvin WR Florida

27 Indiana: Evander Hood, DT Missouri,.

28 Buffalo: Chris Wells RB Ohio State

29 New York Giants: Kenny Britt WR. Rutgers

30Tennessee Darius Butler CB Connecticut

31 Arizona Donald Brown RB Connecticut

32 Pittsburg: Max Unger OT Oregon

A

April 24th, 2009
6:21 pm

Actually, Hannah Storm is from Atlanta… she is a graduate Westminster! So, she would be coming home if we draft her…

JJ

April 24th, 2009
6:25 pm

JJ 4:00PM No disrespect, but I’ve been on this blog for a couple of years so could you change your name.
Because I dont want people confusing me with you. Do a little bit of research (it’s a must on this blog, unlike some other ajc’s) about this “white nation”. They did not start it or named it. I’ve been off the usc cool-aide for weeks like most of my brothers here. BUT PLEASE, THEIRS ONLY ONE DRUNK JJ – THAT’S ME!!! (gulping offical stripe now!!!)
Back to my sheet of integrity…..

Seminole Warrior

April 24th, 2009
6:26 pm

A lot of good points being made and I see the posse is busy revising the mocks. Same is going on here. No thunderstorms to distract me tonight.

[...] local children

chc4

April 24th, 2009
6:43 pm

Just heard Laurinaitis on 680 and he is one impressive guy. I’m not in favor of taking him at 24 but if we trade back I could live with it. Come to think of it, if TD likes him @ #24 who am I to doubt it??

JJ

April 24th, 2009
7:07 pm

Marko: I’m with you on the denver trade…I posted this a.m. with a ref. to D3 eggs/face plant; but of course the blog closed after mine and stirgs blog. So dont get pissed, but that’s one of my 3 1st rd. trades. I guess gsu thinks alike? na

D3: Still researching/fine tuning…I have a suggestion. Like your point system, but what about a top 3 in showing, AND the worst of the regulars?

We could call it the “GREENIE AWARD” for worst draft. Although I’m researching my ass off thanks to my fellow d-led deciples, this could be a greek tragedy in mock drafts!

The Dean 21

April 24th, 2009
7:20 pm

Alright D3, I’ve calculated as much as I can and this is my final answer! With all the trades in the works, I assume Denver & Washington can screw the entire draft up if they trade up to get Mark Sachez, so this is a mock without the trades, sort of speak~

The Dean’s Mock!

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

FALCONS SELECTIONS
24) DT Peria Jerry
55) DE Michael Johnson
90) LB Marcus Freeman
125) CB Kevin Barnes
138) OG Herman Johnson or TGreen
143) DE M. Shaughessy
176) FS Emanual Cook

The Dean 21

April 24th, 2009
7:23 pm

There is a report out that Stafford has agreed to sign with Detriot for 40 mil Guaranteed!

Brian Hunt

April 24th, 2009
7:26 pm

Unless a guy just blows your doors off, there is no reason to draft a defensive lineman in the first round any more. They take a while to develop and look at all the defensive linemen drafted in the first round the last few years shows a lot of projects. With that being the case, why not just draft them later and develop them? Use first round picks on guys who can make an immediate impact. In this draft, that means a LB or an Offensive lineman.

The Dean 21

April 24th, 2009
7:37 pm

There is a report out that Stafford has agreed to sign with “Detroit” for 40 mil Guaranteed!

The Dean 21

April 24th, 2009
7:40 pm

Typo: There is a report out that Stafford has agreed to sign with Detroit for 40 mil Guaranteed!

Shamus Thacker

April 24th, 2009
7:47 pm

Any late word on possible Dorsey trade?

Seminole Warrior

April 24th, 2009
8:20 pm

What’s up Posse. Those revised mocks are flowing in. D3 is going to be one busy brother tonight; hope he has a nice supply of the Stripe.
I’ll get mine to him before sunrise.

I’m liking all the mojo my boy Freeman is getting in the second/third round. I could see him projecting at SAM or weakside.

Dacha, what is the motive for the trade with Buffalo and what do we get out of it?

Marko, you went back to Matthews? I don’t think he will make it past Houston. Honestly, I think all three of the USC trio will be gone b4 we select. The hype will win out and they will move quickly.

Check back in later…still refining the product. May even have a surprise or two in store, brethern. Stay tuned.

dacha

April 24th, 2009
9:11 pm

SW: Just wanting to shake things up a bit…I know that Buffalo wants Pettigrew bad but they may not be patient enough to wait on him. I don’t expect him to get by Miami and I hope that the Bills see it the same way. As for us, only moving down a few spots, I would be satisfied with a pick in either the 3rd or 4th. That’s where TD works his magic anyway. Sry, I can’t join you on the Ziggy train, just not feeling it. If we do snag him, I hope he becomes a beast and I’ll owe you a stripe.

BTW, if you haven’t already, check out the Laurinaitis interview in the media lounge on the falcons website. Just a great, great kid with tons of character. I may be wrong, but i would pick him ahead of any LB in this years class, excluding Curry.

http://www.atlantafalcons.com/media_library/Videos/NFL_Draft_and_Combine/Combine/2009/LB_James_Laurinaitis_-_2-21-09.aspx

Big Ray

April 24th, 2009
9:12 pm

WHASSUP FELLOW FALCON FANS!!

I’m not worried about Brian Cushing. First, let me say that he may not drop to us. Second, if Dimitroff and Smith really like this guy, then there’s something to him that we cannot see. And if they take him, I’m taking it on faith that they have well and thoroughly done their homework. I don’t see it happening any other way. Dimitroff is not like Al Davis, who gets all giddy over strong arms, 40 yard dash times, and bench press numbers. I’m not sweating this pick.

Here’s another thing to consider. We talk sometimes about players being a product of a good system, and we use it with a negative connotation. I’m not condemning anybody for this, as I’ve done it plenty of times myself. But let’s think about this for a minute. Aren’t we trying to build a “good system” here? So if one or two (or five) of our guys make the Pro Bowl, are we going to say “well, he’s a product of a good system?” No, we are not. Good systems are often good places to get good players. Not a GUARANTEE, but something to think about. After all, do you want a product from a bad system, even if he’s a standout? Remember, with bad systems, you have BAD COACHING.

Until D.O. Ledbetter made mention of it, I didn’t realize that the USC linebacker coach is none other than Ken Norton, Jr. If his coaching is anything like his playing, I’d say Cushing, Maualuga, Matthews and the others are definitely in a good system. Which can’t be a bad thing…

As for Cushing’s character issues, I don’t know. The guy is in college, where an incredible amount of stupid things happen. And I don’t see how he could have gotten along with his teammates if he was truly a racist. Seems to me like he and Maualuga were pretty close. There was even a clip of Maualuga being rather emotional about them not playing together anymore. I’m just sayin’….I’m not going into the draft worried about everybody’s little red “character” flags. Now if they have some SERIOUS character flaws like Mr. Meangelo, then I say pass.

On the subject of trading out of the first round…I know in the recent past I’ve said that this is not a bad idea if the pick(s) we acquire are high second round. But with the trade having taken place, and more trades to follow, there is NO TELLING who might fall to us at #24. It might even be somebody we crave, but don’t expect to be able to get. You just never know. Trading out of the first round is a gamble. Unless you are sure of a certain number of scenarios (and very acceptable Plan B options to those scenarios), you better not trade down.

If Dimitroff nabs Cushing, I’m cool with it. If the Hood Express comes to town, I’m cool with it. If it’s English, I’m good to go. I just know that whatever we do, it’s going to be all good.

…..but if I’m a bettin’ man…and the right guys drop down? It’s going to be a LB. I figure we snag a DT first if certain LBs are not on the board. I’m just fine with picking up beasts like Jarron Gilbert or Sammie Lee Hill, Ron Brace, Chris Baker (maybe), and others in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th rounds. And unless we trade out of the 1st round, we’re not getting a safety first. Maybe not even second. You never know.

One more thing. Any possible changes in schemes equal changes in what our most pressing defensive needs. So what we THINK we need may not quite be what the real decision-makers have listed as needs. Could be some minor surprises as to what gets taken when.

Big Ray

April 24th, 2009
9:22 pm

Dacha,

Laurinaitis is probably the most “proven” prospect in this draft, though he will have a peer or two in that segment. Notice I didn’t say “hottest prospect”, “most athletic”, “best linebacker”, or anything else like that. Most proven. He has the stats, and he has the awards. He would have been where guys like Brian Orakpo, Aaron Curry, and some others are mentioned in the draft…had he declared LAST year.

He’s going to be a solid player, wherever he goes. Might even make some Pro Bowl appearances. Right now, he’s got two major obstacles to overcome (and he can’t help either): 1) He’s not nearly one of the hottest prospects, let alone at his position, and 2)the history of LBs from Ohio State.

He’ll be fine. And somebody is going to look smart for taking him. Bank on it.

Heh. Time for comedy hour….

I see somebody managed to wake up CLTHURMAN. He should be happy that we’ll be focusing on defense, now that the Gonzalez trade has gone through. But no, he has to get all wrapped around the flag pole about comments being made in connection with Brian Cushing, and the now mildly infamous “white nation” caper. Well, we know what will drag YOU out of the woodwork, don’t we? ;)

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. :)

Yes, picking at people can be fun…so is watching all the experts scramble like crazy with their mock drafts… or wondering how many Red Stripes (oops, I meant Scripes) get downed by Stirg, D3, and SeminoleWarrior in the next several hours… ;)

Nookah

April 24th, 2009
9:24 pm

Just checked in guys. This blog is hot!!! I have to do a little revising too. As someone mentioned before (can’t remember who right now – no disrespect), but I really am an amateur at this, but it’s so much fun. Can you imagine getting paid to do this? Of course I know there’s much more work being put in when you are being paid, but I’d love to do this all day all night!!!!

I’m putting my faith in the Dynamic Duo and I’ll live with whoever they draft and whatever moves they may make. All I can say is this offense is going to be one r_ _ s offense (the yardies and those associated with yardies will understand).

Go Falcons!!!

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

After we did the TG trade, I found myself singing in the shower…………….

“I can see clearly now, the rain has gone, I can see all obstacles in my way….(Jimmy Cliff)

Journalism Is Dead

April 24th, 2009
9:30 pm

Andre Smith; not Andrew Smith
Maclin; not Macklin
Clay Matthews III; not Clay Matthews Jr.

Epic Fail

falcon21

April 24th, 2009
9:44 pm

BIG RAY, I have not heard anything from CrabappleJoe myself, he may have moved to Dallas and the Cushing thing was only a team joke which the media made too much of. Forget that, I would like to draft Cushing but as you said “I will agree with TD”.

JJ

April 24th, 2009
9:56 pm

Big Ray: 4 scripes, 4 shots and that’s my final answer. It’s the trades (of course) in the first round that determines the victory. In my hazy stripe view, sanchez AND freeman have some desperate gm’s after them, mainly to buy their own jobs/salary to obtain a few development years. The question’s are whom: Denver, Washington, Jets and Tampa Bay.

I beleive Denver wins the Sanchez battle over Washington due to their multi-draft positions. But Snyder is a nutt and may give up every 1st rd. for the next decade. Who wins? je ne sais pas! (2 yrs of h.s. french classes!)

Next: Jets vs. Bucs for Josh Freeman.
Tampa Bay’s new coach, morris I think, worked with this kid in college. He loves him like D-led on foxy brown. J-E-T-S will have to wait for the qb’s of 2010, or trade for golic’s Brady Quinn.

D3: It’s a crapshot with these trades, one mis-draft will effect every draft after…ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh..time out for liquid refreshments…

dacha

April 24th, 2009
10:02 pm

Big Ray: Agree with you 100% on JL. I personally hope that we are the ones that “look smart” by taking him. Also, after reading your convincing summary of Cushing, I’m having a slight change of heart in his favor. I’m not entirely sold on the guy, but if TD thinks he’s our man then I’m all for it.

crabapplejoe

April 24th, 2009
10:05 pm

braveshater wrote: “Cushing will be a Bust, he’s a weaker version of Keith Brooking who couldnt cover his head in the rain.”

Yeah, if we draft Cushings and he only goes to five pro-bowls like Brookings then he will definitely be a “bust”. As for coverage: Brooking has 12 career interceptions; Jesse Tuggle (Falcon Ring or Honor) had 6; and Mike Singletary (NFL Hall of Fame) had 7…so yeah, you’re right the dude couldn’t cover…you KB56 haters are a riot. ROTFLMAO

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)
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)
8) Jags – Eugene Monroe (OT)
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!!!!!!

D3

April 25th, 2009
12:29 pm

HERE WE GO MEN!!!!!! Its finally, FINALLY here! Start getting your draft recipes prepped, brews on ice, NFL N/ESPN on, and get ready to ROCK IT OUT!! Been one H— of ride boys! Tons of fun, my new favorite hobby: talking intelligent football with cool guys! I’ll probably have to post two at a time for it to work. I erased any comments beside them to save room on the blog. Let me know of any last minute changes. I got the first round ready to go, but I gotta go prep some food and grab a cold one. Went with an island brew today due to the warm weather. Kona Island Lager. Let you know how it turns out. Here we go, bear with me on some technical issues:

WR
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
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,
26.Baltimore-Kenny Britt
27.Indianapolis-Brian Robiskie
28.Buffalo-Brandon Pettigrew
29.NY Giants-Darius Heyward Bey
30.Tennessee-Hakeem Nicks
31.Arizona-Donald Brown
32.Pittsburgh-Vontae Davis

Falcon Devil
1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith
3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry
4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree, W
5. Cleveland Browns: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas.
6. Cincinnati Bengals: Andre Smith
7. Oakland Raiders: Jeremy Maclin
8. Jacksonville Jaguars: B.j. Raji, 9
9. Green Bay Packers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU.
10. San Francisco 49ers: Mark Sanchez
11. Buffalo Bills: Eugene Monroe
12: Denver Broncos (from Chicago): Everette Brown
13. Washington Redskins: Brian Cushing
14. New Orleans Saints: Malcom Jenkins
15. Houston Texans: Knowshon Moreno
16. San Diego Chargers: Michael Oher
17. New York Jets: Josh Freeman
18. Denver Broncos: Vontae Davis
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Michael Johnson
20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas): Aaron Maybin
21. Philadelphia Eagles: Brandon Pettigrew
22. Minnesota Vikings: Rey Maualuga
23. New England Patriots: Robert Ayers
24. Atlanta Falcons: Peria Jerry
25. Miami Dolphins: Percy Harvin
26. Baltimore Ravens: Hackeem Nicks
27. Indianapolis Colts: Darrius Heward-Bey
28. Philadelphia (from Carolina): Beanie Wells
29. New York Giants: Brian Robiskie
30. Tennessee Titans: Evander Hood
31. Arizona Cardinals: Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Darius Butler

D3

April 25th, 2009
12:30 pm

Seminole
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

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

D3
1)Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2)St.Louis – Jason Smith
3)Kansas City – Aaron Curry
4)Seattle – Mark Sanchez
5)Cleveland – Brain Orakpo
6)Cincinatti – Eugene Monroe
7)Oakland – Jeremy Maclin
8)Jacksonville – Michael Crabtree
9)Green Bay – BJ Raji
10)San Francisco – Andre Smith
11)Buffalo – Michael Oher
12)Denver – Tyson Jackson
13)Washington – Everette Brown
14)New Orleans – Malcolm Jenkins
15)Houston – Brian Cushing
16)San Diego – Rey Mauluga
17)NY Jets – Josh Freeman
18)Denver – Aaron Maybin
19)Tampa Bay – Peria Jerry
20)Detroit – Eben Britton
21)Philadelphia – Knowshon Moreno
22)Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23)New England – Clay Matthews
24)Atlanta – Ziggy Hood
25)Miami – Larry English
26)Baltimore – James Laurinitus
27)Indianapolis – Brian Robiskie
28)Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29)New York – Kenny Britt
30)Tennessee – Darius Butler
*31)Arizona – Beanie Wells
32)Pittsburgh – Max Unger

D3

April 25th, 2009
12:30 pm

Marko’s Mocko
1 Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford
2 St. Louis; Eugene Monroe OT Virginia, .
3 Denver from Kansas City: Mark Sanchez, QB USC
4 Seattle: Aaron Curry, LB Wake Forest
5 Cleveland: Jason Smith OT Baylor.
6 Cincinnati: Andre Smith,
7 Oakland: Michael Crabtree,
8 Jacksonville: BJ Raji,
9 Green Bay: Brian Orakpo,
10 San Francisco: Jeremy Maklin,
11Buffalo: Aaron Maybin, LB DE Penn St
11 Kansas City from Denver : Tyson Jackson DE LSU
13Washington: Robert Ayers DE Tennessee.
14New Orleans: Everette Brown, DE FSU,
15 Houston: Brain Cushing, LB USC,
16 San Diego Rey Maualuga, LB USC
17New York Jets, Tampa Bay Josh Freeman QB Kansas State
18Kansas City from Denver, Brandon Pettigrew, TE Oklahoma St.
19 Tampa Bay Peria Jerry DT Mississippi
20 Detroit Michael Oher: OT Mississippi:
21Philadelphia:darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland
22Minnasotta Eben Britton OT Arizona,
23 New England: Connor Barwin LB DE Cincinati
24 Atlanta:Clay Matthews, LB USC,
25Miami: Vontae Davis, CB,
26Baltimore. Percy Harvin WR Florida
27 Indiana: Evander Hood, DT Missouri,.
28 Buffalo: Chris Wells RB Ohio State
29 New York Giants: Kenny Britt WR. Rutgers
30Tennessee Darius Butler CB Connecticut
31 Arizona Donald Brown RB Connecticut
32 Pittsburg: Max Unger OT Oregon

Nookah
1) Lions – Matthew Stafford (QB)
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)
Jags – Eugene Monroe (OT)
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)

Irvin
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

D3

April 25th, 2009
12:31 pm

Dean21
1. Detroit– QB -Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis- OT -Jason Smith
3. Kansas City– LB Aaron Curry
4. Seattle– QB- Mark Sanchez
5. Cleveland– WR -Michael Crabtree
6. Cincinnati– OT- Andre Smith
7. Oakland– WR -Jeremy Maclin
8. Jacksonville– DE -Brian Orakpo
9. Green Bay– DT-B.J. Raji
10. San Francisco– OT-Eugene Monroe
11. Buffalo– DE Robert Ayers
12. Denver– DE Tyson Jackson
13. Washington– Michael Oher
14. New Orleans– LB – Brian Cushing
15. Houston– CB Malcom Jenkins
16. San Diego- RB- Knowshon Moreno
17. New York Jets– QB Josh Freeman
18. Denver (from Chicago)– DE – Aaron Maybin
19. Tampa Bay– Clay Matthews
20. Detroit (from Dallas)– LB – James Laurinaitis
21. Philadelphia– TE Brandon Pettigrew
22. Minnesota– OT Eben Britton
23. New England–CB – Darius Butler
24. Atlanta– DT Peria Jerry
25. Miami– WR Percy Harvin
26. Baltimore– WR Darrius Heyward-Bey
27. Indianapolis– DT – Evander “Ziggy” Hood
28. Buffalo – OT -Phil Loadholt
29. New York Giants– WR Darrius Heywood Bey
30. Tennessee– CB – Alphonso Smith
31. Arizona– RB Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh– OT- Max Unger

Reno911
1. Detroit – Matthew Stafford
2. St. Louis – Jason Smith
3. Kansas city trades to the Snyderettes– Mark Sanchez
4. Seattle – Eugene Monroe
5. Cleveland – Aaron Curry
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith
7. Oakland – Darius Heyward-Bey
8. Jax – Michael Crabtree
9. Green Bay- B.J. Raji
10. San Fran – Michael Oher
11. Buffalo – Brian Orakpo
12. Denver- Tyson Jackson
13. Washington (probably traded to KC)- Aaron Maybin
14. N.O.- Malcolm Jenkins
15. Houston – Clay Matthews
16. San Diego – Eben Britton
17. NY Jets – Chris Wells
18. Denver – Knowshon Moreno
19. Tampa Bay – Josh Freeman
20. Detroit – William Beatty
21. Philly – Robert Ayers
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin
23. New England – Rey Maualuga
24. Atlanta (crossing my fingers for a trade down) – Peria Jerry
25. Miami – Darius Butler
26. Baltimore – Jeremy Maclin
27. Indy – Ziggy Hood
28. Buffalo – Brandon Pettigrew
29. NY Giants – Brian Cushing
30. Tennessee – Sean Smith
31. Arizona – Donald Brown
32. Pittsburgh – Alex Mack

yeah baby yeah
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

Stirg
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.

JJ
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

D3

April 25th, 2009
12:32 pm

Should be all of ‘em boys. If you haven’t posted your most recent Falcons Mock today, try to get in so I’ll have the most current one. Raise your pints boys. Draft Day is Finally Here!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
12:36 pm

D3, one HELL of an outstanding job keeping all these mocks in line and posting them to the blog. Next time I’m in the ATL, the Kona Island Lagers on me!!

Going to step out, pick up the Kingford and the t-bones, and something silky smooth at the adult beverage store.

WE ARE THE FALCON NATION!!!!

tbhawksfan

April 25th, 2009
12:47 pm

I’ve done about 82 falcons mock drafts. Not doing a first round mock, just less interested in other teams moves. Only interested to see what they leave us. I guess I’ve gone over every player I think could be a good draft for us at every position.

Now I’m going to do a two or three deep Falcons draft based on likelyhood, need and BPA.

In the incomplete spots the players remain the same as fisrt row.

#24: Jerry DT Cushing OLB Maybin OLB
#55: Sintim OLB Moala DT
#90: Martin FS
#125: Maiva OLB
#138: Lee Hill DT
#143: Shaughnessy DE
#176: Underwood CB

If this is my last pre-draft mock; it’s been fun, educational and interesting. Hope everyone has a very enjoyable draft evening.

CHEERS !

WR

April 25th, 2009
12:47 pm

D3, at 25 I have miami taking Darius Butler

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
12:48 pm

Nookah, Jamaal is not that bad at all. First, he was drafted into a horrid situation under the incredibly inadequate DL staff of the “Fraud known as Petrino.” He was thrown to the wolves simply based on his “outstanding play in the strong SEC West”.

Enter Mike Smith and the Sugar Bear. REAL coaches now broke down the tape and analyzed the kid. They saw his skill set against the run so they decided to use his flexibility. They began to work with him on his technique and as the season moved on, you could see him getting better. This guy has upside or TD would have moved him this offseason. This season, he will continue to get better. He will be a Falcon long term and he will prove valuable in the long term. NOTE: It was VERY wise to lock down Chunacey Davis for two reasons: 1) Depth and a chance to start and 2) Abraham’s history of injury. NOTE 2: The average for sacks at the DE position in the NFL is 7 and one-half. So if we can get the league average out of both position, supplemented by 6-9 from the interior of the DL, we will be in very good shape overall.

In conclusion, Anderson will continue to improve. Just as with TD and Smitty, in the Sugar Bear I trust.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
12:48 pm

D3, a trailer load of respect to the man!!! You are the man. I am so sorry I’m all the way in Canada. I’d buy you the “Stripe” all day. You’ve done one heck of a job and contributed significantly to the comraderie and ‘brotherhood” that now pervades these pages.

Kudos to you and all the other Faithful Falcon Friends!! You’re my FFF’s!!!

Go Falcons!!!

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

JJ

April 25th, 2009
12:52 pm

D3: nice job, from all of us (D-led falcon brothers), thanks for all of your work!!! I just read mark’s blog and I’m sooo thankfull we have this blog!!! I cannot express how enjoyable these last few weeks have been. Thank you D-led brothers! Cannot name everyone, but the regulars know who you are.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
12:59 pm

Seminole, thanks for the feedback. I think you are spot on. I endorse your analysis and think he will have a better year this year.

Something that is lost in all these discussions, is the intangible that we apparently have. I am of the impression that we are very strong “off the field”. By that I mean we have unparalleled chemistry in that locker room. All of us know that makes the performance on the field much easier to execute. With the addition of TG and his obvious endorsement of the “process” and the quality that exists on this team, folks I think we are aheaad of the curve. I have said this before, the process is in an advanced stage and if I may dare say, ahead of expectation.

However, we should not be complacent, as Chris Berman always says………THAT’S WHY WE PLAY THE GAMES!!!!

We have to convert the obvious talent we have into some tangible results…..JUST WIN BABY!!!

Go Falcons!!! Falcon Nation Forever!!!

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

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
1:30 pm

Just checking in, fellows. The Mrs. had me at the mall; of all days, she wants to go and take pictures, TODAY! Needless to say, my pose looked like Mike Tyson was run over by the Ugly Truck.

So, what I miss?

D3, you certainly got my vote for Falcon Fan of the year! I really appreciate you.

Thomas Dimitroff

April 25th, 2009
1:31 pm

We will not draft at 24, I have some trades brewing.

Hold on Falcons fans, we’re making the push for a deep playoff run!

chc4

April 25th, 2009
1:53 pm

Any big rumors today? I’ve been getting yard work done…. gotta be done by 4:00!!

chc4

April 25th, 2009
1:56 pm

Not sure how I feel about this Dorsey for our #1 & #3 rumor still flying around. I’d prefer we keep those picks especially considering Dorsey’s mediocre rookie season.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
2:18 pm

Keep up the good work Falcon fans. I’m enjoying the reading between yard work. It’s less than 2 hours away so I better hurry!

WR

April 25th, 2009
2:49 pm

Stirg, thats how it works with the Misses, just wait till about 4:00 and see what she comes up with, I’m planning my great escape around 4 because I know how the system works

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
2:55 pm

I’m not sure I’m sold on that Dorsey rumour either. I think we can get excellent value at the bottom of the 1st round and the 3rd round.

If TD want’s to trade out of the 1st round and pick up an extra 2nd, I’d be very fine as some of my fellow citizens have been suggesting.

Oh by the way this is the ultimate bliss. With about an hour before the draft, my wife and child just went to bed. Any suggestions on how I can have them sleep until tomorrow?

Just having fun me fellow citizens of Falcon Nation!!!

Go Falcons!!!

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

chc4

April 25th, 2009
3:00 pm

Nookah — a full dose of Benadryl for the kid will get ‘er done. As for your wife, if she’s anything like mine you’re outta luck!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
3:06 pm

One hour to go…and forget about the Dorsey deal. It’s not going to happen.

ONE NATION!! THE FALCON NATION!!

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
3:14 pm

Steve Wyche reporting that Redskins trying to move up to get Sanchez…….folks with no disrespect to Steve, but isn’t that a surprise (wink, wink). Anywway it goes I’d give anything for an interview with Jason Campbell right now……..ouch!!!

chc4, thanks man I’ll deliver the medicine right now. You the man!!

Seminole, say it loud!!!!

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
3:15 pm

NOOKAH-the issues with DE JAnderson’s production and progress isn’t just about his lack of sacks because former Falcons DE Pkerney wasn’t a whole lot better his 1st couple of yrs. The concern with his lack of sacks is due to him playing opposite a pass rushing demon like JAbraham. Even slow, overweight DT GJackson registered 2 sacks last yr when DE JAbraham chased a couple of QB’s into his arms.

JAnderson has all of the tools to be an excellent DE. He just doesn’t have the experience, nor has he developed the techniques needed to be an effective pass rusher. Once he understands the nuances of playing the position, and those techniques become instinctive, he’ll become a dominant DE, and I think Smitty and TD are aware of that.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
3:18 pm

42 minutes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
3:23 pm

HEY FELLAS. I HAVE MY NACHOS, DIP, PEPSI AND I’M READY FOR THE DRAFT. GOOD LUCK TO THE FALCONS ON GETTING THE PLAYERS THEY’VE TARGETED.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!IT’S SHOW TIME”!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
3:25 pm

Well stated K-Strick. In the Sugar Bear and Smitty we shall trust.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
3:31 pm

Ken Strick, thanks for dropping the knowledge on me re JA.

It’s great when you have good citizens in the Nation!!!

Go Falcons!!!

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

29 MINUTES TO GO!!!

NaGaNole

April 25th, 2009
3:38 pm

IMHO, JA has never been a true pass rusher. He would flourish in a 3-4. I’d argue he’s got as much talent as the kid ESPN now has KC taking (Tyson Jackson). He’s NFL ready now and will be cheaper. The price of signing him will be enormous. Use that #3 pick on Curry, and you get JA. Also, Brace will more that likely be there at #55, if not, Sammie Lee Hill will be there in the 3rd for them. This deal works for everyone. Dorsey had no help last year. Watch how much better he looks with Abraham and Davis as bookends, next to Babs.

SW- My mention of Bunkley was just about FSU DTs producing in the NFL. However, the measurables of Bunkley and Hood are very similar, so this helps. Bunkley had a HORRIBLE rookie season. It wasn’t until his 2nd season he started showing promise, and last year really broke out. The 2 points I have are do you wanna wait 3 years for your 1st round guy to be a factor? Also, the Eagles attacking blitzing scheme is not what we do here. We want penetration, but we are shooting gaps every play. If done correctly, it can rattle QBs and be effective. However, if you go against a solid team with a QB that can “feel the blitz”, do accurate presnap reads, quickly go through progressions, and know when to hit the hot route, those teams destroy the Eagles. Not to mention they have problems with power running games. The finesse running teams do poorly, reinforcing my point about quick undersized lines. Remember how Gibb’s line and that QB and Dunn got eaten up in the playoffs a few years back? Now think about what Ryan was able to do as he learned to deal with the pressure in last year’s game. I know I’m not the only one who thought the phantom muffed punt cost us the game. Do you have any doubt Ryan would have drove for the win? Be honest, lol.
Lots of love for FSU, and GO FALCONS!!

NaGaNole

April 25th, 2009
3:44 pm

Sorry, I forgot about the reasoning for picking Curry and trading for JA. Much like Ryan got a bigger contract than Long last year, DEs are paid better than OLBs in the NFL. Making this trade for JA and signing Curray could next them 2 pieces to the puzzle, and save them about 10 million. Yes, they would eat cap on Dorsey, but they don’t believe him in their new defense. Better to eat some cap then waste it on a player you don’t believe in.

Unca' Bob

April 25th, 2009
3:50 pm

SeminoleWarrior How about Tommy Nobis, in my mind, Falcon #1. Claude Humphrys also comes to mind. Gentlemen: Good luck to one and all in the upcoming draft. I have enjoyed reading everyones opinions and comments. I will, without a dought return next year for more, and hopefully be better informed.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
3:51 pm

Oh man, I feel like a kid in a candy store!!! Can’t wait!!!

Go Falcons!!!!

In the red and black corner, 6′ 3″, 300lbs………..Evander “The REEEEEEEALLLLLLLLL DEEEEEALLLL ” Ziggy Hood!!! …………Let’s get ready to rumbllllllllleeeeeeeeee(Michael Buffer)

Unca' Bob

April 25th, 2009
3:52 pm

D3

April 25th, 2009
3:55 pm

HERE WE GO BOYS!!!!!!!!!! HELL YEAH!

BEEN A PLEASURE AND JOY GENTLEMAN! ONE OF THESE DAYS WE’LL HAVE TO GET TOGETHER FOR A BREW!

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
3:56 pm

Unca’ Bob, why wait until next year. We aim to please here man. Ask any question or call

1-800-FALCON-NATION………………..We have the resources, we’ll drop the knowledge on yah!!

Great to have you man!!

D3, Ken Strick, Seminole, Stirg, Big Ray, Marko, chc4, WR, Falcon 21, Dean 21……..let’s give Unca’ Bob a big round of applause. ‘Cause that’s we roll on FALCON NATION!!!

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!!

You trying to conquer me, you never will conquer me….(Delroy Wilson)

D3

April 25th, 2009
3:57 pm

HERE WE GO BOYS!!!!!! ITS BEEN A PLEASURE TALKIN’ GREAT FOOTBALL WITH YOU GENTLEMEN. ONE OF THESE DAYS WE’LL ALL HAVE TO GET TOGETHER AND HAVE A BREW! RED SCRIPE(NOOKAH), or ST.PAULI(JJ), or GUINESS(I.MUS)!

LET’S ROLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
3:57 pm

Unca’ Bob, the posse will leave the light on for ya. Both Nobis and Humphrey are already in the Ring of Honor.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
4:00 pm

In the words of the greatest referee of all times, Mills Lane, as well as one of the smoothest singers of all time, Marvin Gaye

LET’S GET IT ON!!! One Nation…..The Falcon Nation!!!

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
4:04 pm

Mike Mayock on NFL Network has us taking Peria Jerry at 24. I wouldn’t complain but I don’t thhink he’ll be there.

Go Falcons!!!

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

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
4:06 pm

I like to study “body language” because I think that says much more than what words say. When Stafford was announced he hugged his mother and father and kissed his Grandma. Is’nt that special. You know where the love is…..Grandma is the one!!!!

Unca' Bob

April 25th, 2009
4:06 pm

Nooka Thanks and a tip o’ the falcon’s cap back at ya. SW I am now living in the Carolinas and we do not recieve any news what so ever on the Falcons. Thanx for the update.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
4:11 pm

With the second pick the Rams…………….have a trade???????

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
4:13 pm

I say we pull the trigger on Glenn Dorsey or Aaron Curry. Either of the two would drastically change the complexion of our defense.

Let’s see what St. Louis going to do…

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
4:15 pm

Dag. They fooled me.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
4:22 pm

i agree with stirg…curry would instantly put our D in the top 5

D3

April 25th, 2009
4:23 pm

I think most of us are 2 for 2, eh?

How’s the Red Stripe, Guiness, & St.Pauli’s?

This Kona Island Lager is pretty D@– tasty. Good warm weather brew.

D3

April 25th, 2009
4:27 pm

Tyson Jackson @ #3, there goes my draft. F—!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
4:28 pm

With the Jason Smith pick, I’m 2 for 3. Not bad, so far.

Can we get Aaron Curry? Is that even possible?

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
4:28 pm

D3, you got it. Don’t feel like the Lone Ranger, because with that pick you have a lot of Tonto’s.

We’re more interested in #24 anyway!!!

Go Falcons!!!

dacha

April 25th, 2009
4:34 pm

1 for 4…crap!

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
4:34 pm

May be dumb to say but I bet Mora is waiting on the Vick situation.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
4:40 pm

I mean how the situation turns out.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
4:44 pm

Smart move by the Jets to trade up and get Sanchez

D3

April 25th, 2009
4:46 pm

Score update:

JJ – 3
Stirg – 3
Reno,Marko,D3,Dean21,Seminole,FalconDevil,Nookah – 2
irvin,yeahbaby,dacha,WR – 1

Stirg & JJ – how in the H— did you guys get Tyson Jackson going to the Chiefs? Where’d you get your inside info.?

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
4:47 pm

That’s why we call them……M.O.C.K.S. ….

D3

April 25th, 2009
4:47 pm

Correction: Strig – 2, my bad brother!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
4:48 pm

Recovering from the scud missile attack launched by the Cleveland Browns. Ouch!!!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
4:49 pm

I see the Browns taking Monroe

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
4:49 pm

D3, the race is not for the swift!!!!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
4:50 pm

I meant the Bengals

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
4:50 pm

D3, the Jackson pick is the only one I have right now. I’m on oxygen after that brutual attack by the Browns..

Ed

April 25th, 2009
4:50 pm

Enter your comments here

D3

April 25th, 2009
4:57 pm

WOW……….WHAT A TERRIBLE REACH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THATS WHY O-TOWN SUCKS!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
4:57 pm

Another missile attack…this time from the Raiders. I may not make it through the day. I’m going to have to get on a roll in the second ten just to get respectable here….

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
4:58 pm

Jacksonville should rush to the table now for Crabtree to pair with Holt.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
5:00 pm

Crabtree to the Jags guys?

D3

April 25th, 2009
5:01 pm

Reno911 – you should win hands down for picking Heyward-Bay going to Oakland. Jesus. Bro’, that might be the biggest strike I’ve ever seen in a draft!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:01 pm

Stock dropping here faster than General Motors or Chrysler….damned.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
5:02 pm

Crabtree will be the next pick even if there’s a trade

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
5:04 pm

Hey guys, I’m sippin’ on some Yellow Tail, straight from Eastern Australia. Stepping in the good life….this is good wine!!!!

Go Falcons!!!

dacha

April 25th, 2009
5:06 pm

ya’ll just disregard my mock…too much caffiene in my diet clouded my judgment! I say now, as Raji falls more and more, we have got to pull the trigger and GET HIM!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:09 pm

Dacha, there is space in my ambulance if you want to join me for the ride to the intensive care unit….LOL.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
5:09 pm

That’s the way to chill and enjoy the draft Nookah!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
5:13 pm

Nookah, be careful with that tail. They don’t call it “Tail” for nothing; that’s where you will land, if you’re not careful.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
5:17 pm

While I’m on the “Tail”, I’m a little under .500. I’m actually hitting .400 now!!!!

Go Falcons!!!!

What the heck bring on #24, who cares about the mocks?

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
5:19 pm

Now that’s what I’m talking about!!! Wifey just brought me a hot-dog!!! Now that’s teamwork!!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
5:24 pm

Mine just caught you, Nookah. My ole’ lady just brought me a plate of fried fish and another Red Scripe. Danm, Crabtree to San Fran. Good Pick.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
5:24 pm

looks like bills are licking their chops on orakpo

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:24 pm

Nookah…mine brought me tissues. 3 out of the first ten. That is septic tank funky!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
5:24 pm

I bet they get Maybin

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:32 pm

Damned!! Another scud attack. And I thought I retired from the military. Why Moreno for Denver?

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
5:34 pm

I kept my mock to myself and I’m not going to tell you how I’m doing. Just saying,Seminole Warrior don’t feel bad.

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 25th, 2009
5:35 pm

Hey y’all. I think getting information that Darius Butler could be the Falcons selection. Makes sense based on Dimitroff said they’ll have a needs best draft. CB would have to be the highest need over LB, FS and DT.

Also, Mark Bradley is blogging live.

http://blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/2009/04/25/live-from-flowery-branch-stafford-ziggy-and-the-nfl-draft/

Ed

April 25th, 2009
5:36 pm

Nobody had Moreno going to Denver

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:37 pm

D Orlando….Ohhhh no, say is ain’t so!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:39 pm

Thanks for the support Falcon21…but the flag is flying upside down outside the Teepee. We are in total distress here. It’s all about 24 now..

dacha

April 25th, 2009
5:39 pm

Seminole said it all!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:40 pm

The Saints give me hope…Thanks NO. I finally am back on the board with a hit.

D3

April 25th, 2009
5:44 pm

Score Update(close boys, what a draft!):
Reno911 – 5
Marko/Nookah/Dean21/Stirg/JJ/ – 4
Falcon Devil/Seminole/D3 – 3
WR/Irvin/Yeah – 2
dacha – 1

Before the Malcolm Jenkins to N.O. pick.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
5:45 pm

Well there goes D-Led’s pick

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:45 pm

Whew! Sorry D O Led….still time to join the Ziggy Express.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
5:46 pm

Well heck, boy did I miss that!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
5:47 pm

Darius Butler, heh? Let me check him out.

D3

April 25th, 2009
5:47 pm

How many of are happy that Cushing is gone? Get on Seminole’s Hood Express, BABY!

D3

April 25th, 2009
5:50 pm

I said that I will be happy with any pick that TD makes, but I will be somewhat disappointed with Butler, not going to lie.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
5:56 pm

did anybody see English going to SD???
D3: I’m with you on Butler…I hope it’s a smokescreen.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
5:56 pm

Wow. Did not see English gong that high…

Not surprised with the Chiefs selection, actually. Pioli knows it starts with the line…

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
5:58 pm

Why did Tampa trade up? Cleveland is cleaning up.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:07 pm

Butler? Hmmmm. I don’t know. I know we need help at cornerback, and we cannot properly evaluate our position needs the way Dimitroff/Smith can. Butler might be a surprise, but the kid can play.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:09 pm

Here is one to ponder? Pass rusher needed right? Do you think that if Everette Brown is there, does TD pull the trigger over Ziggy?

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:09 pm

Just read the bio on Darius Butler. Not a bad pick. He certainly fits the zone coverage scheme that our defense plays. Sorry, fellows, I can live with it. It all depends what we get in later rounds. Lets just cool out for a little while and let TD do his magic. We’ll be fine.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:11 pm

If the pick is Butler, then it is a major statement about our corners. It means that the depth is considerable weaker than we were lead to think. That is not good news then.. Hutchins, Houston…what about Irons, Jackson, and Grimes?

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:12 pm

Browns just made another trade…my God!! What are they planning? Have they made a pick yet?

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:13 pm

Told y’all Cushing wouldn’t last… ;)

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
6:14 pm

So far at least 3 players we’ve targeted, DE/OLCSintim, DT PJerry and OLB CMathews are still on the board.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
6:14 pm

Nobody on any mocks was anywhere close to what is happening and the players / postitions teams have selected so far

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:16 pm

K Strick, you are right. And the second round will be loaded even more so than we would have expected. This is going to be VERY interesting.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
6:16 pm

Kenny Britt ate Butler’s lunch in their matchup last year

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:16 pm

Look at Butler’s scouting report on draftcountdown.com. He’s a player…

kirkinga

April 25th, 2009
6:16 pm

I wonder if there’s a possibility they would consider trading down now? Maybe they could pick up an extra pick?

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:17 pm

I’m with the ESPN crew…Philly would have been better off trading for Boldin.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:19 pm

OOhhhhhhh…Pettigrew to Detroit. Didn’t see that coming.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:20 pm

The ‘Grew express lands in Detroit…WOW! Excellent draft thus far. They still can get the tackle they need at 33.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:21 pm

Martin Mayhew and Jim Schwartz are changing the culture of the Lions right before our eyes. WOW…

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:22 pm

Ed,

I hear ya, but nobody beats everybody all the time. And sometimes it’s a scheme issue.

I’d rather pick at a different position, but it’s possible that the talent at CB is so shallow that we need to take one in the first round. That’s assuming that we need one that badly. Butler is ranked third in cornerbacks, behind Malcolm Jenkins (best at position, and can play safety as well), and Vontae Davis (possible DeAngelo Hall clone).

Just food for thought, not necessarily endorsement of such a pick…

Ed

April 25th, 2009
6:22 pm

I know many of you will disagree but I am pulling for Rey Maualuga as the Falcons choice. He’s an absolute beast and a big playmaker which you can’t get enough of.

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
6:23 pm

Man, I forgot all about TE BPettigrew.

D3

April 25th, 2009
6:24 pm

Too much crazy S— going on to give a score update. Let’s just say that none too many of us are doing too great with Denver taking Moreno, San Diego taking English, Denver taking Ayers, Philly taking Maclin, & Detroit taking ‘Grew. Man, is this some crazy @– S— or what?

JJ

April 25th, 2009
6:25 pm

JJ in the house, sorry I’m late, had to take the old lady out to eat……

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:27 pm

STIRG,

Agreed. If we pick him, I’m cool with it. If we do, I’m looking for somebody like Sintim to be our second pick. Or a DT.

WOW! Pettigrew to Detroit. Didn’t see that coming at all, and a very interesting pick indeed.

Cleveland selects Alex Mack. I thought he would be going before we picked. Not surprised, though I didn’t know he’d be going to Cleveland.

Looks like some of us were right after all, good players falling to us, as there are only two more picks to go before us.

JJ

April 25th, 2009
6:27 pm

come on hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:29 pm

I have watched a lot of drafts but I have never seen anything like this. I’m nervous as hell here in the Teepee, still sucking oxygen, and having a double Crown.

kirkinga

April 25th, 2009
6:30 pm

I’m thinking the Falcons should go with Peria Jerry, Darrius Heyward-Bey, or Evander Hood. I think they can still get a LB with their next pick, but time is running out with DT’s and there doesn’t seem to be another CB that jumps out at you as one that could make an instant impact.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
6:30 pm

my head hurts there’s been so many surprises!!!! I just don’t know what we should do!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:31 pm

Make that one. Harvin just made the cut on my guesses with WR and TE. 4 receivers, one TE…gone…

Guess who’s left for us, besides Butler? Hood, Jerry, Matthews, and more.

Looking for New England to take Matthews or possibly Laurinaitis, if they go defense.

Guess who else is still on the board? Maualuga….

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
6:31 pm

Someone give me a clue please, Hood???

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:31 pm

I’ll bet NO ONE saw Maualuga falling this far.

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
6:32 pm

Well, at least 2 of the 3 aforementioned players will be available to us, and I forgot to include DT ZHood. If DT PJerry and OLB’s CMathews or CSintim are available, which one will we choose?

D3

April 25th, 2009
6:32 pm

Seminole – I don’t think its looking good for the Hood Express, Jerry’s dropping to us. Be happy with either.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:33 pm

The choice will be either The Hood Express or the Maualuga Mack.

TommyP

April 25th, 2009
6:34 pm

Where the hell is Ledbetter? No new blog? SLACK.

Jerry…no brainer. You read it here first.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
6:34 pm

Bethca the Ravens take Maualuga

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:34 pm

Hard to believe Michael Oher is still on the board, too. And Beanie Wells. Gonna be some serious late round steals, and 2nd round nabs.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:35 pm

Get ready, gentlemen. Its about that time; the moment we’ve all been waiting for. Even though the Hawks are on another channel (I don’t have picture in picture), I’m going to stay right here with you boys. Rolling dice…

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:35 pm

Detroit will take Oher at 33..

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:35 pm

Ughh…Patriots trade pick to Ravens.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
6:35 pm

hey guys, if M Oher falls to us, do we take him???

crabapplejoe

April 25th, 2009
6:35 pm

Gotta love it. Matt Jones drinks a beer on a golf course and gets released by the Jaguars and can’t find a job with his 4.3 speed. Percy Harvin tests positive at the NFL combines and becomes an instant multi-millionaire at the 21st pick. Yep, got to love the NFL’s “selectivity”.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:36 pm

Jerry! Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:37 pm

Okay…Detroit will not take Oher at 33..it been that type of day here.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:37 pm

Here We Go! Get ready to rumble, NFC!

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
6:37 pm

Well here we go!!!

dacha

April 25th, 2009
6:38 pm

will we take Mauluga? Or Hood? Or Jerry? Or Laurinaitis? (i know not likely, but can still hope)

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:39 pm

Wow, there goes Oher. Okay guys, what’s the pick gonna be?

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:41 pm

(standing, saluting, drinking, clapping) It is what it is, gentlemen! I have that much confidence in TD. He picked it; I can live with it. Peria Jerry is the man!

dacha

April 25th, 2009
6:42 pm

welcome, JERRY!!!!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
6:42 pm

Jerry definitely fills a big need

kirkinga

April 25th, 2009
6:42 pm

Great pick! Build that line and keep building.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:42 pm

Taps are being played at the Teepee. But I’m a realist and I can live with the pick. Great move TD and Smitty.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:43 pm

I’m already satisfied. We can trade the rest of our picks and I’d be satisfied. YES!

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
6:43 pm

THAT’S WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:43 pm

Whoa. Jerry it is!

D3

April 25th, 2009
6:45 pm

H—s Yeah Boys! Whatcha’ Think? Happy, Happy, Happy that Jerry is in the house?\!

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
6:45 pm

That will do,its a good pick, sorry guys no stripe its bud light for me.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:45 pm

Fellows, if I were in your presence right now, I’d hug you and shake your hands. I’m proud to claim myself as a Falcon Fan. Congratulations, Gentlemen. We have our man.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:46 pm

Posse..

I’m disappointed but I’m a realist. I CAN truly get behind this pick. As I have advocated, smaller, penetrating tackle would be the pick. Jerry is disruptive against the run and the pass. I truly wanted Ziggy but the Colts will take him now and he will enjoy a fine career there.

Well done TD and Smitty. A great day in the Falcon nation…

D.Ellis

April 25th, 2009
6:46 pm

ALL RIGHT ALL RIGHT ALL RIGHT!!!!!!! WE JUST GOT A BEAST FOR A DT….WHO BY THE WAY IS 10 TIMES BETTER THAN DORSEY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
6:48 pm

Okay, quickly, fellows. Who are we going to get to go with him? Who do we target now? Is it linebacker; safety; cornerback; best available? Who?

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
6:50 pm

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:51 pm

The second round just got a hell of a lot more interesting as well. There is some serious value still out there. Patrick Chung, Ron Brace, Brian Robiskie, Duke Robinson, etc.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:54 pm

STIRG,

I’d say “best available.” There should be quite a run on the remaining linebackers in the 2nd round, if they don’t go in the remainder of the 1st.

What’s amazing is the separation between Cushing and the remaining two-thirds of the USC linebacking trio. But they won’t be there when we pick.

At the moment, I see us getting a corner or safety, because LBs like Matthews, Sintim, Maualuga, and Laurinaitis will be gone. Barwin probably will be, too.

Having said that, we may have a legit shot at Delmas, Chung, Butler, Moore, Sean Smith, DJ Moore, and others. Unless of course, there is a serious run on defensive backs…

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
6:54 pm

Man, I should know that hot dog was a setup. The wife fed me then set me up….I was had guys. Just checking back in. I am so out of this mock but I can’t complain that Jerry has fallen to us!!!!

This 2nd round is going to be loaded. We’ll definitely get some value here.

Go Falcons!!!! Welcome Jerry……….THE PROCESS IS GETTING MORE ADVANCED BUT IT CONTINUES!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

JJ

April 25th, 2009
6:54 pm

Chung if he’s there at 55, if not, Brace!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:55 pm

Stirg, it has to be linebacker…Dirty Harry Sintim or Marcus Freeman.

SLEEPER: SS Patrick Chung

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
6:55 pm

OOp…there goes Matthews. Let the “run” begin, I think… but I could be wrong…

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:55 pm

Raji and Matthews. Green Bay keeping pace with Detroit. Good choices.

Peter Griffin

April 25th, 2009
6:56 pm

Holy frickin’ crap! I love this pick and am glad Jerry fell far enough for us to grab him.

I think in the 2nd round they’ll take a SS like Delmas or Chung (Utah) or a CB from Southern Miss (but I don’t think he’ll be there late in the 2nd). The SS from Alabama might be on their radar too.

If they haven’t grabbed a LB in the 1st or 2nd, they’ll likely get Maola (can’t remember how to spell it, but from USC) or another LB and if they took a LB in the 1st, there are several big DT’s that can provide some depth stuffing the run.

4th round, I’m thinking they’ll try to get someone to backup at DE that can compliment or spell Abraham on pressuring the QB. Abraham got too damn tired last year towards the end of the game and if we could rotate to keep him fresh, we wouldn’t have to worry about QB’s going nuts in the 4th quarter like the game against the Bears, Saints and in the playoffs against the Cardinals. If Asher Allen (CB from UGA is available in the 4th, they could go there, but he is supposed to be gone by then).

We’ll probably pick up a OT (probably one they think could backup our LOT, but would likely be targeted for the right side) and a 6′0″+ CB in the 5th and 6th rounds.

7th round, we’ll pickup Graham Harrell, the QB from Texas Tech… :)

Go Falcons!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
6:58 pm

There are so many good defensive players still on the board you have to wait and see how it falls. Someone may fall into our laps @ 55 you’d never expect to still be there.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
6:58 pm

Proud moment for us retired military and all those that have served, are serving (my son), and those that have paid the ultimate price. God bless the USA!!!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
7:01 pm

Are you kidding me…Donald Brown. This is the most puzzling draft in a long time.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:01 pm

SeminoleWarrior,

I feel you. But like you said, Jerry is a pick you can be happy with. The guy is mature (25 yrs old), quick, and disruptive. Any lack of technique can be coached up. And he will get even stronger under the watchful eyes of the Falcons strength/conditioning staff.

Here’s a question for you: will we double up on positions in this draft, i.e. draft two of the same position? If so, in which round will this occur?

Here’s an example: what if Brace is available in the 2nd round? Do we pick him up, or go elsewhere? Personally, I see us going elsewhere, but a chance to really build up the line…it is what it is. What do I know?

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:01 pm

Seminole, you got it, “Dirty Harry” Sintim could fall to us.

Go Falcons!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:04 pm

Big Ray, I would not go with Brace. I would fill what I see as the more dire needs, LB depth and safety. If we want to add DT depth, Hill or Miller will be there tomorrow.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
7:07 pm

So much for NFL “Insiders” as they are just as much in the dark as we are. None of them had anything close to this happening.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:11 pm

I can’t stop thinking of different scenarios. :)

Here’s some guys I think we have trouble passing on if they’re available when we pick: Louis Delmas, Michael Johnson, Clint Sintim, Darius Butler.

Dimitroff keeps saying “needs based.”

I think it will come to “highest value among the needs.” In other words, if you need a cornerback, a safety, and a linebacker…and all three are available, you go for the highest overall value of the three. If the highest value is presented at corner, then that’s what you pick. If it’s linebacker, then you grab that, and so on.

Of course, you also have to take into account how deep (or shallow) the pool is at each position. I happen to think that linebacker is the deepest position as it stand now, through the rounds. Sure, not a single safety has been taken yet, but there are only so many that I’d be comfortable taking.

And, we are somewhat questionable at cornerback. Our safeties may already be adequate. So, I think we’re looking at LB or Cornerback in the second round.

And who knows, we may even trade up.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
7:12 pm

Personally, I like Tyrone McKenzie. And another thing, what if Michael Johnson is still available. Hmmm?

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:17 pm

Sintim, Freeman, or McKenzie are the top choices at LB.

Moore or Chung at safety.

SLEEPER ALERT: CB Alphonso Smith of Wake Forest. The most complete CB left on the board; only issue is his height BUT I have seen this kid in person for the last three years and he IS legit!!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
7:17 pm

Sherrod Martin CB from Troy and Sean Smith from Utah are two other names to watch

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:18 pm

SeminoleWarrior,

Excellent response. Now, do you feel comfortable with our corners? Do you think we’re in more dire need there, safety, or linebacker?

My pick is either linebacker or cornerback, but I’m interested in your opinion on the subject, and why you think that way. You might change my mind…

Here’s the thing on the safety position: I don’t know how good Decoud could, would, or will be. But I think that guys like Delmas and Moore (or possibly Chung) should not be passed on…unless you think Coleman, Decoud, and Fudge are all we need. I like Coleman just fine, and Fudge was okay. But “okay” isn’t going to get it, and I’m not sure about Decoud.

Meanwhile, Grimes is a great competitor, but small and better as a back-up. Is Von Hutchins good enough to start (and be effective)? Chris Houston isn’t bad, but teams sure threw his way a lot.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:19 pm

Beenie Wells to the Cards? I had LeSean McKoy, but I had no idea Beenie would have fallen this far.

Go Falcons!!!!

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:21 pm

Man, NE has 4 2nd round picks? That;s the Patriot way indeed.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:23 pm

STIRG,

Good question. But I say MJ goes along with the the crop of 1st/2nd round bubble linebackers..

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:23 pm

I saw a lot of Chung on the dish and some in here know that I was raving about him before I bought my ticket on the Ziggy Express. He would be a great find at safety for the guy is intense. He can play both safety positions, rarely out of position, shuts down the stuff underneath because he will take your head off, a special teams monster, and a has the “it” facet that TD and Smitty would love.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:24 pm

Nookah, I think some team ran from Wells do to his fragile nature. He does not handle injuries well.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
7:25 pm

stirg, excellent point…the way this draft is going, MJ just might fall. Our line would be unstoppable!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:27 pm

Big Ray:

One back at you.

The team tendered both Clabo and Dahl for the next year. Clabo does a good job at RT and he is 330 lbs. Duke Robinson came in and supposedly had a good visit. Would you place his 335 pounds on the right side at guard, let Dahl go, and sign Clabo to a long term deal. 670 pounds of beef on the right side would open a lot of holes for Turner.

SWAT Native

April 25th, 2009
7:30 pm

I’m sorry, I gotta say it…Hannah Storm has a dope body on her, and she looks like she’s almost as tall as Matt Ryan. That pic stops me in my tracks every time I come to this blog.

Solid pick by the Falcons, though!

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:31 pm

Seminole, there goes our guy to the Steelers.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
7:31 pm

There goes your man Seminole

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:32 pm

Detroit is about to get a hell of a LB at 33. Either Maualuga or Laurinaitis. What a draft they are having with a rookie GM and coach. Memories of last year…..

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:34 pm

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh my God. Ziggy going to Pittsburgh. I knew I was on the right track with that kid. But hey, I’m still VERY GOOD with our selection. Happy for the Ziggy Express.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:35 pm

Damned Detroit….punched me in the face. But a very solid pick. Still like what they are doing.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:35 pm

Remaining players at each position (that we might consider):

LB:

Clint Sintim, Maualuga, Laurinaitis, Connor Barwin, Marcus Freeman, Ty McKenzie, and Kaluka Maiva.

S:

Louis Delmas, William Moore, Patrick Chung, Chip Vaughn, Rashad Johnson, and Courtney Greene.

CB:

Darius Butler, DJ Moore, Sean Smith, Alphonso Smith, Jarius Byrd, Donald Washington, and Sharrod Martin.

Aaaaaaand…Delmas just went to Detroit…

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:36 pm

Maualuga, Everette Brown, Alphonso Smith, Darius Butler, Chung, Darius Butler…a few of the names left in this draft…..makes you want to say hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!

Go Falcons!!!!

dacha

April 25th, 2009
7:36 pm

let the run on safety begin!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:37 pm

Damned. The Patriot way strikes!!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:39 pm

SeminoleWarrior,

Have to admit, I’d consider it VERY HEAVILY. But our needs on defense might trump that. Or do they? Hmmmm.

Crap. There goes Chung. Moore, Vaughn, and Johnson might be following somewhat closely.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
7:40 pm

TD: TRADE UP!! JAMES LAURINAITIS, REY MAUALUGA, ALPHONSO SMITH… get one!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:41 pm

NOOKAH,

Makes you salivate, doesn’t it? But the Patriots have 4 second round picks. I hate the Patriots. They’re going to suck up nearly all of the guys I want to see us take. I can just smell it…

JJ

April 25th, 2009
7:41 pm

D3: who won the first rd.?

dacha

April 25th, 2009
7:41 pm

CRAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:42 pm

Be calm guys. Don’t chase the draft let the value come to you…..” Dirty Harry” Sintim it will be.

Go Falcons!!!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:43 pm

How about that? Laurinaitis goes before the vaunted Maualuga.

DACHA,

I was hoping to see us trade up as well. But Dimitroff is a very patient guy. No such move, yet.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
7:51 pm

Another CB off the board. My guy’s gonna be there…..Dirty Harry!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
7:52 pm

Why is everyone running from Maualuga? Yoooo, D Orlando? Check with your west coast connections, please?

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:52 pm

Everette Brown has succumbed to the stigma of Seminole defensive ends.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
7:53 pm

A whole lot of teams are going to regret passing on Maualuga

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:55 pm

I think Maualuga has been passed over for a variety of reasons, including teams’ fascination and/or need at other positions.

However, I also read an article recently about how the middle linebacker position isn’t all the rage it once was. Teams are turning more towards OLBs, and the hybrid types that can play a little DE as well.

That, and there may be more to Maualuga’s “character issues” than we know of…

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
7:59 pm

Maualuga’s scouting report says he can be very, very good if he can keep his head on straight. In other words, he needs two things: solid, no-nonsense (but fair and patient) coaching, and a good veteran or two to mentor him.

I doubt that he’ll fall to us (and I don’t know what our level of interest is), but he could be a good fit. Would have to move Lofton over, though, I think.

Wondering how much teams think he’s a head case…

Laurinaitis was simply a “safer pick”, and guess what? Sintim might be too…

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:09 pm

Big Ray, you are on target with Brown. I hate it too because the kid is very good. He could be a steal for us. His speed rush opposite Abe would be absolutely ruthless…

dacha

April 25th, 2009
8:09 pm

who wants to bet that NE gets alls of the players that we want?

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:13 pm

The Patriot Way is taking over this draft….What a hell of a second round.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
8:16 pm

Don’t worry about a thing, every little thing is gonna be all right (Robert Nesta Marley)

We’re gonna get a good value pick. Just be patient. If TD has made no moves yet, trust me, our guy is still there.

Do I hear Dirty Harry?!!!

Go Falcons!!!

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
8:20 pm

There are still some talented LB/DE’s on the board like Sintim, Baldwin, Sidbury and Freeman.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
8:22 pm

Great pickup by Carolina

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:23 pm

Freeman, Moore, or McKenzie.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
8:27 pm

McKenzie; we need a linebacker before we need a safety.

dacha

April 25th, 2009
8:27 pm

great value for the panthers…E. Brown better not mess with my boy, Matt Ryan or he’ll have to deal with me. lol As

As for us…can anyone say: “Clint Sintim?” or, dare I say it, “Michael Johnson?”

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:29 pm

Too much inconsistency in MJ…Sintim, Freeman, McKenzie, or Moore.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
8:30 pm

D3, where you at?

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:30 pm

Dacha, Carolina gave up a first rounder next season to acquire him. He is one of mine and I love him but I’m glad TD did not make a move like that.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:31 pm

Sintim is gone..McKenzie or Freeman now.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
8:32 pm

Oh my goodness, we just lost a hell of a LB?

TD what you gonna do now? I defer to you Sir!!!

Go Falcons!!!!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
8:32 pm

Another name to watch is Paul Kruger DE Utah even though we took Jerry

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
8:33 pm

AAAAAHHHHH! SINTIM IS GONE!!!1

dacha

April 25th, 2009
8:35 pm

Seminole: I must’ve missed the part about Carolina giving up a first next year…Dimitroff would thankfully never make a dumb move like that. As for MJ, I respectfully disagree. I don’t think we should trade up for him, but if he’s there at #55 we have to take him. He is just a physical freak that could become the next J. Abraham.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
8:37 pm

Seminole, I think it may be Freeman. Barwin just went to the Texans.

Ed, Paul Kruger could be a good pick. This is a guy with lots of heart. Knows about adversity!!

Go Falcons!!!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
8:37 pm

Michael Johnson and William Moore, two guys still on the board, and still in my mind.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:39 pm

He is going Freeman, McKenzie, or Kruger. Sleepers; Moore or Duke Robinson.

Ed

April 25th, 2009
8:44 pm

Michael Mitchell…ESPN doesn’t even have any highlights! Are you serious Oakland?

dacha

April 25th, 2009
8:46 pm

It is official: AL DAVIS IS A CRACKHEAD!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
8:50 pm

Dacha, even crack is too good for Al in this situation. He has soured on Michael Huff in favor of a kid that no one BUT Mel Kiper has heard of? Mel had him as the 73rd ranked safety.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
9:03 pm

Just checked the score, Hawks are getting their butts kicked late in the forth quarter.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:04 pm

Freeman, McKenzie, or Kruger.

D3

April 25th, 2009
9:05 pm

Are you serious? The Patriots got: Patrick Chung, Ron Brace AND Darius Butler? Dudes, talk about the rich getting richer for godssake!

1st round winners will be projected very soon. Got some of family about to leave, so I’ll get a little free time to calculate.

Jerry is a FALCON! Wish we could have gotten Sintim, Barwin, Delmas, Brace, or Chung. Dang! Hey, beggars can’t be choosers though.

ITS GREAT TO BE AN ATL FALCON!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:07 pm

Here it comes…..

D3

April 25th, 2009
9:08 pm

Quick Side Note: OMG, Hawks 76, Heat 105. D@– Embarassing. With all the talent we have, that’s the best we got?

Moore or MJ in a couple of picks!

dacha

April 25th, 2009
9:09 pm

MICHAEL JOHNSON! MAKE IT HAPPEN!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:11 pm

It’s Moore

dacha

April 25th, 2009
9:11 pm

MOORE! I’m cool with that.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
9:12 pm

William Moore! Another good pick! TD is on a role.

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
9:15 pm

Yes!!!! William Moore! Great pick, and I know some of you won’t think so, but trust me….great pick!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:16 pm

Again, I missed my mark but I like the selection. Again, fill the need.
Moore is large, fast, and a force.

Two for two if you ask me.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
9:18 pm

Big Ray if you say so, we trust you man!!!

chc4

April 25th, 2009
9:18 pm

I told y’all about William Moore yesterday… starter on Day 1 at SS. I’m freakin’ ecstatic!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:18 pm

I had a horrible day draft wise but again, I am a realist. TD and the team have done a great job thus far. We have TWO starters that can step in and have an impact from day one.

Tomorrow, we work on the linebackers and add depth to the OL.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
9:18 pm

Big Ray, trust me, I.m not one of those guys. I love this pick. My problem (and a good one too) is that I did not think he would fall to us here. I love it, good value!!!

Go Falcons!!!

Big Ray

April 25th, 2009
9:20 pm

I really wanted Sintim, too.

Guys, I’m telling you, Moore didnt have a great senior season, but it’s because they kept bringing him up to support the run, so he had few interceptions. Trust me, do the research on this guy. He is a play-maker who will hit HARD, and is SOLID in coverage. Look at his profile/scouting report on draftcountdown.com. Dude is a stud with potential, and is a hybrid in the backfield. He’s versatile.

Still, I wanted to see us get a ‘backer. Well, the draft isn’t over yet. There’s still tomorrow!

Ed

April 25th, 2009
9:20 pm

Moore was a top ten pick last year and injuries hurt him this year.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
9:21 pm

Let’s see…
D-Line: Abraham, Jerry, Babs, Anderson
Linebacker: Peterson, Lofton, Nicholas
Corners: Jackson and Houston
Safeties: Moore and Coleman

What else do we need? Who do we subtract and whom do we add (as a starter) to that scenario? Do you even touch it?

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:24 pm

Stirg, if we can still get Freeman or McKenzie at LB, then the remainder of the draft is all about depth. But I’m sure TD has a few gems in hiding..

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:26 pm

Big Ray, I’m cool with the day as it has gone. We drafted TWO starters today. Both men will contribute from day one and will be mainstays in our defense for years to come.

We are the RISING Falcon Nation!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
9:29 pm

I agree. I did a little research a few weeks ago and determined that, in order, the linebackers that fit our scheme: Matthews, Sintim, McKenzie. Like you say, if we can get McKenzie in the third (and don’t forget about Morrah, tomorrow), I’d go crazy.

SeminoleWarrior

April 25th, 2009
9:29 pm

Stirg, I think that Davis will win the starting battle at DE opposite Abe. Other than that, I like your lineup.

falcon21

April 25th, 2009
9:38 pm

With an O that can score 27 points or more and a D that will allow 23 points or less, looks good.

Nookah

April 25th, 2009
9:56 pm

D Led has never had a more active draft than this one, never!!!

Falcon Nation is alive and well. I like the 2 picks we got today. Put that together with what we did in the offseason, I can’t wait for the OTAs to begin.

Go Falcons!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
10:00 pm

I’m satisfied. We really did good today. Like TD promised, we filled some needs, with just two players (three, if you include Gonzo) and its just day one. We got first round talent for second round prices. Both players (Jerry and Moore), once upon a time, have been ranked in the top twenty in some mocks.

Outside of Detroit, Miami and New England, we did excellent. What the he[[ is New England on? Is that the mafia? Did they have our war room bugged?

dacha

April 25th, 2009
10:03 pm

Agreed…Belichick goes from spygate to bugging Dimtroff’s HQ. We had an excellent first day nonetheless!

Ernest

April 25th, 2009
10:06 pm

Good picks so far by addressing areas of need! Can’t believe Michael Johnson is still on the board. It should be an interesting day tomorrow…

Ken Strickland

April 25th, 2009
10:10 pm

It looks like the Falcons are satisfied with their current group of LB’s and DE’s. I was surprised when they took a safety in the 2nd rd. For the rest of the draft, I expect us to take a CB, DE, LB and an OLineman, maybe 2. If we take only 1 OLineman, I expect us to use that last pick to take an extra LB or DT.

DE-JAbraham and JAnderson or CDavis
DT-JBabineaux and PJerry or TLewis
OLB-MPeterson and CWire or SNicholas
MLB-CLofton
CB-CHouston and VHutchins or BGrimes or CJackson
SS-Moore or DeCoud
FS-EColeman

Gentleman, that’s not a bad DEF lineup, especially when you consider how powerful our OFF is going to be. Man, a 4 man DT rotation of PJerry, TLewis, JBabineaux and KMoorehead will be awsome.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 25th, 2009
10:26 pm

Somebody ought to call the police on Thomas Dimitroff because he just stole William Moore. I think Moore’s stock dropped when he played with injury last season. In addition, he was placed inside the box to support the run and the move negated his interceptions; but he supported the run very well. Its proven that he can support the pass, he did it his junior year. Telling you, fellows, we got a blue chip.

WR

April 25th, 2009
10:39 pm

Ken, don’t forget about Biermann, the DE rotation of Abraham,Andersen,Davis,Biermann is going to look pretty nice too. As much as I like the Jerry pick up, I think Moore may end up being a second round steal. I see LB and CB along with offensive lineman being next on the radar, but judging by my overall mock draft I apparently don’t have a clue. This has been an awesome offseason, if what the Falcons have on paper translates on to the field they shouldn’t be the ones worried about a tough schedule, whether teams that have them on their schedule should be worried about the Falcons. Now imagine that

On another note, how and the HE@@ does Belichick and the Patriots pull off the stuff that they continually do. I mean it makes me want to call up Bill and ask for some mega-million numbers, I figure even if I didn’t win I would be so close that I would get a hefty bonus out of it.

WR

April 25th, 2009
10:40 pm

Stirg, I see we are on the same page with the thinking on Moore

crabapplejoe

April 25th, 2009
10:58 pm

We just drafted a safety who had one interception and one forced fumble in his senior year and everyone is excited…wow, what happened to the “playmaker” emphasis. LOL

irvin

April 25th, 2009
11:02 pm

Man did my cpu pick the wrong day to crash. Called my guy and got it back up now. You guys have been at it I see. Can’t believe we were able to snatch Moore up. MJ actually fell to the third. WOW! Day two will be awsome.

WTF is up with NE? They were putting on a draft clinic! Looks like everyone took an A-Bomb on the mocks. Who cares though. We had a great day in the war room.

If we only suit up 7 O-lineman next year, then one in this draft should be sufficient. I still like my OT Tupou. I do think that we should make an aggressive move for MJ early in the third. He is clearly the best value at DE at this time. Not to mention that he is the best left on the board. Add a run stuffing DT and a CB and we are good.

irvin

April 25th, 2009
11:13 pm

Moore is a playmaker! He had 8 picks in 07 and is an enforcer type all over the field. He was hampered by injuries and thus limited to playing in the box most of the year, limiting his chances at making a ton of impact plays. His value at #55 is outstanding. To tell you the truth, I was shocked that Dallas did not take him at #53. But I do understand why they didn’t. There is still tremendous safety value in rounds three and four, in which they have a slew of picks.

D3

April 25th, 2009
11:31 pm

What a Day Gents! Jerry AND Moore. What a great day. So much to absorb, talk about and run through, but I am worn the F— out. Been one he– of a ride today with a huge build-up, great fun, and big draft day.

Tons more to come tomorrow after some rest. A thorough analysis of our Mock Draft Competition will be done after some rest is taken (a few to many Kona Lagers!). Great ride guys and we got 5 MORE PICKS TOMORROW!

Jerry and Moore. TD rocks it out again! Tomorrow gents……

10 HOURS ‘TILL ROUND 3!!!!!!!!1

tyger

April 25th, 2009
11:51 pm

Falcoons Easy Button, Final Version 4.0

1. 24 Peria Jerry – strong up the middle.
2. 55 Michael Johnson – too good to ignore your own backyard.
3. 90 William Moore – their loss, our gain.
4. 125 Victor “Macho” Harris – VT taboo, but talent rules.
5. 138 M. Massaquoi – big, pure receiver.
5. 143 Jasper Brinkley – local thumper
6. 176 Kyle Moore – 6′5, 270 4.7/40 w/ championship pedigree.

Make it happen!

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
12:03 am

STIRG and WR,

That’s what I’ve been screaming this whole time (though we haven’t talked about safeties all that much). Moore cannot be overlooked. And I see y’all got the info on why he didn’t have so many “big stat plays” this year. Playing in the box like a linebacker ALL SEASON LONG will always hurt your INT numbers. Of course, some people want to scoff (because they are, and continue to live in the past), but that’s okay. Moore will prove to be a great addition. He’s great against the run, and showed in his junior year (when he was not having to literally play linebacker-type roles) that he’s quite comfortable in coverage.

KEN STRICKLAND,

I’m happy with our draft, too. I was actually glad to see us pick up a high-ranked safety. We need the depth, and don’t be surprised if this guy starts from day 1.

I’d like to see us pick up another LB and CB, and an OL-man, too. We’ll see.

Wow, Michael Johnson is still on the board. Hmmmm.

D3,

Both of those guys will be starting. I’m pretty sure of it. Jerry is going to be a disruptive force, and he allows us good options with Jamal Anderson. Anderson can still compete with Chauncey Davis for the starting job at left DE. If he doesn’t win it, he’s still depth at DE or DT. Meanwhile, I believe we have a run-stuffer in Trey Lewis, but don’t know for certain. Wouldn’t mind seeing Sammie Lee Hill donning a black and red jersey when it’s all said and done tomorrow.

Think we can get Marcus Freeman (projected as best fit on weakside OLB) or Ty McKenzie (same thing)?

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
1:35 am

WR-I didn’t forget the DE’s. The fact we drafted a safety with our 2nd pick instead of a DE is why I stated we must be satisfied with our compliment of DE’s and LB’s.

BIG RAY-I’m very happy with our 1st day draft as well. With DT PJerry, we addressed our rushing DEF woes and improved our interior pass rush as well. The addition of Jerry will benefit DT Babineaux and DE’s JAbraham and JAnderson or CDavis as well, especially when rushing the passer. At this point, I’m not so sure there’s a CB out there that can be said to be better than CJackson, VHutchins, DIrons or BGrimes. It would be nice to get one with some size to match up against the bigger WR’s in certain passing situations. Offensively, we need to draft a C, just in case TMcClure really is considering retirement, an OT to replace retired TWeiner. We also need to draft an OG, because after TClabo was converted to OT we haven’t had a natural backup OG. However, some of these needs can and will be addressed in next yrs draft.

IT’S GOOD TO BE AN ATLANTA FALCON FAN.

darrell starks

April 26th, 2009
1:46 am

Im happy with our first pick dont no to much about william moore but i think we miss out on SEAN SMITH WHO WILL BE A STAR IN THE NFL but at the end of the day i trust TD.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

darrell starks

April 26th, 2009
2:09 am

DAY two who might be there at pick 90#
ASHER ALLEN, MICHAEL JOHNSON, DORRELL SCOTT, JUAQUIN IGLESIAS, JONATHAN LUIGS, ANDREW GARDNER , QUAN COSBY, CHASE COFFEMAN.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
8:57 am

Good Morning Posse. A beautiful day in the Falcon Nation!!

I’m over the personal disaster that was my mock draft yesterday. All is well in the Teepee this morning thanks to the incredible skills of my man, TD.

Jerry and Moore WILL start on day one. The Big Tuna and the Dolphins will experience first hand their impacts. The second week, Carolina will roll in to the Dome and get some as well. Damned, we are going to rock in section 209 this season!!!

Third round gets interesting. K Stirck seems to think we are cool with the LBs we have. I want more depth. My redemption, Marcus Freeman, is still on the board. Tyrone McKenzie is going to be a steal for a team at the SAM. Brad Fletcher, Keenan Lewis, and Mike Mickens are out there at CB. And there is incredible depth available at the OL positions.

Keep an eye out for my man Roy Miller as well. I do not think we are done with DT. Special teams depth can be addressed with the likes of SS/FS Courtney Greene and CB Glover Quinn.

Going to be a good day gents.. Come along for the ride.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
9:04 am

K Stirck, I think they want to move Clabo and his 330 pounds back inside to the RG position. If not, they may go after Duke Robinson in the 3rd. Now that would be a hell of lot of meat on the right side. Michael Turner could go for 2000 behind a right side of over 660 lbs if we put Duke next to Clabo.

Now that gents would define BALL CONTROL OFFENSE!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
9:42 am

I just woke up about an hour ago. My ole’ lady don’t understand when I ask this question: Was I dreaming lastnight? I mean, I know I was drinking lastnight; I may have even passed out. For some reason, however, I dreamt that the Falcons drafted two starters, on day one of the draft. I had a dream that we drafted two first-round talents for a second round price. I dreamt that we drafted Peria Jerry and William Moore.

I know, right. Crazy thing, isn’t it? My dream would actually be a nightmare for others. Whew! I need a wake-me-up. I need another brew. That dream was overwhelming.

JJ

April 26th, 2009
9:57 am

Stirg: sounds like a red bull/stripe morning!

Excellent first day picks, cannot wait to see what the matrix has in store for us today!!!

JJ

April 26th, 2009
9:58 am

Evil Empire: New England
TD: Sweep the war rm. for bugs!!!

Unca' Bob

April 26th, 2009
10:06 am

IMO the Falcons are just replacing what they lost last year.CB,LB’S,OL,in no particular order but with best player of need.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
10:16 am

I know, Jj. If we can, somehow, grab someone out of this bunch: Tyrone McKenzie, Chip Vaughn, Sammie Hill, Duke Robinson, Cameron Morrah. Boy, oh boy, oh boy!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
10:27 am

Posse, we are on the clock.

LB: McKenzie or Freeman are my choices.

CB: Mike Mickens or Asher Allen

jason

April 26th, 2009
10:40 am

I just want to say that I appreciate the DOL for this blog where I can go and intelligent football talk from guys like Seminole Warrior, Ken,and NaGaNole, and so many others. I have been working all weekend and you guys have kept me up to date with everything that has occured so far.
I have been living in Texas for the past 8 years, and this is may way of getting good positive news on my Georgia sports teams. Whether it be the Falcons, Braves, Hawks, my Dawgs, or my highschool, the Syrupmakers.
Thanks again for the info supplied by you guys on the blog.
Now to the buissness. I know alot of your mochs were destroyed. I couldn’ belive some of the picks ( Raiders). I felt going in that this draft was not going to loaded with star power. I thought it would however be deep with good ol’fashion football players. I saw alot of depth in the middle rounds. Don’t be susprised if TD finds a couple more starters in rounds 3 and 4.The big Gurd from Okie, Allen (cb) from UGA., or even Ellerbee as that ellusive LB ATL is wanting to aquire. He can play inside or out, and you could go the ST route with him like Nichols. Just a thought. Anyway enjoy the rest of the draft, and keep me updated.

D3

April 26th, 2009
10:47 am

Good Sunday A.M. Boys! This is for us true football junkies, those of us here in the Bird-Cage that have researched ad nauseum on most of these guys. I’ll be willing to bet that we’ve heard most of these guys, and the ones we don’t I’m sure we’ll research quickly.

NOW WHAT YOU’VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR………..

2009 Bird-Cage Mock Draft Competition
-2 pts for direct hits
-1 pt for correct spot, wrong team
-1 pt for correct team, wrong spot
-let me know of any errors, still coming down from excitement overload

AND THE WINNER IS………….Reno911, with 8 direct hits, 1 right spot, 1 right team, & whopping 18 points!

Congrats Reno, you deserved it after the Heyward-Bay Golden Strike.

Full List
1)Reno911(18)- Stafford, J.Smith, A.Smith, Heyward-Bay, Raji, Jenkins, Harvin, Jerry, Freeman to TB(1), Moreno to Denver(1)

2)D3(15)- Stafford, J.Smith, Raji, Jenkins, Cushing, Harvin, Wells, Freeman @ #17(1)

T-3)Marko(13) – Stafford, Curry, A.Smith, Maybin, Cushing, Freeman @ #17(1), V.Davis

T-3)JJ(13) – Stafford, J.Smith, Curry, Maybin, Jenkins, Freeman @ #17(1), Davis

T-3)Nookah(13) – Stafford, J.Smith, A.Smith, Monroe, Freeman @ #17(1), Harvin, Nicks

T-4)Falcon Devil(11) – Stafford, J.Smith, A.Smith, Jenkins, Freeman @ #17(1), Jerry

T-4)Dean21(11) – Stafford, J.Smith, A.Smith, Raji, Freeman @ #17(1), Jerry

5)Stirg(10) – Stafford, T.Jackson, Raji, Maybin, Nicks

T-6)yeahbaby(9) – Stafford, Raji, Jenkins, Freeman to TB(1), Wells

T-6)Seminole(9) – Stafford, T.Jackson, Raji, Jenkins, Freeman to TB(1)

T-7)WR(7) – Stafford, A.Smith, Harvin, Freeman @ #17(1)

T-7)dacha(7) – Stafford, Jenkins, Cushing, Freeman to TB(1)

8)irvin(6) – Stafford, A.Smith, Wells

So there you have it boys! Great, fun time with this for sure. Even though our mock competition is over, I’ll be coming up with some new competitions throughout the year.

Let me know of any errors. Congrats Reno!

VICK SUPPORTER 2

April 26th, 2009
10:53 am

GLAD TO SEE EVERYBODY SO HAPPY AND PRAISING THE LORD :) LETS SEE IF GOD’S GREATEST QB CAN GET A PLAYOFF WIN :)

GO FALCONS!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
10:58 am

Congrats Reno…well done my brother. Give the blood drawn, I am happy as hell with sixth place. D3, great leadership and work as always. I’ll get my revenge next year. And Reno does not get my Goldberg belt!! LOL.

Jason, the posse has you covered!! D O-Led has taken this thing to a whole new level. Like you, I’m blessed beyond belief with the presence of brothers like Stirg, Big Ray, D3, Nookah, K-Stirck, WR, JJ, and so many others here in the FALCON NATION. As always, if I missed anyone, remember nothing but love for you in the Teepee here.

Syrupmakers huh?? Well, Jason, I you need to roll 15 miles east along US 84 in September and watch my beloved THS Bulldogs lay the smack down on your Syrupmakers. Gents, this a man that knows football!! Welcome, bro!!

jason

April 26th, 2009
11:01 am

THS is always a WAR. As lond as we both lay the wood to Yellowjacket.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:04 am

Duke Robinson, Marcus Freeman, Tyrone McKenzie, Mike Mickens…all still on the board. So far, so good.

jason

April 26th, 2009
11:05 am

I like Wire, but don’t know if he is a starter for the whole year. Really want to see what nichols can do with a fair shake.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:05 am

Die hard football. Posse, if you EVER get to roll down south, you need to see what Jason and I are talking about. Highway 84 (minus TCCHS and the hated VHS) is where HS footbal rules in south Georgia.

ONE NATION…FALCON NATION!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:10 am

Darn it!! Tampa just took my man Roy Miller. K Stirck, Sammie is still there.

D3

April 26th, 2009
11:11 am

Two of our boys are gone: MJI(knew he wouldn’t last long), Shaugnessy, & Gilbert (ALL DE’s); looks might we might have to wait on a project @ DE this year in the mold of Zach Potter or someone similar

As for today, there are tons of guys on the board I’m looking forward to seeing what we’re going to do at the following positions:
CB, OLB, DE, WR, OL

OLB: Marcus Freeman, Tyrone McKenzie, Nic Harris, Kaluka Maiava, Lee Robinson, Phillip Hunt

CB: DJ Moore, Asher Allen, Coye Francis, Greg Toler, Kevin Barnes, Keenan Lewis, Brandon Underwood

DT: Roy Miller, Terrance Taylor, Sammie Hill, Terrance Knighton, Myron Pryor, Dorrell Scott

OT: Jamon Meredith, Jason Watkins, Lydon Murtha, Robert Brewster, Fenuki Tupuo, Ramon Foster, Andrew Gardners

OG: Duke Robinson, Herman Johnson, Louis Vasquez, Cornelius Lewis

DE: Zach Potter, Pannell Egboh, Pierre Walters, Rulon Davis

WR: Louis Murphy, Aaron Kelly, Jauguin Iglesias, Marko Mitchell, Ramses Barden, Mike Wallace

Roy Miller to the Bucs, F—-!

Men, I know we got Gonzalez, but it will be D@— tough to pass on Cook, Nelson, and Ingraham if one drops to the fourth.

jason

April 26th, 2009
11:12 am

Seminole, favorite Falcon. William Andrews, Bartkowski, second.

jason

April 26th, 2009
11:25 am

I like Cook at TE, but we have depth needs on D and OL in my opinion. I would love to have Big Duke playing G.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:25 am

Excellent point D3. I completely forgot about my man Shawn Nelson. He would be under no pressure, could learn from the best, and contribute on special teams while adding depth. Excellent analysis my bro…

Got to get Freeman here…with his versatility, he becomes a MAJOR steal here.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:33 am

BAP…Freeman or McKenzie at LB. We’ve got to strike.

jason

April 26th, 2009
11:34 am

Who are we looking at here? Big Duke, Cook, Nelson? Please give background on Nelson?

D3

April 26th, 2009
11:39 am

Here ya Jason, best website ever on draft and rankings. Go to position rankings and it gives a great breakdown on each player

http://www.draftcountdown.com

Seminole – it looks like your boy will be there. I say pull the trigger on Freeman as well.

Couple of our guys gone: Terrance Knighton, MJ, Matt Shaughnessy, Louis Vasquez, Ramses Barden, Asher Allen, Kevin Barnes, Roy Miller

JARED COOK GONE TO THE TITANS! Good pick for them.

D3

April 26th, 2009
11:39 am

WE’RE ON THE CLOCK BOYS!!!!!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
11:41 am

Duke Robinson, PLEASE!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
11:42 am

Who is Chritopher Owens?

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:43 am

Who is this guy? Christopher Owens. In TD, I trust.

D3

April 26th, 2009
11:43 am

Shocker guys………..Chris Owens?

Strengths:
Pretty good speed and quickness with a burst…Excellent instincts and awareness…Real tough for his size…Very aggressive…Willing in run support…Decent hands and ball skills…Durable…A ton of experience.

Weaknesses:
Does not have the height or bulk you look for…Isn’t very strong or physical…Poor tackler…Not a great leaper…Will struggle to match up with big wideouts..Didn’t always face top competition..Limited upside.

Notes:
A three-year starter for the Spartans…Always played second fiddle to either Dwight Lowery or Coye Francies in college…Named 2nd Team All-WAC in 2007 and 1st Team in 2008…Was a standout at the Texas vs. The Nation all-star game…Productive corner who just doesn’t have the size you look for…Profiles as a nickel or dime type at the pro level.

Marko

April 26th, 2009
11:43 am

Sorry I could’nt play yesterday, I was in a keyboard free zone Loved the picks When we got peria, Moore made perfect sense. The third round’s been brutal. All the guy’s I hoped Sorry I could’nt play yesterday, I was in a keyboard free zone Loved the picks When we got peria, Moore made perfect sense.All the players I’d would be there for us are falling like dominoes. My wish list is down to Marcus Freeman.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:44 am

What’s happening to McKenzie and Freeman? This is shocking that they both are falling like they are.

Marko

April 26th, 2009
11:47 am

Chris Owens? I didn’tt see that one coming.

D3

April 26th, 2009
11:47 am

Must fit the D-Zone scheme Smitty and BVG want to run really well. Probably a good dime-back at minimum for right now, pushing Jackson, Hutchins, & Houston to rotate at CB’s with Grimes and Owens rotating in the Nickel-Dime sets. Hard to believe we passed on Freeman and even DJ Moore’s still on the board.

But as most of us feel, “In TD We Trust!”

UpperDeck4Life

April 26th, 2009
11:48 am

Normally don’t post here, more on the hockey board, but I do lurk.

Anyways, why take Chris Owens over DJ Moore. They are both the same size, Owens has a little more speed, but Moore is definitely ready to step in this season and be productive. Owens looks like a project and special teamer and I would have rather gotten a corner that could help this season.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:49 am

If you believe the analysis on NFL.com, it appears that TD has struck gold again.

D3

April 26th, 2009
11:49 am

Chris Owens; Height: 5-93/4 | Weight: 181 | 40-Time: 4.51

UpperDeck4Life

April 26th, 2009
11:51 am

D3 I think Freeman is falling because of his injury history.I have seen him play a few times as well and his recognition skills are a bit slow. I’d like him to not take that extra second he always seems to take to figure things out. Usually is being blocked out by then.

jason

April 26th, 2009
11:53 am

4 picks left. G robinson, LB Freeman or Ellerbee, Maybe both. OT Herman Johnson. Maybe…

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:55 am

In TD I do trust. This guy appears to have been a shutdown in the pass happy WAC. In 37 starts, he allowed only ONE touchdown reception…WOW!

Still studying up on Owens but in TD I trust.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
11:57 am

Thanks for the insight Upper Deck. Freeman seemed to overcome his injuries but obviously TD and Smitty see something that is questioned. I like the kid and wish him the best. I think he will be a good one.

D3

April 26th, 2009
12:06 pm

Yeah, TD & Co. must know something that we don’t with us taking Owens over DJ Moore.

Seminole – sorry bro’ McKenzie goes to the Evil Empire
My boy Keenan Lewis just went to the Steel City Empire.
D@—!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
12:07 pm

The Patriot Way grabs McKenzie.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
12:08 pm

CLose the door on LBs this year.

JJ

April 26th, 2009
12:13 pm

Looks like the matrix scored again! Owens has some very good reviews: excellent run stuffer, good cover skills.

D3: agree, starts off in dime/nickel and adds comp. to Houston!

In TD we trust: I like it. They must like our current LB’s this yr.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
12:19 pm

Owens could beat out Houston given his physical play.

Jackson and Owens: Grimes and Hutchins at the reserve. Houston appears to be the odd man out though he will play this season. Not physically enough in the run game for this system.

Safety speed is DRAMATICALLY improved with Moore and Coleman.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
12:44 pm

Seminole Warrior, it looks like TD and staff anticipated this; thus, we signed Peterson. Behind the newcomer Jerry, I can live with Peterson, Lofton and Nicholas. We still got Wire, James and Gilbert.

jason

April 26th, 2009
12:49 pm

I still see LB talent available.Freeman, Harris, Ellerbee, Beckwith, Brinkley. One of those has to be able to come in on ST right away and project to a good solid backup.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
12:52 pm

Great point Stirg. So far, two of the three are starters this year. Good work if you ask me. And not only are they starters, they are IMPACT starters.

jason

April 26th, 2009
12:57 pm

I said earlier, I don’t know if Wire is a full time starter. James, totaly forgot about him; looks a little undersized also. The question is how much will playing time will Gilbert provide ATL this year. Peterson, Lofton, and Nichols look solid as starters. Outside of Wire, how does the LB depth look?

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
12:59 pm

I could like with the depth of Brinkley in the middle. I don’t know a lot about Gilbert. Wire is a backup at best; capable of some work at the point.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
1:02 pm

Detroit just took Hill at DT. They are really having a damned good draft.

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:05 pm

Seminole warrior, I like your thinking. Wire to undersized to be full time. Gilbert has been in the league 5 Years; never noticed him other than ST, and that he played at UGA. Brinkley could back up middle, and Lofton will be able to fill the Mike or Sam if need be. ATL LBs will be verstile if nothing else. The starters will be solid if not spetacular.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
1:14 pm

Detroit is having the most outstanding draft (still can agree with Stafford, though).

jason, Wire could be the starter but its going to be competitive at the position. Wire and James are both SAM players; however, Peterson has played there too. So, if Wire or James won’t work out for the strongside position, Peterson can hold it down, I’m sure. Nicholas is a natural at weakside. Although he played some strongside last year, he looked lost at times. Gilbert is a beast and is near ’bout ready to start.

Lets not forget that Coach Smith said all our linebackers are “interchangeable”. I think, with our scheme, we are safe with our current linebacker corps.

Danm, Chip Vaughn is gone.

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:25 pm

That’s why i’m here to get the info. How goog was Gilbert in JAX ?

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:25 pm

My bad. How good was he in JAX?

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
1:28 pm

Round four…we are on deck. OL Depth here?

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
1:29 pm

I concur. I say we go after The Duke.

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:30 pm

Hoping it will be Duke also.

D3

April 26th, 2009
1:30 pm

Wow, Shawn Nelson drops all the way to the fourth round, pick 121. Did he drop like a stone or what?

Unfortunate losses:
Chip Vaughn – Saints
Roy Miller – Bucs
Sherrod Martin – Panthers

Sidbury………..HELL YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
1:31 pm

Lawrence Sidbury! Good one. He can swing from OLB to a situational defensive end. TD is on a role.

Marko

April 26th, 2009
1:31 pm

Duke looks like a helluva value here.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
1:31 pm

Depth at the DE position…I’m OK with it.

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:32 pm

Well, there is your LB and DE all in one.

WR

April 26th, 2009
1:33 pm

Seminole, I agree, for the first time in a while things are looking up for the Lion’s, I’m not a fan of Detroit but I have to give them credit their draft is shaping up nicely. The Jets are looking strong, along with some nice moves by the Eagles, but no one is out doing the evil empire. No team in the NFC South is doing anything major that stands out, and with Tampa stockpiling QB’s I worry even less about them, I mean if it was college and you could move a QB to RB,CB,or safety or something I would understand.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
1:33 pm

Two coming up in round five. Here is where the OL depth comes into play. I can’t believe Duke is still there. What the H….?

He must have had a horrible workout and interview when he came to town.

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:33 pm

3 picks left, DT and 2 OL ? Will Duke be there in round 5?

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
1:34 pm

Going to escape for about twenty minutes, fellows. Got to run to the drug store and restock on some meds. This draft is making my heart weak.

I’ll try to be back before fifth round. Hold the fort down, Warrior.

Marko

April 26th, 2009
1:36 pm

Does anybody else think that might be a memo for Jamaal to wake up and smell the coffee.

WR

April 26th, 2009
1:38 pm

On a sour note, I’m more of a football fan than a basketball fan, but can the Falcons just loan TD to the Hawks for a couple of weeks. I know some people will disagree because they improved their win total but I believe Mike Woodson has to go, Dwayne Wade has nothing to do with your team having 29 points at halftime and looking thoroughly lost. Just had to get that off my chest, now back to the Falcons and the draft.

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:40 pm

Duke Robinson and either Herman Johnson or Ricky Jean-Francios in the 5th

Marko

April 26th, 2009
1:40 pm

Seminole,I’ve got to give credit. You nailed the strategy even if you missed a little bit on a couple of the pieces.

dacha

April 26th, 2009
1:43 pm

what up, boys!!!??? I’ve been away from the comp. all morning, so y’all feel me in!

Chrisopher Owens: Seems to be a real tough kid that could give Houston a run for his spot.
Lawrence Sidbury: What a great find by TD!! Smart, Talentted, Explosive…Jamaal, do you get the memo???

jason

April 26th, 2009
1:49 pm

With sidbury, could we see Anderson moving to DT permently?

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
1:53 pm

Thanks Marko. It was one of my worst drafts for sure but like ATL after Sherman, I too will rise again. And yes, this is a make or break year for Jamaal. I think he will respond after another year of work with the Sugar Bear.

Stirg, we will hold it down until you return.

WR, on target. Woodson has lost this team. Avery Johnson is out there.

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:01 pm

Wow, did we get a steal or what? Sidbury in the 4th round, to add to what we already got? He was projected to go in the 2nd or 3rd round and listed as the 8th best DE in the draft by draftcountdown.com. Projected ahead of Projects as a DE or OLB. Perfect Hybrid. Could add depth to SAM or join the competition either for J.Anderson/C.Davis spot, compete with Biermann as Abraham’s backup, or even work his way into the OLB rotation. Great value, great pick.

Height: 6-23/8 | Weight: 266 | 40-Time: 4.64
56 Tackles, 20 Tackles for Loss, 11.5 Sacks

Strengths:
Very athletic…Good bulk…Has extremely long arms…Excellent timed speed…Really quick with a burst…Can be a force off the edge…Great mobility and range…Terrific motor…Does a nice job in pursuit…Has big hands…Versatile…Team leader…Productive…Has a ton of upside.

Weaknesses:
A bit shorter than you’d prefer…Doesn’t play as fast as he times…Not an elite pass rusher…Does not have a wide array of moves…Has some trouble getting off blocks…Doesn’t use his hands well…Not real strong or powerful…Is just average versus the run…Low level of competition.

Let’s add Duke Robinson and Terrance Taylor in the 5th and follow up with WR Aaron Kelly in the 6th and take it to the house.

Another masterful job TD. Just like last year, not getting all the “sizzle” as other teams on ESPN. But rocking it out of the house.

Do the Patriots realize that they can only carry 53 players? They just traded Ellis Hobbs to the Eagles.

Agreed guys, the Lions are having a H—- of a draft.

Stafford, Pettigrew, Delmas,DT Sammie Hill, WR Derrick Williams, OLB Deandre Levy.

1)Peria Jerry – DT
2)William Moore – S
3)Chris Owens – CB
4)Lawrence Sidbury Jr. – OLB/DE

Nice!!!!!!

D.Ellis

April 26th, 2009
2:02 pm

Crab Apple JOe-Moore was a projected 1rst round pick last year if he had decided to come out….and on a few boards was a TOP 10-15 pick projected last year. He hurt his foot his senior year…which in turn hurt his draft status for this year. Basically you got 1rst round talent and playmaking ability in 2008……with the 2nd round pick in 2009.

Don’t laugh to hard

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:02 pm

In Round 4 on day 2, Falcons finally getting some love on ESPN.

dacha

April 26th, 2009
2:03 pm

DUKE! DUKE! DUKE!

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:04 pm

Back on the clock boys! Rd 5, Pick 138

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
2:08 pm

If DUKE isn’t there I suggest CORNELIUS LEWIS from TENNESSEE STATE. BTW I see the coaching staff was listening to my drum-beat on SIDBURY. You won’t be sorry. This young man is going to favorably impress. With 4.64 40 speed those long arms and huge hands, FALCONS fans will be cheering hopefully for years to come. GREG TOLER unfortunately went off the board right behind LAWRENCE, but look at DON CAREY CB from NORFOLK STATE 6′1″ 180 in the latest round. Good potential, not quite as gifted as TOLER, but can become a good nickel back.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:08 pm

Clearly, a message is being sent to a player. But the player the message is being sent to is not Jamaal Anderson. It is Chris Houston.

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
2:10 pm

I mean round 7 re: CAREY.

jason

April 26th, 2009
2:10 pm

I think Arkanas better watch out for TD. If they don’t produce the Hogs will strung up on a stick.

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:10 pm

Mike Smith (ESPN Commentator) breaking down the Falcons picks:

“All common denominators of the guys they’ve drafted: great intensity, great character, great toughness.”

5a) William Middleton – CB

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter awarded All-America and all-Conference honors last season. Posted career numbers of 95/4/9 as a senior when he also added 8.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. Junior numbers included 53/3/6. Accomplished kick returner who averaged 23.1 yards on 25 returns as a sophomore, bringing one back for a score.

POSITIVES: Adequately sized cornerback with potential in dime packages. Quick flipping his hips off the line, displays a sense of timing, and has a solid burst to the ball out of his break. Possesses a good burst of closing speed, works hard to break up the pass or defend the run. Plays heads-up football, shows a sense of timing, and works well with safeties.

NEGATIVES: Prefers to side shuffle down the field rather than backpedal. Marginal top end speed and struggles staying downfield with fast opponents.

ANALYSIS: Middleton is an aggressive corner who works hard to get involved in the action. Although his physical skills are nothing extraordinary, Middleton is a solid football player with a real chance to make it as a team?s eighth defensive back.

5′9.5, 175, 4.52

D.Ellis

April 26th, 2009
2:12 pm

Another CB-Much needed depth for sure in the DBackfield. Alot of guys in those spots on our roster being put on notice as SUSPECT

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:14 pm

Except for Chevis Jackson and Von Hutchins, all of our current CB’s are on notice: Chris Houston, Brent Grimes, David Irons, Antoine Harris, Jammal Fudge.

I will be shocked if we don’t grab an OL with our next pick coming up 2 picks from now.

VICK SUPPORTER 2

April 26th, 2009
2:18 pm

IT’S AMAZING THAT YOU CAN’T HOLD A DRAFT SHOW WITHOUT TALKING ABOUT THE LEGENDARY MIKE VICK :) THE GREAT MIKE VICK HAS NOT LACED UP FOR 2 SEASONS AND THE DRAFT SHOW DID A WHOLE SEGMENT ON MV7 – AMAZING THAT A GUY THAT SUCKS GETS SO MUCH NATIONAL ATTENTION :)

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT, THE DRAFT EXPERTS MADE THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT:

MIKE VICK TOOK THE “WHOLE” ATLANTA FRANCHISE ON HIS BACK AND PUT THEM ON THE MAP!

THEY ALSO HIGHLIGHTED THAT AMAZING ROAD “PLAYOFF” WIN IN GREEN BAY AND THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME IN 2004. REAL PEOPLE WHO KNOW ABOUT “REAL” FOOTBALL IS SAYING EVERYTHING I HAVE BEEN SAYING — AMAZING :)

DONT WORRY GUYS, THE GREAT MIKE VICK WILL BE MAKING A HOUSE CALL TO THE DOME AND SHRED THIS WEAK TEAM A PART.

ENJOY THE SHOW :)

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:19 pm

D3, He will be in the mix as a reserve DE.

I think I have the LB corps situation figured out. Follow me here:

Biermann and James will continue to work this season in reserve roles and on special teams, each gaining more playing time. Next season, both will have another year experience and another year of the conditioning program. Add TEN pounds to each over the next year. Given James’ pedigree at Arizona, there is your WLB. And given his speed and ability to blitz from the outside, Biermann is your SLB.

TD is a genius. Late round guys who are adaptable to what we want to do. The Patriot Way moves south to Peachtree.

Thoughts?

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:20 pm

Next to last pick: who will it be boys? Just pull the trigger on the hometown boy, “The Duke”

dacha

April 26th, 2009
2:22 pm

we’re trading!

J-Mo

April 26th, 2009
2:23 pm

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:24 pm

A trade with Dallas…Could this be the MV move? Stand by.

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:25 pm

Just traded our pick to the Cowboys. Hopefully accumulated a pick.

Seminole – I’ve thought that about Biermann myself. Definitely agree with that, but I wouldn’t count out Sidbury to get in the mix at OLB. He projects as a perfect OLB/DE. Sidbury and Biermann give us a lot options to move to some 3-4 looks. Don’t know about James. 5′10 is pretty d@— short for an outside LB, JMO.

J-Mo

April 26th, 2009
2:28 pm

Looks like we traded back 13 spots in the 5th round, and picked up the First pick in the 7th round

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:29 pm

Nope…WE traded down and got one in the seventh round. Smooth move TD.

jason

April 26th, 2009
2:31 pm

I see now. ATL ends and OLBs are pretty much interchangable. Bierman, Sidbury, and to some extent Abraham.Anderson can play pretty much all 4 DL spots. Versatility is the name of the game when you want to play both the 3/4 and the 4/3. Even helps in you go nickel and dime with the 3 man rush.

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
2:33 pm

Man, I just tuned in if you can believe that.

RICHBRAVE-Congradulations, we got your man LSidbury, and like you I was really hoping that would happen.

SEMINOLEWARRIOR-if moving TClabo inside in their goal, we can do it easily by moving OT RFoster to RT. Remember how pitiful our rushing OFF was under RPetrino? Do you also remember how our overall OFF drastically improved, especially our rushing OFF, when Emmitt Thomas became interim HC? He reinstated RG JBlalock as a starter, who Petrino had demoted, and made RFoster and QOjinnaka the starting RT and LT respectively. Only when RFoster suffered a season ending injury was TClabo switched to OT. So, if Clabo is switched to RG and say RFoster takes over his RT spot, we’ll have a big, strong athletic OL that can get physical with anybody.

JASON-Sidbury will most likely be groomed to replace OLB MPeterson. In the meantime, he’ll likely be our designated pass rusher opposite DE JAbraham. He provides up with options if Abraham goes down. With him, we can use CDavis and JAnderson as starters and bring in KBiermann and LSidbury on passing downs. With the penetrating/pass rushing ability of DT’s PJerry, TLewis and JBabineaux, there won’t be much of a pocket for QB’s to step into whhile trying to avoid outside pressure from JAbraham and/or LSidbury. When your DL can contain the run and also rush the QB, your LB’s and safeties will be free to read and make plays.

jason

April 26th, 2009
2:35 pm

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:35 pm

D3, it does give us considerable flexibility. I think that they both could easily make the transition to OLB. James simply can play.

Remember Jesse “The Hammer” Tuggle was only 5′11″. We know how heart and drive won over in that case. James has that heart. I’m not saying he is Tuggle-class but there is a ton of heart there.

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
2:44 pm

Taking another CB shows TD and Smitty aren’t comfortable having 3 of last yrs DB’s coming of IR.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:45 pm

You got it Jason.

X-cellent point, K-Stirck. I forgot all about that. Anything related to “The CON-artist formerly known as Coach Petrino” is as bad a memory for me as my ex-wife.

Foster was doing a fine job until he was hurt. And he can play BOTH tackle positions so there is that key word again….VERSATILITY!!!

Sidbury, James, and Biermann. CONSIDERABLE steals at this point and looking ahead. In TD I trust!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:50 pm

Hey K-Stirck, on a personal note (and forgive me if this is not the time or place), how did the house hunting go?

Would love to have the ENTIRE posse meet at the BIRDS NEST at least once this season for a meet and greet. A group this intense and this focus has to get together at least once a year!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:52 pm

Common thread among the DBs taken: 1) Physical 2) Aggressive 3) All can hold their own on an island.

TD is wicked I tell ya!!

dacha

April 26th, 2009
2:54 pm

The Duke is stil there…can he remains for a few more slots?

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:57 pm

Another small school hidden gem?

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
2:58 pm

FS/SS Courtney Greene. Depth and versatility at safety and on special teams. I would take him here.

dacha

April 26th, 2009
2:59 pm

man, there goes freeman! darn, Bears…

D3

April 26th, 2009
2:59 pm

Seminole – what a great idea on meeting up. You know I’m in. You live here in the ATL? I’m just outside here in TBrown’s hometown. True point on James. His nickname was the beast, after all.

What’s the deal with Duke Robinson? There were projections that had him going in the 2nd round. Draft looking great so far. Now that we added another pick, we can pick up an OL, big ol’ DT, and WR

5)Duke Robinson – OG
6)Myron Pryor – DT
7)Aaron Kelly – WR

5th pick coming up next………..

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
3:01 pm

Well while I was on the computor, the FALCONS drafted a second CB so no further need of CAREY. Try LEWIS at OG.

dacha

April 26th, 2009
3:03 pm

I say The Duke or Morrah. What do y’all think?

D3

April 26th, 2009
3:06 pm

Looks good from the periphery………..

Garrett Reynolds/OT
Height: 6-7′5/8 | Weight: 309 | 40-Time: 5.41

Strengths:
Huge frame with long arms…Physical and aggressive…Violent initial punch…Gets a nice push in the run game…Technically sound…Terrific awareness…Fantastic motor…Has lots of experience…Nice bloodlines.

Weaknesses:
Marginal athleticism…Isn’t very light on his feet…Not a natural knee bender…Doesn’t use proper leverage…Has trouble protecting the edge against speed..Not real mobile…Struggles in space…Must get stronger.

Notes:
Was a three-year starter in the ACC…Uncle, Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds played 15 seasons in the NFL…His father, Art, was a linebacker at Tennessee…Played as a backup for the Tar Heels as a true freshman in 2005…Started seven games in 2006, including six at right tackle and one at right guard…Took over a full-time starting job at right tackle in 2007…Was named 2nd Team All-ACC as a senior…Big overachiever with average physical tools but could surprise based on his intangibles

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:07 pm

Hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!! Oh, thw wrong Hacksaw.

Depth at the right tackle position behind Clabo. I’m okay with this especially if Clabo moves on next season which I pray he does not. As K-Stirck pointed out, Clabo and Foster were quite a tandem.

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
3:09 pm

KEN STRICK:

CONGRATS go to the ATLANTA fans. I really think you’ll like what you see frm my fellow alum SIDBURY. Too bad TOLER went off the board right after. Whoever got him has a starting CB in the next three years. Still recommending LEWIS OG and NEWTON C from TENNESSEE STATE. Frankly, I think LEWIS looked better due to NEWTON’s play, but CECIL is small by NFL standards. Everything I’ve read on him says he’s a great drive blocker. Strong from the waist down. But CORNELIUS has NFL caliber size for a guard. We’ll see soon enough anyway.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:09 pm

The Hacksaw reference is to the fact that Reynolds’ uncle was Jack “Hacksaw” Reynolds of LA Ram fame. Now, there was a player!!

Rocked the Falcons many a day at the old A/FC Stadium when we were in the old NFC West.

D3

April 26th, 2009
3:11 pm

Not flashy, per ESPN, but looking like a D@— great draft boys. Give it a A- max, B+ min.

1)Peria Jerry – DT
2)William Moore – S
3)Chris Owens – CB
4)Lawrence Sidbury Jr. – OLB/DE
5a)William Middleton – CB
5b)Garrett Reynolds – OT

Still got two more picks as well. Great to be an Atlanta Falcons Fan!

dacha

April 26th, 2009
3:20 pm

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:20 pm

D3, I’m 100 miles south of ATl but I am in the city so often that I could have an address…LOL. Will roll at any time so I say we can go for it.

I’m with you on the overall draft. We hit and filled a need on EVERY single point of order. And given the flexibility we have found, the “weaknesses” we may have are not so weak any more. GRADE: A VERY High B++ to A- (88 -92% on a scale of 100 points)

Now, I would target what could, if healthy and he checks out, the STEAL of the draft. What do we have to lose now if we go after Freeman?

jason

April 26th, 2009
3:23 pm

Seminole Warrior, Freeman went to the Bears. I am a homer so I will settle for Elerbee.

jason

April 26th, 2009
3:25 pm

Or, Duke, Herman Johnson, or Jean-francios,or Wynn

jason

April 26th, 2009
3:26 pm

Nevermind, the duke just went to Carolina

D3

April 26th, 2009
3:26 pm

Bummer…………The Duke goes to the hated Panthers

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:28 pm

The Panthers just took the Duke.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:30 pm

Two more picks…more depth. But where? More OL…special teamers. I’m researching.

jason

April 26th, 2009
3:35 pm

Bye Herman Johnson (ARZ)

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:36 pm

FS/SS Otis Wiley: VERY versatile out of Michigan State. Excelled as a FS, SS, and punt returner. Also can play the nickel corner.
Solid value pick.

jason

April 26th, 2009
3:38 pm

Jean-francios, Beckwith, Ellerbee, Favorite. Think its best player on the board, or depth and developement at this point.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
3:40 pm

SLEEPER ALERT: Small school TE Jared Bronson of Central Washington.

6′ 4″ 4.65 40. Nice combo of size and speed. Works the seams as well as being able to break along the sideline. Fair blocker with room to grow. Could be a special team for a couple of years, learning behind TG.

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
3:41 pm

SEMINOLEWARRIOR-Thanks for asking, and everything is on hold as far as the house is concerned. In the current market, most banks and mortgage companies won’t finance a purchase that’s less than 70K. The stroke I had forced me to retire early and it also caused me to incur a lot of debt. There aren’t many available houses in that price range that can pass VA, or even FHA inspection. I’m debating whether to go with a FHA 203K loan, which has a much higher interest rate and would require me to use most of my savings to pay the downpayment and closing costs.

I’ll make it work somehow because I’m determined to overcome the problems caused as a result of having the stroke. It’s rough being on a fixed income and being virtually unemployable with no way to earn extra money. Anyway, enough about me, let’s take football

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
3:49 pm

Just now checking in (yes, I know I’m late as hell), but I had to stay up all night with a fussy baby, so I’m just now climbing out of bed. The wife has had the dubious duty for the last several hours.

Really glad to see us pick up Sidbury. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him groomed for an OLB job, and the kid has some serious speed. He could also play DE in spots, but he might be a tad short for that. Again, lots of speed and a high motor! Great pick by TD!

I see we stocked up on CB as well. Like SeminoleWarrior says, I think there’s a message being sent to Chris Houston and some other guys in the secondary.

And I have to say it again: y’all are going to LOVE William Moore!

dacha

April 26th, 2009
4:02 pm

isn’t that the first hurricane??

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
4:03 pm

K Stirck, Keep the faith bro. The Master has a plan for us all.

We just took a LB from Miami. Spencer Adkins…

Big Ray, welcome bro. Hope the baby is old enough to model that Willam Moore jersey you will buy him/her. LOL.

jason

April 26th, 2009
4:03 pm

Any info on Adkins

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:07 pm

Spencer Adkins? Gotta dive into the net and find out who this guy is…

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:09 pm

LOL @ SeminolWarrior… :)

He’ll have a plethora of Falcons jerseys to choose from.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:11 pm

Spencer Adkins, ILB, Miami
Height: 5-11. Weight: 230.
Projected 40 Time: 4.50.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.48.
Benchx225: 30. Vertical: 36.5.
Projected Round (2009): 6-7.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
4:22 pm

More depth. Can’t find much on this young man.

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
4:30 pm

I’m okay with it from a depth standpoint. In TD I trust.

UpperDeck4Life

April 26th, 2009
4:36 pm

Sorry, went to the G-Braves game and been following the draft by phone. Really like the DE out of Richmond, but where does that leave Bierman? I thought he did a good job last season and with Davis resigned where does the playing time come for 3 pash rush specialist?

Not sure about the second CB taken or the LB from Miami. But as Seminole said in TD we should trust.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:44 pm

SeminoleWarrior,

Adkins played for the U of Miami. Strong and fast is what I’m getting. From Scout.com:

Biography:
One of the top defensive prospects in the state for the upcoming class. He finished his junior year with 80 tackles and 12 sacks, including a great performance in the state title game. Adkins bench presses 375, squats 505 and has a vertical jump of 37 inches.

Scouting Report:Adkins dominates his competition with an incredibly quick first step. He uses his hands really well and knows how to make a lot of big plays in the backfield. He’s a 10.7 100m kid, showing off his blazing speed and quickness.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:49 pm

And from SI.com:

BIOGRAPHY: Part-time starter the past two seasons lining up at both defensive end and linebacker. Totals last season included 20/6/4 after 52/3/1 as a junior.

POSITIVES: Athletic defensive prospect with an incomplete game. Displays good sideline-to-sideline range, fluid pedaling in reverse and covers a good amount of area on the field. Breaks down well, effectively uses his hands to protect himself, and stout at the point of attack. Forceful up the field in run defense and fluid changing direction.

NEGATIVES: Displays hesitation in his game and slow reacting to the action. Marginally productive at Miami and never met expectations.

ANALYSIS: After breakout junior campaign in 2007, Adkins was unable to build on that momentum last season. He is more athlete than football player at this point, and he needs to improve almost every aspect of his game. At the very least, Adkins should be stashed on a practice squad for future development possibilities.

PROJECTION: Free Agent

Here’s my opinion: Good coaching can overcome a lot, especially if the physical tools and intangibles are there (and the physical part is definitely there, though we know nothing of his level of awareness and instincts). Maybe this guy becomes nothing more than a good, solid performer on special teams. But even in that, there is value.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:55 pm

Y’all should read the player profiles on the draft tracker at SI.com

They seem to be the most complete ones I can find. The write up on Chris Owens makes me feel even better about the pick, though like my Falcon Brethren….I trust Dimitroff and Smith.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:56 pm

Here’s an example:

Christopher Owens
SELECTED BY: Falcons Round 3 (26) SI Grade3.57GRADING SYSTEM

Position:
CB Class:
Senior School:
San Jose State Conference:
WAC Ht., Wt.:
5-9.5, 181 40 Time:
4.48

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter awarded all-Conference honors the past two seasons. Senior totals included 68/1/8 after 75/6/3 as a junior.

POSITIVES: Tough, productive cornerback with skills for the next level. Quick pedaling in reverse, fluid turning his hips in transition, and does an outstanding job reading receivers eyes and then getting his head back around to locate the ball. Displays a sense of timing, quickly closes to the action, and effectively gets a hand in to deflect away passes. Shows ability backed off the line of scrimmage or in zone. Remains disciplined with assignments and displays a good sense of overall awareness. Physical, jams opponents at the line of scrimmage, and will mix it up throughout the round or comes up the field and voluntarily defends the run.

NEGATIVES: Has a thin build and is outmatched by larger receivers. Not a sturdy cornerback, and struggles getting off blocks to make plays against screen passes.

ANALYSIS: Owens is a solid prospect who possesses good ball skills and wherewithal on the field. Owens may start his NFL career as a dime back yet has the tools necessary to see extensive playing time as a rookie and could eventually develop into a starter at the next level.

PROJECTION: Fourth Round

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:58 pm

And THIS explains the SI.Com “Grading System” :

6.0 to 5.00 — Franchise Prospect — A player who can change the course of a game and a consistent performer. Multiple Pro-Bowl possibilities and top ten selection. Top five pick and very rare.

4.99 to 4.10 — Quality Prospect — Someone that consistently gives good performances. Occasional Pro-Bowl appearances.

4.09 to 3.75 — First-Year Contributor — Prospect that has the ability to make plays from the get-go and start early into his rookie season.

3.74 to 3.45 — Future Starter — A good athlete that must learn to be a football player or someone who is an “overachiever”. Quality prospect with long term potential

3.44 to 3.35 — Fence Player — Prospect on the fence that has the skills and abilities to succeed but needs time and patience to develop those skills to the fullest.

3.34 to 2.99 — Practice Squad — Late-round player that must develop his talents on the practice squad and NFL Europe.

2.98 to 2.40 — Free Agent — Player who will make a 60 or 80 man roster.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
4:59 pm

BIOGRAPHY: Two-year starter awarded all-Conference honors since his junior season and named as an all American last year. Finished his senior campaign with 56/20/11.5 after 48/8.5/5 the prior year.

POSITIVES: Explosive college pass rusher with the athleticism needed to be used at several positions in the defensive front seven. Fluid, plays with great pad level, and rarely off his feet. Displays good first set step quickness, the ability to move in all directions of the field, and possesses a burst of speed. Fights with his hands to keep defenders off him, immediately alters his angle of attack and loses little momentum when he must change direction. Fast off the edge, can flatten his angle of attack, then pursue from the back side. Fights with his hands and jolts defenders with violent punch to protect himself.

NEGATIVES: Struggles getting off blocks once engaged at the point, gets caught up in the wash moving laterally, and shows hesitation to his game. Primarily asked to make plays up the field and rarely used in space.

ANALYSIS: Sidbury Jr. has shown great progress in his all-around game the past two years, and he is a pass-rushing terror who creates a lot of havoc up the field. He has the size and skill to line up in a three-point stance in a conventional alignment, or stand up over left tackle in and 3-4 defense. It may be necessary to put him in a system where he’s not asked to read and react much, rather a scheme that allows him to pin his ears back and rush up the field.

PROJECTION: Second/Third Round

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
5:02 pm

Garrett Reynolds
SELECTED BY: Falcons Round 5 (20) SI Grade3.34GRADING SYSTEM

Position:
T Class:
Senior School:
North Carolina Conference:
ACC Ht., Wt.:
6-7.5, 309 40 Time:
5.41

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter used at both right tackle and guard. All-Conference selection as a senior.

POSITIVES: Strong, nasty blocker best in a small-area or straight ahead. Plays with good knee bend, stays square, and keeps defenders in front of him. Attacks assignments, displays excellent hand punch, and gets movement. Fights hard and blocks with a nasty attitude. Keeps his head on a swivel, and displays good awareness.

NEGATIVES: Lumbers about the field, lacks footwork and lateral blocking range. Inflexible, struggles to adjust or finish blocks. Haphazard in his movements, and has difficulty the further off the line he is required to block.

ANALYSIS: Reynolds offers terrific size and plays to it on the field. He’s a marginal athlete and lacks the great upside, yet he understands the offensive line position, and he offers possibilities as a utility blocker who can be placed at guard or tackle.

PROJECTION: Sixth/Seventh Round

SeminoleWarrior

April 26th, 2009
5:10 pm

I have no issues with any of the selections to date. We are looking good. In TD I trust.

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
5:43 pm

SEMINOLEWARRIOR-thanks for the encouragement. I’m excited about us getting 3 potential starters, DT PJerry, OLB/DE LSidbury and SS WMoore, out of 7 picks in this draft. 2 of the 3, DT PJerry and SS WMoore, could end up starting this yr. PEOPLE, THAT AIN’T BAD AT ALL.

There’s going to be some serious competition in training camp for starting positions at DT(PJerry, TLewis, JBabineaux), CB(VHutchins, BGrimes, CJackson, DIrons, COwens, WMiddleton), OLB(CWire, SNicholas & possibly LSidbury), DE(JAnderson, CDavis, KBiermann, possibly LSidbury) and SS(WMoore, TDeCoud, AHarris). Regardless of who wins, we’ll end up with a ton of talent and depth at those positions.

Offensively, we’ll have WR’s RWhite(PB) & MJenkins, RB MTurner(PB), FB OMughelli(potential PB), QB MRyan(PB) and TE TGonzalez(PB). (PB) means Probowler. Our OFF is going to be very hard for any DEF to contain. SS TDeCoud, AHarris or WMoore will provide a tremendous improvement over former SS LMalloy. DT TLewis or PJerry will provide an almost immeasurable upgrade over former DT GJackson. The additions of DT PJerry, OLB/DE LSidbury, SS WMoore and the return of DT TLewis could cause our DEF to go through the same type of tranformation our OFF went through last yr.

IT’S NOT THE NFL’s 4TH TOUGHEST SCHEDULE THE FALCONS NEED TO WORRY ABLOUT. THE TEAMS ON THAT 4TH TOUGHEST SCHEDULE NEED TO WORRY ABOUT THE FALCONS.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
5:45 pm

Fellows, should we go after Sheldon Brown? He seems to be unhappy with Phili and wants a trade, TODAY! He sure would look good, back there with William Moore, E Coleman, Jackson and Houston

UpperDeck4Life

April 26th, 2009
5:50 pm

I really like the pick of Vance Walker in the 7th round. Not a DT for QB pressure but a good depth player against the run. Doesn’t rush well, but with Lewis, Jerry, and Babineaux, makes up a very good Tackle rotation.

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
6:10 pm

Well CAREY didn’t make it to the seventh round, LEWIS and NEWTON have. I saw LEWIS being showcased at 203 on ESPN but not picked.

What I’ve read says the FALCONS got good value for the seventh pick. A DT, now I’ve forgotten his name while typing this, but could develop into a starter over time. I like the birds’ GM better all the time.

CERRATO is just a “yes” bag-man for SNYDER. Only a weasel could work under those conditions just for the money.

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
6:23 pm

So RAY:

Like what you see of my fellow alum SIDBURY? I’ve seen a lot of him and met him on two occasions. A very impressive young man both on and off the field. Believe me, he’s not slow on the uptake of direction both in the classroom and on the football field. He minored in Mathematics, and loves Statistics.

BTW, excuse my abandoning the HAWKS momentarily. I was surprised as I imagine you were to see them lose game three.

Nookah

April 26th, 2009
6:53 pm

What up guys? Just checking in. In fact I checked in some time ago but had to get caught up on the posts. Prefer to do that rather than posting what someone said before. I also had to look up the picks we have so far. My conclusion, which is similar to the sentiments being expressed here, is that we had a pretty good draft. I was especially happy with Jerry, Moore, Sidbury and Reynolds. I spotted Reynolds a couple of weeks ago while doing some research for some lower round gems and actually named him in my Falcons draft. I liked his nastiness and that’s what we want to enhance the running attack.

Ain’t the Dynamic Duo great? Don’t forget, kudos to the Scouting Team. TD could not do it alone. We have a good thing working in FALCON NATION!!!

Reno 911, congrats my brother, you did great. I was happy to pick up the bronze.

All my other bretheren, good to hear from all of you.

I rather like that suggestion about meeting once per year. Man that would be so great!!!!

Go Falcons!!!

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

WE’RE GONNA ROCK THE WORLD!!!!!

Nookah

April 26th, 2009
6:56 pm

D LED, nuff respect my brother. You’ve started an epidemic soon to become a pandemic…..it’s called……………………………….. FALCON FLU!!!!

TO THE REST OF THE FOOTBALL WORLD,……….CATCH IT BEFORE IT CATCHES YOU!!!!!

Go FALCONS!!!

Nuff respect everytime!!!

J-MAN

April 26th, 2009
7:51 pm

We need to go after Boutherland and Elllerby from UGA in free agency and get more depth and see what happens

J-MAN

April 26th, 2009
7:51 pm

We need to go after Southerland and Elllerby from UGA in free agency and get more depth and see what happens

D3

April 26th, 2009
8:19 pm

Its all complete Gentleman, What a Ride! Starting several months ago, we were on here coming with theories, draft patterns, studs, gems, depth, analysis, and of course our mocks. Its been a ton of fun and has become one of my favorite hobbies. I second Seminoles proposal that we all try to meet up at some point, have a few brews, and even maybe try to hit a game this year. I know it’ll be difficult due to us being all scattered across the country, but we should at least entertain the idea at some point.

Who’s got the methadone(withdrawal medication), since our big event is over. What we’ve formed here in the Bird-Cage, we need to keep it going, even if our AJC Brethren won’t give us a good fan blog, we’ll just use D-Led’s blog. I got some good ideas to keep us going through this upcoming dry spell, and of course DOL’s been rockin’ it out as well. To the draft…….later, once I finish the last BS, GD, MF’n project.

dacha

April 26th, 2009
8:28 pm

Dear Thomas Dimitroff,

You are my hero! Way to go with another highly successful draft that has put us one step closer to a SUPER BOWL!

To all of my Bird-Cage Brethren,

This ride has been incredible and definitely the most anticipated draft that I have ever experienced. Now that it is over, I fear that I will start having football withdrawal. Way to go, D3 with all of the work you put into the mocks and all of the future competitions that I am sure you will head up. Big-Time Kudos to Reno for winning the Red Stripe!

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
8:28 pm

RICHBRAVE-didn’t I tell yuo if any of us can come with a gem in this draft, TD and Smitty will have him on their radar. Now your man LSidbury is ours. I think the reason DT PJerry fell into our lap is because so many teams are now switching to the 3-4 DEF and they don’t think he’s a fit at NT and he’s too short to play DE in that DEF. Whatever, I’m glad we got him. The thing that puzzles me is the Steelers drafting DT ZHood because I think they use the 3-4 DEF and he’s not a NT either.

How much did the Saints improve their DEF? Did they draft anyone that will help a pass rush that was so poor DE JAbraham registered more sacks than their entire DEF? The fact is, none of our division rivals drafted an impact player or a player that will likely make their starting lineup. That’s very important when you consider neither of these teams could defeat us in our 2nd meeting. What chance will they have with our upgraded OFF and DEF. WE WILL WIN THE NFC SOUTH.

JJ

April 26th, 2009
8:30 pm

That’s a wrap for 2009 NFL DRAFT 2009!

The matrix did well (B++/A–), now the real debate begins!

Thanks everybody for a great weekend, LET’S GET STARTED!!!!!

So much info we have to discuss, esp. coach ken.

D3: GOOD JOB BROTHER!!!

How ’bout a meet n greet at mini-camp—before summer hits 95 deg.?

Thanks guys, I’m out.

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
8:51 pm

KEN STRICK:

I would be on the phone to CORNELIUS LEWIS and CECIL NEWTON right now about FA offer.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
8:53 pm

Red Alert! Red Alert! Seattle Seahawks just lifted the franchise tag on Leroy Hill. HE IS NOW A FREE AGENT. I case you don’t know who Leroy Hill is, he’s an outside linebacker from Clemson; He went to Super Bowl XL. Guess where he’s from? Georgia.

WE MUST PULL THE TRIGGER!!!

D3

April 26th, 2009
9:31 pm

Thanks JJ. Teams always carry 5 receivers, and I’m not totally sold on Weems as our #5. Call Aaron Kelly right now. 6′5, 204, 4.55. He’ll definitely need to put some weight on, but what a great potential replacement for BFinn and complement to HD in the slot.

Hey, if we end up cutting him, what have we lost?

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
10:02 pm

I second the motion to get together and have some brews. Don’t know when it will happen, but I plan on being at the ‘Dome sometime this coming season. Can’t wait!

I feel that the draft was a heck of a success!

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
10:09 pm

Well LEWIS is gone. FA to the COLTS, and AARON KELLY also. Another late round pick I wanted for the ‘SKINS.

richbrave

April 26th, 2009
10:11 pm

You’ll like KELLY I think.

D3

April 26th, 2009
10:12 pm

If we didn’t have Jason Snelling, I would love for us to get on the phone to Brannan Southerland, FB, UGA. Guy was an absolute stud in blocking, receiving, and a red-zone TD machine.

Can’t believe that dude didn’t get drafted.

D3

April 26th, 2009
10:12 pm

Blog Monster Alert

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
10:21 pm

By the way, guys, our draft picks were graded by SI.com as such:

Jerry: First year contributor
Sidbury: First year contributor
Moore: First year contributor

Owens: Future starter
Walker: Future starter

Reynolds: Practice Squad (borderline Fence Player)
Middleton: Free Agent
Adkins: Free Agent

Keep in mind the grading system I posted earlier.

Basically, first year starters are guys that the experts expect to get extensive playing time and probably becomes starters early into the season.

Future starters are guys who have to learn the system and NFL level football first, but have great long term potential.

Fence Players are guys who have the tools and skills to be good, but need time, patience, and development.

Practice Squad players are guys that need to develop in practice and possibly NFL Europe. But gems can be found here…

And free agents are guys expected to make 60 or 80 man rosters (but not known if they’ll make the 53 man roster). Good guys can be found here, too.

The biggest thing is coaching, and we have a great staff. As I listed them, the top three draftees will probably end up starting or simply playing A LOT before long. The next two (Sidbury and Owens) may surprise fans and foes alike…

RICHBRAVE,

Very glad to see your man Sidbury here. Unique blend of speed and power. Can’t wait to see him coached up to be a top OLB and/or situational DE.

Big Ray

April 26th, 2009
10:21 pm

Meant to say that Owens and WALKER may surprise people. Sidbury is going to be a beast. I can feel it…

D3

April 26th, 2009
10:22 pm

Big Ray – on a side note, I noticed you said you have a fussy baby, well I feel you brother. I got one thats just 2.5 weeks old myself. He’s doing good, just gets real fussy from 2am to 4am.

Sleep is a thing of the past. Caffeine and Ibuprofen have become my new best friends.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 26th, 2009
10:35 pm

D3 and Big Ray, been there and done that one! Mine just turned one year old, yesterday. He’s very parent-friendly, though. He sleeps right through the night. Hits the sack at about 8pm and don’t get up until seven in the morning. I know; it puzzles me too.

D3

April 26th, 2009
10:38 pm

Must be nice my friend.

Ken Strickland

April 26th, 2009
11:22 pm

RICHBRAVE-you know OT CLewis is going to flurrish with the Colts. Based on all scouting reports and rating systems I’ve seen, OT CLewis, who didn’t get drafted, is rated a much better prospect than OT GReynolds, who we drafted. I don’t get that one.

Does anyone know the current status of OG HDahl and OT TClabo, as well as C TMcClure? Drafting a DT in the 7th rd tells me at least one of the 2 FA DT’s we signed last yr probably won’t be back after this season. Now that I think about it, we’ve lost only 1 DT, GJackson, and gained 3 so far. We drafted 2 and have TLewis returning from IR. Drafting 2 CB’s might also mean VHutchins, who we signed as a FA last yr, might not be back after this season as well. Defensively, we’re going to be young, but talented, versatile and very deep. I WANT EVERYONE TO SAY, IT’S GOOD TO BE A FALCON FAN.

richbrave

April 27th, 2009
12:29 am

BIG RAY:

Everything I know of this young man speaks of excellence as to his mental and football abilities. If he isn’t a hit in the NFL I will be surprised. There aren’t too many men coming into the NFL that I know something about personally, so if I’m wrong I’ll be the first to admit it. Same with GREG TOLER.

SeminoleWarrior

April 27th, 2009
7:21 am

Great draft overall my brothers. It is not out of the realm that there could emerge from this draft as many as four starters on defense. Jerry, Moore, and Owens will start. Sidbury will challenge for a role opposite Abe.

This is a do or die year for both Houston and Anderson. The message was sent LOUD and CLEAR.

Once again, TD and the personnel guys did a great job. Things will ber very interesting in the GA Dome this season. If you do not have those season tickets brothers, you have better make that call TODAY!!

We rock hard and have some serious passion in section 209!!!

ONE NATION….THE FALCON NATION!!

SeminoleWarrior

April 27th, 2009
7:28 am

Dahl and Clabo are on one year RFA tenders. Both will be eligible for FA next season. I think that Clabo will be retained and moved inside to guard gievn his 330 pounds and his strong blocking skills. Reynolds, if he projects well will get the nod at RT but Foster is in the mix big time if he stays healthy. Dahl can be a problem at times so he may be let go..he has a nasty manner sometimes on the field but is prone to bonehead choices at the wrong time as well. Wilkerson is a former Rimington Trophy winner as the nation’s best center so he may get a chance to return to that position.

Big Ray and Stirg, I’m telling you. Put those babies in some Falcons PJs and little Jerry/Ryan jerseys ASAP. There will then be peace in the house. LOL. They are letting you know that they are the future of the nation…THE FALCON NATION!! Adopted uncle SW will always be here for them…LOL.

SeminoleWarrior

April 27th, 2009
7:34 am

Stirg, your baby is in the mix as well. The future of the Falcon nation. I made have to raid my retirement savings early for all my adopted nephews and nieces here in the Posse…

Hill would be a nice pick up if the price is right. Do not want to over commit. Remember, it is not the Patriot Way to overpay. And it is clear that the Patriot Way has found a southern franchise in Flowery Branch.

Marko

April 27th, 2009
8:13 am

We had a pretty big weekend didn’t we? It’s pretty clear that we’re not going to have what I had considered Smitty’s signature defense. No huge blocks of granite tackles Small quick ones instead. Looks like we’re going to be disrupting the offense on their side of the line, forcing quick throws, and hopefully producing turn overs. If it works, it’s going to be a lot of fun to watch. There’s going to be a lot of youngsters bouncing around the field. I’m predicting both agony and ecstasy when they fill out their uniforms a little better, look for a lot more ecstasy. It’s never pretty being easy. I hope our fellow Falcon fans will exercise a little patience. Our little guy’s are likely to get pushed around a bit at first. I don’t think that will last long.

chc4

April 27th, 2009
8:50 am

I don’t agree with everyone saying Chris Houston has been put on notice by our draft. He’s the most effective CB we have and had a decent year. He’s only a 3rd year player. I don’t think either of the drafted guys — Owens or Middleton — will be expected to start anytime soon.

richbrave

April 27th, 2009
10:14 am

COACH KEN STRICK:

Thought you might get a kick from my take on the REDSKINS o-line’s current situation. Sounds like being a FALCONS fan from a few season’s back doesn’t it? I’m hoping SIX FLAGS goes under and DANDY DAN et. al. are FORCED to sell their assets to cover the loss. Damm, I hate being cynical, but right.

O-o-o-o-h, SCOTT BURLEY FA, EDWIN WILLIAMS FA and MIKE WILLIAMS (retread) along with DERRICK DOCKERY and a resurrected JON JANSEN will be the saviors of the offensive line! Oh, and D’BAPTISTE also, lest we forget.

Lets see from LT to right by position:

Currently unable to participate in offensive practices – SAMUELS, STILL recovering from last season’s injury. DOCKERY brought in because RINEHART (third round 2008) can hardly stay on the active roster and KENDALL is done. D’BAPTISTE playing out of position and unproven at any. RABACH capable as long as the guards on either side take up the slack. EDWIN WILLIAMS to back-up the center position and to replace “the GEYSER ” who is recovering from injury last season. THOMAS limited participation, recovering from SERIOUS surgery. JANSEN trying to prove he still belongs. HEYOR questionable abilities to carry the load at right tackle, but probably will do O.K. in 2009. SCOTT BURLEY and MIKE WILLIAMS just in case.

Makes a fan feel mighty secure and full of hope for the season doesn’t it? CAMPBELL-ZORN just lovin’ life. Zero pressure-zero heat.

Since we drafted replacements for KHARY CAMPBELL and JUSTIN TRYON on special teams lets see about the captain himself, ROCK CARTWRIGHT. After all we’ve got our own “Refrigerator” in MIKE WILLIAMS 6′5″ 410. No need for a third running back OR fullback now. MIKE SELLERS where are you? Your contract requires you to show up and be counted among the present. There will be demerits for tardiness.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 27th, 2009
10:50 am

I have to agree to disagree with chc4. We cannot throw Houston (or Jackson) under the bus. When Houston came into this league, we went from Mora to Big Pu$$y Petrino. Then, aside from his coaching at Arkansas, he had to adapt to a different coaching scheme. So, in reality, Houston played as a rookie last season. Give the man time to fit. Last season, he actually impressed me, as a rookie. Everyone is praising Jackson’s play, last season, at the corner. Houston’s play looked very similar to Jackson’s play. Why not praise him? So many of us, mistakenly, rank a defensive back’s worthiness by the number of interceptions he has. Face it, our new scheme is not man to man and not interception friendly. Our scheme starts up front. Disrupt the quarterback and interceptions will come.

Now that I’ve mentioned the frontline, we can’t throw Jamaal Anderson under the bus neither. I’m not going to enter my research here, about the time it takes for a defensive end to become an all-star. If it has not been done in the history of the NFL, how can we expect Jamaal Anderson to come into the league and become an immediate pro-bowler. We cannot expect that of him and, while I’m on the subject, we cannot expect that of Lawrence Sidbury. Yes, he will make contributions; and yes, he is talented. Let’s not forget, however, he is a rookie and it is going to be, at least, another three years before we can evaluate his all-pro status.

In the meantime, chill out and wait for the fireworks. Some of the entries in this blog, really fascinate me. You guys really demonstrate who drives wrecklessly to work, during rush hour, and who takes their time and make it to work, in one piece. Please, bretheren, be patient. The Houston and Jackson tandem will surprise everybody (except Me, TD and Coach Smith). Jamaal Anderson will contribute, in a way that will benefit the team. If that means sacraficing a sack to stop a run, then so mote it be. Just be patient.

Uncle Seminole Warrior, I don’t think Leroy Hill will be too expensive, for two reasons. One, he has been fighting with Seahawks for the past two seasons about his money. I’m sure he’s exhausted (with negotiations) and ready to settle for the most comfortable figure. Secondly, he lives in Atlanta. I’m certain he’d be willing to lower his asking price to come home. I would.

Macon Braves (RIP)

April 27th, 2009
11:15 am

Any chance we go after Leroy Hill, the OLB that Seattle just let become a Free Agent by rescinding the franchise tag?

I’ve never been too impressed with Todd McShay, but now I just don’t buy anything he says. He says that William Moore was the worst pick that the Falcons made and questions his insticts as a player. Hmmmm

chc4

April 27th, 2009
11:56 am

Stirg… sounds you like you agree w/ me (not disagree). I like Houston too. As for Anderson, he was the #8 pick in the draft. In two seasons he’s done basically nothing. It’s one thing to preach patience but he hasn’t show any ability to make plays. No flashes, nothing. I don’t recall him ever beating an opposing RT on a speed rush. What’s surprised me is his inability to get any push upfield whatsoever. Based on his size, he should be strong enough to blow the occassional play up.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 27th, 2009
1:23 pm

chc4, you’re right. I did agree with you; but we both were disagreeing that Chris Houston is a bust. We can close that case.

Lets reopen the Jamaal Anderson file. How long have you been blogging with D.O.’better? I started around the time that he started. A few weeks afterwards, I did some study on defensive ends. My study found that it is natural for a defensive end to take three to five years before he can reach the level we are asking Jamaal Anderson to produce. Outside of John Abraham (because he was such a freak of nature), most defensive ends need, at least, three years in the leauge before reaching All-Star potential. I’ll see if I can go back and copy that entry for you and I’ll paste it into this blog. You’ll find it informative.

Reno 911

April 27th, 2009
2:22 pm

All my fellow blog brethren : D3 (“The Chairman”), Nookah, Stirg, Seminole, The Dean, WR, chc4, the “spider insider” richbrave , Big Ray with the player profiles, and the man with the depth chart knowledge, Ken Strick. Many thanks again to D3 for running the mock draft 1st round. I can’t credit anything for the win other than luck (and Al Davis, for being painfully predictable in picking Heyward-Bey…I wouldn’t have been surprised if the Raiders had drafted the rights to Usain Bolt.)
Sorry I missed all of the action this weekend. Mrs. Reno 911 and I were in crunch time trying to close on a house all weekend, so I had to watch Day 1 on DVR delay, and I stayed away from the blog so I wouldn’t see what had already happened. I missed Day 2 entirely (I’d have had to wake up at 6am out here to watch round 3, and even I’m not doing that on a Sunday).
I’m still trying to digest everything that went down this weekend, and getting to know some of the Falcons’ Day 2 picks. I’m happy about the Day 1 picks. Jerry is extremely quick off the ball, which no one should underestimate the value of, especially playing 8 games in a noisy domed stadium. As evidence, I submit to you the Falcons’ own loss in Arizona this January. If I was to attribute that loss to any one thing, I’d attribute it to AZ’s D-line getting off the snap quicker than Atl’s O-line. Now, part of that can be blamed on an unchanging snap count, but it’s tough to beat quickness like that, and Jerry’s one of those guys who not only gets off the snap quickly, but can make inside moves quicker than most blockers can react. My uneducated guess would be that Jerry will be decent against “big-on-big” running teams like the Giants, great against slanting, zone running teams, and a pretty darned good pass rusher at home in the dome. Something like 1 sack on the road and 6 sacks at home wouldn’t surprise me. From an rookie inside rusher, that’d be awesome.

Reno 911

April 27th, 2009
2:22 pm

Moore as a first rounder was a very iffy proposition. Moore as a late second rounder, though, is a great pick. The unanswerable question still remains, “how much of his drop off in play in his senior year was due to injury?” I guess we’ll all know the answer to that by September or October. I trust TD’s scouting of Moore, though, and I bet that when this draft can be fairly evaluated three or four years down the road, Moore will be one of those guys that people around the league will remember incorrectly as having been a first rounder. He probably won’t make a lot of interceptions, but that won’t matter much. How many picks did Steve Atwater, Ronnie Lott, or Joey Browning make? No one knows, because that wasn’t their value. Now, I’m not saying Moore will play like one of those all time greats, but I am saying that his value is in screaming downhill, putting big hits on receivers, and resulting in Gator-arms and receivers “hearing footsteps” every time they run the slant or the post.
Initially, I love the Sidbury pick (thanks to richbrave’s insider info ahead of time to give us a heads up on his talent and character). One of the questions about the selection of Sidbury that comes to my mind is, is he a DE or an OLB? Well, the answer is, he may be both. 4-3 DE and 3-4 OLB. There’s no telling how much 3-4 the Falcons might run this year, but if they do, the addition of Sidbury fits nicely into a 3-4 package, along with the players the Falcons already have, with J. Anderson/Davis, T. Lewis, and Biermann across the front, and Sidbury, Lofton, Peterson, and Abraham on level 2. Sidbury at 3rd down DE in the 4-3 also makes me bang the 2007 Giants drum again. While it’s been pointed out (by Stirg’s intrepid analysis) that it invariably takes NFL DE’s several years to become effective pass rushers, down the road Sidbury could make that four-man rush much better. The 3rd down and “2nd and long” defensive line, from left to right: Davis-Anderson -Jerry-Abraham, with Bierman and Sidbury rotating in with Davis and Anderson. While the improbable 4th down catch is most remembered from that Super Bowl, the key reason the Giants were able to upset the Patriots in SB 42 was the rush generated by putting four defensive ends on the field at the same time. The Falcons are moving closer to that scenario.

Reno 911

April 27th, 2009
2:23 pm

Other random thoughts: I’m glad I’m not a Broncos fan. They traded their own first rounder next year (which will be a top 10 pick, because they won’t be good) for Alphonso Smith. Being a fellow demon deacon, I love Alphonso Smith. But he ain’t worth next years #8 pick.
As someone else said on the blog this weekend, New England is, indeed, the “Evil Empire”. What Belichick was doing on Saturday can only be described as genius. Without knowing who was on the board, if someone had described to me a hypothetical scenario in which there is a team who was trying to consistently trade their way out of the first into the second and third rounds, I’d scratch my head and wonder what that team was thinking. Yet Belichick did it all day, mainly because there weren’t any players in the first round that a great team couldn’t do without. The Pats and came away with Ron Brace, Patrick Chung, and Darius Butler, among others…NONE of whom the Patriots will spend much money or salary cap space for. And guess who’ll be in position to go get a big free agent next year if they want to? Does anyone doubt that the Patriots will be among the top 3 or 4 favorites to win the Super Bowl for the next 3-5 years? It’s good to be the king, I guess. Let’s just hope that someday soon the Falcons will be in a similar situation. In Dimitroff and Smitty, they have the masterminds to potentially build their own empire.

chc4

April 27th, 2009
2:23 pm

Stirg — I haven’t expected Anderson to post 8 sacks and be a Pro-Bowler in either of his first 2 seasons. But I do want to see some semblance that he belongs on the field. He NEVER beats an opposing OT. He NEVER disrupts running plays. The only positive thing I can recall him doing is not lining up offsides. In 2 years shouldn’t we have seen some glimmer of hope? Chauncey Davis has made far more plays in a fraction of the playing time that JA has seen. All JA is right now is a big body and that’s simply not good enough for what’s been expected of him.

Reno 911

April 27th, 2009
2:41 pm

Moore as a first rounder was a very iffy proposition. Moore as a late second rounder, though, is a great pick. The unanswerable question still remains, “how much of his drop off in play in his senior year was due to injury?” I guess we’ll all know the answer to that by September or October. I trust TD’s scouting of Moore, though, and I bet that when this draft can be fairly evaluated three or four years down the road, Moore will be one of those guys that people around the league will remember incorrectly as having been a first rounder. He probably won’t make a lot of interceptions, but that won’t matter much. How many picks did Steve Atwater, Ronnie Lott, or Joey Browning make? No one knows, because that wasn’t their value. Now, I’m not saying Moore will play like one of those all time greats, but I am saying that his value is in screaming downhill, putting big hits on receivers, and resulting in Gator-arms and receivers “hearing footsteps” every time they run the slant or the post.
Initially, I love the Sidbury pick (thanks to richbrave’s insider info ahead of time to give us a heads up on his talent and character). One of the questions about the selection of Sidbury that comes to my mind is, is he a DE or an OLB? Well, the answer is, he may be both. 4-3 DE and 3-4 OLB. There’s no telling how much 3-4 the Falcons might run this year, but if they do, the addition of Sidbury fits nicely into a 3-4 package, along with the players the Falcons already have, with J. Anderson/Davis, T. Lewis, and Biermann across the front, and Sidbury, Lofton, Peterson, and Abraham on level 2. Sidbury at 3rd down DE in the 4-3 also makes me bang the 2007 Giants drum again. While it’s been pointed out (by Stirg’s intrepid analysis) that it invariably takes NFL DE’s several years to become effective pass rushers, down the road Sidbury could make that four-man rush much better. The 3rd down and “2nd and long” defensive line, from left to right: Davis-Anderson -Jerry-Abraham, with Bierman and Sidbury rotating in with Davis and Anderson. While the improbable 4th down catch is most remembered from that Super Bowl, the key reason the Giants were able to upset the Patriots in SB 42 was the rush generated by putting four defensive ends on the field at the same time. The Falcons are moving closer to that scenario.

SeminoleWarrior

April 27th, 2009
2:50 pm

Good afternoon Posse. Now that the draft is over, it’s time to sit back and watch the PROCESS continue to evolve. I’m really not giving up on an particular player because with continuity and hard work, the team can only get better.

Todd McShay is the biggest IDIOT in the game. First, ESPN made this clown its “Director of College Scouting”. Second, how can he call William Moore a bad pick when last year McShay was all but sleeping with him. Moore is focused and appears very hungry. I think he feels slighted and is on a mission to prove the “experts” wrong. TD and Smitty know what they have. And soon, the rest of the league as well as the “Director” will too. Todd McShay….please!

The PROCESS continues!! Expect the Falcons to make history this season by 1) winning the NFC South; and 2) securing back to back winning seasons for the first time.

ONE NATION…THE FALCON NATION.

chc4

April 27th, 2009
2:56 pm

I don’t expect JA be a Pro Bowler 2 years in. But I would hope to see glimpses. He NEVER beats an OT to the outside. He NEVER disrupts running plays in the back field. The only good thing I can say about him is he doesn’t line up offsides. Seriously… he has shown no ability to make plays. I haven’t completely given up on him but I’m close. Chauncey Davis has made a bunch of plays w/ a fraction of the playing time.

SeminoleWarrior

April 27th, 2009
3:00 pm

Anderson and all the defensive line have an advantage that most continue to underestimate. The Sugar Bear is a HELL of a coach. If the Bear can’t get them to get it done, I do not know who will. Anderson has taken to the QUALITY coaching that he is receiving. I think that we will see results soon. Remember, Patrick Kearney took 4 years to become a force and he eventually achieved Pro Bowl status. Patience..Patience.

If you get the chance, when the OTAs, minis, or training camps are open to the public, take a trip to the Branch PLEASE!! I do it every year. (Note: I even used to roll and watch from behind McDonald’s when the facility was in Suwannee; Yes, I’m that old and that passionate).

Observe the detail that the Sugar Bear and Smitty put into their practices. Observe the CONSTANT teaching that goes on. Most important, OBSERVE the attention the players pay to the coaches and how they seek out the coach afterwards for more counsel. Men treating men like men is a powerful motivator. Watch the careful eye of TD on the field as he watches and continuously assess his team. This is a masterful process.

The PROCESS works!! Just you wait and see my brothers…

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 27th, 2009
4:25 pm

chc4, Chauncey Davis posted better numbers because he reached that 3-5 year mark that it takes for the defensive end to mature. Patience, my friend. You’re going to be hearing the name Jamaal Anderson on ESPN alot, this season; especially with the arrival of Peria Jerry. I know you’re going to ask, “What is Jerry going to do, that’ll make Anderson better, that Grady Jackson couldn’t do?” Its simple (Ken Strickland, you want to answer that?), Peria Jerry attacks the offense very differently than Grady Jackson. Jackson was used for his big body, to take on blockers. Jerry will be used for his disruption and will take on the same blockers. Grady will get to a point and stop. Jerry looks like the freakin’ Energizer Bunny…just keep going; and going; and going. That activity is going to make a three year old Anderson, better. Trust and be patient.

Tyger

April 27th, 2009
4:46 pm

Falcoons 2009 Draft Grade 1.0 Overall Grade = B+

Day 1 = A+ : Excellent use of easy button 4.0; two picks – two game changers.

Day 2 = C+ : Sidbury was a brilliant comeback in the 4th rd; 3/5th could’ve been better:

C.Owens/Middleton too small; Rashard Johnson/Victor Harris both versatile CB/S and with much better big play ability. Houston’s contract is up next year, so that is a factor. I preferred Duke Robinson/Jasper Brinkley over the NC OT as well. Vance Walker was a nice closing pick in 7.

richbrave

April 27th, 2009
5:32 pm

DAMM, CECIL NEWTON gone in FA to the JAGS. He’s small by NFL standards at 6′2″ 305, but a great drive blocker. Strong from the waist down and he plays center. You may hear from him again. Don’t say I didn’t try to tell the FALCONS staff about him and his buddy CORNELIUS LEWIS who went to the COLTS. You will see GREG TOLER in the starting line-up at CB sooner rather than later. When the dunba** REDSKINS picked the corner from MARYLAND in the third round, you could hear the scout crying in the background because it wasn’t ST. PAULS’ best. HAMPTON’s DT CRIS BAKER too. That’s all of them. My picks for 2009, all on a roster in the NFL. At least for the moment.

Ken Strickland

April 27th, 2009
6:01 pm

CHC4-why would you expect to see glimpses of a Probowl calibur DE from a player that had only 2ys of experience at the position in college? He arrived at Arkansas as a TE and was switched to DE. Not only is going from TE to DE a switch in positions, going from OFF to DEF is a total switch in philosophy and mission.

Under these conditions you’re actually expecting him to show Probowl calibur production in just 2yrs while still learning the position and going up against the best football players in the world?

Now, if you judge the progress and worth of a DE solely on sacks, then JAnderson is a bust. But, if you take into consideration where he started and include versatility, defending the run and batting down passes, then he’s not a bust. I’m not certain, but I believe he led the team in passes batted down. Remember, an awful lot of impatient Falcon fans thought just like you in regards to WR RWhite. If the organization had been just as impatient, he’d be a PROBOWL WR for another team. I remember the same impatient attitudes prevailing the 1st 2yrs of DE PKearney’s career in Atlanta, and he didn’t have to learn how to play DE in the NFL. Being patient with him allowed us to end up with PROBOWL DE. Tampa Bay felt the same way, and was just as impatient with a QB they drafted named Steve Young, and look at what they missed out on. Besides, he’s had 2 different HC’s, 2 DL coaches, 2 DC’s and has had to learn how to play in 2 types of DEF’s in his 2yrs in the NFL.

As far a CB Chris Houston is concerned, he’s had 3 different HC’s and DC’s in his 3yr career. He’s had to learn how to play CB in 3 different ways in 3 different types of DEF’s. In his entire 3ys career, he definitely hasn’t had the benefit of a pass rush, and in his first 2yrs, he definitely had to play it safe with FS CCrocker and SS LMalloy backing him up.

ALL A LOT OF OUR YOUNGER PLAYERS NEED IS STABILITY AND SOME QUALITY COACHING, WHICH THEY STARTED GETTING LAST YR. AS FAR AS I’M CONCERNED, I’M TREATING LAST YR AS DE JANDERSON AND CB CHOUSTON’S 1ST YR WITH THE TEAM.

JJ

April 27th, 2009
7:09 pm

Stirg / Coach Ken: I respectfully disagree about HOUSTON!!!

Did you guys actually watch any falcon games last year? seriously!

I was at every home game and glued to the away games. I’m not saying houston is a bust, but he’s not ok for a jr. man. Yes, if we had better pass rush, all db’s look better, granite. Do you guys remember the chicago game that we dominated the first half?
What changed in 2nd half?
They targeted houston ALL SECOND HALF and put up 14 points. Houston bit on the down ‘ up every time. This happened in every game after chicago because teams watch tapes.
I respect (stirg/ken) opinion, but who gave up the most yards/td’s last yr?
Why do you guys think the matrix aquired 2 cb?
Because Houston is “hopefully going earn his paycheck?”
Just my humble opinion!
My highschool – MARIST – is now a falcon!

JJ

April 27th, 2009
7:18 pm

Sorry, had to get that off my chest- Houston was not good last yr. And anyone that does knot know that, did not watch the games I did. No disrespect to my d-led brothers, JMHO!

Ken Strickland

April 27th, 2009
8:51 pm

JJ-it appears our differences are about zpples and the apple tree. My argument concerning CHouston isn’t about what he did or didn’t do, but why. In his rookie yr, his 1st DC, GKnapp, had him playing a mile off the ball and he wasn’t required to challenge WR’s at the line of scrimmage. I don’t even remember the DC under HC RPetrino, but he had him playing strickly a passive zone. Now, he’s told to get on top of the WR and be physical. CB is a difficult position to play anyway, and there are CB’s that are geared to play man coverage and several types of zone DEF’s. Houston has been required to play at least 3 of them in 3yrs. Give him a pass rush, 2 safeties that can cover the field, and a little time, and he’ll be alright.

I remember when we went to the SB and BIG PLAY Ray Buchanan was our CB. He had a Probowl yr because he had 2 experienced safeties, SS White and FS Robinson, backing him up when he gambled, which was often. The next yr, HC/GM DReeves released both safeties, and all of the big plays Ray was involved in the next yr was made by the receivers.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 27th, 2009
9:00 pm

Whew! JJ, breathe in; breathe out. Calm down. Take your fingers and rub your temples. Repeat after me: “Woo-sha, Woo-sha, Woo-sha”.

We understand that Houston was beaten alot; but I don’t think he should be held accountable for the weaknesses in our defense. You ask the question, “…who gave up the most yards/td’s last yr?” Defense. The entire defensive team, from the coach to the rookie, should be held accountable for the giving up the most yards and touchdowns last year. Take a look at those games again, from Chicago to Arizona. At first, I thought like you…Houston appeared lost; but look at it again. You want to know what I saw? It looked like Houston was expecting help. It looked like the defensive scheme required help over the top (most cover two schemes require a safety over the top; thus, cover two) and Lawyer Milloy was to slow to get into position. Did you watch the Arizona/Atlanta playoff game?

Remember, TD got rid of Lawyer Milloy, not Chris Houston. If Houston’s game was that much of a suspect, like you claim, I think we would have pulled a trigger on a cornerback, early on in the draft; and Foxworth would still be a Falcon.

Don’t hate the player; hate the game.

D3

April 27th, 2009
9:29 pm

What’s goin’ on Bird-Cage Peeps? Has the euphoria of the draft passed yet? Well it was a great one and we gotta commit to keeping the Bird-Cage going strong, even through the upcoming dry spell. So the topic of Chris Houston being put on notice has dominated the debate, so let’s roll with it……

Personally, I don’t think Chris Houston is a huge boom or bust, but somewhere in the between. He’s had some pretty games (manning up on Calvin Johnson) here and there, but also had some pretty bad games as well (Chicago back of the end-zone?). I gonna have to err on the side of the fact that he’s progressing pretty well to this point, especially look forward to seeing him in our DEF system another year.

That being said, though, he definitely will have some serious competition with the drafting of Chris Owens and William Middleton. One of the big knocks on Houston is his inability or unwillingness to get physical in run support. From my point of view, he plays a little too soft allowing receivers to get separation and not being able to use his speed to make up for it.

All the draft grade “experts” rank the Falcons a little lower because of Owens and Middleton. I will have to say that I was somewhat surprised to see us take Chris Owens when DJ Moore was still on the board. But there’s a common theme between Owens and Middleton: fast, tough, and willing to hit. I don’t think it puts Houston on notice, per se, as of yet, but it will create some SERIOUS competition at cornerback. Chris Houston’s not on notice yet, but Brent Grimes, David Irons, and Jammal Fudge are.

Cornerback competition: Chris Houston, Chevis Jackson, Von Hutchins, Brent Grimes, David Irons, Jammal Fudge, Chris Owens(R), & William Middleton(R). It’ll be a fight for their professional lives, at least here in the ATL.

12 DAYS & COUNTING!!!!! to Mini-Camp!

Ken Strickland

April 27th, 2009
9:38 pm

Too many Falcon fans are still living in the past and seeing the glass half empty. Instead of focusing on the many positives of our current Falcons, they’re still focusing on what they perceive is wrong with the team and its players.

It’s puzzling to hear fans complain about DE JAnderson, LB KBrooking and CB CHouston, yet completely ignore the problems caused by the poor play of LB MBoley, who had to be replaced as a starter, DT GJackson’s limitations or LMalloy’s inability to cover anybody. Are we to believe all or their problems were cause by CB CHouston, or maybe, just maybe a lot of his problems were caused by their poor play.

We drafted 2 CB’s because we lost a starter, DFoxworth, and 3 of the CB’s on our roster are coming off IR. Last yr we won 11 gms with DE JAnderson and CB CHouston as staters. We also lost 12 gms the yr before with both players starting. So, the results of the last 2yrs have to be something other than the play of either of these 2 players.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 27th, 2009
10:14 pm

Now that was very analytical.

VICK SUPPORTER 2

April 27th, 2009
10:16 pm

“NO MORE EXCUSES”

ROOKIE SEASON OVER ———- CHECK

PRO BOWL BACK ————- CHECK

PRO BOWL TIGHT END ———— CHECK

PRO BOWL RECEIVER ————– CHECK

GOOD DRAFT —————– CHECK

PLAYOFF APPEARANCE —————— CHECK

PLAYOFF WINS ———————- ?????

THIS TEAM IS IN AN EXTREMELY BETTER POSITION, WEAPONS WISE THAN MIKE VICK EVER HAD, SO “NO MORE EXCUSES”. IF MIKE VICK COULD WIN WITH FAR LESS TALENT, THIS TEAM IS EXPECTED TO NOT JUST MAKE THE PLAYOFFS, BUT TO WIN THE PLAYOFF GAMES.

“NO MORE EXCUSES”

“NO ROOKIE EXCUSES”

“NO LACK OF SUPPORT EXCUSES”

“NO LACK OF DEFENSIVE CAST EXCUSES”

MESSAGE TO THE QUARTERBACK………

LEAD, FOLLOW OR GET OUT OF THE WAY………..

LET’S SEE HOW EASY IT IS TO WIN IN THE PLAYOFFS……..

“NO MORE EXCUSES”

D3

April 27th, 2009
10:29 pm

Off-Season Schedule for my Bird-Cage Brethren:

-May 9th: Mini-Camp (open to public)
-May 20-21, 27-29: OTA’s (Organized Team Activities)
-June 2-4, 9-11, 16-18: OTA’s (Organized Team Activities)

http://www.atlantafalcons.com/Schedule/Details.aspx?d=20090529

Don’t know if you guys caught this or not, but we have agreed to terms with several UDFA’s (Undrafted Free Agents)
2 of note:
-Aaron Kelly, WR, Clemson, 6′5′, 208, 4.45
-John Parker Wilson, QB, Alabama

SO, SO HAPPY WE AGREED TO TERMS WITH AARON KELLY. I’ve been preaching this all along with his size and speed. Perfect complement to HD in the slot and eventual replacement for BFinn. Love it!

Alright boys, our big Draft Day Weekend has put a little bit of hurtin’ on me. Gotta get some Z’s so we can come back and get to work on our newest Falcons! I got some good topics to drive us through the upcoming dry spell if need be. Keep it rockin’ strong. Remember my Bird-Cage brothers: There is No Off-Season!!

Have a good night gents! See you on the flip side.
12 Days and counting until Mini-Camp; complete with Jerry, Moore, Sidbury, Owens, Middleton, Walker, Kelly, Adkins, & Reynolds. Oh, and did I mention…………..HALL OF FAME TIGHT END TONY GONZALEZ!!!!!!!!

D. Orlando Ledbetter

April 27th, 2009
10:32 pm

See you all have been getting after it!!! Was on the grind getting draft stories done. Should have given you all my Twitter Address (DOrlandoAJC) because we were firing the picks up there as soon as the Falcons would send out post.

Well, I talked to Mel Kiper from ESPN and Charles Davis from the NFL Network today. Got some Falcons specific info from Mel and CD. Will get up a new post in the A.M. on how they grade the Falcons draft. Also, got some shots from the Tony Gonzalez press conference, including Mrs. Gonzalez. Should be a hot blog.

Peace,
D. Led

P.S. Looks like the Hawks are going to pull this thing out.

Stirg d'Nahsif

April 27th, 2009
10:47 pm

D. You did good. You kind of scared us there when you posted an entry about Darius Butler. We were, at least me, sobering up with that information. After Peria Jerry, though, I got drunk all over again. Looking forward to your blog in the a.m.

Go Hawks! Wish J-Smoove would play like that every game. Dag!

richbrave

April 28th, 2009
7:52 am

FLIP sure pulled it out when it counted, asnd that three by BIBBY with 4:50 to go was a back-breaker.