Abe’s absence will help young D-linemen
John Abraham shaking owner Arthur Blank's hand at the recent mini-camp. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC)
BACK TO OTA TOWN — The Falcons returned to Organized Team Activities on Tuesday.
The rain pushed them inside, according to a tweet from their Web site writer J. Michael Moore. (The “media” isn’t allowed at all of the practices.)
We’ll have to update everyone tomorrow if defensive end John Abraham, tight end Tony Gonzalez and cornerback Chris Owens are participating.
Gonzalez is expected to do some of the workouts. Owens has to wait until his class graduates from San Jose State.
Abraham is likely just doing his offseason core maintenance program. He’s found a workout plan that works for him and is sticking to it. He knows what he’s doing by now and problem doesn’t really need the OTA activities.
Also, with Abe missing OTAs action, the Falcons can give more snaps to Jamaal Anderson, Kroy Biermann, Chauncey Davis and fourth-round draft pick Lawrence Sidbury.
“John is one of the smartest guys in the league,” defensive line coach Ray Hamilton said. “We are just going to hold John. We drafted a guy in the fourth round. We just want to look at some of these young guys.”
Hamilton is pleased with the offseason work of defensive tackle Jonthan Babineaux.
“We have to be sudden with all of our moves and Babineaux is one of the quickest guys in the league,” Hamilton said. “He has very quick feet and hands. He’s started to get more violent also. I hate to say violent and good in the same tense, but he has a pretty good violent side. That’s a big part of being a defensive lineman.”
Hamilton is stressing versatility.
“We coach guys on every position,” Hamilton said. “They have to know all of the positions. We do drills were they have to know what the end does, what the tackle does, As a defensive lineman, besides being violent, quick, nasty and all of that stuff, how smart you are the better off you are going to be.”
Also, first-round pick Peria Jerry was not practicing with the team last week after suffering a mild knee sprain in mini-camp. Hamilton can’t want to get him on the field.
“We saw an aggressive player,” Hamilton said. “A quick and disruptive player. In our scheme, that’s how we play. That’s what we need. . . . We saw a good combination of run (stopper) and a good pass rusher. We saw all of that in him. We were very happy that he was there when we got our chance to pick.”
IN THE COMMUNITY . . .
Ryan pumping some offseason iron. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC)
LEARN HOW TO THROW LIKE MATTY ICE: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is holding a young football clinic on Saturday, June 6 at Centennial High School in Roswell.
He’s bringing along guard Justin Blalock and tackle Sam Baker for the event which is sponsored by Topps.
The non-contact clinic is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 14 and will run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
There is a $99 cost. Additional information and registration is available online or call 513-793-CAMP.
BLANK FAMILY OF BUSINESSES AND PARK PRIDE TEAM UP: Falcons owner Arthur Blank and Mayor Shirley Franklin will attend the grand opening ceremony for Vine City Park on Friday.
More than 100 volunteers from the Blank Family of Businesses and Park Pride will move to three area parks for a day of community service. Throughout the morning, the volunteers will provide a helping hand to revitalize and beautify nearby Vine City Park, Washington Park and Cleopas Johnson Park.
Among the volunteers, Falcons head coach Mike Smith and president Rich McKay will lead their team in renovations to Cleopas Johnson Park (Fair St. and Northside Dr.), and Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff will work at at Washington Park (Ollie St. at Lena St. NW). The renovation projects at all three parks will begin at 9:15 a.m. and end at approximately 12:30 p.m.
So let’s get back to some Falcons football. Is Babineaux ready to turn in a monster year? Happy that Abe is working on his core in the offseason? How about the Sidbury kid, is it a good thing that he’s getting extra reps? Worried about Jerry’s injury?
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220 comments Add your comment
Sarah B
May 26th, 2009
9:02 pm
HA – no one can come on and post that stupid “first” comment!! Please childish ones stop doing that.
Sarah B
May 26th, 2009
9:07 pm
welcome to the Bird Cage folks!
The Grinch
May 26th, 2009
9:19 pm
I’m glad to see the young guys getting extra reps. Abe doesn’t need them, and considering his injury history prior to last season he needs to repeat whatever program he did to keep him healthy the whole time. I don’t know Jerry well enough yet to be worried about him, but the quicker he learns the scheme the quicker he can start. We need all the help we can get on D.
jason
May 26th, 2009
9:22 pm
Good read DOL. The absence of Abe is going to pay huge dividends on Sidbury and Biermann. More one on one instruction, and with the first unit. If there is one at moment. Get a great education on fundamentals and techniques.
jason
May 26th, 2009
9:36 pm
JJ
May 26th, 2009
6:54 pm
The Atlanta Falcons are the final stop in our series of team-by-team mailbags.
LR in Warner Robins, Ga., writes: Who you think will be the Atlanta Falcons starting Strong Safety, DeCoud or Moore?
Pat Yasinskas: Too early to tell right now. This is going to be one of the more interesting battles in training camp. In the recent minicamp, Thomas DeCoud worked with the first team and William Moore with the second. But it’s common to open minicamp with the guy who’s been around ahead of the rookie. The Falcons used a second-round pick on Moore and that means they think he can probably start. But that’s not a given. DeCoud can win this job if he has the better preseason.
——————————————————————————–
Steve in New Haven, Conn., writes: hey Pat, love the blog, while you were at camp, did you take a look at the CB’s? It seems Houston is going to be our RCB, but at LCB we have an open competition. Who do you think will be the other starter? Grimes, Hutchins, Jackson, Owens? I’d like to see Jackson starting, Owens in the nickel, and Grimes or Hutchins fightin for the 4th CB spot. Anyways, how do you think it’ll play out??? Thnks
Pat Yasinskas: I think the Falcons definitely view the cornerback spot opposite Chris Houston as an open competition. In this case, I think that’s a healthy thing. They’re going to throw Brent Grimes, Von Hutchins, Chevis Jackson and Chris Owens out there and see who rises up. They’re high on Jackson after what he flashed as a rookie and they see Owens as a guy who can be a starter at some point. If Jackson and Owens have solid preseasons, they could join Houston in the trio of top cornerbacks.
——————————————————————————–
Niklas in Aarhus, Denmark, writes: Hey Pat! Who do you see as next year’s breakout candidates on the Falcons squad, and why?
Pat Yasinskas: I’ll go with linebacker Stephen Nicholas. I think his skills fit what coach Mike Smith wants from the strong side and Nicholas has had time to develop. I know the Falcons lost Keith Brooking and Michael Boley after last season, but I think the linebacker corps can be better than it was a year ago.
——————————————————————————–
Ben in Macon, Ga., writes: How long do you give the rest of the NFC South fans before they start REALLY hating the Falcons? All this national media attention, combined with media darling Matt Ryan, has to be grating on them. Am I right?
Pat Yasinskas: Wow, I’ll leave that one up to the NFC South fans to decide. But there’s no question the Falcons are becoming somewhat of the media darling of the division and Ryan is at the center of it all. Kind of amazing how much more respect the Falcons are getting than they did this time a year ago. They earned that respect with last season. But now they’ve got to keep that respect by playing well.
——————————————————————————–
Dash in Nashville writes: Do you think there’s any chance the Falcons can get any team to trade for Mike Vick? Even if it’s a 7th rounder for next year?
Pat Yasinskas: Doubt it. I just don’t see teams willing to give up a pick for a guy who’s going to be cut anyway. If Thomas Dimitroff somehow gets anything for Vick, he’s even more of a genius than I already think he is.
——————————————————————————–
DBell in Rome, Ga., Writes: With Tony Gonzales giving the Falcons a serious TE threat, how will Ovie Mughelli’s role at FB be affected? The Falcons paid him more than any other FB ever, and I feel he’s been under-used. Do you think he’ll now see less time with the Falcons likely to use more two-TE sets?
Pat Yasinskas: Don’t sell Mughelli short. The guy played a huge role as a blocker for Michael Turner last season. Yeah, he doesn’t get to catch or run the ball very often, but his role as a blocker is an important part of Atlanta’s offense. Yes, you’ll see some sets where the Falcons use two tight ends and have Mughelli on the sidelines. But I think he’ll be on the field for a lot of running plays and to help protect Ryan on passing downs.
jason
May 26th, 2009
9:39 pm
jason Your comment is awaiting moderation.
May 26th, 2009
9:15 pm
JJ, excellent article. Mow take those questions and give your own opinion on them.
DeCoud or Moore. I think Moore, because DeCoud can play both safety positions. He will be an important back up who will see the field alot.
Who do you think will be the other starter? Grimes, Hutchins, Jackson, Owens? I’d like to see Owens starting. When you have a man of TD’s stature observing and watching for at least 2 years, that says alot. However, being realistic I see Hutchins. He was starter at Houston, and would have been in ATL if not for injury. I do see Owens taking over at some point this season.
Who do you see as next year’s breakout candidates on the Falcons squad, and why? Hard Question. I am going to go both offense and defense. On offense, I see Norwood. I know easy pick. Not really when you consider he is backing up Pro Bowler Turner. I see Norwood topping 1000 in total yardage. KOs, Receiving, and rushing. He will spell Turner even more this year and with that garner more touches.
On defense, I have to agree on Nicolas. He has the size/speed that ATL craves for their LBs. Now he might not be on the field early on for passing downs, but you won’t be able to get him off the field once he starts producing and building confidence. He might end up being ATL’s best overall LB pass rusher.
How long do you give the rest of the NFC South fans before they start REALLY hating the Falcons? This question is a non issue. As we all know ATL gets no respect, and no LOVE from anyone except the die hard fans that bleed RED-n-BLACK. We are making some noise. But until first we have the back to back winning seasons, and we become a perennial play off contender… Then we will have arrived. We will have garnered that respect.
Do you think there’s any chance the Falcons can get any team to trade for Mike Vick? I am holding out hope that ATL can get a mid round pick at best. I know this may sound cruel, but if I have Ryan entrenched as my starter; I let MV sit the bench all season if it takes. I would not give in and let him walk without anything in return. What about the possibility that he will become a cancer to the locker room. Well put him of the roster and don’t even let him show up. He’s under Atlanta’s contract, they should be able to do as they seem fit.
With Tony Gonzales giving the Falcons a serious TE threat, how will Ovie Mughelli’s role at FB be affected? Ovie Mughelli is an important part of the process that ATL likes to do on offense. He goes unnoticed, because he doesn’t carry the ball or catch passes. Smitty and co. know how important a member to the team he is. Yes the will run different formations and such, but the bread and butter of this team is still power football with a lead blocker.
That’s all I have for now…
BigSkee
May 26th, 2009
9:46 pm
Im excited to see the young guys getting reps. We need these guys to boost our pass rush off the edge. Im intrigued about our D this season, but I honestly dont forsee us being any worse than last year. With some support for Abe with Babs And Mr Jerry, our D-Line is gonna be a very solid unit. Hip Hip Hooray, if I may say so
D3
May 26th, 2009
9:52 pm
Great Evening Bird-Cage Bro’s & Sis’s! Had to take a little bit of a break from the computer over the holiday weekend. Back and ready to go with some meat and potatoes, actual football talk which we love. Glad to wash our hands of the other topic. So pumped to be back in the ‘Cage. To Falcons & Football……..
DOL – back in your “sweet spot” as they like to say in baseball. This is what gets us football junkies here in the ‘Cage frothing at the mouth. We understand that right now is the deadest of dead times for NFL and Falcons Football and we appreciate the nuggets when we can get them. Thanks for a job well done! Can you shed some light on the deal with Chris Owens? Why would he have to wait to graduate when there are so many juniors declaring who obviously don’t have that problem.
Abe – if TD, Smitty, & Co. are comfortable with Abraham no participating in these OTA’s than I’m in full support of it. The guy just came off a 16.5 sack year, one of his best of the year, d@— near Pro-Bowl worthy, IMO. As long as he shows up in shape mentally and physically and ready to go, than I don’t see the harm in it. I look for Abe to get a lot of help this year not only with our new look DT Rotation, but also with Biermann, El Sid, and C.Davis(assuming JA starts at RDE). Remember, we need to preserve his longevity as much as possible because we got him for another 3 years. I think his heart is in the right place.
Three Missing? – if there are only three players missing from OTA’s , and two of them are Pro-Bowl vets, and the other legally can’t attend than I see that everyone is buying into this team and know what they have.
Babs & Sugar Bear – Absolutely LOVE to hear that Babineaux is stepping up as a true leader of our defense. We only have a chance at any championships if guys like Babs, Coleman, & Peterson step up to mentor these young guys. Great to hear Sugar Bear talk about “violent and nasty”, because that’s what championship defenses are all about: hit first, hit hardest, hit longest. Also great to hear about the versatility training that Smitty has preached since day 1. Expect all kinds of crazy formations this year such as 3-4, 3-5-3, and maybe even a 1-5-5 nickel. Great news.
P.Jerry – can’t wait to get him on the field. A tad worried about durability, but the guy is tough and a man-child on the field. It will be very interesting watching that Peria Jerry vs Trey Lewis battle this pre-season. We shouldn’t assume that Jerry will start just b/c he was a first rounder, but he definitely has the inside track.
Community – many people love to criticize Blank and his management style, etc. but no one can ever argue the work he almost demands of his players and of himself to committ to service to the betterment of the City of Atlanta. Goes right in line with that character attitude that we’re drafting for. One reason I KNEW Vontae Davis would not be wearing Red & Black on draft day. I know all NFL teams do it, but it truly is great to see Blank and the Falcons participating in Community Service.
Great to be back in the ‘Cage. A menu of Roster-Spot Analysis’ and Weekly Opponent Breakdowns (the Hated Patriots this week) coming for the Bird-Cage faithful. And on that note………..
66 DAYS AND COUNTING TO 2009 ATLANTA FALCONS TRAINING CAMP!!!!!
D3
May 26th, 2009
10:03 pm
Bird-Cage Faithful – how’s the following schedule look for this week to supplement DOL’s discussions. Honestly, I don’t know if I have the will-power to continue the division/team predictions. What do you guys think?
Weekly Menu
Wednesday
Game #3 Analysis: Falcons Defense vs. Patriots Offense
Roster Spot Analysis RB#3
Thursday
Falcons Offense vs Patriots Defense
Roster Spot Analysis TE#1
Friday
Falcons vs Patriots game details and Final predictions
Roster Spot Analysis TE#2
Sat/Sun
Weekend Mash-up (various stories from around the NFL)
Roster Spot Analysis TE#3
WR
May 26th, 2009
10:09 pm
D-Led, nice piece, all is forgiven once we here some real Falcon talk. Not overly concerned with Abe missing camp, very intrigued by the fact that Babs is showing more nastiness and violence, if he’s any better than last year the line will already be improved. You gotta figure the only piece of the D-line that was lost is Big old Grady and he’s being replaced with youth and speed sounds like an improvement to me already.
D-Led, when you get a chance could you get some feedback on how Jamaal Andersen is looking this offseason, I expect the light bulb to turn on this year and if it does as I imagine, this line could easily move into the top spot in the NFC south and probably be one of the tops in the NFL.
Finally, the cage is reopened for business, D-Led you the man, well as long as you are talking current football and current football players,LOL (j/k or maybe not)
jason
May 26th, 2009
10:44 pm
Roster Spot Analysis RB#3: This is going to be a battle. Snelling vs. Brown vs. Haynes. Snelling showed some potential, and versatility last year. Could wind up a starter later in his career with more experience. He has nice size along with good speed for his size. He catches decently out of the backfield. He is versital to play RB, and FB. He also was reliable on STs. The knock on Snelling is he seems tneetive to hit the hole with a burst. I don’t know if it is vision or hesitation. Although he is going into his third year.
Thomas Brown a local from the UGA is trying to bounce back from a knee injury to claim the third RB spot. Always know as a hard worker. Has considering how small he is. AT UGA he was pound for pound the strongest player on the team, squatting over 400 lbs. on his 185-190lb. frame. Excellent reciever out of the back field. Is not afraid to run inside between the tackles. Is fearless, sometimes to a fault considering questions about his durability. Brown’s best chance to claim this spot is the versatility he brings to the team. Along with being a third down specialist, he can also return kicks.
Verron Haynes, the elder statesman brought in to provide a veteran pressance to the backfield. He can do a little bit of everything at a pro level. While not a superstar, he is a true “Blue Collar” worker. Another player who can play both RB and FB. The chances of Haynes making the team are not good unless Snelling really blows his oppurtunity.
After looking at the competiters for the third RB spot, I have to say that this will be a close and hottly contested battle between Brown and Snelling. This will probably be one of the last positions settled before ATL breaks camp. I have to give the edge to Thomas Brown. The reasons are speed and versatility. By that Brown has the ability to make a team impact on STs. If ATL decides they need to carry a fourth, then Snelling will make the team as a back up to Mughelli.
D3
May 26th, 2009
11:24 pm
j-man – love your enthusiasm brother. Had to take a break, but I’m ready to go now. Do you think we should continue our division/team analysis? I think I bit off a little more than I could chew with that one. Do you think that between OTA’s/Roster Spot Analysis/Weekly Opponents/NFL News that we’ll have enough juice to keep us rolling through the summer drought season?
Sarah B – how was the memorial day weekend? Any Sol’s or Bud Lts? I put a mean burger on the grill from the Messiah of Grilling Bobby Flay. I’ll share it soon.
WR – what’s up my brother? Had to follow suit with you on taking a little bit of a break. I think the blog monster/House CEO & CFO(my little buddy) needed some serious fam time. Plus the whole last blog just wasn’t that appealing. But DLed delivers us some great juicy bits to stew on for awhile. Without question could be THE best D-Lines in the NFC South. Panthers: shell of their former self. TB: please. New O: maybe improved w/ healthy Sedrick Ellis, but my UGA boy Charles Grant is somehow involved in a messy murder case down in South Georgia(at least I think so). Great to be back! Have you tried the New Belgium Fat Tire yet? They only sell them in douce-douce’s for now, but WOW one of best brews EVER!!!!
jason
May 26th, 2009
11:33 pm
D3, It’s your show. I know what you mean about the family. Here’s an idea. Let’s just continue on with the Atlanta roster, and look at their opponets. If there is something of interest as far as other NFL teams and players; just thow it out there and we will talk about it.
I’m like alot of people in that I am a Falcon/ Geaogia sports teams homer. I would rather talk about ATL, UGA and my syrupmakers over anything else. I am still looking for that perfect DAWG blog, similar to this one.
Atlanta Journal Constitution » Blog Archive » Abe’s absence will help young D-linemen
May 27th, 2009
12:13 am
[...] Falcons | ajc.com – [...]
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 27th, 2009
12:13 am
Hello all in the Bird Cage! Up watching hoops. Bad night for my Cavs. Have to admit that I spent part of the Memorial Day weekend watching the Food Network. That Bobby Flay kid does some nice stuff on his “Grill It” show. Dude loves putting bleu cheese on everything. Did a little grilling, but I’ve got a ways to go to get into Bobby Flay territory.
D3: NCAA rule on Owens. It’s about the only time Quarters vs. Semesters comes into plays. Can’t tell when they graduate: http://info.sjsu.edu/home/schedules.html
He needs to get all of the work he can if he’s going to win the starting cornerback spot.
WR: Thanks. Had to get that out of the way and bring us closer to blog closer on former players. May just ignore the release/trade and let Bradley and Schultz have at it. Jamaal keeps getting good reviews on and off the record from coaches. So he doing his job without racking up stats is the best way to explain it. It’s just common sense the he should stumble into or say, five or six sacks, with Abraham chasing from the other side.
Good night. Have to get ready for OTA’s tomorrow.
WR
May 27th, 2009
12:32 am
D-Led thanks for the update, good luck at OTAs tomorrow or should I say later today. As far as the Cavs, at least its been a good series, this is the first NBA playoff in a while that has had a really good final four. With the Hawks long gone I find myself pulling for the underdogs because its the popular opinion to want to see a Lebron,Kobe final, I say if their teams earn it I’m all for it, if not let the best teams play.
D3, ya had to get away for awhile needed the fresh air and serenity of the beach more so than the sun. Its just something so relaxing and calming listening to the ocean as you drift off to sleep. Hopefully with D-Led back at OTAs we can get things cranked up again, seems like a quiet night tonight, maybe tomorrow the birdcage can get back to full bloom. Later cage
Loyal Falcons Fan Since 1966
May 27th, 2009
1:03 am
[ This comment is awaiting moderation. ]
Manny
May 27th, 2009
1:38 am
Ledbetter, what’s the word on Trey Lewis? 2 years ago he was playing so well as a rookie for the Falcons that they let go of Grady then came the knee injury.
I still think Trey has a chance to be special.
JJ
May 27th, 2009
6:00 am
What a beautifull morning! As I sip on my coffee, trying to wake up, I fire up the computer to check out my fellow fanaticals and…..we have a new blog!!!
D3: I agree on cutting back to our boys and our opponents.
Jason: Your summary and conclusion are right on with rb#3, but I just can’t see losing Snelling. Brown gets the edge for ST;s, but I still like both! How sound is the knee? It’s going to be a fierce battle on the field and on this blog! lol
Off to work early, will check back this afternoon…ps…someone tell purdue he can quit praying!!!!!(for h2o)
Big Ray
May 27th, 2009
8:14 am
Skipped the last blog for what should be obvious reasons.
I sure hope Peria Jerry can get healthy and stay that way. This makes two good young defensive linemen, two years in a row, with health problems. We need both of them up and running. Especially with our top defensive lineman already ailing!
I’m excited about Sidbury and Moore, and hope that Owens can get into the thick of things, despite getting behind, due to school stuff.
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
8:40 am
D3,
Division/team predictions: First. We all want to thank you for the time and effort you have put into this blog to date. On a personal level, I feel your time would be better spent chasin’ your “Critter” around the house( future HOF’er ). Let’s simply show it the backdoor and carry on.
jason
May 27th, 2009
8:47 am
JJ, you are right on about Snelling. I think they try and keep both if they can.
jason
May 27th, 2009
8:52 am
Tra Battle has been released by the Cowboys. Might he be a signing to bolster the competition at DB? He was listed as a CB, but played safety at UGA.
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
9:26 am
Dallas is extremely deep at safety after the draft, and at 5′11/173 Battle wasn’t a realistic option on defense. He may resurface as special teams help.
jason
May 27th, 2009
9:29 am
backfields in the NFL Story Highlights
San Diego ranks No. 1 with Philip Rivers and LaDainian Tomlinson
Deep stable of running backs help Dallas Cowboys crack the top three
Recent injuries, unmet expectations to blame for bottom two backfields
By John Mullin, Special to SI.com
San Diego QB Philip Rivers and RB LaDainian Tomlinson lead the NFL’s top backfield.
Stephen Dunn/Getty Images
General managers, coaches and fantasy footballers rank 1-2-3 (though not necessarily in that order) as talent evaluators for quarterbacks and running backs. And they need to be good at it because jobs and bragging rights are at stake when it comes to those positions.
In an effort to help all three groups with their evaluations, we’ve ranked the NFL’s quarterback-running back pairings. Notably, two of the top nine QB-RB packages play in the NFC North (And here’s a hint: Neither employs Brett Favre or plays indoors.)
Some notes on the measurements used:
• If a team’s backup is an active ingredient in the mix or is arguably good enough to start for a number of other teams, that backup factored into the rating. This was not the case for every team.
• Since few teams use a true fullback in their schemes, we didn’t fold that position into the backfield lineups.
• Rookies are difficult to rank, for obvious reasons, and quarterbacks particularly so. But we viewed some (Matt Stafford in Detroit, Mark Sanchez in New York) as positives because they likely can’t be worse than what they’re replacing.
• Additions and subtractions via free agency and the draft affected some backfields more than others, even if those additions or subtractions weren’t quarterbacks or running backs. Changes at various positions, even on defense, have clear trickle-down potential for quarterbacks and running backs.
• Rankings are based on more than skills and numbers alone. Joe Montana, for example, may not have been the NFL’s top passer in his prime, but he was arguably its best quarterback.
With that in mind, here’s how the 32 NFL backfields rank:
jason
May 27th, 2009
9:30 am
7. Atlanta Falcons
Who: QB Matt Ryan; RB Michael Turner
Add/subtract: Trading for TE Tony Gonzalez gives Ryan a new, experienced toy.
Questionable: The Falcons went 11-5 and to the playoffs with a rookie QB and LT. How much better can they be if Ryan and Sam Baker avoid any sophomore jinx?
The Thought: This team thought it was so solid on offense that it spent its first five draft picks — and seven of eight — on defense
jason
May 27th, 2009
9:32 am
Apparently, he doesn’t know how good Norwood is.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
9:33 am
Morning, all! Is this where I spas about Ms. Abraham missing workouts? He has his own “offseason core maintenace program”? Give me a freakin’ brick… You mean to tell me every swinging so-and-so made the activity except Abraham; and you fellows are cool with that? I can take Owens absence (league rules); I’ll even take Gonzo’s absence (I just moved into a house less than two months ago and I’m still unpacking; I can only imagine the stress on a move from Kansas City to Atlanta, with a family). But Ms. Abraham? No! I’m not going to prentend that he earned the right of non-participation because of 16.5 sacks. He gets to do his own thing because “he knows what he’s doing” on the field. Well, so does White and Turner, who made it to the Pro-Bowl; but, they participated. And why can’t anyone answer my question, that I’ve been asking for weeks. Why YOU don’t think Abraham made it to the Pro-Bowl last year, with 16.5 sacks?
I got a position for Abe to play. What about left-out?
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
9:34 am
Y’all been waiting for that, heh WR?
jason
May 27th, 2009
9:36 am
Unca’ Bob, Just a thought to bring in some more competition. He waould be a ST warrior. He has blazing speed, but is a tad undersized.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
9:52 am
D3, What’s up, buddy? I don’t want to be the one to say “I told You so”; but, “I told you so”. I applaud your efforts, brother, but that has got to be a lot of work to keep up with (division by division analysis). My little linebacker is pulling my leg right now, trying to grab my attention (I thought the Wonder Pets would do the trick). So, I know you’ve got a handful with your little wide receiver over there.
Still, I think analyzing our weekly opponents will lead us right into training camp.
I have another idea for you. I’ve noticed a number of us have started pasting writings/works from other websites. If we start copying and pasting the reviews, stats, write-ups, blogs, updates, articles and all the web-media that pertain to the Birds, we’ll have enough disscusion in our off time. That’ll also elimate the need for us to have five and six windows open for every article on the Falcons. If anyone of you are as a Falcon novice as I am, then you currently have a window open for AJC.com, AtlantaFalcons.com, ESPN.com, YahooSports!, CBSSports, National Football Post, NFL.com, etc., etc. If we all take what we read and paste it into our little blog here, we can all come here and catch up on all the news. Good work, JJ, jason and Unca’ Bob!
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
10:01 am
This is a piece of a post by Pat Yasinskas, ESPN, NFC South. Good read but was too long to post here. That could be, in part, of the blog monster problem. Volumn.
But, remember, this is a run-first offense. The Falcons attempted 560 rushes last year — most of them with the bruising, yet explosive Michael Turner. But do not discount what Jerious Norwood brings to the table. Turner logged a ton of carries last season, and the Falcons should give Norwood more touches for the betterment of all. Turner can pound defenses into submission and both runners are a big play waiting to happen. This excellent run game also forces extra defenders into the box and enhances the chances of excellent coverage matchups for Ryan to exploit.
Ken Strickland
May 27th, 2009
10:20 am
ORLANDO LEDBETTER-thanks for putting us Falcon fans back on track. If PJerry(6′2″ 299lbs) and JBabineaux(6′2″ 284lbs) are our starting DT’s, along with DE’s JAbraham(6′4″ 263lbs) & JAnderson(6′6″ 282lbs), we’ll have one of the smallest DL’s in the NFL, if not the smallest. However, we’ll also have one of the quickest, fastest and potentially most disruptive DL’s in the NFL as well.
I see where Las Vegas oddsmakers have us winning no more than 8 gms this ys, WOW. Aren’t these the same so calledexpert oddsmakers that caused so many to lose so much betting against the Falcons last yr with their predictions of us winning no more than 3-4gms? And now these clowns want everyone to believe that the 0-16 Lions have acquired enough talent, through the draft and FA’s, to fill most of their OFF/DEF weakness? They also expect us to believe that a playoff team that finished 11-5, and has definitely acquired enough talent though the draft and FA to fix its OFF/DEF weaknesses, will win only 8 gms. They’re saying their’s suddenly only a 3gm difference between the 0-16 Lions and the 11-5 Falcons. ANYONE STUPID ENOUGH TO BELIEVE THESE LAS VEGAS ODDSMAKERS SHOULD CONSIDER THIS: LAS VEGAS ODDS MAKERS DON’T MAKE MONEY WHEN YOU WIN, ONLY WHEN YOU LOSE.
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
10:22 am
Strig,
I just bounced back from one of those “open windows” you were talking about. Good to hear from you again. It’s my understanding OTA’s are mostly spent classroom style, study playbook stuff. Very little time is spent with on field issues, run thru what you just read stuff. I feel Abe is on the same page as his teamates, and on most snaps, he pins his ears back and tries to get inside the backfield. If Coach Smith & Co. are comfortable with his progress, so am I.
jason
May 27th, 2009
10:26 am
Ken Strickland, That’s why I think Lewis starts over Jerry; at least at the beginning of the season. We have to have some beef inside. What id Babs back up is Jerry, and Lewis’s is Walker? That way you will have size and speed on the field at all times.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
10:45 am
Unca’ Bob, I can understand why everyone is considering the irrelevance of attending OTAs. When Abe missed mini-camp, everyone defended is physicallity. Everyone suggested that he didn’t participate because of the risk of injury. So, are we now suggesting that he may get hurt in the classroom? He may fall asleep and slam his head on the desktop; that may cause a concusion.
All I’m asking, people, is that Abe show a little leadership and show up. Why single yourself out by conducting your own “maintenance program”. For years, Jerry Rice conducting his own workout program but he still participated in team functions. Allowing Absent-Abe to miss activities because “he knows what he’s doing” is kind of downgraging the efforts of the other veterans and players that contributed to our unbelievable season. Also, shouldn’t Abe be concerned about the emergence of Biermann and the arrival of Sidbury? He’s opening pandora’s box for himself by allowing someone else, younger and faster, to assume his position. If Sidbury or Biermann demonstrates the ability to rush, especially with the prosperity of Anderson, then Abe’s future can be in jeapordy. I don’t care how many sacks he had last year.
Can anyone explain to me why Absent-Abe did not make the Pro-Bowl with 16.5 sacks? I’ll wait…
WR
May 27th, 2009
11:37 am
Stirg, Abe didn’t make the Pro-bowl for the opposite reason that people think Jamaal Andersen is a bust. DE need to affect the game more than just from a sack point of view. Because Abe was not an everydown player some voters felt that his stats were overrated because he only had to concentrate on getting sacks not on being a complete disruptive force. Jamaal on the other hand is considered a bust because he doesn’t have any sacks to make his run support and overall play of holding up at the point of attack stand out. If you notice Abe was an all-pro which is voted on differently than the pro-bowl. Pro-bowl voting is a combination of fans,coaches and players. For a better understanding imagine if Lawrence Taylor only had to concentrate on getting sacks, he probably would have easily had 5 a game and he would hold the all-time sack record. But LT was a beast in all aspects of the game, whether that was chasing down QBs for sacks, tackling running backs in the backfield or dropping into coverage, he was the total package. The Falcons want Abe more as a sack specialist at this point in his career and considering his injury history, thats why you saw them sub so much for him last year and they will do the same for him this year. If Sidbury turns out to be the player he was drafted to be he will eventually step in as Abe’s replacement, but that may still be a couple of years away.
Falcon Devil
May 27th, 2009
11:46 am
Stirg – No problem exlaining it. It’s a popularity contest. Do you remember in 6th grade who got class president? It wasnt the qualified nerd, it was the popular kid who people all knew and liked. Julius Peppers made the pro-bowl. He had 14.5 sacks. Try sticking up for his leadership value!! He is demanding a trade and has been vocal about wanting to leave the Panthers for two seasons. However Peppers has been glorifed (not always unfairly) since he first made the probowl years ago. Then it was Justin Tuck, hmmm NY does have alot of Pro-Bowl voters. Alternate being Jared Allen, who is qualified and is also talked about on ESPN everyday due to his personality and some other things. Players from teams from huge markets have a huge advantage to making the pro-bowl and players who are in the news alot (Peppers, Allen) also have an advantage because alot of voters don’t know squat except they like their team.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
12:05 pm
Strig – OK that’s like 4 times you’ve asked why he wasn’t in the Pro Bowl. Here is the reason… He didn’t get enough votes. Did you vote on NFL.com I did.
JohnWaynesworld
May 27th, 2009
12:34 pm
I personally want “Abe” to show up to the practice facility on a diamelle-studded floatilla surrounded by beautiful fan girls (And manicure girls on each hand, Stirg) and yelling to coach Smith, “Hey Smitty, where’s my shade tree?”
JohnWaynesworld
May 27th, 2009
12:36 pm
16.5 NFL sacks and a full season in ‘08, Stirg. That’s why.
WR
May 27th, 2009
12:37 pm
JohnWaynesworld, thats some good stuff, Stirg you just made the woman come out of Sarah
WR
May 27th, 2009
12:38 pm
Can you say feisty, we have some spunk in the bird cage boys
Hamad Meander
May 27th, 2009
12:42 pm
I don’t have a problem with John Abraham missing OTAs, but I did have a problem with the report that he didn’t participate in mini-camp because of ‘injuries’. This team can be pretty decent on defense with a healthy squad. I really want to see how it looks with this lineup: Sidbury Jr, Babineaux, Jerry, and Abraham. That looks to cause some havoc in the NFL. The Falcons should be good enough @ linebacker and in the secondary to not have defense be a liability.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
12:53 pm
Now Falcon Devil, you made a very valid comparison. Peppers produced less sacks and demonstrates no leadership; still, he makes the Pro-Bowl. I do suppose it is a popularity contest.
Yes, Sarah, I voted; I even voted for ole Absent-Abe.
Greg
May 27th, 2009
12:54 pm
A couple people have mentioned anticipating Sidbury and Biermann working at DE. Biermann is listed at 241—I love his motor, but I can’t see him as a functioning DE unless he has beefed WAY up during the off season. Even Sidbury—whom I can’t wait to see—at 266, is quite light going up against the 320lb tackles we’re going to see every week. I know, I know, Abe is also listed at 266…but Abe is a rush freak.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
1:02 pm
If Abraham is a situational player and can’t play every down, shouldn’t he be at OTA’s learning or preparing how to play every down? Oops, I forgot. He’s somewhere doing his own “core maintenance program”, at Hooters.
WR
May 27th, 2009
1:46 pm
If your not an every down player by the time you hit 30 or beyond chances are you won’t become one, the players understand that, good coaches understand that, but the fans who pay their money to watch teams continually lose because they have a coaching staff that feels like they do, can’t seem to get it. Good coaches put players in position to help the team win, funny how one of the best if not the best coach in the NFL,Bill Belichick, rarely demands much of his long in the tooth veterans especially in OTAs or minicamps, same goes for every coach that has won a superbowl over the past 30 years,except for Tom Coughlin who eventually figured out that Micheal Strahan didn’t have to be present to preform during the regular season and that was with considering a player who shyed away from actual training camp. Any who understands or has ever played football knows that OTAs are about the rookies and new players to the system as well as QBs and wideouts starting to develop chemistry. Hell, even in highschool thats how it was, the QBs and wide receivers, LBs and DBs had OTAs,passing drills as well as classroom work study you practied in skeletons and a helmet, the line on both sides of the ball pretty much did strength and conditioning training. That continued on to the college level and it pretty much is the case on the pro-level.
Falcon Devil
May 27th, 2009
2:08 pm
Abe is a freaking amazing pass rusher period. He won’t be expected to play the run ever. We resigned Chauncey Davis for 1st and 2nd down and to put Anderson on notice the grace period is now over. Our DE depth is exciting to me as is our entire DL. We have Trey Lewis for as a run stuffer when we want to commit to the run but our best D-lineman are nimble and we should be able to get a 4-man pass rush which will result in alot of picks. Babs and Jerry will penetrate the backfield consistently sending the scambling QB into the beartrap that Abraham and Anderson (hopefully).
Shamus Thacker
May 27th, 2009
2:36 pm
If we’re healthy, we’re gonna be a tough buncha SOBs to beat…
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
2:44 pm
Oh! I get it. Do less work and complain more about my injuries, I can get time off. If I do more work, like play more downs, I need to attend mini-camps and OTA’s so I can gel more with my teammates. Its becoming clearer to me now.
They asked Mike Peterson about the infamous “Over 30 Club” (players over thirty are more excusable from team activities). Peterson eloguently answered “I’m not ‘over thirty’”. Now that’s leadership. And you know what else? He’s the only player on the team with six years experience under Smitty’s system.
Hamad Meander
May 27th, 2009
2:44 pm
Again, the subject of size has come onto the board. Yes, I see Biermann is 241 or so, and Sidbury is 266. DON’T place value on a playere at a position based on what he tips the scales. There are plenty of 300 lb offensive lineman that play lighter as there are many defensive linemen who play stronger than their weight suggests.
Also, in the 4-3 defense, you don’t want 300 lb ends. You need disruptive, quick, pass rushers that force the action for the linebackers to clean up. In a 3-4, you want heavier ends and a big ol’ nose tackle to occupy the offensive line and set the linebackers up to make plays. It is to the Falcons advantage, as they don’t have 4 dynamic linebackers, to play the 4-3 and to play with 266 lb. ends that are fast and mean.
D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER
May 27th, 2009
2:47 pm
Chris Owens got his degree and was at practice. Check out this YouTube video of Owens working out at Speed City in San Diego.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3burKrNAaI
WR
May 27th, 2009
2:48 pm
FalconDevil, I agree on Andersen, I also believe that if he starts to really pile up sacks and continue to be strong against the run he could make alot of the so-called experts and fans alike eat their words. Definitely with you on the DL, no matter who starts with a rotation of Babs,Jerry,Lewis,Walker this line could reak havoc on the NFL. Then you consider we have Abe,Andersen,Davis,Biermann,and Sid at the defensive end spots and some LB in the 3-4, the added speed,power,nastiness,and in your face pressure will make our below average secondary look like stars. Speaking of the secondary, I expect big things from Houston, Coleman is a solid veteran safety, Jackson looked good in the nickel and could look better at the LCB with added help from the front seven, and I eventually expect Moore to overtake Decoud,with Owens,Grimes,Hutchinson,and Middleton who people have forgot, battling for the nickel and dime corner spots. This defense will be young from the onset, but they get battle tested early which could lead to some excellent play later.
WR
May 27th, 2009
3:12 pm
Going by the standard of not calling people out, someone made the comment about Mike Peterson being a leader because he said he’s not over thirty although he is,let’s see, I’m over 40 for the sake of argument, Im in a partnership/marriage so to speak with someone who doesnt want me or I don’t want,wow, a new understanding,cohesive,and attractive partner comes along,I think I get reinvigorated,I feel fresh and new,I’m more willing to listen,understand,commit,and I want that new partner to get the best of me to show my appreciation, to show that I am still not only a catch but an asset,kind of sounds like Mike Peterson and kind of sounds like most people in America when they have been thrown to the wolves just for someone else to pick them up as trash because they think they could be diamonds. Last I checked that was called life, yesterdays trash is someones treasure today, another persons leftovers is someones main coarse. The people who appreciate that are successful, the ones who see it as deserved are the ones who continue to fell. Peterson appreciates the opportunity and he is going to make the most of it, Abraham has made the most of the opportunity and the team appreciates him for it.
richbrave
May 27th, 2009
3:14 pm
D Led:
Have you seen the OTA’s? How’s my man LAWRENCE doing?
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
3:25 pm
D-Led,
I don’t know where you dug up the link for C. Owens, but I enjoyed it. It was fun to put a face and voice to what had before been only a number on a roster. Thanx
long time falcon
May 27th, 2009
3:28 pm
May 27th, 2009 Goto comments Leave a comment Rookie William Middleton “tweaked” a hamstring in Wednesday’s OTA workout, according to Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith.
Middleton was selected in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Furman. The 5-foot-10, 190-pound cornerback played at Marist High School in Atlanta and recorded 95 tackles, five sacks, four interceptions and nine pass breakups as a college senior.
Smith said Middleton pulled the hamstring in pass coverage drills.
“William has done very well,” Smith said. “We’ve been cross-training (him). He’s been playing a number of positions, not just the corner position. Today he tweaked his hamstring. Hopefully that’s something that’s not going to set him back for long.”
In other OTA news…
… Tight end Tony Gonzalez worked out with the team on Wednesday, catching passes and getting some work in the new offense in front of the media.
“I thought Tony had a good practice,” Smith said. “I thought he made a couple of really nice catches. Like all of our guys, he work extremely hard. The next three weeks are going to be crucial to setting the foundation as we head into training camp.”
… The Falcons will practice again Thursday before wrapping a second week of organized team activities.
… A handful of players were absent from Wednesday’s workout but, like last week, Smith said all were accounted for and made contact with the coaching staff.
… The team changed the pace and order of Wednesday’s practice. Smith said the workout was similar to a training camp practice to acclimate rookies and first-year players.
… Like mini camp, cornerback Brent Grimes got some time with the first team on Wednesday. More to come on Grimes and his third year with the team on Thursday but, first, a word from the head coach:
“He’s a more confident player,” Smith said. “Brent, without a doubt, is the most athletic player on our team. He has got a lot more confidence this season knowing the system and having been around Brian (Van Gorder), Emmitt (Thomas) and the defensive coaching staff.”
Here is some news for the die hards that I found on atlfalcons.com. Later in the week there will be some more feature stories on individual players. I think their going to do one on brent grimes. stay tuned.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
3:29 pm
Stirg, your motto must be “Walk softly and carry a big spoon” as much as you like to stir the pot.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
3:32 pm
“Going by the standard of not calling people out”, what does being married to someone you don’t want have anything to do with Ms. Abraham being the only player (and veteran) to not show up for OTA’s?
Face it, before anyone else decides to submit an argument that’s irrelebant to this subject, the fact is that Abraham didn’t show up, again. If you guys are okay with that, then I can argue until I’m black and blue. It won’t change your attitudes about John Abraham. To have your entire roster to show up for a non-mandatory TEAM activity, says volumes. Roddy, Michael, Jerious, Mike, Jamaal, Babs, Todd and the rest of the entire team (especially Gonzo and Owens), I tip my hat and raise my buur to you, for making an effort to show up. It demonstrates a lot for all of you to be present.
jason
May 27th, 2009
3:38 pm
hanks for the news. I really like both Owens, and Middleton. Couple them with Houston and Jackson….There are going to be some tough decisions to be made. You have to figure Grimes is a keeper.That’s 5 DBs there. Who will get the last spot? Hutchins, Sharpe and Irons will have to fight it out for the remaining spot. I see only 4 safeties. Moore, DeCoud, Coleman, and Harris.
The DE rotation will be curious. Will Davis rotate off both spots, or will Biermann get even more playing time. That will be curious to see, and also how will Sidbury work into the rotation? Will he play both spots, or back up Abe?
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
3:38 pm
Sarah, that’s ’bout the second undercover comment you’ve made, that I’ve been trying to avoid a response to. I’ve been kind; but don’t push me.
jason
May 27th, 2009
3:41 pm
The DTs will make Anderson and the ends more dangerous. Right now, I have Babineaux, and Lewis starting with Jerry and Walker rotating frequently.
Falcon Devil
May 27th, 2009
3:56 pm
Babs and Jason Elam weren’t at OTA’s…. Should we be calling them Ms. Babs and Ms. Elam now?
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
At least they made the effort and made mini-camp.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
4:06 pm
Matter of fact, both Babs and Elam participated at mini-camp. I’ll give you Elam. He’s the kicker.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
4:12 pm
Sorry Stirg, I was just playing… you had prevously said you like to heckle. I was just heckling back.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
4:14 pm
Everything everything, Sarah. You still my shawty.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
4:24 pm
All I’m trying to demonstrate, bretheren, is the effort taken to show up for work, says volumes. If I’m a business owner and I tell my employees “since we did good in 2008, you guys don’t have to come in on Saturdays any more. Matter for fact, Abe, you don’t have to come because you generated the most production. Now, we have plenty of work to do, that’s for sure; but, as an incentive, you dn’t have to come, if you don’t want to.”
Now, when I open my business on Saturday and some employees showed up for work, anyway…guess who I am going to call upon to lead my team of workers?
Cage, don’t get me wrong. I absolutely adore Mr. John Abraham; but right now, he’s acting like he sits down to pee. Get up and show these rookies how to play some ball. Show them, by doing, how to show up for work and the proper way of preparing.
Jack G.
May 27th, 2009
4:47 pm
I asked my Physical Thearpist for his take on all the pulled Hammy’s—–and he said todays atheletes are so strong that they pull their Hammy’s because the dont warm up properly. he said take time to warm up properly and the pulled Hammy’s go away
cutter
May 27th, 2009
4:48 pm
WR- Well said my man.
Stirg- Do they sell fish and grits in Detroit? I thought we covered the Abe issue already. Stop hating.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
4:57 pm
Very observant, cutter; very observant. No, I think I introduced Detroit to fish and grits. Smart.
Big Ray
May 27th, 2009
5:09 pm
Stirg,
I get your point. However, is not your criticism of John Abraham something that will wash onto the coaching staff, and rest of the organization? I feel that Mike Smith, his staff, Dimitroff, and the rest of the professionals at work here have built, and are maintaining a high level of professionalism and accountability.
I think that if Abraham deserves to be ridden as hard as you think he does, nobody will ride him as hard as his coaches and teammates. Remember, these guys had no issues with letting Milloy, Boley, Brooking, and others go. No issues whatsoever, all emotions aside. If Abraham becomes a problem, he will be dealt with, is what I believe. I don’t think he’s the unprofessional that you seem to want to make him out to be. I said “seem” as I don’t want to take anything you say out of context, or misrepresent your opinion. Lord knows I hate it when people do that to me.
No, if all you are really doing is “stirring the pot”, as Sara B says, then so be it. It’s always fun to get something going, at least until people begin to truly fight about it.
Having said that, where has Mike Smith or any of his staff come out and said, “We’ll excuse anything Abraham does, because he has produced so much already”? I don’t see a coach letting a player get away with any old thing. I see a coach who knows some things that we don’t (most likely about his health and what not) his player, appreciates and VALUES the level of talent of said player, and has no problem publicly defending his player.
Now, if you can’t dig that, then you might want a guy like Bobby Petrino back.
Again, I believe that scalding Abraham can’t be done without throwing some of that boiling water on the head coach and his staff as well, who are responsible for holding these guys accountable. All we hear from these guys is “urgency.” I doubt they say that out of one side of the mouth, while whispering soothing words to a teacher’s pet out of the other.
If John Abraham knows what he’s doing (and we know he does) out on the field, and he and the coaching staff feel it’s more prudent to keep him out for a while longer (most likely related to health issues), then I’m cool with that. If Abraham is doggin’ it and letting his teammates/coaches down, then it will come to light and be dealt with, I am certain. Smith does not strike me as somebody who will suffer fools, lazy men, or outright idiots, no matter how talented, or what they’ve done great on the field, in the past. And this defense is NOT being built around ONE player.
Again, if I’m reading you wrong, correct me. It won’t hurt my feelings. I understand your point of view. My opinion isn’t better, self-righteous, or anything else. It’s just different.
Obama hates Cheney's bald head the most
May 27th, 2009
5:13 pm
nunyabizness
WR
May 27th, 2009
5:16 pm
Funny to me how the people who run the so-called business’s seem to have so much time for golf and all kinds of business meetings that aren’t really business meetings, but hay I have a mule that will show up regardless of whether its healthy or not, lets put it to work. Look, here comes that horse that needed some time off, amazing how its tripling the work of the mule, well I guess I should have told the mule to take a few days off, because I know the mule is willing to do the work and that healthy mule can show these flamboyant,young stallion horses how to do it the right way. I wonder what the parable about the turtle and rabbit was really about, you have a young fast hare and a slow smart turtle and all they have to do is get to the finish line, who wins, who teaches whom. Abe was at the minicamp,he taught and helped the young players as he was suppose to as a older player, but the fact that he wasn’t out there trying to make the name for himself that he has already made,which the younger players haven’t, makes him wrong. Even using the logic of a business person, you won’t find not one business professional questioning an experienced,excelled,established,business professional unless the aforementioned professional screws up. Just trying to get the members in the cage to understand that sometimes you need to move on, especially when you have no ground to stand on.
WR
May 27th, 2009
5:20 pm
What does a marriage have to do with it, anyone that has played any kind of team sport understands that its a marriage. Its committing yourself not only to what you have to do, but commiting yourself to whats best for the team, In some cases you may want to practice with the team just to show your commitment, but whats best for the team is that you don’t practice because it puts the team at risk.
Terrell
May 27th, 2009
5:21 pm
[ This comment is awaiting moderation. ]
Big Ray
May 27th, 2009
5:43 pm
WR,
At risk of sounding like I’m ganging up on Stirg (which I am NOT), I tend to agree with the theme you present. Wrong or right, that was the interpretation of Abraham’s absence that I chose to make.
As I recall, Mike Smith said they really wanted to get some of the young guys in there and work them out, see what THEY could do. Resource management, if you ask me. As I say, all is revealed at some point. Dead weight doesn’t last long around here these days, no matter what form it takes.
WR
May 27th, 2009
5:46 pm
Big Ray, my point exactly, now honestly my comments may be a little less tactful but the point is made. When you have someone throwing Jerry Rice in the equation without even be around Jerry Rice you get comments like even Rice attended OTAs, but when you have someone that knows better, they understand that Jerry Rice attended activities that helped build chemistry with his QBs only, the rest of the time Rice had his own workout regime which was more intense then what was offered at any OTA in that time period. As a matter of fact coaches during that time period excused players who were working out with Rice just because it was common knowledge of the commitment and work that was put in his workout regime.
WR
May 27th, 2009
5:49 pm
Big Ray just read your second post, I can pretty much assure you that Stirg doesn’t take it as ganging up, this Abraham talk goes way back and for the most part he keeps it real as far as his feelings go, unless you say something without saying it, which someone did earlier, its always a good debate that no one takes personally.
JJ
May 27th, 2009
5:57 pm
Wow, just got home and stirg’s comments are the center of this blog this afternoon. Come on guys/gal, I’ve been on this blog for several yrs and everyone has their quirks about the falcons. I have/had one with houston but coach ken gave me insight. This is stirgs little quirk with ms. abraham and it’s really not a big deal. Stirg has provided excellent blogs on here and he just has a thing about this issue, no biggie. Yes sarah, he does love to banter, but thats the charm in this forum.
You go stirg, let it out, I know come sunday’s you will be screaming the loudest for mrs. abraham when he sacks and demolish our opp. qb.
ps. – love the fever and everyone’s being cool, gotta date, cia kids! go falcons!!!
D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER
May 27th, 2009
6:12 pm
William Middleton injured his hamstring at practice today.
RB Thomas Brown looked very good. Certainly hasn’t lost any speed.
TE Tony Gonzalez was in the house also.
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/falcons/stories/2009/05/27/falcons_middleton_injury.html
The team practiced indoors again.
WR
May 27th, 2009
6:15 pm
JJ, its not as serious as you might think, its all in good fun, its just that every now and then someone makes an underhanded commment thats uncalled for but for the most part its just good Falcon fun. Stirg is my man, we going to continue to agree to disagree and if he,Big Ray and myself could get together at a game we would be the loudest in the bunch.
John Waynesworld
May 27th, 2009
6:17 pm
Thanks DOL for that bit of news on my man T. Brown. I am glad he is doing well.
D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER
May 27th, 2009
6:18 pm
RICHBRAVE: Sidbury looks good flashing his speed on coverage drills. Can’t tell much about lineman with no contact. But the athlete part is obviously there.
UNCA’ B: Should have credited J. Mike for tweeting that to us. Think he got it from someplace called FalconsLIFE.
JJ
May 27th, 2009
6:31 pm
WR treis bien my friend, treis bien! Stirg is the man, but he’s also stuck in YANKEE land, so we need to give him some slack for that alone! I have a tricked out black dodge 5.9l, 1500 quad, 4×4 truck that has uga tags on front and 88 on back. So stirg, I’m doing my part to buy usa (it’s a ‘98, paid off but a beauty). Not really a fan of the flow-masters it came with because it sounds like a harley!
Coach Ken. Big Ray, Cutter, anyone: we talked a few months ago about the def. seconday we played last yr. was because of our front line (lack of pressure). I beleive we played a version of tampa cover 2, how does our new personnel change our cover scheme this yr?
More man on man or zone? This area (besides D3 calender) I want to research and know about it)! Thanks
WR
May 27th, 2009
6:34 pm
D-Led, sounds like you put a emphasis on T.Brown looking good, hes a tough hardnosed runner that makes quick cuts so he should be a change of pace from Turner,Norwood and Snelling. Glad to hear about Sid also, but, and Im considering their not in pads,how’s Lewis running around out there, I know training camp will tell the true tale but it would be nice to know if hes running around okay.
richbrave
May 27th, 2009
6:42 pm
D Led:
Thanks. It’s great to have an AJC blogmeister that takes the time to answer a question.
D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER
May 27th, 2009
6:44 pm
WR: Yeah, I’ve wrote a story on him. Waiting for digital to post it. They have some stuff up on the Falcons page about somebody’s Dad talking about somebody who’ll never play for the Falcons again.
D3
May 27th, 2009
6:49 pm
Great Hump-Day Evening ‘Cagers! Great to see everyone back from a long holiday weekend break. So much to cover, so little time; so to Falcons and Football…….
JJ – agree on TBrown AND Snelling. I think there’s a huge possibility that we keep both. More on that later in my RB#3 Roster Spot Analysis.
Unca’ Bob – yep, underestimated the time it takes to record the predictions and my little bugger is taking up the time. But its tons of fun.
Big Ray & Falcon Devil – great to have you brothers back in the ‘Cage!
Stirg – good to see you back in the ‘Cage as well after a little of a break (I needed one as well). I’ll be the first to say you were right on track with the division analysis. I had tons of time when I first took off with my lil’ guy, but it seems we have enough information on our Falcons, OTA’s, and Roster Spot Analysis to keep us juiced through the break. Knew Ms. Abraham would draw you back in.
jason – great article pick-ups from around the league. You are da’ man on sourcing information from other spots. How’d I guess you would go with TBrown winning the RB#3 spot? You can guess which way I’m going as well.
Ken Strick – great to have the excellent analysis from the Coach! Yeah, I was shocked to see that garbage from Vegas. EIGHT WINS? What a JOKE! They’re going to lose A LOT of money on that one. Interesting point on our light DL. Definitely not what Smitty had in Jax.
JohnWayne – great visual with Abe showing up at camp. Stirg my jump the fence himself after Abe.
Greg – good point on Biermann. At that weight we could be seeing him move to SAM LB in the future, but he started in Abe’s spot at Mini-Camp. Very interesting. On a funny side note, you’ll have no idea who else was 6′3, 241 to the pound……..Lawrence Taylor. Just had some fun with Google on that one.
DOL – you da’ man for the updates.
WR & Stirg – looks like we got the Stirg vs Ms. Abraham argument up alive and kicking. Love the ‘Cage with a little ferocity.
Alright guys, mucho-mucho more to come later. Gotta run some errands and do the fam thing, but love to see the Bird-Cage rockin’ strong. Up to almost 100 posts in a day and haven’t even delved into our Hated NE Patriots Weekly Opponent Match-Up.
Later……..
jason
May 27th, 2009
6:55 pm
JJ, I am going to say both man and Tampa 2. ATL has the personel to do so. If they play more man, Houston is oing to go off this year. I think it will also depend on how Owens and middleton keep developing. I like man with safety help over the top. Cole man is really going to have to be the leader over the DB backfield. I thik he’s up to it.
The only thing I am going to say on the Abe situation is this: If Smitty’s cool; then I am with it. Even without pads, the more work for Biermann, Sidbury, and even Anderson the better for them. This may be a blessing in disguise, if Sidbury developes faster than we think.
jason
May 27th, 2009
7:03 pm
A point on Biermann. Biermann played DE in Collage. I know it was a small school, but he played it well. I am curious to see how he holds up against the run. I see Biermann as a speed rusher off the edge. Kind of in the mold of (get ready D3, you’re gonna love this) David Pollack.
Not necessarily fast, not gifted. Just a high strung motor and relentless. Come to think of it… Pollack was moved to OLB. HHmmmm.
D3, You knew I was going with Brown, huh? Why’s that? (lol) You did notice that I think they will cut Haynes. Tough, Hate to see a Damn good DAWG cut. I also think they will keep also, call it a tie for #3 RB if you will. If ATL carries 5 RBs (counting Mughelli) how will that affect the roster?
jason
May 27th, 2009
7:17 pm
Falcons’ weakness: Defense
May 27, 2009 9:30 AM
Posted by Scouts Inc.’s Matt Williamson
Obviously, this is a very broad “weakness,” but it is also a reflection of just how high I am on the Falcons’ offense this year. I do admit I am not completely sold on Atlanta’s offensive line, but there is some young talent there and it should continue to get better. Plus, the Falcons are stacked everywhere else on that side of the ball.
Atlanta defensive lineman John Abraham is one of just a few bright spots on the Falcons defense.
This probably is not the first time you have heard this, but Matt Ryan is on the cusp of being an elite quarterback — one of the very best in the game — in just his second year. The weapons he has to throw to are superb, and although tight end Tony Gonzalez may not duplicate his extraordinary numbers from a year ago in Kansas City, he will be an extremely welcomed addition who will open up more room for Roddy White and the Falcons’ other wideouts. White is also a star. There are very few holes in his game and his effectiveness should only increase.
But, remember, this is a run-first offense. The Falcons attempted 560 rushes last year — most of them with the bruising, yet explosive Michael Turner. But do not discount what Jerious Norwood brings to the table. Turner logged a ton of carries last season, and the Falcons should give Norwood more touches for the betterment of all. Turner can pound defenses into submission and both runners are a big play waiting to happen. This excellent run game also forces extra defenders into the box and enhances the chances of excellent coverage matchups for Ryan to exploit.
But the topic of this piece is Atlanta’s defense, which is far from superb. However, from what was stated above, it doesn’t need to be. In fact, ideally, this is a defense that should be playing with plenty of leads. It also plays home games on a fast track in a dome and its divisional matchups are all in warm weather locales.
So, what am I getting at? Even though general manager Tom Dimitroff comes from the Patriots’ organization, this sounds eerily similar to the Colts’ model of success since Peyton Manning arrived in the league.
John Abraham is perfect for this philosophy. He is a dominant edge-rusher. Actually, Jonathan Babineaux and first-rounder Peria Jerry are also upfield penetrating defensive tackles who can be a real handful when the Falcons have a substantial lead and their opponent is forced to throw.
But, outside of this group, the Falcons fall a little short on the defensive side of the ball. Certainly it is understandable, as Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith took over a truly desolate football team, but playmakers are still in short supply. Also, in a tough, grind-it-out type of football game, I can’t say I am overly confident that the Falcons’ defense can slug it out.
But, as I said up top, the Falcons are going to be a very difficult team to play against in 2009. Atlanta is one defensive end and probably two more back-seven playmakers away from being a truly elite team.
For the props this guy is giving ATL’s offense, it’s safe to say he will be pretty darn suprised at the Defense this year.
jason
May 27th, 2009
7:45 pm
Unca’ Bob, I figured I would try and post that article for you. It was a good read.
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
7:57 pm
JJ,
You made mention of naming the blog monster. From what I have been looking at today, we may need to name it, Jason. He seems to have learned to copy and paste. I think we may have created our very own “blog monster”. LOL
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
8:07 pm
jason,
Thank you. I liked it myself. Some times it seems like the bigger the post, the more problems one has to make it to screening.
Big Ray,
Your 5:09 post rocked. Really good stuff. Well thought out as well as presented. Prop’s to ya’.
Unca' Bob
May 27th, 2009
8:24 pm
Strig,
Ya’ out there?
WR
May 27th, 2009
8:42 pm
The great thing about the Falcons defense is that it is young,fast,and talented and it has a Superior offense to give it a chance to grow. Look at the hated Saints, there offense has been off the charts and they have been in most games because of it, problem is they weren’t building a defense to compliment their offense, now the light has turned on but it seems they are looking for quick fixes instead of actually building a defense. The Falcons on the other hand have what may be a great offense which along will turn games into a shootout, giving the defense room for youthful mistakes. At the same time unlike the Saints the Falcons offense is built around a grind it out style of play which is the best offense for any defense, especially a young defense. If your defense is young and talented but with little experience the best thing you can do is play grind it out between the tackle ball, it keeps the defense off the field while allowing them time to grow.
Max Maximus
May 27th, 2009
9:06 pm
Why is anyone stirring up a stink wether Abe does or does not participate in OTA’s. Here is why he’s excused by coaches:
1. He had 15 sacks last season
2. He is over 32 and injury prone
3. Why risk an injury that might carry over and jeopardize the season
4. OTA’s are NOT MANDATORY they are VOLUNTARY.
5. Coaches know their players and frankly we are a blog of amateurs
Looks like Stirg has lot of time on his hands to be constantly trying to impose his will and opinions on others on this blog. Stigs needs a life and, frankly comes of as a bully and control freak as well as appointing himself the Know All Grand Pubah of this blog. Stirg needs to chill and quit busting balls of others that disagree with his views and opinions. Frankly Stirg…. I think you come on this blog with the pure intent on showing others how slick and knowledgeable you are. But it is easy to see that in reality you are not only and under achiever but, one who in my estimation could never be taken seriously at school or life in general. Furthermore I would be willing to bet, you did not get laid until were well into your mid twenties, even then you were probably done in about 2 minutes. Quit being such a prick and coming off as a total azzwhole who deserves respect and adoration.
JJ
May 27th, 2009
9:24 pm
you guys/gal rock. SOS for coach ken and defensive backfield skeams? Thanks jason your right on, but I’m curious about coach ken takes on our def. scheme with new talent.
Good night kids, cia on the flip…530am…hahalolol, i’ll trade?!!!oh yea, good date! loves mt cooking!!!lol…step away from the keyboard–ok stirg, damn!