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
falcon21
May 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
Abe will do his thing this season and everything will be alright. You guys and gal make being a Falcon fan fun as he##!!!
Polterbubba
May 27th, 2009
9:47 pm
We should be able to move the chains at will.
Any time, any place, any weather….
jason
May 27th, 2009
9:48 pm
Unca’ Bob, Thank you. It took a minute to get the copy/ paste down. I read your post at work today, and thought I would read the article when I got home. I tried and it worked.
WR, Good post. That’s my thinking concerning the offense to defense equation.ATl, has the style offense that match up to any game situation. Whether it be Grind it, Shoot out, or Blow out. That will be the most beneficial to this young defense. However, looking at the defense, ATL has veterans in key spots on the defense. Abe (DL), Peterson (LB), and Coleman (DB). not to mention third year players like Houston, Davis, Lewis, and Anderson to help out. ATL has enough veteran Presence to keep the youngsters from be overwhelmed.
WR
May 27th, 2009
10:03 pm
Max Maximus, Stirg has an opinion which if you read, I’m against, your opinions are welcome but don’t take it overboard. I won’t lie at times I feel the same way you do,like the comment made to Sarah, completely uncalled for, yes she made an underhanded remark but she has been commenting long enough for everyone to understand. Not discriminating but she’s a women with some male type incite in football but when it is all said and done she’s a woman and women communicate differently than men, I got no feeling that she was trying to be undermining but Stirg took it that way to which she apologized but she shouldn’t have too. Now as far as Stirg, you make some good points but insults don’t bring results. H@ll I don’t even know if I lasted a minute on my first time around and if its good enough you won’t last a minute on your first time now. Point is you either agree or disagree but keep it respectful, hopefully we are all Falcon fans, if not why waste your time.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:19 pm
Maximus has issues with Stirg, ut oh he almost got mad at me for poking fun today – look out Maximus!
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:20 pm
Thanks WR!
falcon21
May 27th, 2009
10:24 pm
Well said WR, MM seems to be new on this blog as we all once were.I have made an idiot out of myself several times and I know I still do. It’s all about the Falcons. We all live and learn. Go Birds and hello again Falcon fans.
jason
May 27th, 2009
10:34 pm
falcon21, Sarah B, WR, What’s going on ? Are we talking football, or what? Been out of the loop for a minute. Dropped a few post today. Right now waiting on D3 to drop his #3 RB post.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:36 pm
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — A photo hangs in the Falcons weight room depicting a speedy Jerious Norwood escaping the grasp of then-Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson.
Peterson, now a member of the Falcons, joked with Norwood last week about the play, saying his unseen left hand reached the other side of the running back’s waist to make the tackle. According to the official play-by-play, Peterson indeed assisted on a tackle after an 8-yard gain.
He also had two sacks in the game.
But that’s ancient history.
And beside the point.
The importance of the photo lies in the conversation it generates. The team building. The laughs.
That’s important to Norwood, who always plays the game with a smile.
“Whatever it is you do in life, if you’re not having fun you’re not going to be happy and give your best effort,” the running back said after a recent OTA practice. “I think having fun is a big key in whatever it is you’re doing in your life: playing football, basketball, cooking, whatever. I feel like you get the most out of your ability and are more competitive.”
The formula works.
Norwood averaged 5.1 yards per carry and scored six touchdowns for the Falcons last season (four rushing, two receiving). He rushed for 489 yards, lifting his career total to 1,735. He also caught 36 passes for 338 yards in 2008 and returned 51 kickoffs for more than 1,300 yards of field position.
Norwood was the elusive spark complimenting Michael Turner’s in-your-face power.
Now entering his fourth season, the former Mississippi State standout wants to show fans more of his game.
And give them more reason to share his smiles.
“We’re doing the same thing we’ve been doing,” he said when asked about another year in the Falcons system with Turner, a 2009 Pro Bowl selection. “That’s going out every day, working and trying to get better. We’re just like everybody else. We have to go out and compete day-in and day-out and do our best.”
Norwood averaged 5.9 carries per game mostly because Turner was so adept at wearing defenses down in the second half. Some of those carries came in the “Wildcat” formation, with the running back taking a direct snap and reading the defense.
It’s the trickery — and fun — Norwood loves.
“I’m going to continue to do the things I’ve been doing to be productive,” he said. “That’s going out, working hard and giving it all I got. I just try to make the most of every opportunity I’m on the field.”
The addition of Tony Gonzalez should open up the middle of the field for Norwood and Turner, with the speedster taking advantage of the “triple threat” created by the team’s tight ends, receivers and backs. It may also create some new wrinkles in Mike Mularkey’s offense and give Norwood more chances to shine.
“With him on the team defenses don’t know exactly what we’re going to do,” Norwood said. “It’s only going to make the offense better.”
Sounds like fun.
Atlanta Falcons website…
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:41 pm
WR – Iliked earlier when you said it brought out “the woman in me” it did I couldn’t help it.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:44 pm
My toolbar keeps disappearing – I don’t know why???
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:49 pm
Stirg – glad I’m glad I’m still your “Shawty” don’t ever forget that.
falcon21
May 27th, 2009
10:52 pm
Sarah, Jason and WR, ESPN has the Falcons power rankins at number 11. To high or to low? I think at this point it’s about right. What are your thoughts?
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
10:54 pm
Tell me something. Can we offer our opinions without judgement? Can I safely come into this cage and enter my comments without someone suggesting that I “carry a big sppon” or “didn’t have sex until 25″ or “am anti-Abraham” or “anti-Falcon”? If my comments agitate those that don’t agree, then offer your argument that would negate my suggestion. We don’t have to make it personal. Do we?
Sarah, I did not take offense to what you said earlier. I was simply bringing us back to football. I seen where it was going. I thought we squashed it but it seems to keep coming up. Again, you my shawty.
WR, Big Ray, JJ, Falcon Devil, jason, Unca’ Bob, D3, I don’t know if any of you have siblings; but I fight with my brothers. We wrestle in the yard. We even hand box from time to time. At the end of the day, we share a buur and salad. One thing about my brothers, though. They let me be me. I thank you and really appreciate you coming to my defense. I received your comments and your attempts to argue my suggestions. Most of the time, we make logic. Other times, we get bored and “stir it up” a little bit. Don’t let my heckling offend you, though. if I embarrass you, then you may not want to sit next to me during the game. I get into a zone and only the police can bring me out of it. We still Ramen-noodle eating, Red Scripe drinking, international Falcon brothers.
MM, I got a real cool trick that will avoid your attempt to attract my attention…..
Ta Daa!
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
10:57 pm
falcon21 – King had us at 11 as well. I think that is about right although NFL.com had us at 7 I like being underrated. Last year evreyone kept picking agsinst us. And it worked. I liked being underrated…
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
11:02 pm
Stirg – we’re totally cool – the others ? That’s their problem… whatever… You are my Football brethern. No issues here.
falcon21
May 27th, 2009
11:03 pm
You got that right Sarah, underdog seems to work out better for us.
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
11:05 pm
Let’s keep “The Cage” The Cage.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 27th, 2009
11:07 pm
D3, that was funny. You know old Absent-Abe will always draw me back in. “Just when I’m done, they always drag me back in.” (or something like that). Sometimes I sit at my desk, giggling; saying to myself “they take the bait everytime”. Every-now-and-then, I got to agitate the cage a little bit. It gets a little boring ’round here. D.O.L. set me up with this Abe-absense thing. He shouldn’t have never started it. WR told him a long time ago to lie, even Abe doesn’t show up. But oh no! He just had to inform us that Abe was not at OTA.
WR
May 27th, 2009
11:09 pm
Sarah, no thanks needed, I kid you all the time about the work you do around the house and your future by the pool escapades in Vegas laying by the pool tanning, but you have kept it real, you have enjoyed being the only woman in the cage, and you have added incite and humor without ever being harsh, don’t change you add a different perspective, one that most of us enjoy hearing.
Falcon21, glad to have you back,Im with you, I have definitely made a fool of myself in the past on this blog but its all good when you realize you are amongst fans.
I’m so excited by this years version of the Falcons, as Big Ray said earlier, I believe in the Front office,coaching staff and the players, so if a player is out and the coaching staff is okay with it, I’m okay with it, Team is built on belief of the internal beliefs of what is the foundation of this team, who are we as a team, and how do we overcome other teams. No matter what outsiders say a team has to believe in itself, its outcome, and its goals, that is the true making of a team, just ask the United States Military.
jason
May 27th, 2009
11:09 pm
I think 11 is right with the youth we have on defense. If we had a couple of more veterans, I could see us on the outside of the top5. Maybe 6-7.
Stirg d’Nahsif, I take you comments as a grain of salt. Don’t mean to offend you. Alot of what you say has real value to the discussion of the Falcons. About Abe, You don’y like him. I don’t like some players too. Your choice. Eveyone has an opinion. I will say the only people that have a right to check you (with respect) is the veterans of this here blog that know you, and know what you are all about.
Sarah B, good post. I love getting the know how on Norwood. Secret, I like him better than Turner. I am in trouble now, Ain’t I. I read your responses with Strig. I thought you were joking with him. You know a little humor to lighten the situation. We do need to stir the pot on occasion, as long as we keep it respectable.
jason
May 27th, 2009
11:11 pm
WR
May 27th, 2009
11:09 pm
Sarah, no thanks needed, I kid you all the time about the work you do around the house and your future by the pool escapades in Vegas laying by the pool tanning, but you have kept it real, you have enjoyed being the only woman in the cage, and you have added incite and humor without ever being harsh, don’t change you add a different perspective, one that most of us enjoy hearing.
Falcon21, glad to have you back,Im with you, I have definitely made a fool of myself in the past on this blog but its all good when you realize you are amongst fans.
I’m so excited by this years version of the Falcons, as Big Ray said earlier, I believe in the Front office,coaching staff and the players, so if a player is out and the coaching staff is okay with it, I’m okay with it, Team is built on belief of the internal beliefs of what is the foundation of this team, who are we as a team, and how do we overcome other teams. No matter what outsiders say a team has to believe in itself, its outcome, and its goals, that is the true making of a team, just ask the United States Military.
WR, AMEN !!!
falcon21
May 27th, 2009
11:15 pm
How’s it going Stirg, “butthead”? Just kidding man! Talk to yall later. 5 am comes early. GO FALCONS!!!
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
11:23 pm
Jason you may be in trouble now. But the only statement on Turner I have made was ‘He made me look like a genious in Fantasy Fooball” last year – which he did. I rocked – Westbrook sucked he was hurt all the time and he was my 1st round pick. That’s why they call it Fantasy. Turner will go in the 1st round this year – but I would love to have Norwood.
D3
May 27th, 2009
11:36 pm
Great Late Evening ‘Cage Bro’s & Sis’s! The posting has been sporadic as H—- lately, with my little Future WR wearing me out. He’s finally starting to sleep at night, but not continuously. Where does the time go? Yowsa! Like a good brew, I need my Football Fix here in the ‘Cage. Let’s get to it……….
Stirg – you know its all good. The ‘Cage does need some good rocking every once in a while to keep things fresh and rolling.
Division/Analysis – to those of you who have been engaged in the Division/Teams analysis, I appreciate your understanding on us letting that slink away into the sunset. I bit off way more than I could chew (as Stirg and others warned), and frankly we still have our Roster Spot Analysis and Weekly Opponents to keep us going through the summer drought. Stirg, jason, cutter, and anyone else keep the Falcon tidbits coming. Great idea to take the Division Analysis. When the season starts though, we can have a weekly NFL “picks” competition that I’ll keep track of.
Maximus – we welcome you here in the Bird-Cage, but we’re a family so to speak and there’s reason to be disrespectfl when disagreeing with opinions of our brethren.
Vegas on Drugs – 8-8 in 2009. EIGHT FREAKIN’ WINS? These guys are on dope, crystal, amphetimeines and any other drug cocktail available, because I cannot see in a million years how we lose 8 games. Rookie Head-Coach, Rookie QB, Rookie GM, Patchwork DEF, and the residual mess from 2007 = 11-5, Playoffs. 2nd year with Rookie of Year, Head Coach of the Year, GM of the Year, Old/Slow/Ineffective DEF Vets released, first 5 draft picks on DEF in draft. Top 5 Offense from 2008. Turner & White in Pro-Bowl……Oh, wait did I forget to mention adding one of top TE’s of ALL-TIME? What a joke.
Power Ranking #11 – I can see that its about right. Considering there are 12 teams that make the playoffs and we lost in the wild-card round than I’ll take that. We had a great off-season, but nothing has been proven yet. Besides the Giants & Eagles, I’d like to see who is ahead of us in the NFC.
Weekly Supplemental Schedule
Weekly Opponent Analysis – Game #3 – Hated New England Patriots
Thursday
Patriots OFF vs Falcons DEF
Roster Spot Analysis – RB#3
Friday
Falcons OFF vs Patriots DEF
Roster Spot Analysis – TE#1
Sat/Sun
Game Details and Final Predictions – ATL vs NE
Roster Spot Analysis – TE#2
j-man – RB Analysis #3 coming next…….
D3
May 27th, 2009
11:38 pm
OK, are we seriously going to have this blog monster crap again………REALLY?
I’d rather not have an embolism in my brain tonight from the stress of the blog monster.
D3
May 27th, 2009
11:39 pm
Great Late Evening ‘Cage Bro’s & Sis’s! The posting has been sporadic as H— lately, with my little Future WR wearing me out. He’s finally starting to sleep at night, but not continuously. Where does the time go? Yowsa! Like a good brew, I need my Football Fix here in the ‘Cage. Let’s get to it……….
Stirg – you know its all good. The ‘Cage does need some good rocking every once in a while to keep things fresh and rolling.
Division/Analysis – to those of you who have been engaged in the Division/Teams analysis, I appreciate your understanding on us letting that slink away into the sunset. I bit off way more than I could chew (as Stirg and others warned), and frankly we still have our Roster Spot Analysis and Weekly Opponents to keep us going through the summer drought. Stirg, jason, cutter, and anyone else keep the Falcon tidbits coming. Great idea to take the Division Analysis. When the season starts though, we can have a weekly NFL “picks” competition that I’ll keep track of.
Maximus – we welcome you here in the Bird-Cage, but we’re a family so to speak and there’s reason to be disrespectful when disagreeing with opinions of our brethren.
Vegas on Drugs – 8-8 in 2009. EIGHT FREAKIN’ WINS? These guys are on evry drug you could ever imagine, because I cannot see in a million years how we lose 8 games. Rookie Head-Coach, Rookie QB, Rookie GM, Patchwork DEF, and the residual mess from 2007 = 11-5, Playoffs. 2nd year with Rookie of Year, Head Coach of the Year, GM of the Year, Old/Slow/Ineffective DEF Vets released, first 5 draft picks on DEF in draft. Top 5 Offense from 2008. Turner & White in Pro-Bowl……Oh, wait did I forget to mention adding one of top TE’s of ALL-TIME? What a joke.
Power Ranking #11 – I can see that its about right. Considering there are 12 teams that make the playoffs and we lost in the wild-card round than I’ll take that. We had a great off-season, but nothing has been proven yet. Besides the Giants & Eagles, I’d like to see who is ahead of us in the NFC.
Weekly Supplemental Schedule
Weekly Opponent Analysis – Game #3 – Hated New England Patriots
Thursday
Patriots OFF vs Falcons DEF
Roster Spot Analysis – RB#3
Friday
Falcons OFF vs Patriots DEF
Roster Spot Analysis – TE#1
Sat/Sun
Game Details and Final Predictions – ATL vs NE
Roster Spot Analysis – TE#2
j-man – RB Analysis #3 coming next…….
Sarah B
May 27th, 2009
11:40 pm
I’m goin to bed – catch you tomorrow guys.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 28th, 2009
12:02 am
I’ve done enough for today! I’m out too. In a minute, y’all…
Nookah
May 28th, 2009
12:09 am
Well, well, well, the Cage is warm tonight. Stirg, you are certainly drawing a lot of “fouls”. You’ve been driving to the basket way too many times (lol).
It’s great to read all these posts however. By the way what do you guys think about Greg Ellis from the Cowboys?
CARROLLTON, Texas (AP) — The Cowboys and veteran pass rusher Greg Ellis aren’t waiting for another offseason spat before splitting up, apparently for good. The 12th-year pro with a recent history of complaining about his role, his contract, or both will likely play elsewhere in 2009, owner Jerry Jones said Tuesday. The only question is whether the departure comes through a trade or the 33-year-old linebacker’s release. Either way, the Cowboys figure to get about $4 million in salary cap relief while remaining on the hook for $1.5 million in guaranteed money.
Jones said an admittedly contentious relationship had nothing to do with a divorce from the player he chose after passing on receiver Randy Moss in 1998, when the Cowboys were trying to repair their image with fans. The No. 8 pick of the ‘98 draft delivered on the character issue, staying out of trouble while steadily piling up 77 sacks in 11 seasons. Ellis led the team in sacks six times, the second-best total in club history. But he showed he had a mouth, too. Ellis complained in 2006 about moving from defensive end to linebacker, saying the Cowboys and former coach Bill Parcells were setting him up to fail in the new 3-4 defensive alignment. After that turned out OK, Ellis squawked again a year later when the Cowboys drafted Anthony Spencer, another college defensive end they planned to move to outside linebacker. Back then, Ellis said he was sure they were trying to replace him and demanded a new contract that showed the team’s commitment. He got the new deal in 2007 and responded with his best season, a Pro Bowl year with a career-high 12.5 sacks despite missing the first three games recovering from a torn Achilles’ tendon.
It turns out the notion of Spencer replacing him was merely delayed by two years. Jones said Spencer’s development and the promise of other young players figured into the decision. “Certainly we had some issues regarding business — contracts,” Jones said of his dealings with Ellis. “But that hasn’t been reflected relative to how he’s played the game and how he’s competed for the Cowboys. I feel like we have a very good relationship.”
Ellis and his agent didn’t return phone calls seeking comment. His soon-to-be former teammates spoke fondly of a leader who remained popular in the locker room even as he publicly questioned the team’s commitment to him.
“He was a mentor to me when I first came in and also we became really good friends,” said defensive end democrats Ware, who led the NFL with 20 sacks last year. “Now we’re sort of like brothers. We did everything that we could to sort of help the team. But now he’s going probably somewhere else to benefit that team, and I’ve got to do what I need to do to help this team out.”
Ware stands as a potential beneficiary of any Ellis move. The Cowboys are trying to sign their best pass rusher to a long-term contract. He doesn’t feel any guilt over that. “You’ve got to help your team out, but also protect yourself,” Ware said. “I don’t feel good about it. But at the end of the day, its a business.” Spencer said Ellis helped him make the transition from end to linebacker the past two seasons. Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said he believes Spencer is ready to be a full-time starter. “At the end of training camp, I thought he was going to have a tremendous year,” Phillips said. “He got hurt early and that stopped his progress. As long as he doesn’t get hurt, I don’t think his progress will be stopped. He’s a real talented player.” The Cowboys acknowledge they have a leadership void to fill, though. Even receiver Roy Williams, who has only played part of one season in Dallas, noticed the voice of Ellis in the locker room. “He’s an old head,” Williams said. “He was telling me a story about Troy Aikman. I was like, ‘You played with Troy Aikman?’ That seems like a long time ago. But he’s a great player. A great leader. He’s going to be missed.”
I guess TD and Smitty will pass, what do you guys think? If he comes whose roster spot would he take and would he fit the locker room?
Stirg, as Bob (Marley) would say….Stir it up!!!!
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!!
D3
May 28th, 2009
12:29 am
Roster Spot Analysis
RB#3 – Thomas Brown, Jason Snelling, Verron Haynes
Most Recent Stats
Thomas Brown (2007 – UGA)
779 Rush Yds, 10 TDs, 2 Recv TDs. Over 2,600 Career Rush Yards
Jason Snelling (2008 – Falcons)
62 Rush Yds, No TDs, 89 Recv Yards, No Rec TDs
Verron Haynes (2006 – PIT)
78 Rush Yds, No TDs, 95 Yds Recv, No TDs
Thomas Brown
Pros – one of the absolute hardest workers in the game of football. Held record for the strongest player pound for pound for many years at UGA. Tough as nails runner who explodes to the hole when getting the football out of the backfield. Has blazing speed, great moves & cutbacks turn on a dime. Willing runner between tackles as well on the corners. Can run by defenders or run over them. One of the most versatile RB’s. Excellent RB catching the ball out of the backfield. Special teams ace who can do it all. Great leader and teammate. True character guy. Can contribute on special teams and perfect option for 3rd down RB. Has potential to be excellent kick returner.
Cons – has serious durability issues. Extremely injury prone suffering several injuries throughout his career at UGA and first year with the Falcons. Not a patient runner that can allow lanes to open and OL to block. Easily brought down if hit in the backfield. Can have games where he totally disappears.
Jason Snelling
Pros – tough inside runner. Great short-yardage back. Very versatile in that he can play RB or FB. Good blocking back out of the backfield. Surprisingly good option in passing game with bulk and speed. Good option and willing participant on all special teams.
Cons – known to hit the whole slow and needs a full head of steam to get going through the line. Not a very elusive runner and one type of running style in bulldozing. Doesn’t offer very much as a Kick or Punt Returner on Special Teams. Does slower speed warrant a roster spot?
Verron Haynes
Pros – great third down back who has extensive NFL experience with the Steelers. Was a great complement to the Steelers offense. Averaged over 600 yards rushing and 100 yards receiving two best years in Pittsburgh. Self-made man that out-works opponents. True character guy that came from nowhere to cement himself in UGA lore in one season. Excellent blocking skills in run and pass game.
Cons – out of football last year. Last year with Steelers only had 78 yards rushing and evidently was replaced or let go in Pittsburgh for what reason? Not overly fast, elusive, or pure runner. Jack of many trades, master of none in particular. Is 30 years old. Faces uphill battle in making roster chock full of RB talent.
Final – TBrown vs Snelling was one of the most heated battles in training camp last year. It was a true contest up until the last game with both RB’s showing why they deserved a spot. TBrown seemed to lock up the spot with his KR ability before getting a cheap-shot horse collar in last pre-season game. Snelling showed some promise in his limited game time, but nothing spectacular. Didn’t necessarily prove his worth as a 3rd down back or Kick Returner. Even though not many stats, showed enough flashes for Falcons Brass to award a new contract. Verron Haynes has seen better days and is unfortunately on downside of career. IMO, I think the Falcons keep 5 RB’s. 3 HB’s and 2 FB’s. We carried 6 WR’s last year and I think we carry 5 WR’s and 5 RB’s. TBrown’s ability at KR, speed, 3rd down back, and overall versatility gets the edge in a one spot battle. Thomas Brown earns true RB#3 with Snelling earning RB/FB #5 if we carry 5 RB/FB’s. Haynes doesn’t make it.
Chances of making final roster:
TBrown – 55%
Snelling – 49%
Haynes – 15%
So ‘Cagers, what’s your thoughts on the 3rd RB slot for this year? Patriots-Falcons matchups coming tomorrow. See you all on the flip-side. And on that note………
65 DAYS AND COUNTING TO 2009 ATLANTA FALCONS TRAINING CAMP!!!!!
D3
May 28th, 2009
12:34 am
DOL – great, great article on TBrown. Another one of my all-time fav players. Tucker, UGA, Falcons.
Big Ray
May 28th, 2009
12:34 am
WR,
Good to hear, and good to know. I hate when things get too personal, and you never know who takes WHAT personally until, well…you know them. It’s all good with me.
Stirg,
I insist on catching a game with ya, like I said before. Trust me, you haven’t had fun getting rowdy at a game until you’ve gotten rowdy with the Po-Po getting rowdy right next to you. Oh yeah, the badge under my shirt is gold, and says “State of Georgia” and “Sergeant”…but I’m a red-blood bleeding, drank-drinking Falcon fan. And I’m rowdy as a mutha when I want to be. Visiting fans..find another section. Here be monsters…
Unca Bob,
Thanks for the props, man. Just spouting my point of view…
Sarah B,
You crazy. Gotta love it.
D3,
What’s up, bro’? I never left, I just haven’t had the time to get in the cage lately. That, and I just wasn’t going to bother with the last blog. No offense to DOL or anybody else, but I remember what this blog was like last year, the year before, and the year before that. I left, because so much of it was absolute crap. Very little conversation on the subject of football, and most of that was not in any way positive. Thankfully, we have stamped out most of the negative energy, though mention of certain former players (and not, I’m not just talking about quarterbacks) does bring back some of the bile. Oh well. Without mindless fanatics, the rest of us wouldn’t feel normal…
D. Orlando Ledbetter
May 28th, 2009
12:50 am
D3: Thanks for your kind words.
Here’s the Thomas Brown link. http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/falcons/stories/2009/05/27/falcons_thomas_brown.html
Got my bag of 10lb Vidalia Onions from the local Optimist group. Going to do some grilling tomorrowl. At least that’s the plan.
Dean21
May 28th, 2009
1:21 am
What’s up Birdcage? Glad to be back in the Cage and out that hell hole of a blog~
D3
May 28th, 2009
8:18 am
Atlanta Falcons @ New England Patriots – Game #3
2008 Atlanta Falcons
Record: 11-5-0, Playoffs 1st Round
Scored 391 points (24.4/g), 10th of 32 in the NFL.
Allowed 325 points (20.3/g), 11th.
Takeaway/Giveaway Differential -3 (-0.2/g), 21st.
Coach: Mike Smith – 2008 Coach of the Year
2008 New England Patriots
Record: 11-5, Did not make playoffs
Scored 410 points (25.6/g), 8th of 32 in the NFL.
Allowed 309 points (19.3/g), 8th.
Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +1 (0.1/g), 15th.
Coach: Bill Belichick – 3 Super Bowl Rings
Patriots OFF vs Falcons DEF
Likely Match-Ups
RDE-Jamaal Anderson vs LT-Matt Light
RDT-Peria Jerry vs LG-Logan Mankins
C-Dan Koppen vs MLB-Curtis Lofton
LDT-Jonathan Babnineaux vs RG-Steve Neal
LDE-John Abraham vs RT-Nick Kazckur
SLB-Mike Peterson vs TE-Ben Watson
Nickel-Chris Owens vs WR-Wes Welker
LCB-Chris Houston vs WR-Randy Moss
RCB-Chevis Jackson vs WR-Joey Galloway/Greg Lewis
SS-Thomas DeCoud/William Moore vs RB-Fred Taylor/Laurence Maroney
How’s the match-ups look Bird-Cagers?
Unca' Bob
May 28th, 2009
10:28 am
Atlanta-D v New England-O
New England- Kevin Faulk and Wes Welker are the go to guys. They move the chains. Randy Moss is a very dangerous WR. Under used last year because M Cassel is no T Brady. Who is. A healthy Brady will bring a strong-armed QB into the mix that will have the ability to stretch the field. Moss had 69 catches for 1008 yards, 11 TD’s, and 14.6 yards per. All these numbers will go up this year. If Atlanta is going to have any kind of chance, They MUST contain Faulk and Welker. While they did not score many TD’s last year(9), they combined for 2175 yards. Of the 42 TD’s scored last year 21 came on the ground, 21 thru the air. In 2007 Brady threw for 50. I do not see that gaudy stat to reccur…but it could.
Atlanta- Matt Ryan is not the only one to get a new toy. Coach Smith & Co. got a bunch. New England QB’s were sacked 48 times. I think that trend will continue. At some point Brady, perhaps not willingly, thinks about his Knee.
The Atlanta D coming off two, rock em’ sock em’ type games will have to shine. If they do not…it will get fugly. Turnovers are key each and every week, this one is no exception. Should the ball bounce our way, I like our chances.
This contest will be a barometer for our season.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 28th, 2009
10:46 am
Going into the third week of the season, I guessed the Falcons would be 1-1 (a win against Miami and a loss against the pussycats). Week three won’t be an easy cake-walk, after a hard fought loss with Carolina. New England had one of the biggest shake-ups, this offseason, more than any of their dynastic seasons; however, I believe, they had the best draft than any other team in the NFL, this year. I think most experts graded them with the only “A-” in the league. Additionally, Brady is back. Although he is comming off an injury, I expect him to work out the kinks and dings by week three. Our rookies, second and third year players (which is most of the team) are going to have to step up. Houston, Jackson and Owens (according to D3’s starting lineup) are going to have their hands full; but I think, with help over the top, they will prevail, especially Jackson. I expect Jackson to show why he should be a starter in this league, this year. Whomever is the starting cornerback, opposite Houston, will be exceptional, when you consider the competition that he would have to beat out to get there. The question will be, will we play man-to-man, so we can stack up our defense to stop New England’s run. I suspect they’ll run a lot, early in the season, to get Brady back on his game. Bottom line, if we can stop the Patriots’ offense, we’ll win the game. We will score; it won’t be often but we will score. The key would be to stop their scoring. I think Atlanta’s maturity will find a way to win in a road game. You can’t win championships if you don’t win away. I agree with Unca’ Bob, this game will determine our readiness for this season.
Atlanta 14, New England 10.
Sarah B
May 28th, 2009
11:33 am
We should be 2-0 going into New England. But we can’t let that get to us. We are now going into NE. Not that they aren’t beatable but the fans there are pretty hostile and the stadium intimidating. But then we marched a rookie into Lambeau Field and took that one from the Packers and I think that is the game that set the season in motion. Things became real that day. Then Chicago happened. Well nuff said.
John Waynesworld
May 28th, 2009
11:56 am
D3, great stuff as usual! This game #3 just boggles the imagination. In my mind we might as well be playing last year’s SuperBowl champs. A healthy Tom Slick doing his thing with the likes of Randy Moss and even Wes Welker and Benjamin Watson is a scary thought, let alone the RB Maroney and the new old kid on the block Fred Taylor. I think Taylor will have a phenomenal year.
The match-ups are really interesting, from Chris Houston vs Randy Moss to what I think will be a young vs old matchup in the line play. Matt Light and Steve Neal are in the twilight of their careers and they will have their hands full with much younger D linemen. On the other side of the ball, we will see how much Richard Seymour has in the tank and how much of a steal Ron Brace is as DT, but it is a seasoned crew vs our younger O line.
Along with their defensive guru in Belichick, the Falcons will be hard pressed I think to pound the ball early in the game but I think Ryan will be able to use the intermediate passing lanes to help produce some scores. Later in the second half is where Turner finds his legs and where we win this game.
WR
May 28th, 2009
12:43 pm
The NE game will be challenging for our DB’s, probably won’t happen but I would like to see Grimes at the Nickel for this game, he’s quick, strappy and thats what we need for Wes Walker in the slot. Definitely need some pressure and overall good play out of our front seven because we are going to have to use safety help over the top alot for Randy Moss, a 6′5 Moss against our 5′9 corners without safety help could be devastating not only for the team but the psych of a CBs mind. No matter how good of a CB you are, you live on an island and have to maintain a short memory, if you get torched a few times in a game it starts to wear on you mentally, after a while you expect it until you get a good pass breakup or an interception to reset you mind set. Offensively I see evil Bill throwing a variety of unexpected looks at Ryan but if the running game can hold up and Gonzo provides the safety value that Ryan needs he will get over his early funk and this game will turn into a battle up until the last snap. On a lighter note Abe will strain a hammy in this game, Stirg will completely lose control and send him an unmarked package and we all will be witnesses in federal court as a psychologist declares Stirg mentally insane and unfit to stand trial, on his way to the cookoo farm, D3 will shout you still the man Stirg, Big Ray will realize that it may be awhile before he and Stirg catches a game together, Unca’Bob will give Stirg the thumbs up in support as Sarah flashes him some leg because it may be awhile before he sees any again, Jason will pass out free Stirg tee shirts as I speak to the media putting all the blame on D-Led with Nookah in the background shouting Nuff Respect Everytime, Falcon21 and JohnWaynesworld will pull up with a truck loaded with Stripes and a six pack of bud light, we will pop the top and remember our fallen brother and head off to the nearest sports bar to catch the Falcons on monday night football.
John Waynesworld
May 28th, 2009
2:02 pm
Oops sorry D3, I was supposed to wait until tomorrow for the ATl-OFF vs the NE-DEF. I just got anxious and excited about that game all of a sudden. What a great game it will be when we SHOCK’EM in their own back yard! I’m either getting a tingle up my leg for this game or a tinkle down my leg. I’m not sure, I better go check…
Sarah B
May 28th, 2009
2:25 pm
Good stuff WR LOL at my desk right now!
Unca' Bob
May 28th, 2009
2:55 pm
WR,
Here’s a thumbs up to you, also. Gluteus Maximus got on my bad side. I went to bed in order to clear my head. It’s like, Strig’s our dog and we can kick him if we want, but, YOU can not! Does that make any sense?
Sarah B
May 28th, 2009
3:11 pm
Unca’ Bob same goes for talking bad about your mother/brother/sister – it’s ok as long as no one else does it. Or thems fightin words.
Unca' Bob
May 28th, 2009
3:19 pm
Sarah B,
You nailed it. Nuff said on my part.
Stirg d'Nahsif
May 28th, 2009
6:25 pm
Going into the third week of the season, I guessed the Falcons would be 1-1 (a win against Miami and a loss against the cats). Week three won’t be an easy cake-walk, after a hard fought loss with Carolina. New England had one of the biggest shake-ups, this offseason, more than any of their dynastic seasons; however, I believe, they had the best draft than any other team in the NFL, this year. I think most experts graded them with the only “A-” in the league. Additionally, Brady is back. Although he is comming off an injury, I expect him to work out the kinks and dings by week three. Our rookies, second and third year players (which is most of the team) are going to have to step up. Houston, Jackson and Owens (according to D3’s starting lineup) are going to have their hands full; but I think, with help over the top, they will prevail, especially Jackson. I expect Jackson to show why he should be a starter in this league, this year. Whomever is the starting cornerback, opposite Houston, will be exceptional, when you consider the competition that he would have to beat out to get there. The question will be, will we play man-to-man, so we can stack up our defense to stop New England’s run. I suspect they’ll run a lot, early in the season, to get Brady back on his game. Bottom line, if we can stop the Patriots’ offense, we’ll win the game. We will score; it won’t be often but we will score. The key would be to stop their scoring. I think Atlanta’s maturity will find a way to win in a road game. You can’t win championships if you don’t win away. I agree with Unca’ Bob, this game will determine our readiness for this season.
Atlanta 14, New England 10.
Dean 21
May 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
What’s going on my fellow bird cagers & cagettes!(Sarah B.)
Here’s my 2 cents on Game #3. This will be sort of a homecoming for Matty Ice since he did play his college ball in Boston. I’m sure he will be ready to show the many fans of Boston/New England that Brady will not be the only quarterback on the field! The key to this game is defense, well that’s the key to most games….but both of these offenses will score. I know that Brady loves that underneath stuff, so they will attack us with the short routes and then try to surprise us with Moss going downfield. We have to maintain ball control, keep the New England offense off the field by utilizing our running attack. We must limit our turnovers! I see this game as a statement game by our young Falcons! This team must protect the TERROR DOME so we should be 2-0 coming in with home wins over Miami & Carolina.
Atlanta 24, New England 21
JJ
May 28th, 2009
7:15 pm
WR…..we have our winner! I’ve been reading these blogs for yrs. but your 12:43 post hands down, IS THE BEST/FUNNIEST BLOG I’ve seen. I’m not even troubled I didnt make it in, that was gold.
D3…got to save that one from WR. I respectfully disagree with your golden uga boy. I agree with everything you stated but the percentages: I think its 50%/50% for snelling/brown and may the pre-season show us the winner. Would love to keep both!
Big Ray: Would love to meet up with you and stirg (and the rest of my brothers/”the lady sarah b.”). I see us taking over my favorite (secret) parking lot next to the dome and kick’n some “cage recipes” and stripes! I’m going to all the games, but the chicago games is THE games I have circled this yr. (Sunday Oct. 18—8:20pm—espn baby!)
Dean 21
May 28th, 2009
7:26 pm
D3, man what a good analysis on the Falcons running back situation! You nailed it straight on, I feel the same as well….so, here’s my answer to your question below:
So ‘Cagers, what’s your thoughts on the 3rd RB slot for this year? Patriots-Falcons matchups coming tomorrow. See you all on the flip-side. And on that note………
RB…
M. Turner
J. Norwood
T. Brown
FB…
O. Mughelli
J. Snelling
I wish Verron well, but I don’t see him making this team. I also think the final straw will decided in the pre-season games. I would like to see the Falcons pick up a young talented running back for the practice squad.