The smooth sailing for Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith figures to continue.
They’ll have to get the remaining three rookie draft picks – first rounder Peria Jerry, second rounder William Moore and fourth rounder Lawrence Sidbury – signed before camp opens. That shouldn’t be a problem.
Good to know that Abraham, while open to a contract extension or enhancer, plans to be on time for camp.
Abraham’s camp should be ticked about American Idol host Ryan Seacrest getting $15 million a year for three years ($45 million), according to the Hollywood Reporter. How many sacks did Seacreast get last season? Was he even All-Dekalb County when he went to Dunwoody High? What a fine hustle he has going. Good for Seacrest.
After settling the rookies and welcoming Abraham to camp, there’s that little matter or Roddy White’s contract extension. The Falcons need to lock up their Pro Bowl wide receiver, but are under no duress to do.
The league is set for an uncapped year in 2010 because the owners elected to “opt out” of the collective bargaining agreement. A new deal needs to be in place by February 2010 or teams will have that “uncapped” year in 2010.
If White and the Falcons don’t reach a deal, under the old rules, he was set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season. If the “uncapped” year scenario takes hold, White would become a restricted free agent for one year and could hit the open market after the 2010 season.
Of course, the Falcons can make this a moot point by working out an extension now. Recently, Green Bay did a three-year, $27-million extension with Greg Jennings. Arizona’s Larry Fitzgerald signed a four-year, $40 million deal in 2008.
Looks like White, who’s set to make $2.28 million this year, is headed for a $10 million-plus a year deal.
BABS HELPS WITH SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Falcons defensive end Jonathan Babineaux helped to distribute
bookbags filled with school supplies to 3,000 underserved students last Saturday at Hosea Feed The Hungry & Homeless’s (HFTH) annual Back to School Jamboree at Turner Field.
Celebrating 40 years of community service, Hosea Feed the Hungry & Homeless (HFTH) implemented the “School Readiness” Back to School Jamboree initiative to help the approximately 12% of the Atlanta Public School students who are homeless.
ELLE DUNCAN AND TURNER?: Ran across one of those rauchy gossip sites. Think it was LipstickAlley.com and there was an item suggesting that Falcons running back Michael Turner and V-103 personality Elle Duncan were an item. Check out the video link.
Could we have our very own Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo romance brewing?
I guess the lovely Ms. Simpson is available again. I was looking forward to seeing her when the Falcons play the Cowboys in October.
FROM THE LINKS: Falcons vice president of communications Reggie Roberts won the Marshall McLuhan Open. It was a complete and thorough defeat for yours truly. Roberts won by 10 strokes.
I was down six strokes at the turn and was ready to make one of those Tiger charges to victory. Could not get to the fairways in regulation to show off the new short game that I spent a month working on.
On the back nine, Roberts remained steady and went away with the victory. Any master of communications knows that “the message is in the medium.”
Just a couple of more weeks until the opening of Training Camp on Aug. 1.
273 comments Add your comment
Nookah
July 16th, 2009
12:24 pm
Good to have Lawrence “I’ll let you remember # 56″ Sidbury in the fold.
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!!
Stirg d'Nahsif
July 16th, 2009
12:47 pm
Point well taken, Warrior; I beg to differ, however. The question marks on our defense are surmountable; yet, they still exist. I don’t know if you recall, before the draft, my idea of using a sound and potent offense to control the playing time of the defense. I think our offense is so dynamic, that we’ll be able to mask our defensive predicaments. So, that weak run defense that you say is going to be exposed, will be irrelevant when opposing offenses abandon the run and try to catch up by putting the ball in the air.
I can entertain the weakness in our secondary, however (I can, at least, go along with you on that). If our offense cause oppossing offenses to abandon the run, then that means we’ll need our DB’s to have exceptional play, which may be a problem with the size of our corners. We got little-league corners guarding varsity receivers. If Houston, Jackson, Owens, Grimes and Hutchins can step up, we’ll be safe; and, out of that bunch, we’ll need someone to play man-to-man.
Good argument, though, Warrior. You presented some very, valid arguments.
Stirg d'Nahsif
July 16th, 2009
12:52 pm
Nookah, what Bob Marley song was that? Can’t quite place the lyrics….
Ice for MVP '09
July 16th, 2009
2:01 pm
I can’t believe some of you are already bashing Matty Ice. Are your Vick blinders wrapped on so tight that you didn’t see him have one of the best rookie seasons for a quarterback EVER? Will you finally become believers when he (and the rest of the team) takes us to the Superbowl in the next 2-3 years?
As for Roddy, please pay him! He is definitely one of the top 7 receivers in the league. Two great seasons in a row. He, and the rest of the offense will only get better this year. If the defense catches up we are going deep into the playoffs. Go Falcons!!!!!!!!!!!
SeminoleWarrior
July 16th, 2009
2:31 pm
Great points Stirg and Nookah. No doubt about it, the NFC South race will be a contested one with only Tampa secure in the seedings…4th. Stirg, I do recall your point of a ball control offense and I’m all on it. I just do not want Turner to be worn out too soon by an excess load of carries. “TipToe” Norwood can not carry the rock over the long haul but he is a legitimate threat. Personally, I desperately want to see the other “big” back, Jason Snelling (230+) get more reps in relief of Turner. I like Snelling’s size and deceptive speed. He also has good hands in the passing game and is an effective blocker. This will be key in home stretch run when we are battling for the playoffs. A look at the schedule reveals that we will be outside a lot in potentially adverse weather in Nov//Dec. We will need the power running game to be strong during that stretch. This is also when the “Gonzalez factor” comes into play. Remember, the essence of Matt’s game in college was the highly effective short passing game in the Northeast used by Boston College. Wind is always a factor in Buffalo, Philly, and NY at that time. So I’m with you there Stirg.
We will have a winning season. We will be in the race until the very end. I guess I am being extremely cautious. I just want that da…ed Lombardi parade in ATL so so bad!! I have the faith and in TD/Smitty I place my trust.
jason
July 16th, 2009
2:35 pm
Stirg d’Nahsif, and Seminole Warrior. I am going to jump in onyaws debate. I picked ATL to go 10-6 and make the playoffs. The reason why is the offense. We have enough quality and depth there to not only score alot of points, but more importantly sustain long 10+ drives to keep our D off the field. At to that the best punter in the NFL to pin opposing “O”s deep in their own territory. That will allow our D to have the whole field to work with. With the ability to maintain time consuming drives, our O will keep our D from being exposed.
jason
July 16th, 2009
2:39 pm
SeminoleWarrior, even with the addition of Gonzo, ATL will be a run first team. I would like to see Snelling more involved also. Something like this: Turner 20+ carries, Norwood 15-20 touches (5-8 carries), and Snelling 5-7 carries(either FB or TB). This would save the wear on Turner. This is a TEAM playing a team game, I think they all 3would buy into this for the sake of a championship.
Unca' Bob
July 16th, 2009
2:41 pm
It will always come down to, on a game to game basis, turnovers and untimely major penalties.
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
2:42 pm
I’m glad I’m not the only who really liked Snelling last year. I got nervous when there was talk of putting him on the practice squad where someone could snatch him away.
Nookah
July 16th, 2009
3:03 pm
Stirg, “Put it on”. I took the middle of the song but the first part goes like this:
Feel them spirit; Feel them spirit; Feel them spirit.
Lord, I thank you; Lord, I thank you.
Feel all right now; Feel all right now; Feel all right now.
Good Lord, hear me; I’m gonna put it on; (In the morning)
I’m gonna put it on; (In the night)
I’m gonna put it on; (Anytime, anywhere) Good Lord, help me………..Nesta
Go to youtube and type in “put it on” by Bob Marley and you’ll hear the full song.
As we say in Jamrock….Big Choon!!!! (big tune – I had to translate but you may already know…lol)
Do these lyrics remind you of the song? I hope so. I ain’t no good singer so I can’t sing it for you..lol
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!
Nookah
July 16th, 2009
3:16 pm
I share the same sentiment about Snelling. I think he is going to be an integral part of allowing Turner less touches so he can be very fresh when we really need him. He may not be as explosive as Turner but with the continuity of our OL we can throw him in their to spell Turner. Of course Norwood will be there for the change of pace but we have to find a way to keep Turner fresh. We can’t afford to “Burn(er)” him out in the 2nd year of his 6 year deal…lol
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
3:50 pm
Nooka my favorites are No Woman No Cry & 3 Little Birds cause ‘Every Little Thing Gonna Be Alright’
Nookah
July 16th, 2009
3:55 pm
Sarah B, I love your choices and I can apply it to the Falcons. To you all the ladies who are Falcon Fans I say No woman no cry ’cause every little thing is gonna be all right!!!
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!
D3
July 16th, 2009
4:21 pm
Alright, check your emails ‘Cagers….1st Annual Bird-Cage Fantasy Football League is off and running!
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
4:58 pm
Jason, no foul my brother. We are all in agreement on the team having a winning season. We are all in agreement on the offensive production, the need to save the wear and tear on Michael Turner, and a desire to see more action out of Jason Snelling. Lady Sarah, as astute as always, nailed it. Dallas was ready to lock into him last season; that is one reason why we moved him from the practice squad to the active roster.
Your point on special teams play is well taken. THAT is the area where the team improved the most last year in my opinion. That is what set up the offense to move the ball with the power running game and the play action/no-huddle scheme.
Those of you in the Posse that are Georgia fans can possible help me here. Was BVG’s defenses aggressive and effective? I was told that he preferred smaller, faster defensive players. Am I to believe that we are moving towards a Tampa 2 defense?
JJ
July 16th, 2009
5:04 pm
It’s nice to have the jamaican flavor back to this blog.
10-6, nfc south champs, 1st rd. bye
2nd rd. at home, I like the odds!
jason
July 16th, 2009
5:23 pm
Seminole Warrior, BVG’s D are predicated on being fast and aggressive. It is not a size thing rather a speed thing. I think BVG will be in love with both James and Adkins. BVG philosopphy is 11 hats to the ball. DL eats up space and allows the LBs to run to the ball.
Your prediction on the season is not far off. If ATL does not do the things I posted earlier, you will be on the money. I only have them one more win than you. Shoot, 9-7 could get them a wild card.
jason
July 16th, 2009
5:24 pm
D3, got your e-mail. I am at work and will set the account up as soon as I get home.
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
5:36 pm
Jason, thanks! Your update provides me with some deeper insight into BVG. As most of the posse knows, I’ve been somewhat critical of him as a DC due primarily to my lack of knowledge of his process. I will go into training camp with a particular focus on the points you have given me now.
Barry
July 16th, 2009
5:38 pm
Hey Y’all:
Ledbetter, this is what happens when we have great drafts and our players become great stars and legends of the Falcons: You have to pay the quality players on your team, that you draft in the first place, to be great for your team. The man has done his job and should reap the rewards. There will be other great draft picks on this team who will prove their worth. The key is keepng them together when they reach that level and win championships with them. This years draft picks,on the defensive side of the ball, will have many “Roddy Whites”. Mark my words. We can call them “The No Name Defense” this year, but by the end of this year, and our going to the playoffs, they will be the new legends of the Falcons. With that, that’s why we have to pay through this “PROCESS” of becoming a continual champion in the NFL. We have to pay our successful draft picks when they become a force in the NFL. MARK MY WORDS. We have more future legends on this team which we got through great draft picks. MARK MY WORDS, our young players (YOUNG GUNS), that we drafted this year on the defensive side of the ball, who will be future legends for the Falcons and the NFL. “MARK MY WORDS!!
They will do this in “ONE HEARTBEAT!!!”.
GO FALCONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!
THis is a SECRET from a FALCON FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
……………………..”ONE HEARTBEAT, BABY!!!!!!!……………..
Nookah
July 16th, 2009
5:46 pm
Jason, Seminole, you guys are bang on. Special Teams although often not given enough recognition can make or break your season. In fact I consider the offensive part of special teams (e.g. punt and kick returns etc.) to be the first part of our offense. That determines if you have a full field to cover or not. The opposite is true for the defense and depending on our efficiency our opponents can have a lot of field to cover.
We hope 2009 can be a good year for our special teams on both ends.
Go Falcons!!!
Nuff respect everytime!!!
JJ
July 16th, 2009
6:15 pm
You know we’re getting close when Barry pops back in. But I think the secret is out Barry! Every team that see’s us on their schedule, their sweating, even NE. How are we going to defend them? Who are we going to double-team? Pick your poison!
CBrass
July 16th, 2009
6:18 pm
This is for anyone to answer. Do we ever run a 3-4 defense or are we always in a 4-3 set?
Barry
July 16th, 2009
6:28 pm
Hey Y’all:
RIGHT ON!!, JJ.
………………………….”ONE HEARTBEAT,BABY!!!”……………..
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
6:35 pm
CBrass, we are predominately a 4-3 set but to me it appeared that we were more “Tampa 2-ish” last season. I can’t recall us running a 3-4 at any time in my many years as a Falcon fan.
WR
July 16th, 2009
6:47 pm
I know thats not a Nookah sighting in the cage, Nookah glad to have you back, its been quite sometime and its always respect, nuff of it everytime.
Seminole, see you lit a fire earlier in the cage, I also find myself cautiously optimistic, I would join in the debate but my prediction is still hovering around 11-5 to 9-7. But I will agree with you on one thing and I said it earlier, I think this is going to be a really good year, a year that finally puts to rest not having back to back winning seasons, but I don’t see the Falcons being there just yet, I see this as the season that puts them in the argument of constant contenders.
Jason, Im with Seminole on BVG, but at the sametime I’m pretty sure you are familiar with his types of systems, so I’m hoping your right.
CBrass, the Falcons run mostly a 4-3 base defense, but they will show some 3-4 fronts, actually word is that they would like to show a little more 3-4 this year.
CBrass
July 16th, 2009
7:01 pm
Thanks guys!!
Seminole Warrior,
Now what exactly is a Tampa-2 defense? I could google it but I like talking to you guys better!!!
jason
July 16th, 2009
7:14 pm
WR, All I can say is go to a DAWG blog and ask what we would give to have BVG back at UGA? Then ask what style defense. BVG was very offensive as a DC. He attacked, not react. This draft set BVG up with the type of speed he needs to run his D. We got big DL to eat up space and Fast active LBs to bring the lumber. BVG feels that with Attacking the O, it will force TOs; ints. and fumbles. BVG’s style of D will make our DBs look good. You won’t have to cover all day when you are bringing pressure like our D this year.
WR
July 16th, 2009
7:16 pm
Something for everyone in the cage and especially the long time Falcons fans to consider, as excited as we are about this team, this team and this organization finally seems to be building for the present and the future. Could this team pull an Arizona, yes, but I’m more concerned with the team being able to pull a New England and be in consideration year in and year out, thats the whole idea behind putting the back to back winning seasons curse to bed. We all have witnessed the birds go to the superbowl and the next year flop, we have also seen the birds reach the NFC title game and the next year flop, I honestly believe that no matter where this team ends up this year, next year they will be better, why, because they are finally putting the makings of an organization of excellence together. The Falcons are no longer resting on previous years of success, they are loading and reloading, if we went 11-5 last year, we may go 10-6 this year but we’re a better team, a better team based on drafting quality players, a better team based on finding players to fit the system. The Falcons of the past were a stop leak team, they might try to plug a player here or plug a player there, but they never looked to build a solid strong foundation, those times have come and gone, players will come and go which is the nature of the business, but it all starts with a good foundation and the Falcons finally get that.
Ken Strickland
July 16th, 2009
7:19 pm
WHAT’S UP MY FALCON FRIENDS? Believe it or not, I’m still trying to get a house in the ATL. I hope I get something before the season starts. If I don’t have a house by OCT, I’m selling almost everything I own, except my car, and moving the the Dominican Republic.
Remember I said it first. I EXPECT THE ATLANTA FALCONS TO WIN THE NFC SOUTH TITLE WITH A 12-4 RECORD AND WILL COMPLETE A SWEEP OF THEIR CONFERENCE OPPONENTS. Like last yr, teams had better get to us early in the season, because when our DEF comes together, we’ll be the team to beat in the NFC.
People, stop worrying about us signing players. This isn’t the Falcons of old, especially management. Our Management is solid in every area from top to bottom, and we’ll get the players we need taken care of. For the 1st time in Falcons history, the goal of this team is to win the Superbowl, instead of just having a winning season and making the playoffs.
This team is being built for the long haul, and will be in the hunt for a long time to come. Remember, we only have 4 starters that are on the backside of their careers, and that’s OC TMcClure, TE TGonzalez, DE JAbraham and OLB MPeterson. However, they all had an outstanding yr, especially TE TGonzalez and JAbraham. They both made the Probowl, while Abraham had his best yr ever.
I’m not hyped about this team just because of last yr’s success, or the talent we have, our excellent coaching staff or ownership, because we’ve had them all before. However, we’ve never had all of those elements in place at the same time before.
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
7:29 pm
CBrass, the Tampa 2 is a very aggressive version of the 4-3 defense. It relies on three key elements: Speed, aggression, and exection. The team has to be committed to making plays. Tackles must be sure and turnovers are maximized. The defensive line players are all one-gap players; they are responsible for a particular area or gap. The secondary is usually filled with ball-hawking members. Additionally, they work zones more than they do man-to-man situations. There is a need to be alert for an error in transition can easily result in a big play.
The MAJOR point of the Tampa 2 is that the LB corps must posses men that are both thumpers and capable of pass coverage. The scheme seeks to limit big plays; a bend but don’t break approach.
Tony Dungy mastered the scheme in Tampa thus the name. He brought it with him from his days with the Steelers I read somewhere. He also gave credit for it to Coach Noll in his book, Quiet Strength. If you have not read it, it is a MUST read for all football fans.
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
7:42 pm
WR, you know the Warrior loves a lively debate. And I love that it has stayed cool with Posse brethen and Lady Sarah all making major points of order. Jason has really added to my knowledge base as far as BVG goes. I’m still skeptical but I’m a little more comfy now in taking a chance on his approach. In brother Jason, I will trust.
K-Strick, 12-4 is one heck of a bold statement my brother. I share your optimism on the future. I too am not looking at the miracle that is last season. I am definately buying into the Process as outlined by TD. This team is being assembled to win MULTIPLE titles. The “Grey Brigade” that you chronicled, Abe, Gonzo, Petersen, and McClure are all onboard due to their LEADERSHIP. What they do know will only set this team up for success in the future. I think that it will take this young defense a full season to come together. The schedule is very demanding I think and I keep coming back to those November and December road games. But I will tell you this; if they are 12-4 this year, two things are a given; like Fred Sanford, I will have a BIG ONE!! and second, I will have a second BIG ONE for if they are that da…d good, the parade is on for Peachtree Street and my long-time dream will have finally arrived.
CBrass
July 16th, 2009
8:31 pm
Seminole Warrior,
Thanks very insightful!!!
falcon21
July 16th, 2009
8:46 pm
D3, I sent you an e-mail, let me know if you got it.
jason
July 16th, 2009
9:10 pm
Seminole Warrior, one last thing about BVG. He will blitz, that is his Bible verse. Thou shalt blitz, and blitz some more. The thing is… where is he blitzing from, and who is he sending. Kind of like watching PITT in the fact that you don’t know where the heck the blitzers are coming from. Well, that and we run a 4-3 base ,ad not a 3-4 base.
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:00 pm
K Strick where do you live now? Lot’s of houses available in the ATL even my neighborhood.
Yes the Tampa 2 kicked our azz for many years. Partly because of half of the Barber twins being there.
I’m still thinking at least 11-5 again, we win the division the Ain’t’s will be our toughest competitor given that ‘Shakey Jake’ just keeps getting worse but the Panthers have a h@ll of a run game.
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:05 pm
CBrass you would love FF but we are full right now but maybe next year – guys hate losing to us
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:06 pm
Jason we are going to have to blitz the H@ll out of Brady if we stand a chance that week. Also Brees…
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
10:19 pm
Lady Sarah, are you like me and thinking we would do well to implement the Tampa 2?
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:25 pm
Yes SW but you must have strong corners like Barber to pull it off. We shall see who shines in TC.
P.S. I love the Barber twins
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:28 pm
Well not so much Tiki on TV.
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
10:33 pm
Lady Sarah, I’m looking at the 2002 Bucs as my T2 model. I know Chucky gets the credit for the Super Bowl but Tony Dungy built that defense. Given what Jason has schooled me on in regards to BVG, I can see the pieces already in place to implement the scheme.
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:35 pm
Nooka or CBrass: Falcon21 dropped out of FFL do either of you want in???? It’s easy and free. We could use some more Marley or Girl love in the league and must have 10 to avoid a bye week… Come on in.
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:37 pm
Oh I know SW that was Dungy’s D just like it was Reeves O when we went to the NFC Champ. not Giggles Funtime Mora.
Seminole Warrior
July 16th, 2009
10:47 pm
That ‘98 defense was not bad though Lady S. 4th in the league that season. Ahhhhhhhhh, sweet memories. But we are on the way to that promised land again…this time, we will stay a while and secure the ultimate prize!!
Sarah B
July 16th, 2009
10:50 pm
Oh yes, I’m drinkin the Kool-Aid we are set for a good while.
Dean21
July 17th, 2009
12:53 am
Russell Falcons Training Camp
Come out to the Branch!
For the fifth consecutive year, the Falcons will hold Russell Falcons Training Camp at the team’s Flowery Branch headquarters. Atlanta’s 44th training camp will begin Aug. 1, with select morning and afternoon practices open to the public. Admission is free.
Training Camp Practice (8:30 a.m.)
Date of Event: 8/1/2009
Time of Event: 8:30am
Russell Falcons Training Camp practice open to the public. Gates open one hour prior to the start of practice. Practice times are subject to change and/or cancellation based on the weather. Get up-to-date info on the AF.com homepage, by calling the Training Camp hotline (770-965-2752) or following the Falcons on Twitter.
Well Cagers, it’s time to see a show of hands (I’ll be there) for the August 1st gathering of our very first Bird Cage meeting at the Branch! It should be a whole lot of fun!
D3 has has informed us that Taco Mac is a close venue to choose afterwards for thirst quenching!
Hope to see you all at the Branch!
Dean21
July 17th, 2009
1:01 am
FYI: Get your training camp and Falcons merchandise at the Falcons365 trailer at Russell Falcons Training Camp and both events at Allstate All-Access Weekend. Player autograph sessions at the merchandise trailer are scheduled for Aug. 1, 2 and 5.*
Unca' Bob
July 17th, 2009
6:29 am
Seminole Warrior,
Brian VanGorder may be the DC, but this team is being put together in Coach Smith’s image and likeness. Every where Coach Smith appears, a top ten Defense shows up.
http://www.atlantafalcons.com/People/Coaches/Mike_Smith.aspx
Coach Smith has always started building his Defenses by drafting DT,s. Big, strong, fast, and aggressive DT’s. That progress began in this years draft. P Jerry’s health is a concern but there is no question about his motor. With a returning T Lewis, the emergence of J Babineaux during the last half of the ‘08 season, all bodes well for our D-Line. Should J Anderson finaly break out we will have a D-Line that will stay in the top 5-10 every year.
http://www.atlantafalcons.com/People/Coaches/Brian_VanGorder.aspx
Unca' Bob
July 17th, 2009
6:32 am
Speaking of J Snelling…
http://www.atlantafalcons.com/News/Articles/2009/07/11-20/Special_teams_continue_to_be_point_of_emphasis.aspx