5 tips to help you live without the NFL this weekend
Yard work is out of the question today. (D. Orlando Ledbetter/dledbetter@ajc.com)
Yard work is out of the question today. (D. Orlando Ledbetter/dledbetter@ajc.com)
The dreaded first weekend without NFL football is upon us.
I knew most of the hardcore football folks would struggle. Normally, we’d at least have the Pro Bowl. But was played before the Super Bowl this year.
There is not one football game on television this weekend. Not even one of those bad all-star games.
So here’s a survival plan. Five things to help you get through the weekend:
- Yard work is normally a winner, but thanks to the snow we can push it off for another week. (Yeah!!!)
- Do some NCAA basketball tournament scouting. Watch some of these mid-major games. (Remember, we dropped that hot Cleveland State first-round upset tip for your brackets last year.)
- At some point, try to slide your batmobile around to the nearest Mall or Wal-Mart to get the Valentine’s Day gift for your Queen or King. (Just take it real slow on the roads. Slow down, it’s not a NASCAR race.)
- Make the Blockbuster run on the way back. My neighbor George – the big Falcons fan and season ticket holder – is a Netflix guy. He was telling about how you can download the movies to your computer.
- Normally, grilling out would be an option. But you’d have to invoke the “Wisconsin Grilling” rules. (Wisconsin Grilling rules – put on your coat and gloves and get out there anyway.)
Couple of housekeeping matters:
- If you haven’t already, check out the latest fan blog. The Bird Cage is hot. Dawson Devitt is talking defense in this one.
- Talked with Tim Lewis yesterday. We’ll have that up Monday morning.
- We’ll get the “Early Pre-Combine Mock 1.0″ ready for Friday.
You can follow the Falcons Beat and Falcons Fan blogs on Twitter at AJCFalcons and you can join the Facebook Fan page at AJC Falcons.
FINNERAN TALKS ABOUT HIS NEW DEAL: Falcons wide receiver Brian Finneran, who was set to become a free agent on March 5, signed a one-year contract
Brian Finneran (By Curtis Compton/Ccompton@ajc.com)
extension on Thursday, the team announced.
Finneran could have waited and had other teams bargain for his services, but the nine-year veteran wanted to return to the Falcons.
Finneran, 34, was waived by Seattle and Philadelphia before being signed by the Falcons to the practice squad on Dec. 13, 1999. He hopes to finish his career with the team.
“Now, I know I’m going to be a Falcon next year and I can start preparing that way,” said Finneran, a fundraiser for Haiti that he was attending. “Being up there up at the facility and working with the team, the coaches and everything else. It gives you a leg up and it takes away that uncertainty.”
Finneran played in 10 games last season and caught 11 passes for 111 yards. He also contributed on special teams. But he suffered a torn posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee against New Orleans on Dec. 13 and was placed on injured reserve.
The torn PCL did not require surgery.
“I’ll be back for OTAs and mini-camp,” Finneran said. “We start offseason training the end of March. I’ll be ready for that.
Wide receiver Harry Douglas is on schedule to return to the field soon. (Curtis Compton/Ccompton@ajc.com)
I’m already up there a little bit. I’m planning to be back up there working out and doing some different things. It’s feeling good. It should be 100 percent before we get ready to go.”
In 2008, Finneran made a successful comeback from a right knee injury that required two surgeries, which caused him to miss two seasons.
In the first surgery, a cadaver’s ligament was used to rebuild the torn anterior cruciate ligament, but it gave way during training camp in 2007. During the second surgery, Finneran’s own tissue and patellar tendon were used to rebuild the ACL.
He played in all 17 games in 2008.
Finneran, who played collegiately at Villanova, is not sure where all of the time has gone.
“I can still remember my wife pulling up to the old Suwanee facility and bringing the two little kids out, and sitting down and watching practice,” Finneran said. “We are rooted here now. This is home for us. We love Atlanta.
“We love being here. We love the organization. We enjoy being around Arthur Blank and his wife Stephanie. To finish here is a big goal of mine. I appreciate the Falcons allowing me to do that.”
In his career, Finneran has played in 112 games with 37 starts and has totaled 219 catches for 2,927 yards and 16 touchdowns.
In 2005, he led the Falcons in receiving with 50 catches for 611 yards. In 2002, he amassed a career-high 838 yards and six touchdowns.
Last season, Finneran was named the Falcons nominee for the 2009 Walter Payton man of the year award, which honors the league’s top civic minded player.
FINNERAN ON THE SAINTS SUPER BOWL TITLE
The Falcons took note of the NFC South champion New Orleans Saints winning the Super Bowl.
“It was tough,” Finneran said. “You always wish that it was you. It’s bittersweet. I guess you’ve got a team in your division representing for the NFC South.
“I know we have to battle those guys year in and year out. It seems like the NFC South always has something to do with the playoffs all the way up to the NFC championship game at least. . . Hopefully we can do that next year. That gives us something to shoot for. We get to play the Champs twice. We’ll take full advantage of it and give it our best shot.”
Brian Finneran agrees to one-year contract with the Falcons on Thursday. (By Bob Andres / bandres@ajc.com)
Falcons to help raise cash for Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund
Several members of the Falcons will take in part in a fundraiser to help raise funds for Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot.
Finneran, fullback Ovie Mughelli, linebacker Coy Wire and offensive lineman Garrett Reynolds will be on hand to offer their support.
“The people of Haiti have experienced unbelievable loss and destruction since the earthquake on January 12,” said
David Ralston, Georiga’s speaker of the house. “I believe that we are in the position to help this nation get back on its feet. That is why House Republicans and Democrats are joining together in a bi-partisan effort to host a fundraiser to bring much needed funds to Haiti to help provide people with food, water, and other supplies.”
Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush have joined forces to lead a major relief effort to benefit Haiti .
“We appreciate the opportunity to join in the effort to help our neighbors in Haiti ,” said Rep. Dubose Porter. “When tragedy hits we need to pull together as one people to help those in need with our thoughts and prayers.”
Nikki Randall (D-Macon)
In addition to Speaker Ralston and Minority Leader Porter (D-Dublin), the host committee will include the following members of caucus leadership in the Georgia House of Representatives: Speaker Pro-Tem Jan Jones (R-Milton), Majority Leader Jerry Keen (R-St. Simons), Majority Whip Edward Lindsey (R-Atlanta), Majority Caucus Chairwoman Donna Sheldon (R-Dacula), Majority Caucus Vice-Chairman Jeff May (R-Monroe), Majority Secretary/Treasurer Allen Peake (R-Macon), Minority Whip Carolyn Hugley (D-Columbus), Minority Caucus Chairman Calvin Smyre (D-Columbus), Minority Caucus Vice-Chairwoman Nikki Randall (D-Macon), Assistant Minority Whip Rob Teilhet (D-Smyrna), Minority Secretary Kathy Ashe (D-Atlanta), and Minority Treasurer Don Wix (D-Mableton).
“I appreciate the efforts of House Minority Leader DuBose Porter, Minority Whip Carolyn Hugley and all of the Minority Caucus leadership for their partnership in this very worthy cause,” Ralston said.
Contributions will be accepted at the door the day of the event at the discretion of the donor.
Falcons’ 1966 throwback look is here to stay
BIRDLAND – The 1966 throwbacks uniforms are here to stay.
For at least four more seasons, the Falcons will strut in those classics for at least one game.
Falcons president Rich McKay told the team’s website the story about how the plan involved a five-year commitment to the old jerseys, helmets and pants.
Falcons Cheerleaders sported Throwback cheer outfits for the Carolina game. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC).
Last season, they asked the players if they liked how the uniforms looked. The players approved of the look and asked to wear them for two games.
The Falcons went 2-0 in the throwback uniforms.
They fared pretty good in a 28-20 victory over Carolina on Sept. 20, but the ghosts from Falcons’ past came out of the Georgia Dome closet in the second game.
The Falcons needed a touchdown pass with 23 seconds remaining to beat 1-9 Tampa Bay and four starters – Michael Turner, Matt Ryan, Sam Baker and Harvey Dahl – were injured in the game. Turner was gone for the rest of the season.
DUNN GIVES AWAY TWO MORE HOUSES: Falcons part owner Warrick Dunn sent out this tweet today: “Not
Falcons will sport their throwback uniforms on Sunday against Tampa Bay. (CURTIS COMPTON/AJC)
gonna lie. Felt good to help 92nd & 93rd single parents make ‘Home’ dreams happen. Their 4 kids will rest easier tonight. Thanks ALL!”
You can make donations on his foundation’s website.
SUPER BOWL CLUB: With the Saints leaving the ranks, there are only four teams left in the “Never Been to a Super Bowl” club.
Now with the Saints victory, there is hope in Cleveland, Jacksonville, Houston and Detroit. (However, it must be pointed out that the Browns won 5 NFL titles and 4 AAFL titles while dominating in the 1940s and 1950s. They won their last NFL title in 1964.)
MOCK DRAFT: Let’s practice some “Citizen Journalism” today. We didn’t start doing our Mock Draft until March 20th last season.
I like to wait until after getting, digesting and then sharing the information from the NFL Scouting Combine.
Anybody who’s doing a mock right now is basically throwing darts. Teams are getting closer to finalizing their boards, but most will undergo major reconstruction after the NFL Scouting combine, which will run from Feb. 24 until March 2 in Indianapolis.
Should we start the Mock’s early – this Friday — or wait until after the combine? A simple, yes or no would help. It would be fun either, way.
Excited about the throwbacks? (I’m assuming the cheerleaders will wear their throwbacks, too.)
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124 comments Add your comment
Athdog
February 9th, 2010
5:52 pm
I was seven years old the year the Falcons started. I remember Randy Johnson getting creamed game after game, I remember watching the greatest linebacker in the history of football, Tommy Nobis, who should be in the HOF, make tackles from sideline to sideline. Wade Traynham’s missing the ball on the kickoff. Man, those unis were so awesome, I am glad to see them worn by a decent team.
Greene Hornet
February 9th, 2010
5:52 pm
I wish they would use the current logo on a red helmet- that would look great… Or the throwbacks with a red jersey…
SWAT Native
February 9th, 2010
6:01 pm
I love the throwbacks, but I always preferred the new school black jersey to the red one, as do most of the fans based on which one they buy to wear to the games. I guess this means we won’t see those again for a long time?
waynester
February 9th, 2010
6:09 pm
Strange that after all these years the original unis still look the best! Great move guys….
matt ryan wears a dress
February 9th, 2010
6:23 pm
we will wear dresses in at least one game also…
MCook
February 9th, 2010
7:12 pm
Love the original unis…also Greene Hornet’s idea of the current logo on a red helmet is an awesome idea.
Mark
February 9th, 2010
7:14 pm
Fox Sports’ Adam Schien has Falcons at the top of his “9″ list to be next year’s Saints!
Jack
February 9th, 2010
7:37 pm
Dimitroff said that the Falcons would continue wearing the jerseys for several years back in the fall. It was at the same time that he noted how the NFL barred the Falcons from taking this step for several years after the ownership change. What’s the news in this blog post?
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 9th, 2010
8:31 pm
Watching American Idol. Ellen is hilarious. I wish that guy Skiiboski didn’t get gonged.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 9th, 2010
8:32 pm
Jack: It’s a blog. Not a news story. Thought Rich’s take was interesting about how popular they were with the players and that it was a five-year deal.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 9th, 2010
9:09 pm
Check out Roddy White TV.
http://roddywhite.tv/
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 9th, 2010
9:11 pm
MESSAGE TO THE FANS FROM RODDY WHITE:
First off, thank you to the Falcons fans who helped get me into my 2nd straight Pro Bowl! It means the world to me to be considered one of the best in the league, and it was a blast playing with all the great players in Miami. I even had the most catches in the game, which was great. Going up against the best corners in the league like Revis and Nnamdi is always a challenge, I love playing against the best. And I could get used to Miami, wow! South Beach could be the greatest place on Earth, everyone needs to visit it at least once in their lives. The weather over the weekend was sunny and beautiful, and it made for an awesome time. Now, I’m just chillin, enjoying the off-season and getting excited for the Super Bowl. Even though my boys from the NFC South – the Saints – are playing, I gotta roll with Mr. Manning and the Colts. We played them two years ago and he carved us up just like he does to everyone else. Brees and the Who Dat boys are great, but I like Indy to win it all this year.
I’ll be back after the Super Bowl with my thoughts on the game, be sure to keep checking out roddywhite.TV for the latest updates, and make sure yall hit me up on Twitter, @roddywhiteTV!
Richard Dawson
February 9th, 2010
9:43 pm
Love these throwbacks. The only improvement I’d like to see in the uniform department is to go back to the red/gray unis that were from ~78-89 or so. Thanks to the antichrist Glanville for screwing that up.
Chaz
February 9th, 2010
10:47 pm
Keep the throwbacks, wear the present-day unis twice a year instead. At least wear red helmets. The black helmets always make me think of Jerry Glanville. *ick*
1966 Falcons
February 9th, 2010
11:05 pm
I am the happiest of all for the comeback of the original 1966 uniforms. Several years ago I mentioned the throwbacks in blogs here on the AJC website, so I like to think someone heard my calls to bring back those very sharp and timeless uni’s. I only wish they would wear them all the time, or at least put the newer Falcon logo on a red helmet with the black jerseys. Here’s predicting a 2011 Super Bowl of the Chargers and Falcons!
willie
February 9th, 2010
11:06 pm
I love the throwbacks. Start the mocks now! I’m thinking Kyle Wilson, the Boise St. CB, for Falcons in round 1!
Dr. R
February 9th, 2010
11:07 pm
I like ‘em, and I liked the all-black look. What I don’t like are the newfangled multicolored pants — black, red green — and the monochromatic all one-color look. Makes teams look like a Division III college team, Augustana or something. Pro teams look better in white, gray or gold pants. Clean, classy, professional.
The Grinch
February 9th, 2010
11:28 pm
Thank you, Roddy, for giving us a consistent deep threat. As for the unis, the throwbacks look way better than the current ones; no question. Same for the cheerleaders; the current ones are too distracting. Simple black is perfect for naturally (or artificially) beautiful women.
HOWEVER, whatever you may think of Glanville the unis during his tenure are the best looking unis ever trotted out on a football field IMO. I remember at the time a bunch of my friends from other cities told me “you guys suck, but I wish we had uniforms that cool.” Well, we don’t suck anymore. Bring ‘em back.
The Grinch
February 9th, 2010
11:33 pm
Wow. Thanks, AJC, for throwing my post away. Stay classy.
frankly
February 9th, 2010
11:54 pm
I think the throwbacks are sharp. Good deal.
Mr. Obvious
February 10th, 2010
12:21 am
Throwback uniforms, colors & logos are just another way for greedy professional sports teams to fleece their fans for more money.
Mr. Obvious
February 10th, 2010
12:23 am
“Third” Jerseys are also manure.
see also: Hawks and Thrashers
Jeff
February 10th, 2010
12:44 am
As a lifetime Falcons fan, I have to say that I’m glad to see this… I enjoy the touch of nostalgia that pro teams bring to the game every now and then…
As for Mr. Obvious’s comment about “Throwback uniforms, colors & logos are just another way for greedy professional sports teams to fleece their fans for more money”…. ummm, dude, exactly how? YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY ANYTHING!!!!! Just enjoy the aesthetic look of the different uniforms! My god, people love to complain about pro sports… all you have to do is watch the team on TV, cheer for them, and maybe spend $80 or $100 once a year to buy a pair of tickets. You don’t HAVE to spend anything more… no jerseys, no hats, no memorabilia, no concessions… just enjoy the sport and the team on a basic level!
I, for one, love to see different looks sometimes in pro sports games… my personal wish for the Falcons is that once a year, for a home game, they should break out a certain era uniform… maybe an early-80s throwback or an early-90s-all-white combo or a 1998-Super-Bowl-team jersey… don’t ALWAYS have the 1966 look as the throwback.
Personally, I would LOVE the NFL to have an “All-1980s” day once each season…. have a team wear their unis from 25 years ago. We’d see the classic Eagles green & silver, the Giants with “GIANTS” on the helmet instead of that stupid NY, the Chargers in dark blue helmets, the Titans would wear Oilers gear, and the Jets would have the fancy Jet-flying logo… oh, and Seattle would go back to its CLASSIC colors. I think it would be a great idea… what do you all think?
BosnianBaller
February 10th, 2010
1:08 am
NO
Wait til the combine in Indy
The Ghost of Norm Van Brocklin
February 10th, 2010
1:33 am
The “throwback” uniforms should become the “regular” uniforms.
The new uniforms look like bowling shirts.
Let the NBA cater to the hip-hop crowd, let us have regular uniforms and not bowling shirt/hip-hop attire.
BB
February 10th, 2010
1:36 am
I am personally looking forward to several more years of the throwbacks. I think they should be a permanent addition to the team. I like how they have options.
As to the use of mock drafts, I agree that it is early to be making out final picks. But they best part about mock drafts are that they can be edited. I have already done my mock 1.0 draft on my blog and have gotten a big response from it. I plan on doing two more. One after the combine and another right before the draft. I don’t think it is bad to think about it early. Plus, we will never get everything right on about us playing GM for all the NFL teams. But it sure is fun.
Charlie
February 10th, 2010
3:56 am
While we’re on the subject of NFL throwback uniforms, can we please, please, PLEASE put the referees back in regular throwback referee stripes, not the funky things they wear now?
Love the old Falcons look, btw…
Bad Karma
February 10th, 2010
5:17 am
Happy to see the”throw back” uniform return. The present uniform was a Jerry Glanville scheme. The uniform has nothing but stupid, low rent, goofy memories tied to it, such as; the infamous “California trophy.” BTW, where is that thing? (MC) Hammer on the sideline, tix for Elvis, a few years later Jeffie George piddling in his pants on the sideline on MNF. And least I forget the “Mike Vick Experience” whatever that was. Change is good.
alanfalcon
February 10th, 2010
7:47 am
The throwbacks should be the uniform of choice, have been and will always look the best.
willie g at yur service
February 10th, 2010
8:56 am
the talcons are 2 or 3 years from a super bowl,but it does XXXXX that still the trade for vick haunts this team as SANDIEGO GOT THOMLISON AND BREES AND WE GOT A DOG KILLING FOOL AND THE SAINTS GOT A SUPERBOWL QB this is the reason the falcons will never win a superbowl for making stupid trades like that look how long it took the saints to recover from the ditca debacle on trading all the draft picks for ricky since we feel sorry for hurricane towns the next super bowl winner haS TO be the houston texans as the hurricane in texas was 10 times worse as little katrina the saints make me sick.
willie g at yur service
February 10th, 2010
8:58 am
where is my comment
SeminoleWarrior
February 10th, 2010
9:02 am
What’s happening DO Led..
The throwbacks are great and I hope that TD and the Falcons keep them around for a long, long time.
As far as the Mock Draft is concerned, my brother, I will start the same train in your blog that I started over in the “little brother” blog. My pick is the outstanding talent from Mizz, Sean Weatherspoon.
WLB is a liability for the Falcons and drafting Spoon not only gives us a great talent for years to come but it gives BVG considerably more options when it comes to pass coverage and the blitz options.
Another great post bro…you are the man!!
Sautee
February 10th, 2010
10:33 am
I wonder what our buddy “Choke” thinks of Vick’s admission that he “settled for being mediocre” while with the Falcons?
I’m a Michael Vick fan and it saddened me greatly. What a freakin’ waste.
I’m just glad that he has some perspective now.
And I’m glad we have a QB who busts his a$$ in preparation and training.
Falcon Devil
February 10th, 2010
10:49 am
Seems a little early for a 32 team mock draft before the combine but looking at Falcon targets is always worth doing. I’d like Sergio Kindle because of his ability to both play OLB which we need to get younger at with Peterson aging and also he could provide situational pass rush for when Abraham inevitably gets injured. I’d like to see us find a serviceable CB FA who can play immediately and continue to allow Chris Owens and Grimes fight for the other spot. I do like Kyle Wilson alot though. I’m just hesitant to have another year of a rookie CB trying to fight his way for playing time. I’d rather an OLB or Pass rusher or hybrid that can make an immediate impact. Other guys I like could be Brandon Graham from Michigan or Dunlap ( I’ll forgive him for going to UF). For one of our 3rd rounders check out Chris Magaha WR from ASU. He has the best hands I’ve ever seen period. Checkout this catch make sure you watch the slow mo replay cus I guarantee NO ONE has ever seen a better catch….. EVER.
Falcon Devil
February 10th, 2010
10:51 am
Not allowed to post youtube links? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ez0tTdXH4vI
Falcon Devil
February 10th, 2010
10:51 am
There ya go nvm
uberVU - social comments
February 10th, 2010
10:55 am
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by AJCFalcons: @zachkleinWSB Just needed a reason to get the cheerleaders in the blog in their throwback uniforms, too. http://bit.ly/aNz6BS…
Michael Foster
February 10th, 2010
10:57 am
The NFL rule is that a team can have one “primary” jersey, and one alternate jersey that can only be worn twice a season.
They softened up on the rules this past year so teams in the AFC could wear their AFL Anniv. uniforms. Then the NFC teams like St Louis, Tampa, and Atlanta jumped in.
If you noticed Denver wore their throwbacks AND their alternates during the year. The NFL does not allow this on a regular year.
Unless a rule change is made, this means Atlanta will not have the new school black uniforms around.
However, they could at least wear black pants…something they didnt do in 2009
TNfalcon
February 10th, 2010
11:11 am
The mock draft is fun no matter when it is done. What the silver britches?
TNfalcon
February 10th, 2010
11:16 am
Sorry for the type error. What about the silver britches?
Michael Foster
February 10th, 2010
11:28 am
They never released silver pants with their new uniform set. They have white and black.
JJ
February 10th, 2010
11:59 am
DOL, yes on mock draft. Yea its early but everyone can bring up some sleeper names in later rds. I agree with my brother SW, spoon baby, spoon. Would not be upset with Bulaga either but after looking at the stats, WLB is the weakest link. Have tremendous respect for Peterson but after Miami, his age showed (although he finished 2nd in tackles).
PMC
February 10th, 2010
11:59 am
I dig the throwbacks. It has a clensing feeling when they win with them.
Stirg d'Nahsif
February 10th, 2010
11:59 am
Let’s do the mock, D.O.. It’ll be interesting to learn if we know what we’re talking about. Early or not, you should be able to detect, by now, who’ll ascend at the combine if you know the sport. I, too, like Sean ’spoon but I suspect that his stock will rise after his exposure from the Senior Bowl and the combine. Let’s do it…
…nice unis. They look better than Denver’s.
JJ
February 10th, 2010
12:09 pm
Stirg buddy, where you been?
teamguy
February 10th, 2010
12:19 pm
Take a shot at the draft now. .hey, what else do we have to do? Part of the fun of being a fan is the “what if”. .something Kincade needs to learn. The throwbacks are fun to see. .actually, like some of you, I like them better, logo and all, than the current uni’s.
Stirg d'Nahsif
February 10th, 2010
1:11 pm
What’s going on, JJ? I been digging out snow…that’s where I’ve been! Gosh, I miss home. Ready for the mocking? Ready for the combine? Ready for the what-ifs, the should-could’ve beens and the famous “we-ought to’s”? This is the time, last year, that we came together and shaped, what is now, the Cage. Last year, we bitched, moaned and groaned about Clay Matthews, Jr., Louis Delmas, Clint Sintim, Ziggy Hood and Hip-Hip Peria. Remember that? Matter of fact, I begged for Brandon Pettigrew because I thought a complete tight end would solidify our offense. Enter Tony Gonzalez. Same concept, different personnel.
This year, I’m agreeing with the most of you. I, too, think that we need to fix some elements on defense, particularly CB, WILL and the pass rush; however, I strongly believe all that can be fixed with the signing of Vince Wilfork. I know you’ve read this before but I’m going to moan and groan until something of that nature is completed. I have also suggested in bringing a cheaper Richard Seymour home. Can you imagine a pass rush with a defensive line containing John Abraham, Vince Wilfork, Richard Seymour, John Babineaux, Chauncey Davis, Kroy Biermann, L-Sidbury, Jamaal Anderson and Hip-Hip Peria? It’ll be the best defensive-line rotation in the N.F.L. It won’t even matter who’s in the defensive backfield; however, it would allow us to concentrate on cornerback and WOLB. I like Sean ’spoon; I like Sergio Kindle. I like Patrick Robinson’s heart and I like Kyle Wilson’s attitude. Both characters are needed opposite Christopher Owens (Brent Grimes can play nickel-back all season; that’s his sole job). I also like Brandon Graham but you know how I feel about the time it takes for a defensive end to mature in the league. Take the top defensive end in last year’s draft and you’ll see. Tyson Jackson was taken 3rd overall, he finished the season with less than 40 tackles and no sacks.
Go and sign Wilfork, immediately. Sign Seymour and let him play our 3-4 downs (he’s old, he’s cheap and he wants to come home). Draft Sean ’spoon (if available) in first round and grab a Parrish Cox-type in later rounds. We’re ready for New Orleans, baby!
aswingruber
February 10th, 2010
1:17 pm
Why don’t we just go back to the old school look altogether, like the Sixers did in the NBA? Correct me if I’m wrong, but the new look was rolled out with Vick in mind as the organization wanted a logo that was “faster”. Now that that era is dead and gone why even keep the new look? The original logo and uniform was better to begin with and now we have a good reason to go back.
tinstar
February 10th, 2010
2:22 pm
I have hated the new logo and busy uniforms since they rolled them out. The look should simply be called “Vick”. I remember mentioning the ugliness to a Champs employee in Georgia in ‘03, who argued that it was a great use of the colors, etc. I thought, “I’m not buying that ugly ass jersey, dude. I was making conversation.” Please, make these beautiful retros permanent.
MW
February 10th, 2010
2:25 pm
RE: Classic uniforms versus newer uniforms
The black shirts are OK, but the old logo has to go. The newer falcon just looks better than the static-looking falcon of the 60s. Black shirts, red helmets and the new logo or red shirts, black helmets and the new logo!
tinstar
February 10th, 2010
2:33 pm
The new falcon logo doesn’t look like anything. It’s a mess. It would look perfect on a low-rent expansion team in the afl2.
tinstar
February 10th, 2010
2:42 pm
The Saints should have rolled out a more “aggressive” fleur-de-lis. The old one is too dated. Like, 12th century.
#71 JOHN ZOOK
February 10th, 2010
3:01 pm
CHAZ @10:47 HAS IT RIGHT!!! THESE:”ARENA LEAGUE” UNI’S HAVE GOT TO GO …..PERIOD!!! THE OLDE UNI’S HAVE A REAL FOOTBALL LOOK,THEY’RE AGRESSIVE & THE COLOR’S REPRESENT OUR REGION!! NUFF SAID,JUST DO IT MR.BLANK…..NOW!!!! P.S. I’M A SEASON TICKET HOLDER & I TOOK MY 11 YEAR OLD GRANDSON TO THE T.BAY GAME TO SEE WHAT I USE TO SEE ON SUNDAY’S LONG AGO,HE WAS AWED BY THAT BEAUTIFUL RED HELMET SO MUCH I HAD TO BY HIM ONE FOR CHRISTMAS…OR ELSE!!!!
MboroFalconFan
February 10th, 2010
3:22 pm
Keep the throwback uniforms! Make them THE uniforms and get rid of the Glanville era ones we’re stuck with now!
Sam
February 10th, 2010
3:44 pm
What about Carolina? They have never made the Super Bowl. There are actually 5 teams, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Jacksonville, and Carolina.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 10th, 2010
3:55 pm
Sam, Carolina played against New England in the Super Bowl. (The Janet Jackson Halftime Show Super Bowl!)
Reid Adair
February 10th, 2010
4:59 pm
That’s great news about the throwbacks; I think they look great.
As for the mock draft? Wait until after the combine.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 10th, 2010
5:20 pm
Mock draft: 4 Yes, 2 No.
The Grinch: You went to the spam folder. I approved you.
Willie g at yur service: You went to spam. I approved it. But I’m getting ready to delete it. We try to keep it clean in here.
Seminole Warrior: Thanks for the kind words. Hope that everything has been going well for you. Spoon played well at the Senior Bowl. They loved him. I think the 20th spot might be too high for him, though.
Falcon Devil: Super Catch!!!
Pecker Head
February 10th, 2010
7:35 pm
Hey y’all :I for one I hated the Saints getting to the bowl but thinking back what they went through for years w/the h/cains along with Manning s dad w/the saints, couldn’t help but to pull for them. This q/b got his azz busted more than any q/b than I can remember. Maybe next year will be our year, go Falcons.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 10th, 2010
8:40 pm
PECKER HEAD: Love that name. Yeah, Ol’ Archie used to pummeled on a weekly basis and he kept coming back.
HERE’S THE FALCONS FREE AGENT STATUS
UNRESTRICTED
–WR Marty Booker
–WR Brian Finneran
–LB Tony Gilbert
–RB Verron Haynes (He was down at the Senior Bowl. Wonder if he wants to get into coaching when he’s done?)
–QB Chris Redman
–LS Mike Schneck
–RB Aaron Stecker
–CB Brian Williams
–LS Joe Zelenka
RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
–OG Harvey Dahl*
–OT Tyson Clabo*
–FS Antoine Harris
–P Michael Koenen*
–RB Jerious Norwood*
–OT Quinn Ojinnaka*
–FS Charlie Peprah*
–RB Jason Snelling
–FS Jamaal Fudge
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS:
–CB Brent Grimes
awantwin
February 10th, 2010
9:01 pm
Falcons didn’t make playoffs, but at least they are doing something really positive!
Stirg d'Nahsif
February 10th, 2010
9:27 pm
D.O., out of that list, we keep every offensive lineman listed. Remember, their part of the same time that allowed Turner to rush for 1699; and was on pace to a rushing high this past season, until injuries. We keep Keonen, Snelling, Redman, Gilbert, Grimes and Williams (I’m anxious to see his comeback from injury). Everybody else has been given their chance to get on the field. If you can’t run with the dogs, stay on the porch.
Falcons to help raise cash for Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund | Atlanta … | NFL Topics Blog
February 10th, 2010
9:50 pm
[...] Sean Douglas- fantasy-info wrote a very interesting post today. Here’s a quick excerpt:UPDATE Several members of the Falcons will take in part in a fundraiser to help raise funds for Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund from 5:30 pm to 7 pm Thursday at. [...]
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
February 11th, 2010
8:11 am
Thanks for list DOL- is there any update to CB Brian Williams injury/recovery- he held it down for the games he was in there. Re-sign Snelling & Redman, drop Norwood
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 11th, 2010
11:31 am
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater: Making some calls today on the free agents. Hope to have something soon on them.
Scott Case
February 11th, 2010
1:20 pm
Finneran.. That move really puts us over the top. Why Falcons? I hope it was close to the league minumum, because that’s the production he’s gonna give you.
PMC
February 11th, 2010
1:37 pm
Finn is just a good guy to have on a team. He is a versatile player and is capable of making big catches when counted on. They need to try and get Brian Williams back too.
mars
February 11th, 2010
1:43 pm
Holy Cow! For 2 years all I’ve been getting is static when I brought up how UGLY the current uni’s are. Where have you people been? Oh well, welcome to the bandwagon. All are welcome. Oh, and fellas, the black uni’s may be the only thing Glanville got right, but he definitely got that right.
mars
February 11th, 2010
1:45 pm
Finnerans contribution is very intangible. He makes the people around him better. That is truly a rare players talent.
Jon
February 11th, 2010
1:59 pm
Please stop re-signing Finneran every year. He provides nothing. Spare me the “intangibles” and “great team guy” comments.
Singletary
February 11th, 2010
2:21 pm
Are they grooming him for coach? If so, put him on the sidelines, not taking up a roster spot. Finn has been a spectacular contributor over the years, but — as with al our aging bodies — he’s not a 25YO any more.
JTH
February 11th, 2010
2:22 pm
What injury will end Brian “Mr.Glass” Finneran’s season this time?
ACL tear 1-3
MCL tear 1-1
Broken ankle 3-1
Spontaneous combustion 5-1
Place yer bets!
D Money
February 11th, 2010
2:41 pm
I don’t agree with the Finneran signing. In my opinion, Finn and Jenks are the same type of player. Finneran is a more reliable possesion receiver than Jenkins and Jenkins is faster. So I guess we know 4 of the 5 who’s on the squad this year…White, Jenkins, Douglas, and Finneran. I’m still expecting to them to pick one in the late rounds of the draft.
MCook
February 11th, 2010
2:50 pm
Finn has sack big time. You can’t say that about alot of current, and past (#7) Falcons…imo…
Terrell
February 11th, 2010
2:51 pm
The majority of the people that liked the older uniforms over the current are probably some of the older Falcons fans. While I greatly respect the fans that have been around since 1966 I don’t agree with the old uniforms being the best. I like them once or twice a season, but in my opinion they aren’t like the Chargers powdered blue that you can wear every game. If Atlanta decided to use the current red jerseys and current black pants then we’re getting somewhere. THE GHOST OF NORM VAN BROCKLIN comment,
“Let the NBA cater to the hip-hop crowd, let us have regular uniforms and not bowling shirt/hip-hop attire.”
The comment was uncalled for and I believe Norm would be embarassed and disgusted to see his name tied to such a prejudice remark. The majority of today’s players in the NFL are in that “HIP HOP” era as you call it. Why don’t we just take them away as well and you can have your good o’ boy football?
D Money
February 11th, 2010
2:52 pm
How about trading a late round pick for Josh Cribbs? With him, Douglas, and White on the field there should be no excuses. Plus an undrafted player shouldn’t be worth a lot as far as trade value.
MCook
February 11th, 2010
3:02 pm
Great post Terrell…
Bald Eagle
February 11th, 2010
3:47 pm
Are you kiddling me? There’s no way Finn deserves to be re-sign. This is the worse receiver in pro ball over the past nine years. Even when Michael Vick was quarterback, Finn was mediocre, at best. And I mean mediocre on the Falcon’s team, not in the league. The Falcon would have cutted him when they cutted D.J. Shockley. At that time, both were out with a leg injury for over a year. What kind of crap it this? I quess,” if you’re white it’s alright. But, if you’re Black, stand back.” And if you’re not stick around. And if you’re D.J. Shockley or Michael Vick, it ain’t your time. I mean, this is ridicious.Unless this quy is kissing-up to a lot of ‘white butts,” he should be out of pro football. I am so angry about this. This makes me think about Sarah Palin. “She don’t know nothing! Finnenan, he don’t know nothing!
Falcons4life
February 11th, 2010
4:00 pm
I can’t believe they resigned Finnerman for another year. He is so injury prone and up in age. We need to focus on grooming some young talent. We have to up the ante if we expect to reach and grab a Super Title like our rivals, the Saints.
Terrell
February 11th, 2010
4:07 pm
MCook, were you being sarcastic?
alanfalcon
February 11th, 2010
4:31 pm
Welcome back Finn, just goes to show you that you, your efforts and your ability is appreciated.
alanfalcon
February 11th, 2010
4:34 pm
Bald Eagle sounds like you have a problem, checkout his contributions, something that neither Vick(the dog killer) and Schockley who would have never been give the opportunity had he been white.
screg
February 11th, 2010
4:50 pm
I wish we would wear the 1980s throwbacks. red helment, red jersey, white pants with 3 stripes, red socks, and the white shoes.
SWAT Native
February 11th, 2010
4:56 pm
I wonder if folks would love the throwback uniforms as much if the Falcons had gone 0-2 vs. 2-0 in them? As for everyone that is blaming Glanville for the current uniform, remember that he was the one that brought back the throwback jersey that you say you love so much. If you look at the jerseys from the Glanville era, they are the same.
Paddy O
February 11th, 2010
5:03 pm
DOL: Have you watched the Super Bowl again? I blame the loss on two things:
1) Coach Caldwell – that 50+ yard field goal should have been a punt.
2) Reggie Wayne – any rumors about him being PAID OFF to play bad? Or maybe he was drunk/hungover/high as a kite? He appeared to intentionally play bad.
The Colts led for 50 of the 60 minutes.
Paddy O
February 11th, 2010
5:07 pm
Bald Eagle – your a flaming racist. Shockley was a back up. Vick killed dogs for fun – if you like that type of guy, why not just walk your worthless ass to Reidsville. If you watched last years Falcons, you know Fineran was valuable as a blocker and on special teams. Bald Eagle, you know your own anus.
Paddy O
February 11th, 2010
5:10 pm
Black uni’s are for gangsters and thugs. The red is sharp. Now, if you got black & silver, you got class. The falcons black stuff is just dull and tough to root for.
Old Dawg
February 11th, 2010
5:33 pm
Make the throwbacks the full time uniform. The current uniform is a disgrace to Atlanta and football!
enz
February 11th, 2010
5:37 pm
i love finn, but wow, can we not do a little better? with someone whos knee’s not shot?
Charles Tee
February 11th, 2010
5:50 pm
How in the hell does Finnergen make someone better. I understand that some may like him, but don’t overstate him. He is an average possession receiver that still drops catch able balls. Give me a frinkin break.
Salinsa
February 11th, 2010
6:25 pm
I had the same initial reaction as a lot of ppl on here but we all need to calm down. We don’t know the terms of the contract and based on Finneran’s ability to stay healthy, I highly doubt it’s a risky contract that the Falcons offered. The contract most likely doesn’t have much guaranteed money so if Finneran isn’t good enough to make the team in cam, the team will just cut him and move on. All this complaining about the signing is much ado about nothing
witerequired
February 11th, 2010
6:27 pm
What the heck is Glassazz Finneran doing in the league in the first place??? Must have some ‘GOOD RELATIONS’ with some flamer in the front office!!! HE SUX!!! and evidently in more ways than one!!!!
oldfart
February 11th, 2010
7:09 pm
Finneran plays every down with all he has. Maybe some of that will rub off on the younger guys.
cdog
February 11th, 2010
7:54 pm
HOW CAN THE FALCONS START WASTING MONEY ON BRIAN FINNERRAN?, A PLAYER WHO HAS BEEN INJURED EVERY YEAR HE HAS PLAYED.HE’S YET TO FINISH A FULL SEASON AND YOU TALK ABOUT NOT SIGNING JULIUS PEPPERS AN ALL PRO PLAYER?. THEY SHOULD FIRST SPEND THE MONEY TO BRING IN PEPPERS AND OTHER PLAYERS WHO WILL WIN CHAMPIONSHIPS AND LET FINNERAN GO ELSEWHERE. HE’S NOT GOING TO HELP THE TEAM WIN IN NO WAY.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 11th, 2010
7:59 pm
Wow. Stunned by the Finneran talk in here. He’s a class act, big weapon on third downs and gets it done on special teams.
PADDY 0: It was on last night. I agree on the field goal. Matt Stover didn’t have a shot from there. He should have let Manning try to pick up the first.
I did wonder about how sharp Wayne was throughout.
Call It Like It Is
February 11th, 2010
8:18 pm
Thank goodness on the 1966 look as for a while, I thought they were trying to look like GA with their ugly SILVER PANT!
Enough Said!
crabapplejoe
February 11th, 2010
8:31 pm
Bald Eagle wrote: “Even when Michael Vick was quarterback, Finn was mediocre, at best.”
Well now…in 2005 with Dog Killer at QB, Finneran caught more passes than any other wide receiver on the team…so I guess that makes Jenkins and Roddy less than mediocre, at best..LMAO. Try not to let the facts get in the way of your hated for the white man.
JMar
February 11th, 2010
9:31 pm
Actually, because I’m in a nitpicking mood, Turner was not lost for the season – he came back versus the Jets.
Finneran's the Man
February 11th, 2010
10:22 pm
What a class act. I’m glad he’s still a Falcon. All the haters should shut their pie hole. This guy has been a great player for the franchise for quite some time. They should actually get him more involved with the Offense.
fish2774
February 11th, 2010
10:52 pm
Finn has been good when healthy, but the the last three years have been disappointing due to injuries. It’s time to move on, and that 1 year contract doesn’t mean a thing. He will be challenged in camp which there’s a possibility he may get cut.
bird fan
February 11th, 2010
11:26 pm
The Browns you speak of winning championships are now the Baltimore Ravens and have won a super bowl. The Browns that have not been in the super bowl have only been in the league a handful of years. Please do not confuse the franchises as one has relocated and changed names.
Jimmy
February 12th, 2010
12:26 am
Does anyone know when the draft “coin toss” will be done to determine the Falcons draft position?
MCook
February 12th, 2010
2:23 am
Terrell… No….paranoid?
darkmancw34
February 12th, 2010
5:37 am
The re-signing of finneran shows fan that the falcons organization is a joke!!! They would sign a injury prone player. That’s one reason the falcons will never compete for a Super Bowl!!!!!
mowreck
February 12th, 2010
7:08 am
How come we don’t have any gold and blue or white in the Falcon uniforms?
Was it because Rankin Smith like the UGA colors better?
Oh well, maybe I’ll watch a quarter or two of the games.
mowreck
February 12th, 2010
7:09 am
I always thought Red and Gold colors would have been nice.
JJ
February 12th, 2010
8:13 am
D-Led, it’s friday, are we mocking today? Maybe some October or Beyonce pics to stay warm thru this blizzard? Any word on how much the reserve OL have progressed this yr.? Any chance we target a new LT and move Baker to RT? Does McClure have one more yr in him? Is Jamaal officialy a DT? Is Bierman going to be listed as starter going to training camp?
Is WLB our greatest need in 1st rd?
Dan
February 12th, 2010
8:37 am
I think we have the coolest looking helmets now!!! I just think they should get rid of the USFL, World League Stripes on the sleeves. It just looks stupid. I dont even own a jersey because of it. Ive actually gone back looking for a Bartkowski jersey because they look better. If anything go back to the red jerseys with the grey stripes on the sleeves they had in the 70’s with the grey pants but keep the helmets they have now.
Ackshun
February 12th, 2010
9:41 am
The uni’s now are fine except for one thing DUMP THOSE WHITE PANTS! the home and away uniforms look so much better with black pants to provide some contrast.
renegade#1
February 12th, 2010
10:18 am
You people are worring to much about the uniforms.I would be worring about the type of players ownership is putting in those uniforms. Uniforms dont win ballgames. Professional players win ballgames, injured players don’t play they sit T.D. get rid of the dead and the dying this is not an infirmary its supposed to be a professional football team. See that it is.
Bestoink Dooley
February 12th, 2010
12:21 pm
Wow, there are some racist jerks on here.
shaggy
February 12th, 2010
12:31 pm
“We love being here. We love the organization. We enjoy being around Arthur Blank and his wife Stephanie. To finish here is a big goal of mine. I appreciate the Falcons allowing me to do that.”
This kind of dedication will bring us a Superbowl. I just hope it’s contagious. “Jerk” Vick could have learned something from this class act when he had a chance. Instead, “Jerk” was more concerned with hood ethics.
Ivan
February 12th, 2010
12:44 pm
Wow at the hate for this guy. Grow up. He’s a good guy, and an average receiver. Good at special teams and on 3rd down conversions. He was given a ONE year extension by the organization and people are acting like we signed him to a 10-year, $130 million dollar contract.
MCook
February 12th, 2010
1:25 pm
shaggy and Ivan are on my team.
dangerousdan87
February 12th, 2010
1:51 pm
I thought they forgot the gold stripe on the orginal helmet, but it IS there. That was was Georgia Tech. I like the uniforms and the old logo. If they continue to be undefeated in those uniforms then they have to wear them in the Super Bowl. Only this time we need have a Eugene Robinson curfew by 11pm and win the damn thing
WonderDawg
February 12th, 2010
5:10 pm
Wish all professional athletes had Fenneran’s attitude.
D-Bird
February 12th, 2010
6:21 pm
Wow! Wow! Wow! What a waste of money! I guess he will be our Duce Mc Callister (New Orleans Saints) RB (CUT from the roster 2008) and brought back for the playoff run as an ambassador. Look Authur Blanks, ticket sales once again are at an all time low. No one wants to come to the Ga Dome to see a player that can not perform. Atlanta have been settling for years for decent players. Now is the time to bring in a Brandon Marshall or Julis Peppers. If the Falcons continue to raise ticket prices (Matty Cold) is not the answer. I have been a season ticket holder for 10 years. I vow not to renew until the draft. David Lettbetter may you can shine some light on the up coming free agent market and draft to be!
JJ
February 12th, 2010
7:19 pm
D-Led, taking a snow day? If so, well deserved. Hopefully soon we can do some mocks and you can field some questions ala Pat Y. chat sessions. Keep up the great work!
NOLA
February 12th, 2010
7:28 pm
Who Dat, Who dat, Who dat say gonna beat em super bowl champs?
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 13th, 2010
9:31 am
Jimmy: Coin toss will be at the NFL combine. Likely on the 24th or 25th of this month.
JJ: Mock Draft. 4 to 2 is what I counted. Think we’ll keep the voting open and get it going next Friday. No Snow Day. Actually had to go out and gather some information (big Tim Lewis interview) to share later and set up some interviews for my Eric Norwood story. No “Snow Days” in the journalism game. Just have to juggle digital and print these days. My Lewis stuff is pretty hot. Hope to drop it Monday morning.
Stirg d'Nahsif
February 13th, 2010
11:33 am
JJ, read your questions (02/12 – 8:13am). In my opinion, McClure can play until… He has a great motor and his leadership and control at the line has gone uncompetitive since his arrival. To me, he is (not Matty) is the true leader of that line.
Defensively, I think WILL is a priority. I think its the highest priority because the line can be fixed with free agency (i.e., Vince Wilfork). Again, with a signing of Wilfork, it could allow us leverage at cornerback and defensive end (our other concerns). Speaking of which, the signing can answer another one of your questions (Anderson at DE or DT?). With Wilfork signing, Anderson would make a great backup, at DT, and would probably produce more sacks, in his fourth year of maturing. It all starts up the middle.
Sign Wilfork (priority number one). Draft Sean ’spoon at 19 or 20. Let Sidbury, BeerMan and Anderson duke it out during preseason and start the best. Start Grimes at nickel, exclusively; and let TD work his magic for cornerback (Parrish Cox, Kyle Owens, Brian Williams, etc.). The key is signing Wilfork (or Richard Seymour). Guess who is responsible for Wilfork’s scouting, recruiting and drafting into the league? Thomas Dimitroff. Problems solved.
Reid Adair
February 13th, 2010
12:00 pm
D Led, stay safe in your winter wonderland over there. Somehow, we’ll all make it through a weekend without football. Hopefully.
JJ
February 13th, 2010
5:36 pm
Stirg, tks for replying. I for reasons unknown, have been getting your avatar updates, like the gerry curl my friend. I will ask this one fav once, plz come back to the cage. It’s not the same without you as you will see when you return. A weaker man would stay away from a blog, a stronger man would care less what others think. I know which cat you are, time to beleive in yourself as I do my friend.
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-fans/2010/02/12/what-is-the-falcons-biggest-defensive-need/comment-page-3/#comment-22445
JJ
February 13th, 2010
5:38 pm
Stirg my friend, man or mouse? I know the answer, when will you?