Should the Falcons pursue Georgia legend Champ Bailey?
These two former UGA superstars, Herschel Walker and Buck Belue, probably wouldn't mind Champ Bailey landing with the Falcons. Belue (r) interviewing his Walker recently at the Super Bowl in Dallas. (D. Orlando Ledbetter/Dledbetter@ajc.com)
It almost makes too much sense.
Loading ...
If he wants to compete for a championship, the Falcons would figure to be a natural landing spot.
Josina "Jo Jo" Anderson, Fox 31 Sports in Denver.
As Josina Anderson of Denver’s Fox affiliate reported, Bailey has put his home up for sale. (You can follow Anderson on twitter: @JosinaAnderson.
Here’s her tweet: “Full Champ Bailey quote: “I am putting my Littleton, (CO) house up for sale. It will be officially listed within the next few days.”#Broncos”
Jeff Legwold had the news confirmed by Bailey’s agent Jack Reale.
The Falcons will have a really good scouting report on Bailey. Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff has connections inside the organization. Also, former Falcons executive Brian Xanders is Denver’s general manager.
As the Falcons found out in the playoffs against Green Bay, you can never have enough cornerbacks.
Bailey, who has played in 10 Pro Bowls, would certainly improve the Falcons’ pass defense. It’s reasonable to conclude that they can find a spot on the roster for Bailey, who has 48 career interceptions.
The Falcons could use Bailey the same way that Green Bay has used Charles Woodson over the last few years. Move him around. Let him play outside some. Inside on the slot and send him on blitzes.
Bailey certainly has some lessons to share with Dunta Robinson, Brent Grimes, Christopher Owens and Dominique Franks.
Giants running back DJ Ware, bottom, fumbles while being tackled by Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey. (David Zalubowski/Associated Press)
Bailey has been with the Broncos since 2004 after starting out his career with the Washington Redskins.
However, his price tag might be a too costly for the Falcons.
Bailey turns 33 in June. The two sides were close to a four-year, $40 million extension before the Broncos pulled the offer late in the season.
Bailey just finished a seven-year, $63 million contract.
Should the Falcons drop all of their free agency cash on a 33-year-old cornerback?
–D. Orlando Ledbetter, The Atlanta Falcons beat blog
Get instant updates on Twitter at AJCFalcons and you can join the Facebook Fan page at AJC Falcons.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
157 comments Add your comment
E.lo
February 17th, 2011
5:15 am
First, and I say h3ll yeah let’s do it!!
Tweets that mention Should the Falcons pursue Georgia legend Champ Bailey? | Atlanta Falcons -- Topsy.com
February 17th, 2011
5:32 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Mile High Salute, ATLHOMER. ATLHOMER said: Atlanta Falcons – RT Should the Falcons pursue Georgia legend Champ Bailey?: These two former UGA superstar… http://bit.ly/hKg3o8 #AJC [...]
JSS
February 17th, 2011
6:06 am
Two names: Ashley Ambrose and Tim McKyer…
Sooner or later, you have to just draft a great DB instead of the Bryan Scott’s and Jimmy Williams of the world…
And you brought up the name Dominique Franks, are the readers ever going to get some real information on why his progress was so slow?
EazyRoc
February 17th, 2011
6:22 am
As much as I love Bailey, I don’t think you make this move. If the Panthers don’t franchise Charles Johnson, that’s where our money should go.
G'Vegas Dawg
February 17th, 2011
6:29 am
5th. I bet the falcs could get that home town discount. It would be worth it just to mentor the youngins.
Buckeye
February 17th, 2011
6:44 am
Nope. To damn old. Then again, perhaps he and Herscel could come in as a “two-fer”.
John
February 17th, 2011
6:45 am
I think they should bring him if the price is right…but not overpay for him. He’s still a very good CB, but he’s no longer a great one. Atlanta has far more pressing needs to make up for than just a CB
Tweets that mention Should the Falcons pursue Georgia legend Champ Bailey? | Atlanta Falcons -- Topsy.com
February 17th, 2011
6:48 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by AJC , Hank Humphrey. Hank Humphrey said: RT @ajc: Will Champ Bailey take his talents to the Georgia Dome? http://bit.ly/fsYEHd [...]
Falconian
February 17th, 2011
6:51 am
Can Champ play defensive end?
K.Conway
February 17th, 2011
6:57 am
To move up as a team, they have to make the right moves. The draft has not been good except for Ryan. The team needs a another good receiver, more defense help and a quick RB!
PlanB
February 17th, 2011
7:01 am
I say if the price is right, get him. If not get someone else. We cannot compete against teams like GB and NO with what we have. B Williams was out and we had to use C Owens. We might as well have played with 10. What happened to him. I thought he was better last year. I would have tried D Franks. We need that extra good CB with the passing games we have to go up against. I think we need to keep B Grimes and B Williams. Especially Grimes. He will be a star. We need another good corner and a pass rush. You can’t draft either one for next year.
hop
February 17th, 2011
7:03 am
bailey has been a very good pro,but he is not the same player that washington drafted ten plus years ago.
the falcons have much more pressing needs to elevate this team to be a super bowl contender.
the more pressing is get ryan more play makers especially at wide receiver. we have only one currently and that is roddy white.
Humma Humma
February 17th, 2011
7:06 am
Instead of Bailey, I vote we pick up Josina “Jo Jo” Anderson, Fox 31 Sports in Denver.
DMR
February 17th, 2011
7:09 am
I love Champ Bailey as a player, but at 33 he is at the point of diminishing returns. You cannot spend that kind of money on a player of his age. The Falcons have some glaring needs on the immediate horizon. Find a long-term answer at corner, replacing an aging J. Abraham. Developing a tight end for Gonzalez’s departure, a running back for the future, and an immediate weapon threat to go opposite R. White.
Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff have done great things with this team in a short period of time. In three years, they have had winning seasons in each, while the team is developing young talent. They will find the right mix of youth and veterans to take a larger step.
Name (required)
February 17th, 2011
7:11 am
Buckeye, it would be a 3-fer if Herschel and his phony “multiple personalities” are involved.
DAVID B.
February 17th, 2011
7:22 am
Sign Champ to a contract with options, pay him well the first year and decide if he should be kept around for another year. After the first year he can’t come back and haunt you due to his age. ONE and maybe DONE. This is the safe route.
falcon88
February 17th, 2011
7:27 am
I say of we can get a home town discount go for it I agree let him teach the youngens something but he is NOT worth 40 million hell he won’t make it long enough to earn it!
Bill
February 17th, 2011
7:27 am
The falcon’s defensive backs are not great, but they are not bad either. If you give Rogers or Brees enough time, they will beat anybody. Need more pressure on the quarterback. That is partly defensive line personnel, and partly a defensive plan that mixes things up more.
HJones
February 17th, 2011
7:27 am
Yes, let’s get him. We will have an over-the-hill wide receiver to match with our over-the-hill tight end. He is exactly what the Falcons need to improve the statistics of last in pass plays over 20 yards.
john mickins
February 17th, 2011
7:42 am
dammit can champ play WR?! i want fitzgerald and draft another burner so we can ship #12 outta here
RODRJ32
February 17th, 2011
7:44 am
I keep hearing some of you say that we need another reciever to go with Roddy White. The problem is who’s going to throw them the ball. If it’s not an intermediate pass Ryan cannot make the throw. We have a problem with Ryan people. I think that everyone wants to believe that he’s going to eventually be this Tom Brady or Peyton Manning type quarterback. I’m starting to believe that it’s not in the cards.
Sweet Old Buck
February 17th, 2011
7:47 am
No way in hell!
SimpleDawg
February 17th, 2011
7:50 am
Absolutely. At 33, Champ’s twice the player that Dunta is….or will ever be.
The prodigal son returns.
cg
February 17th, 2011
7:54 am
I say yes if the price is right. Marcus Stroud is available now and played under Smitty. Let Jamal A go and concentrate on DE, OLB (for Peterson) and WR in the draft.
Sid
February 17th, 2011
7:56 am
Putting a house on the market means nothing, most likely a negotiating ploy. He wants a huge multi-year contract that takes him to when he is nearly 40? I see him ultimately staying at Denver. Don’t get me wrong, he is still a shut down corner and I would love to see him in Falcons colors but he wants more than 4 years on a contract and the Falcons aren’t going to do that at his age.
Love the pic of Buck and Hershel. Quite a contrast, Hershel still every bit the athlete he was and Buck, well, lookin’ a little pudgy there buddy.
The Joker...
February 17th, 2011
8:01 am
Go for it!!! We need at least two out of a possible four FA’s during the offseason, pick two:
Champ Bailey
Richard Seymour
Ray Edwards
D’Angelo Williams
We need to pursue at least two out of the four mentioned ( in no particular order). Some may even want to add Albert Haynesworth to this list, despite his past and recent conduct issues……
Glenn
February 17th, 2011
8:06 am
I wouldn’t sign anyone until a labor agreement is reached . I bet it doesn’t happen until Octoberish . If we have a season next year it will be butchered . Then again due to his age a half season might be more his speed .
Glenn
February 17th, 2011
8:07 am
The Raiders resigned Seymour to a two year contract .
SirReal
February 17th, 2011
8:08 am
I think it’ll be good from a learning standpoint. We do need a vet for just a couple years who can come in and show this team some things. We still lack veteran leadership in the secondary. Poor kid Chris Owens played terrified during that playoff game. Maybe the right guy can give them confidence.
Stirg d'Nahsif
February 17th, 2011
8:11 am
I’m with The Joker… on this one. Richard Seymour and Champ Bailey would immediately make our defense better. This would allow us to focus on linebacker and wide receiver during the draft (I got my eye on a Torrey Smith).
Walker, Texas Ranger
February 17th, 2011
8:14 am
I don’t think Xanders was what you would call an executive with the Falcons but nice try. I think the word you were looking for was assistant or junior scout.
Also, Bailey isn’t coming here to be a nickle back.
Walker, Texas Ranger
February 17th, 2011
8:19 am
Humma Humma, they tried to pick her up but she refused to do the stupid “In you face” sports.
Lee
February 17th, 2011
8:24 am
As much as I appreciate what Champ did for the Dawgs, I say bring “Jo Jo” Anderson down to do sports in Atlanta. Hell let her take over for Suchita Vadlamani’s spot on GDA! She’s hot!!!!!
BULLDOGMANIAC
February 17th, 2011
8:30 am
We are very close to being a championship team. Getting a good vet like Bailey would bring us one step closer to our goal. With that said…we cannot sign him for more than 3 years and we cannot overpay!
Samuel
February 17th, 2011
8:32 am
If you can get champ for less money and sell him on maybe competing for a Superbowl I say yeah. But if he cost too much, look for a corner in the draft who your’e confident he can come right in and be a starter. Other wise -there might be a cheaper free agent who’s good and a little younger than Mr. Bailey.
John
February 17th, 2011
8:32 am
If Atlanta is going to drop serious money on a CB…let’s be honest, the only one to go for is Asomugha..he’s the ONLY one worth serious money. I know Cromartie is available cause Jets are letting him go…but he’s not Asomugha.
BULLDOGMANIAC
February 17th, 2011
8:33 am
Sorry Stirg d’Nahsif but Richard Seymour is not on the market.
MTC said last night that he wants to remain in Oakland and that Oakland will throw the money at him.
AthensFalcon
February 17th, 2011
8:33 am
I would love to have a Vet playing corner. If he came Deunta Robinson would hopefully learn some things and Grimes could learn also. But I am worried what we would have to give the Broncos to acquire him.
AthensFalcon
February 17th, 2011
8:34 am
Oh and John I thought the same thing at first but Asomugha would not fit the Falcons Scheme.
John
February 17th, 2011
8:38 am
Athens…I know what you’re saying, but I respectfully disagree. The guy is simply a great CB and a great athlete. He can adjust and noone would throw at him…not many threw at Robinson this year…he helped Grimes have such a productive year. Put Robinson on one side, Asomugha on the other side…can roll over support IF Robinson needed it. The Atlanta safeties would love life!!!
The Bees Nees
February 17th, 2011
8:51 am
I heard that there are a lot of good cb’s in the first round this year. However if we are looking for a short term solution here, then sign him.
Larry
February 17th, 2011
8:55 am
Yes, but only after first, getting a FA DE, and second, getting Bailey at the right price. Then, select T. Smith in the fist round and our three greatest needs, in order, DE, CB and WR are met.
This would excite the fan base…our window may be closing!
PoopingonHaters
February 17th, 2011
8:55 am
Put Robinson on one side, Asomugha on the other, Grimes/Bailey in the slot. To go along with Thomas DeCoud and William Moore and we instantly have one of the better secondaries in the NFL….BUT the problem isn’t the secondary IMO. We need a better pass rush. Period.
PoopingonHaters
February 17th, 2011
8:57 am
I don’t give a damn who you have in the backfield. Put Deion (in his prime) in the secondary along with Darrelle Revis, Charles Woodson, Rod Woodson, all the great corners, and not have a pass rush. The QB will eat them alive. Forcing the QB to throw before he’s ready creates turnovers. Turnovers gives your offense the ball back with a chance to score. You win games.
Jerry Blooger
February 17th, 2011
8:58 am
yes and C. Johnson if he becomes available. Then do whatever it takes to move up and get A. J. Green . Resign a few lineman and we are ready to get to the finish line.
AthensFalcon
February 17th, 2011
9:00 am
Asomugha would be a great addition to D. I think we could definitely find him a spot on D and maybe he could adjust but on the other side of things if he didn’t do well in our scheme then that would not be good. But overall I agree with what you are saying. Maybe the Falcons should trade for Champ Bailey. But I wouldn’t be sad to see Asomugha come to the ATL.
Mike is back
February 17th, 2011
9:00 am
DLed, I like Champ, but I know people will disagree with me…but I would like to see D Hall brought back…I think dude has matured to the point where his past history with the team…wouldn’t be a problem…dude would be a steep upgrade at that position.
I know he got into with MSmith, so I doubt if Smitty would even go for that…however if we get D Hall, and a top caliber DT, the Birds would instantly become a top 5 defensive team…I wanted Seymour as the DT…but I see where he resigned.
Whatever we do…we get some play makers…we have enough guys with nice talent.
PoopingonHaters
February 17th, 2011
9:01 am
We need defense. A fierce pass rush. The offense could use a bit of tweaking but they aren’t our problem. The defense has always been our problem and still is. Where’s our Clay Matthews? Our B.J. Raji? Our DeMarcus Ware? Our James Harrison? We don’t have one of those feared guys besides Abraham and just double him and your ok. Double Matthews and that opens it up for Zombo, Raji, etc. We don’t have anybody that can get to the QB consistantly besides Abraham.
Sid
February 17th, 2011
9:03 am
Haynesworth? You can’t be serious…………..
AthensFalcon
February 17th, 2011
9:03 am
Jerry if only it were that easy then life would be great and simple.
PoopingonHaters
February 17th, 2011
9:05 am
On offense, I admit we need another WR and a faster, more agile RB. Turner is the kind of back that you’d love to have at the goal line. But as far as shake and bake, and get from point A to point B…FAST, he isn’t that guy. He runs straight ahead and hits one hole. If the hole isn’t there, he doesn’t make one. He goes down. Chris Johnson, Jamal Charles, etc. Those guys are elusive and can run fast. You can’t bring them down easily because they move. Turner has one way to run. I admit he runs hard, but he isn’t that fast and his momentum can be stopped pretty easily.
Mikefalcon63
February 17th, 2011
9:05 am
The falcons need to do a full assessment on every position. My opinion is we obviously have about 3 cornerbacks on the roster who do not belong. Cut them! We held on to a dud in Chris Houston for far too long b/c he was a draft pick. Sooner or later you have to cut ties and move on. Don’t even get me started with Jamaal Anderson.
Chris Owens proved to be a liability when he was needed most. If you are going to drop a turf when we need you to step up, then you are NOT a championship team corner.
Brian Williams seems to get hurt when we need him most. Love the guy but need guys who can stay healthy if we are going to make a championship run.
Franks could not crack the line up thus past season… Either the coaches have no clue or he is worse than the 2 guys above. On the DE side of things, Lawrence Sidbury is in the same boat. He could not beat Jamaal Anderson or Chauncey Davis for playing time.
Cut our losses… Draft guys who are ready to play. And sign a few free agents to fill the gaps. In short, you either sign Bailey or another impact DE, but cut some dead weight!
bjohnDawg
February 17th, 2011
9:07 am
Plain and simple…you need more of a pass rush than Abraham. A strong pass rush will make for a much stronger linebacker and db corp. Less time in the pocket to throw makes the rest of the defense better.
the improvements need to be both sides of the line, offensive and defensive. Do that and this club will improve. I would only bring in Champ( great player) after the main needs have been solved, if he is looking to play for less money and go after a championship.
coachx
February 17th, 2011
9:07 am
Can we have our cake and eat it too ?
Meaning sign a DE and a CB ? Then draft a WR and speed back.
DE has to be the #1 priority with CB and WR coming next.
ddawgdavis
February 17th, 2011
9:08 am
Fantasy football: Yes sign him, perfect piece to the secondary.
Reality: Tough sign. We already spent millions on Dunta and it’s a hard sell to drop more millions on the same position.
The main focus of the Defense should be DE because we have no pass rush. That can be solved with a JJ Watt or Cameron Jordan/Heyward in the draft. Once that is answered and we sign Lofton to an extension, then we look hard at Champ. I really doubt Dimitroff and Smitty will do it just because of the money. There is no more home town discount. They have flights from Denver to Atlanta, so Champ can fly to practice and be home all in the same day and it won’t affect his wallet.
PoopingonHaters
February 17th, 2011
9:08 am
Another WR, and a faster RB and we’re set on offense. A fierce pass rush, maybe one more CB, and another LB or two and we’re set on defense. It just seems like we can’t get over that hump. That Super Bowl run that could be special.
Joycee Banicheck
February 17th, 2011
9:12 am
Hel yea get him, then trade Dunta to move up in the draft or in a package for a DE. Dude isn’t even the best corner on our team…
S'paw_99
February 17th, 2011
9:24 am
The answer is NO, we don’t need another CB near as bad as we need pass rushers. It doesn’t matter how good your DB’s are, they can’t cover forever, the key to stopping a passing game is the rush. If U let the QB have all day to scan the field & throw, I don’t care how good your DB’s are eventually someone is gonna get open.
D man
February 17th, 2011
9:29 am
Bring him here if the price is right. Also bring us a DE.
The Real Falcon
February 17th, 2011
9:34 am
You have got to have a plan. Here it is:
Sign one of these CB’s (in order of importance)-Nnamdi Asomugha; Antonio Cromartie (will be dropped soon by Jets) or Champ Bailey. Move Grimes to nickel back. Secondary problem solved.
Draft pass rush DE in first round. DL problem solved.
Draft pass-catching TE in second round. Gonzalez replacement problem solved.
Draft speed back in third round. Change of pace back problem solved.
Sign FA WR to complement Roddy and move Jenkins inside to slot. WR problem solved.
Print it!
S'paw_99
February 17th, 2011
9:37 am
Champ is gonna want way too much $. A lot more than an aging 33 yr old CB is worth. If he’s willing to take a “home town” discount then it would probably help, but if not we have more important issues to worry about than CB. Dunta wasn’t spectacular but I didn’t see people throwing at him very much they normally tried to pick on Grimes. More pass rush, a fast, game-changing RB, a game-breaking WR, & a TE are what we really need.
jb
February 17th, 2011
9:37 am
Should have drafted Clay Matthews. TD stinks.
Rod Johnson
February 17th, 2011
9:40 am
Forget about Champ Bailey…I want Josina “Jo Jo” Anderson phone number! She is too fine. Anyway, I can’t see the Falcons brass going after Champ Bailey. We would have to commit more than $10M to an aging CB that has clealy lost a step and is not as durable. I think it would be a “great” story of Champ Bailey coming home, but his price would have to come down significantly. Let’s not forget that our CB’s (Dominique Franks & Chris Owens) are still pretty young and are learning their way. I agree we need to sign another Vet, but Champ Bailey is too costly.
The Real Falcon
February 17th, 2011
9:46 am
Anyone who thinks that 33 wins in three years by our TD stinks does NOT know wnything about football!
blord
February 17th, 2011
9:49 am
I would love to have him but I can’t understand doing more than a 2 year deal at his age; money also being a problem. If he were to cut us a deal (doubtful) then I say bring him home. I honestly see Champ playing for someone like that Pats.
I really hope we sign an impact DE in FA. That is where most of our money has to go.
Who Dat Nation
February 17th, 2011
9:54 am
Champ would look good in a Saints uniform.
Go Saints
Dennis
February 17th, 2011
9:55 am
Atlanta sportsdom needs to remember lesson taught by the first over-the-hill “star”, Bruce Sutter. As much as I have enjoyed watching Champ play football over the years, I am tired of seeing the Atlanta teams bring in these too-pooped-to-pop folks so they can find out they’re done.
BG
February 17th, 2011
9:55 am
Let’s bring Champ home!!!!
CJ
February 17th, 2011
9:57 am
I say we spend all of our FA cash on Bailey. Draft Justin Houston. Trade up for AJ Green and then trade Ryan to the Lions for Stafford. Then we can send our 2nd Round pick to Denver for Knowshon. Then we can go 3-13 and everyone in Georgia will be satisfied.
The Joker...
February 17th, 2011
9:58 am
Sid
February 17th, 2011
9:03 am
Haynesworth? You can’t be serious…………..
Only if the price is extremely lower than what the redskins(foolishly) paid for him, I believe he can still be very effective in a 4-3 defense, and coach Smith,Blank, and Dirmitoff wouldn’t allow Haynesworth to act an azz of himself. He would be that mean, ugly, vicious player that we need on defense……
The Real Falcon
February 17th, 2011
9:59 am
Yeah then we can call them the Atlanta Dawgs, right! Just what we need a bunch of guys from a downward spirally college program. NOT!
Who Dat Nation
February 17th, 2011
10:06 am
The Saints will sign Champ Bailey and Antonio Cromartie, and trade up in the draft for Mark Ingram
the falcons will not beat the Saints next season.
Go Saints
jfreak13713
February 17th, 2011
10:09 am
No! I like Bailey but at his age he may have only a year or two at best worth of solid productivity left in him and I would not want that kind of money tied up in a player who will only get worse not better! “IF” Champ wants to play here for much less money I’d love to have him. Right now is better that what we have but a year or two from now he may not even be starting. NO TO CHAMP AT THAT KIND OF MONEY! Build a team not a one hit wonder.
David
February 17th, 2011
10:13 am
This is a no brainer. The Facon’s have 4 needs this offseason
1) Find a WR to go opposite Roddy White
2) Figure out which of their free agent O-linemen they want to resign and get some depth
3) Depth at DE
4) Impact Corner.
If they get the Impact Corner they are Superbowl contenders. They can live with their D-Line. They Can make it with their O-line as long as they resign at least 1 of the 3 free agents. They can make due with a speedy WR in the draft. Champ Baily would give them Leadership, cover skills, and the last piece of the puzzle to make the difference.
Bro
February 17th, 2011
10:14 am
need to build a good defense, not add odd pieces.
Kashi
February 17th, 2011
10:16 am
What the HELL happened to C. Owens against GB? He forgot basic football multiple times. I say cuz of him and Ryan throw 10 seconds before the second half to R. white knocked us out of playoff.
Falcon Fan
February 17th, 2011
10:20 am
Yes and No……I guess GM and Management will make that call.
David had some good points @ 10;30
Mikefalcon63
February 17th, 2011
10:22 am
WhoDat… How about Brees tears an ACL or an Achilles and you still lose to the likes of Cleveland Arizona, Seattle…. And of course the lowly Falcons. All this after you signed Bailey and Cromartie who can’t stand their coach who doesn’t even want his family to live in that pathetic town.
Brian
February 17th, 2011
10:25 am
I agree that DE or WR is where our money should be placed. My question is: will there be a DE available at 27 with the ability to truly be a IMPACT palyer in his rookie year or should we better spend our $$ shopping for a WR to start opposite of Roddy? Maybe a TE to work with Palmer, and Peele?
Nativebird
February 17th, 2011
10:29 am
aint worth it. here’s the best cornerback on the worst backfield in the NFL. there’s a reason they were the worst. all talk, no chops.
Brian
February 17th, 2011
10:31 am
@David – great points…but my one O-line observation is that Sam Baker seemed to struggle this year and was called for false start and holding a bunch. He was at RT in college..Smitty and Dimitroff moved him to left. Can Baker ever truly be a LT?
D in ATL
February 17th, 2011
10:32 am
Received from Denver:
Champ (at the right price and contract length). Jojo at any price, just d**n!
ATL Fan
February 17th, 2011
10:42 am
The Falcons should at least investigate the possibility of bringing Champ on-board. The tandem of Grimes and Robinson is very good. If we work on pass rush, then signing Bailey isn’t as important.
The Defensive line is deep at DT but, they don’t seem to have a great push up the middle on pass play. If the Falcons could get a DT that will free up the DE’s, then the sack totals will go up.
Biggest needs: WR compliment to White; Norwood replacement at speed RB; DE or DT if the DT can get that all important push up the middle, our DE’s are good enough; and a Nickle CB – See GB playoff game.
joewhite
February 17th, 2011
10:49 am
if we can get him cheap i say yes
Eastside
February 17th, 2011
10:52 am
He would be great as a Falcon but we should not over pay for him. He is 33 and at anytime your body can break down playing in the NFL. At the right price lets bring him in and complete our secondary. With the Packers, Saints and being favorites we need to have a strong secondary.
JONESBORO SLIM
February 17th, 2011
10:53 am
Why are we making such a great need to fill a CB spot?…when the real need is DE…I would think anyone would know that without a good pass rush you could have Champ Bailey’s in every secondary position….”I’ll see you on the HILL”
DHUD
February 17th, 2011
10:53 am
Come on, man. Falcons build for the future, not just one year. Don’t waste money on Champ.Get a CB that has many GREAT years left, not one that has one GOOD year.
JONESBORO SLIM
February 17th, 2011
11:05 am
@Ledbetter
I almost forgot… I need a favor…why don’t you tell JO JO about me… tell her I know how to ski and shovel snow….Build me up man as only you can….. thanx
Najeh Davenpoop
February 17th, 2011
11:11 am
Not that Bailey isn’t worth it by any means, but can the Falcons really afford to tie up more big money in a free agent corner after spending on Dunta Robinson last year? Seems to me they would be better off upgrading other positions in free agency, preferably with players who are not in their 30s.
Mikey Boy
February 17th, 2011
11:14 am
I dont know man. I just dont know if we should jump on Baily of course if we can get em for a good price. but I feel like the need at Corner can be addressed in this Draft. Junior CB of Miami Brandon Harris has WONDERFUL upside played along side Sam Shields (ROOKIE FROM MIAMI ONLY PLAYED CORNER TWO YEARS) Whom is starting for the Super Bowl champs had a big role in that Defense that everyone is talking about. But if we get Champ. I say we go for the the DE/ DT outta Miami Alllen Bailey man is a beast and will be one hella of a pro. But we do need a SPEEDY Running back as well as a solid #2 WR but that D has holes that Arron Rogers opened are Eyes WIDE open too
Greg Moundine
February 17th, 2011
11:15 am
I called it after Atlanta lost to GB..let’s give this guy a 2 year contract BEFORE ASAP!
Cornerback Smurf
February 17th, 2011
11:18 am
Yeah, get CHAMP and get rid of the Smurf!!
Falcon57
February 17th, 2011
11:25 am
@Brian, I agree Baker has struggled, but this past year was his best of 3, check your stats. And check your information on Baker in college, he was a left tackle at USC.
Check it out for yourself. http://cfn.scout.com/2/661025.html
And earlier the suggestion of Haynesworth? You’ve got to be kidding!!!!????
Brian
February 17th, 2011
11:28 am
“SMURF” led the team in INTs last season. His stats are undenyable. May be small, but he understands the defense better than any other CB we have. He has a 40 plus inch vertical leap. And plays with the heart of a lion!
Brian
February 17th, 2011
11:31 am
@Falcons57, ur right, thanks for the correction.
Walker, Texas Ranger
February 17th, 2011
11:31 am
In case anyone hasn’t notice, we don’t draft in the top 5 picks anymore. Getting an impact DE with the 27th pick is not likely and getting a replacement for Gonzalez in with the 50 somthing pick is even more unlikely. Should have got Peppers when we had the chance
dawgfacedboy
February 17th, 2011
11:31 am
THey need a pass rusher opposite Abraham more. If the price was right then hell yeah but I can’t see sinking all our FA money into him.
Delbert D.
February 17th, 2011
11:35 am
33 years old…okay. Then comes 34, 35 and 36; that’s the problem.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 17th, 2011
11:38 am
EARLY POLL RESULTS: Should the Falcons sign Champ Bailey?
* Yes, if the price is right (60%, 692 Votes)
* Yes, pull out all the stops (28%, 323 Votes)
* No, he’s not worth the money (11%, 125 Votes)
* Undecided (1%, 17 Votes)
Total Voters: 1,157
KimZ'sPackage
February 17th, 2011
11:39 am
Too damn old to play that kind of money for him.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 17th, 2011
11:41 am
JONESBORO SLIM: I got you. She’s a serious and driven young lady. (Former ballet and track star at UNC).
DC Dirty Bird
February 17th, 2011
11:46 am
Why wouldn’t we go after Champ is the price is right? Makes perfect sense. DRob, Champ, and BG as the nickel. Haynesworth, Marcus Stroud (flourished under Mike Smith) or Shaun Rogers are worth a look. We need at least 4 DT’s that can rotate. As far as those who are ready to give up on Franks and Sidbury, please note that they both have tremendous upside and were faced with beating out proven veterans. If our defense was built around attacking and causing turnovers, their athleticsm would have got them on the field. Once they develop the discipline required to play in the system, we’ll see results. I thought Sidbury beat out The Beerman during the preseason so I’m wondering why he got buried on the depth chart.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
February 17th, 2011
11:54 am
According to ESPN’s Todd McShay there are only three CBs with first round grades and one of them have “character” issues:
I was on the conference call with McShay yesterday. Here’s what he had to say about the CBs:
waynester
February 17th, 2011
11:56 am
So far, Dimitroff has only added a couple of big $$ FAs/year. Now that most positions are adequately filled I don’t see him suddenly changing philosophies and signing several aging vets. DE is really the only position that I see us filling through Free agency as it takes several years to develop a rookie DE. A rookie WR,RB or CB can have an early impact so get them in the draft. On another note: not all players are as willing to help “coach up” a younger player as Tony G. This is one of the most highly competitive professions in the world and most guys balk at training their replacements. Not all vets are cut out for mentoring the next generation. That’s why we hire COACHES. This draft is mostly about finding quality depth/developmental players to make a long run at this thing. Trade down out of the late 1st and start bankrolling future picks like the Pats. The value is just as great in the upper 2nd round and you save $$ while getting a leg up on next years draft and giving yourself much more flexibility to make the kinds of trades a lot of ya’ll are speculating about today….
Da Boss
February 17th, 2011
11:56 am
Did Bailey ever learn to read after he left UGA?
skip
February 17th, 2011
12:00 pm
Bailey’s price is going to be too high for the Falcons to justify at his age. While a team can almost never have too many DBs, ours are adequate if we can generate a decent pass rush.
Albert Haynesworth
February 17th, 2011
12:12 pm
Take me….Take me
Steve C
February 17th, 2011
12:23 pm
JSS,
Are you saying McKyer was not a good player? I agree that he bounced around a bit but he made the Pro Bowl twice and has 3 SB rings. I remember when ATL signed him to play opposite Deion…is was widely hailed as a good signing. He had as many picks in 91 as Deion did.
Robert
February 17th, 2011
12:36 pm
Sure, don’t think you can ever have too many corners but his age has to be a concern. Can’t sign him to big money like Robinson last year. At this stage in his career, could he play some FS and slide over in the nickle CB role? But have to think OL and DL are more pressing needs. Maybe WR/TE before worry about a corner.
Falcons May Have Interest In CB Champ Bailey
February 17th, 2011
12:37 pm
[...] [...]
North always beat the south
February 17th, 2011
12:43 pm
10 years ago I would have said Hell Yeah but now he’s to old
Greg
February 17th, 2011
12:45 pm
I agree with those who say Champ is a) too old and b) no longer quick enough to be paid the really big money. I also, after watching how Dunta has turned out, have no confidence in Dimitroff when it comes to picking high-priced corners.
Falcon66
February 17th, 2011
12:48 pm
RODRJ32@7:44 AM
I keep hearing some of you say that we need another reciever to go with Roddy White. The problem is who’s going to throw them the ball. If it’s not an intermediate pass Ryan cannot make the throw. We have a problem with Ryan people. I think that everyone wants to believe that he’s going to eventually be this Tom Brady or Peyton Manning type quarterback. I’m starting to believe that it’s not in the cards.
Ryan’s record as a starter in his 1st three years is 33-13, much of the time with mediocre talent. How many seasons did it take Rogders to win a playoff game? Manning? Brees? I’ll take Ryan.
Bout Time
February 17th, 2011
12:51 pm
If we’re going to spend the money I would rather spend it on Nnamdi Asmough. Couple of years younger than Champ…….
BYRDDAWG
February 17th, 2011
12:59 pm
Any chance we could get Josh Nesbitt as free agent and put him on the practice squad?? That way our young corners could practice catching passes thrown in their general dirrection!! Just sayin…
Dirty South Steelers Fan
February 17th, 2011
1:04 pm
Shutdown corners are hard to find. I would say give Champ a 3 yr deal. he has atleast 4 good years left in him. A siging like this tells the fans that you are serious about winning now and Champ will put more fans in the Georgia Dome.
Dirty South Steelers Fan
February 17th, 2011
1:05 pm
Wow I should have proof read before posting……..;)
waynester
February 17th, 2011
1:22 pm
While disappointed in Dunta’s performance–he was the top AVAILABLE Corner in FA last year–that’s not Dimitroff’s fault. He went out and brought in the best guy Available –Robinson just didn’t live up to the $$$.
JSS
February 17th, 2011
1:23 pm
@ Steve C…
Steve C
February 17th, 2011
12:23 pm
JSS,
“Are you saying McKyer was not a good player? I agree that he bounced around a bit but he made the Pro Bowl twice and has 3 SB rings. I remember when ATL signed him to play opposite Deion…is was widely hailed as a good signing. He had as many picks in 91 as Deion did.”
No, like Ambrose, McKyer was paid a tremendous sum; but he only lasted 2 full seasons here. The Falcons spent 5 picks over a period of 5 seasons (Anthony Phillips, Ron Davis, Juran Bolden, Michael Booker, Omar Brown) trying to just get two base corners… The point is, either go all in and get the best (a long term solution young and key talent), or actually draft properly and develop them.
Here’s four names: Chris Houston, Chevis Jackson, Christopher Owens, and Dominique Franks. Houston has been exiled, Owens may be close behind. The jury is out on Franks. We certainly don’t get any real information from the local beat writer regarding his development (or lack of it)… So who really knows?
JSS
February 17th, 2011
1:53 pm
Dirty South Steelers Fan
February 17th, 2011
1:04 pm
“Shutdown corners are hard to find.”
Really? A hapless Raiders organization found two in successive drafts between picks Phillip Buchanon (2002-17th pick) and Nnamdi Asomugha (2003-31st pick)
HGN
February 17th, 2011
2:24 pm
Absolutely not…………….No Way should the Falcons pick up Bailey.
J.D.'s Express
February 17th, 2011
2:25 pm
Champ is still a viable corner in the league, but the Birds should use their money to pursue the corner out of Oakland. True SHUT DOWN corner……………………………..
bo
February 17th, 2011
2:27 pm
IMO Lofton was a serious liablity, wiffs and flat out misses tackles, takes bad angles and all which you can not have from the mLB he was dominated by the rookie in the greenbay game and is a non factor in pass coverage
Mr. Turnip-Green Jeans
February 17th, 2011
3:02 pm
Hell, we have GREAT pass rushers NOW, they just can’t tackle a quarterback who has a pulse when they get to him. It’s AMAZING how many times quarterbacks escape what seem to be CERTAIN sacks by our pass rush. They couldn’t tackle my granny with her drawers around her ankles in a snowstorm. They NEVER wrap-up on a sack. They throw a shoulder at the QB, who spins out of trouble for a completion or long run. WRAP-UP, DAMMITT!
Falconfan
February 17th, 2011
3:06 pm
who said asomugha doesn’t fit our scheme.. what scheme?? the one that couldnt make a team punt in the biggest game of the season .. NOT ONCE!! We need asomugha….period..or bailey who cares how much he cost… BLANK always talking bout how bad he wanna win… pay for the players.. then we need a #2 receiver (who can get open)…a RB who can catch and make somebody miss in the open field.. and another pass rusher…
MaxxFalcon
February 17th, 2011
3:12 pm
Man, I would love nothing more than to have Champ come home, the only problem is we already broke the bank on Dunta “Bust” Robinson last year. If we could trade Dunta for a draft pick, sign Champ and draft another Corner this year, we would be looking good. Champ, Grimes, D. Franks, B. Williams, 2011 Rookie Corner and C. Owens looks pretty good to me, as long as C. Owens shows some improvement. He had a nightmare 2010, and this year might be make or break for him.
s.dak falcons feak
February 17th, 2011
3:20 pm
NO!!!!!!everyone needs to stop and think a minute they need to go after O-Line in 1st Round they need to jump on Pouncey if he is still available. Because the Vikings are going to Franchise Greenway and let Rice become a FA. There is our compliment to Shoddy Roddy and don’t forget Steve Smith (from the kitty cats) might be available as well. With another year in the system Robinson will be fine and Grimes is solid and our safteys are going to be off the hook in year 2 together
Throwdown40
February 17th, 2011
3:33 pm
The Falcons clearly need a great pass rusher, and a deep receiver. If Champ comes with a discount then obtain his talents, he could be of much help. Otherwise, stick to what is needed most.
BIG MIKE
February 17th, 2011
3:37 pm
NOT YES….BUT HELL YESS!!!
falCANTS4ever
February 17th, 2011
3:40 pm
yup, go get that ‘deep receiver’…better also draft a ‘wildcat back’ that can throw the ball deep enough for that ‘deep receiver’….Matty Melt will need some help…falCANTS
marcus
February 17th, 2011
3:41 pm
if champ takes less money i say make it happen he would get the secondary right for shore and that would let us add depth at the DE and the WR position and we could still get that young corner in the draft that would give us that green bay look for shore DT make it happen the young corners we have could learn a lot from him he could be a player coach type
BIG MIKE
February 17th, 2011
3:49 pm
Don’t forget his ability in the special teams department. He will be a valuable asset and a proven player that can cover a multitude of rolls. His abilities were never completely exploited by Denver. UGA used him all over the field and he single handedly saved at least one win with an over the top field goal block. In the pro’s they kick off the terf so the ball has a lower trajectory on long kicks than in college. With the pro game being what it is, with late field goals winning tight games a high percentage of the time, he would come in handy in these situations.
NFL Rumors: Elway Wants To Keep Champ Bailey
February 17th, 2011
3:50 pm
[...] to be dominated by passing attacks. If Bailey hits the open market, D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution thinks that the Atlanta Falcons could an option [...]
too bad
February 17th, 2011
3:51 pm
The saints aren’t very good, Falcants4ever. We can all see that.
Blood& Guts
February 17th, 2011
4:11 pm
I’m still ticked they didn’t sign Peppers last year
Does it have Talons?
February 17th, 2011
4:23 pm
The Falcons are not anywhere near the cap compared to other teams. So I don’t think Champ would cost all of their free agent money.
Woodson is older and is very productive. Why not Champ?
GO BIRDS!
February 17th, 2011
4:53 pm
We should get Bailey, someone that can lead the backfield.
Packers fan
February 17th, 2011
5:08 pm
Sign him.
We’d at least like to have a DB in the picture when we score on you.
Get Some Game Changers
February 17th, 2011
5:48 pm
Give him half of Dunta’s salary.
Get Some Game Changers
February 17th, 2011
5:50 pm
EazyRoc I’m with you…sure up the DL first.
SuperB
February 17th, 2011
6:19 pm
Champ Bailey: 10 Pro Bowls! Headed to the Hall of Fame. What’s to discuss?
drmondo
February 17th, 2011
6:20 pm
I’d rather they spend the money on Asomugha if they’re going to spend it on a CB. I agree that we should be trying to get either a pass-rushing DE or OLB in FA before we spend big $$ on CB. I think we need a stronger nickle, someone who could be a starter but $10 mil/yr for 4 yrs on a 33 yr old CB makes little sense especially since the #1 CB in the league is a FA.
chickenman
February 17th, 2011
6:31 pm
i would prefer asomouga but champ is the champ and we need a elite player in the secondary
Falcons Fan
February 17th, 2011
6:37 pm
Champ is an awesome guy and player and a damn good dawg, but I don’t think the Falcons should spend their whole bankroll on him.
If we could get a hometown deal for him then by all means yes, otherwise good luck Champ.
Falcons Fan
February 17th, 2011
6:42 pm
I want to cast my vote again for Darren Sproles as a great free agency pick up for the Falcons.
waste of cash
February 17th, 2011
6:45 pm
bailey’s overpaid and over the hill—don’t waste the cash. Get young players with something to prove, not attitude cases like bailey.
coloradobulldog
February 17th, 2011
6:53 pm
Attitude cases like Bailey? HA! Name me one evidence of Champ Bailey having a bad attitude. He is a team player. BTW, I’m not sure I’d spend money on him on any FA CB. I’d rather see then go after a WR & draft a DE in 1st round. But seriously ‘waste of cash’…. attitude case what a laugh. Must be a Tech fan.
Kevin
February 17th, 2011
7:10 pm
They need to sign me, I’ll not screw up in the drafting like taking Peria Jerry Or Clay Matthews! What was Atlanta thinking when they passed up on 2 bloodlines pro bowlers? It just goes to show Atlanta has no clue at drafting, thats why they have to steal free agents to be any good. Besides I hate to say this, But Matt Ryan isnt the answer at QB , The most important part of being a QB besides accuracy is what I call [ The Scoot and shoot ] ie That first and second step to avoid pass rush, sum have it like Roethlisberger, Manning, Brees, Rogers, O BTW these guys have rings. But arthur Blank is in love with Ryan so he will be a 10 year mistake Overated . Right now the smat move would be to jockey up for the number 1 pick next year and draft andrew Luck…..So what if Falcons go 10-6 or 11-5 then lose in playoffs to a good pass rushing defense that squashes Matt Donald Duck Ryan. The most pressing needs are killer linebackers that can pass rush and drop back in coverage, then they might have a chance!!!
Brilliant
February 17th, 2011
7:43 pm
right kev, we shoulda taken you.
dawgkicker
February 17th, 2011
7:48 pm
He is 32 an no longer productive…. it would be a waste money to even entertain the thought of him in a falcon uniform. Once again its that homer uga fog getting in the way of reality…. blank and the rest of the falcons organization is smarter than that… let him retire on his own.
Brilliant
February 17th, 2011
7:49 pm
To Kevin’s point, maybe we can ask the nfl to make the draft retroactive for us. You know, see how players do for a couple of years so we don’t pass up any pro bowlers and no one gets injured.
Steve
February 17th, 2011
7:56 pm
Don’t think he fits our defensive scheme…………….
44yr.fan
February 17th, 2011
9:21 pm
don’t do this…he’s washed up w/maybe 1 good year left
Chucktown38
February 17th, 2011
11:23 pm
Funny how only Georgia FREAKS what X bulldawg players on the falcons team. Its just sicken me to death, no concern for the falcons just as long as they get there player
Columbus
February 18th, 2011
3:16 am
Someone asked where is our Clay Matthews? Well he might be Robert Quinn LB North Carolina…..If available got to really consider him HARD…. He will get to the QB’S, WRAP them up and HIT them HARD. As far as Bailey goes, if you can get a good SHUTDOWN HOF corner you have to think about it. We can always trade Robinson if necessary to get Bailey who has a couple more really good years. Overall the Falcons need to put more pressure on the QB MORE than ANYTHING beside blitzing or just Abraham. From the DL or another DE. I vote for a BEAST up the middle who has to be double-teamed if available but probably will not be so basically whatever the best player in the draft or FA that can rush the QB AND play the RUN.
Columbus
February 18th, 2011
3:47 am
My mistake…..Quinn IS a DE. The Falcons could NOT go wrong getting Robert Quinn from UNC….
Mike C
February 18th, 2011
11:03 am
CB is our most glaring need, and of our other need positions (OL, DE) I don’t see a free agent that would contribute there as much as Bailey would in our secondary. DO IT!