Falcons are unlikely to trade the 27th pick
Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith introduce their first round NFL draft pick, Peria Jerry, Ole Miss defensive tackle, in 2009. Who will be the top pick in 2011? KENT D. JOHNSON / kdjohnson@AJC.COM
BIRDLAND – Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff, who was New England’s director of college scouting and played a key role their drafts from 2003 to 2007, is used to being in the second half of the first round.
He was a national scout with New England in 2002. He was named the Falcons general manager on Jan. 13, 2008.
With the Falcons, Dimitroff entered the last three drafts with the third, 24th and 19th picks in the first round.
From 2003 to 2007, New England picked 13, 21, 32, 21 and 24.
Here’s who the Patriots selected.
- 2007 – 24 overall – Brandon Meriweather, s, Miami.
- 2006 – 21 - Laurence Maroney, RB, Minnesota.
- 2005 – 32 – Logan Mankins, OL, Fresno State.
- 2004 – 21 – Vince Wilfork, NT, Miami.
- 2003 – 13 – Ty Warren, DE, Texas A&M.
There has been a lot of draft talk about teams trading back up into the first round to pick-up one of the second-tier quarterbacks. Texas Christian’s Andy Dalton and Florida State’s Christian Ponder are targets of a few teams.
If Washington’s Jake Locker gets past Seattle at 25, someone may covet the Falcons’ pick to select him.
But those teams will need to call with a really sweet deal. Dimitroff is clutching that 27th pick pretty close to his vest.
“There is no question that we’d contemplate that, but with that said, you go into each draft thinking that you want to get the players that you want,” Dimitroff said. “There are going to be a lot of players there in my mind at 27 that can still help us. That would have to be a strong proposition from a team behind us.”
Basically, don’t expect the Falcons to trade out of the 27th spot.
The Falcons are likely leaning towards taking the best pass rusher left. This week Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan, Iowa’s Adrian Clayborn and California’s Cam Jordan are coming for visits. Also, don’t dismiss UCLA’s Akeem Ayers.
The Falcons worked out Ayers on April 9 in Los Angeles. They had him do defensive end and linebacker drills. He’s pretty versatile. While, he ran slow at the combine, he ran a 4.69 at his Pro Day. Check out this video of Ayers, which is designed to show his versatility. CLICK HERE.
–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
106 comments Add your comment
Willy
April 19th, 2011
6:47 am
The real value in this draft is in the 7th round…
Larry
April 19th, 2011
6:59 am
Stop drafting smaller, slower players like Lofton (short and slow), Jerry (short and small–look at his picture above standing between the midgets, TD and MS) and Baker (small and slow)!
TD, what is it about BIG AND FAST are you not getting? This defense is getting pushed all over the field by the better offenses we faced last season (Philly, New Orleans and, of course, Green Bay)
Like Urban Meyer said: “If you’re going to miss, miss with the fast men you can get”
You can’t teach speed and size, but both can overcome other shortcomings.
Brian from Villa Rica
April 19th, 2011
7:16 am
If the deal is good enough, he’ll move the pick. Don’t kid yourself.
bad brad
April 19th, 2011
7:17 am
Look at you Larry…chastising Thomas Dimitroff, who has in 3 years turned the Falcons from a joke to a contender. Come on man…
josephcole
April 19th, 2011
7:30 am
The unique nature of the web, including multimedia, offer new ways of presenting course material and allowing students to interact with it that can improve student understanding check out “High Speed Univerisites” for detailed information on online degree.
JohnGTFan
April 19th, 2011
7:42 am
Always has to be at least one person criticizing TD. 13-3 last year (even though an ugly home playoff loss to eventual superbowl champs) isn’t good enough for some people. I love my Atlanta teams, but d*mn do I hate so many of the so-called Atlanta fans…b/c that’s all you are…so-called fans. Anyway, I don’t think he’ll move the pick. Strange things happen at every draft….people you never expect to go in the 1st round somehow get drafted in the top 10 (Oakland). There will be trades, but not sure Atlanta will be one of them…especially if there are a couple of good pass rushers still out there.
Season Ticker Holder
April 19th, 2011
7:54 am
If the Falcons and get an additonal two picks in the second round, I say trade up!! This is a big IF. The Falcons will pick at #27.
Ken Strickland
April 19th, 2011
7:58 am
BAD BRAD-the MINDLESS comments we’re accustomed to getting from LARRY are abviously motivated by him looking into a mirror and responding to what he sees. STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES, OR SEES.
Thunderbird Falcon
April 19th, 2011
8:15 am
Just pick a high motor talented pass rusher, at #27.
Then pick up DB, OL, and WR help; with the other picks.
DE pass rusher to help Abe has to be #1 pick, for Falcons.
They might consider picking another DE in the later rounds, too.
Thomas D has made better picks outside of the first round, but he has helped this franchise a lot.
The Real Falcon
April 19th, 2011
8:19 am
Ken-You took the words right out of my mouth.
Thanks man.
McNasty
April 19th, 2011
8:46 am
Akeem fits the bill with speed, size and quickness, but most of all he makes plays. He dosen’t even talk like a knucklehead either. He would be a fine addition if getable. However Ii trust TD wil bring us the best we can get @ 27. Even if an OT is picked.
Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
8:48 am
Write this down. I’ve been saying it for weeks. TD will trade the pick.
I think the Bengals get the Falcons pick while giving up their early second round pick. Falcons draft Ayers… or a Running Back- Williams of VT.
Steve > Roswell
April 19th, 2011
8:48 am
It does not matter who the Falcons pick because they will always be losers, plain and simple. Why would they want to build an outside stadium when the dome is so nice and cozy? More taxpayer money down the drain……………………………..
Sid
April 19th, 2011
8:51 am
Season Ticket Holder…………………………….huh?
boiler up
April 19th, 2011
8:54 am
Ryan Kerrigan… He’s very hard working, an excellent student and you man at Purdue who is going to be worth every penny.. He is a lot like Patrick Kerney but really faster and stronger..
Lowcountry Bulldawg
April 19th, 2011
8:57 am
TD got exactly what he wanted from you D. A blog telling everyone how he intends on keeping the pick. You yourself just gave the reasoning as to why he will probably trade the pick. This year the draft may see 6-7 QB’s go in the first 2 rounds. A team will look to make the move back into the late 1st to get the 3rd Rated QB off the board. The Falcons imo do not keep this pick.
tjhook
April 19th, 2011
9:06 am
The Washington redskins have the 10th selection and may be interested in dealing. We could offer WR Jenkins, DE/DT Anderson and a first because they need numbers and Anderson could be a good fit for their 3-4 defense. Those players are replaceable for us because we are fine tuning the roster.
goldwreck
April 19th, 2011
9:08 am
Think about it people.Even if TD fully intends on trading the pick,why would he advertise it? As long as he takes the position he’s keeping
the pick,other GM’s will know they will have to blow him away in order
to get him to trade.It’s not complicated.TD knows he can count on
DOL to get the message out that he’s “keeping” the pick.
D man
April 19th, 2011
9:08 am
No matter what TD does, I have confidence that it will be a good move based on what he has done in the past.
Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
9:11 am
I like Kerrigan in the 2nd round. Not explosive enough. Very good still. There are too many ? in the late 1st round. The best value in every draft is in the 2nd and 3rd round. Its not as expensive when you whiff. Also, there is an abundance of 2nd round talent. That being said, expect the Falcons and the Patriots to do the exact opposite of what the so called experts say. Pats obviously know what they are doing. TD is the man!
Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
9:15 am
tjhook
Who do you take with that 10th pick then?
D. Orlando Ledbetter
April 19th, 2011
9:16 am
Larry — You are a tough grader.
goldwreck — T.O. is a straight shooter. He says what he means.
TD has No clue
April 19th, 2011
9:17 am
TD will screw it up as usual. P. Jerry over Clay Matthews. Enough said.
DC Dirty Bird
April 19th, 2011
9:18 am
The top six teams in the 2nd round could be looking for DE’s so it makes no sense to trade down unless all of the DE’s with 1st round grades are gone at 27. If Solder and Carimi are gone as well, I can see us trading down or drafting Baldwin.
JONESBORO SLIM
April 19th, 2011
9:20 am
Look for the Birds to take Okla RB DeMarco Murray we’ll be killing two birds with one stone..(1) a running back and (2) a slot receiver with speed (4.3 40yd dash)..you can thank me later…..and with that “I’ll see you on the hill”
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
9:25 am
You R teesing me Mr Ledbeter by posting that pic of Perrier Jerry. U no how upset I am that the Flacons waisted a pick on that bust.
I do thing the Falcons should trade there pick so as not to waist the value on one player. Get extra picks U R bond 2 get lucky at some point.
Dan Alexander
April 19th, 2011
9:26 am
I personally hope they work out some kind of deal for Larry Fitzgerald of Arizona. He would be a great player for Atlanta and the combination of White and Fitzgerald would be something too see.
As far as the draft, I’m confident the decisions are well thought out as indicative of past Falcons drafts. The players that intrigue me and hope at least one becomes a member of the Falcons are:
Austin Pettis- wr, Jon Baldwin-wr, Lockette,-wr, Ryan Broyles.
Adrain Clayborn-de, Ryan Kerrigan-de, Aldon Smith, de
Corey Liguet, dt,
James Brewer-ot, Gabe Carimi,ot- Anthoney Costanza-ot
DeMarcus Murray-rb- Daniel Thomas-rb
Kyle Rudolph-te- Charlie Gnatt-te
And any “sleeper” or small school player that has potential and develop.
Dream Acquisition through free agency-
Nnamdi Asomugha- cb, Ray Edwards -de, Jared Gaither-ot, Quinken Mikell-s and resign our free agents.
CD
April 19th, 2011
9:32 am
Remember the term “explosive” and look at the guys the Falcons are takling to. IF and only IF they get a top 5/10 pick from the 2nd round PLUS a 3rd round pick, will TD trade the 27th pick…. Like he said there are some very good options at 27 (i.e., Brooks Reed, Akeem Ayers, maybe Houston or Clayborn and maybe one OT…. and don’t forget TE Kyle Rudolph)…. be that as it may, if TD can pick up a 3rd, he might pull the trigger because one of the names above may still be there in round 2 (more than likely – TE Kyle Rudolph)… my view… if offered, make the trade, because there is value in the top half of the 3rd round…. WHAT SAY YE – D-LED??????
B-RAD
April 19th, 2011
9:35 am
FALCONS NEED TO TRADE UP TO GET A.J. GREEN OUT OT THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA! WE NEED SOMEONE WHO CAN CATCH THE BALL!
coachx
April 19th, 2011
9:41 am
Please no Clayborn.
He was awful last year in the Big 10. YD has never drafted a Big 10 player and he should not start with Clayborn.
Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
9:44 am
I love all the people calling for WR. Give me a break! That is the most overrated position in ALL of football. Games are won in the trenches, men.
I should probably tell them that trenches is a slang word for the offensive/defensive lines.
Ken Strickland
April 19th, 2011
9:45 am
The Real Falcon,
Thanks!
By the way, you left your socks and underwear under my bed last night. I’ll run them by later…
Love ya!
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
9:45 am
If U all want a WR, why not try to sigh TO? I no he has at least 1 more year in him.
B-RAD
April 19th, 2011
9:47 am
joe tess fish house – u really want TO? C’MONNNNNNNNNNN…..AJ GREEN IS JUST AS GOOD!
The Real Falcon
April 19th, 2011
9:48 am
Again!
Thanks honey!
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
9:50 am
AJ mony and is not provan at the NFL level. TO wood be cheeper and is a proven WR.
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
9:50 am
AJ cost more mony
ATLFalcon
April 19th, 2011
9:54 am
No need to trade up… not worth the price to get a mid 1st round pick. Would not be able to get a top 10. All the valuable options to help us will be out in the top 12. No major holes to fill yet. Just need 1-2 assitant players to help out D-Line and Receiver. Could be filled with FA player as well.
JONESBORO SLIM
April 19th, 2011
9:56 am
What’s the deal with the thought of getting Larry Frizgerald and making move to get A.J. Green that will cost the Falcons everything $$$$$$….focus people focus on the real picture…the first priorty is a DE…and like I said earlier get Okla RB DeMarco Murray (a running back/ slot receiver with great speed) and DL you know I’[m right….”I’ll see y’all on hill”…now let me sit back and read some more of these sorry picks………
GO PACK GO!
April 19th, 2011
10:06 am
The Falcons team is constructed to make the playoffs, not win the Super Bowl. If they want to win they need to get mean on D and start drafting some physical players (Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Bears, Pack) who don’t shy away from making hits. Get Abraham some help on the D-line and start collapsing the pocket.
PMC
April 19th, 2011
10:09 am
Jerry hurt his knee and was still recovering last season. You guys watch the same team as me right? You haven’t noticed how much Dimitroff has improved the middle of the defense? Even without Jerry for the most part last year they were more stout inside than they’ve been in a long time. Where they are thin to bad still is Outside linebacker and Defensive End. Dimitroff is not taking a corner early when they just got Robinson last year and he’s taken flyers on some other guys lately.
They HAVE to find an explosive get to the QB type of Defensive End and they have to find another outside linebacker with some speed that can also cover the short routes. Chris Owens was AWFUL in the nickel role in that playoff game but maybe Franks can be fine in that role next year. I don’t know.
I can completely see them trading down depending on who is available and where it is. They need quite a few players, they still probably need at least one explosive WR capable of playing the slot or the #2. They could use another quality tailback……left tackle…TE is somewhere on the list…. DE or OLB though is vital to the success of this next years team. If they need a corner, they’ll probably have to find one in FA ala Brian Williams.
Jerry is going to be fine if his knee heals. We are solid at DT, with Peters, Babs and Jerry.
Falcon57
April 19th, 2011
10:25 am
@ Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
9:44 am
“I love all the people calling for WR. Give me a break! That is the most overrated position in ALL of football. Games are won in the trenches, men.
I should probably tell them that trenches is a slang word for the offensive/defensive lines.”
Mock, dude, you must have slept through the playoff game with Green Bay!!!!!!?????? Our defensive line/linebackers were all over Rogers but he was able to side step them and make a simple toss/throw down field to one of his 25 receivers he had out there in the wide open!!!
I guess you’re wanting us to draft a center in the 1st and all guards, tackles and ends with the rest. You take a ‘concept’ and really misunderstand it.
UGASlobberknocker
April 19th, 2011
10:28 am
Larry, when did you quit your job as NFL talent coordinator? Your post is hilarious ,,,,in a pathetic sort of way.
Now go to the Hawks blog, I think the ownership and you might be on the same page.
Frank Wren also called, do you have a few minutes this afternoon for some in depth player evaluations..call him.
Larry's dog
April 19th, 2011
10:29 am
Someone rescue me. Please.
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
10:30 am
@PMC
Perrier Jerry is a bust. Most guys dont take 3 years to reheal from an injruy. Wes Welker did not take that long. Im tired of everone making exuses for the lousy picks the Flacons have made again and agin.
PMC
April 19th, 2011
10:33 am
Keep in mind guys only picks can be traded in this draft. This year and future years. No players…. no player discussion whatsoever.
It will be illegal barring a settlement in the next two weeks to trade a player already in the league. Only picks can be traded.
tell it like it is
April 19th, 2011
10:35 am
The Falcons are a team constructed to make the playoffs every 2 or 3 years,same as it allways been,an’t nothing changed,just the coach,same result,get to playoffs, get blown out!
PMC
April 19th, 2011
10:36 am
Joe, he blew out his knee 2 games into his rookie season but he was very good in those first two games. He barely played last year. Too early to say bust. If he still does nothing this year, I’ll agree with you.
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
10:42 am
Thats my point he barley played last year. U draft some 1 in the fist round to contribute right away and for a long period of time. He has not done that and no 1 from the Falcons stated he blew his knee out. If it was that bad, why rush him back in 2 the line up? Ever thing I see tell me he is a bust!
FALCON FOR LIFE
April 19th, 2011
10:55 am
how many season ticket holders are in this forum? like me i have been a season ticket holder for years through the bad season til now. and there is one thing that i learnt that is you have to have faith in your FO until they show you otherwise, and one thing that TD & MS have shown me in the last 3 years is that they are dedicated in making this franchise a team to be reackon with. so stop with the chasticing and give the gys a chance. oh and by the way we need to always always fill the dome.
President Obama .@ Larry give me a call
April 19th, 2011
10:59 am
I need your advice on this deficit thing. call me
FACTS
April 19th, 2011
11:03 am
This is much to do about nothing…..teams can only trade picks or the rights to players that get picked because of the lockout & CBA fight.The Falcons are much improved under TD & MS for sure…..until they get that first playoff win I cannot label them contenders.
DC Dirty Bird
April 19th, 2011
11:05 am
Joe Tess, comparing Welker and Jerry is comparing apples and oranges. 1. One is a 200lb receiver the other is a 300 lb lineman. 2. The extent of damage and/or set backs in rehab has a lot to do with when you get back on the field and are productive. 3. You ever notice how it takes RB’s longer to come off ACL than QB’s? Same concept.
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
11:06 am
Lets compare appels 2 organges.
Perrier Jerry – BUST
Wes Welker – Not a bust.
There that was easy
UGASlobberknocker
April 19th, 2011
11:09 am
@Falcon for Life..I get your sentiment, but disagree with the premise that season ticket holders are any better fans than those who don’t. I personally have had Falcons ST’s for periods in the past, starting with my Dads tickets in 1966. Just because I dont have them now doesnt make me any less of a fan than anyone who does..Ive been a fan since 1966. No one can best that date, only tie it.
p.s. I do have Georgia season tickets and have had them for 37 years. (The main reason that I dont get Falcons tix)..but there are plenty of Dawg fans just as passionate as I am who dont have tickets for one reason or another. That doesnt make any of them any less of a Dawg fan than me.
FACTS
April 19th, 2011
11:14 am
TD has not exactly been a draft guru since coming to ATL…..of course Matt Ryan was his best to date….Ryan was a no-brainer given the state of the franchise at the time…the rest of his choices are not exactly HOF material!
Rikus
April 19th, 2011
11:16 am
What the… is that the real JTFH? That last comment almost made sense?!? I say give Peria one more year to prove himself. If not, he becomes Pariah Jerry.
TommyP
April 19th, 2011
11:16 am
Dimitroff is NOT going to come out and tell the beat writer that they’re looking to trade the pick. Or they probably will trade the pick.
Name 1 NFL GM that has ever come out and said, “We’ll probably trade our 1st round pick.” It kills value.
Dimitroff will see how the draft plays out. If there are several guys they like, they could definitely trade back. If most are gone, they’ll keep it.
Called maximizing your pick(s).
DC Dirty Bird
April 19th, 2011
11:17 am
I wish there was an EASY button to get Joe Tess, Larry, and those weak Saints fans off legitimate comment blogs.
tell it like it is
April 19th, 2011
11:17 am
UGA slobberknocker—Well said!
FACTS
April 19th, 2011
11:29 am
With a projected 16 DEs or lineman that may get drafted in the 1st or early 2nd round…..will the Falcon get value when they at 27th…the law of averages says that if all 16 of these players do get picked only a handful may actually make meaningful contributions to their team….simply put we may get the exact player we want when we pick…unfotunately we can’t measure heart during these workouts!
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
11:39 am
U could always leave DC Dirtybird. Just becuz U don’t agree with me does not mean I am wrong and should not be alowed 2 post here. I dont make fun of what U say. If U can prove 2 me that Perrier Jerry had a couple of good sesons with the Falcons then you can say I am wrong. He has not had even 1 god seson here.
cwltank
April 19th, 2011
12:35 pm
No GM can pick the perfect draft. They do there homework and choose the best player available. The more picks the better cahnce you have. Sometimes they get lucky & find a gem. Who thought that Jerry Rice would become a Hall of Famer. Jerry is still young and he was injured the 1st part of his career. I think he will bounce back, along with Anderson. He was not really the best DE coming out. His speed was average and he wasnt very strong. He has worked very hard these past few years. We do not need a DE, Bierman & Sidbury can produce sacks. It would be a waste to continue address an issue that is not in need of adressing. We need to score points, the elite teams out score teams, Saints, Colts, Patriots, Packers, we have the running peronell we need to give Matt Ryan speed & playmakers. That will allow our defense to mix up there coverages and take chances more. Playing games with a 3 point lead dictates your defense. Im just saying………..
cwltank
April 19th, 2011
12:36 pm
Excuse the spelling, I did’nt proof read lol
DC Dirty Bird
April 19th, 2011
12:40 pm
JTFH, when you call a low first round draft pick DT a bust after his second year in the league and compare his injury recovery to a veteran WR, I have to question your football acumen. I won’t make fun of what you say, but I will continue to challenge you. I unfairly put you in the same group as Larry and SeenThisB4 and maybe that was over the top. I’ll tell you what, instead of me trying to prove to you that our second year DT can be good, why don’t you tell me how many DT’s you know of that dominated the line of scrimmage in their first year. Why do i say first year, because Jerry essentially played his rookie year this past season since he only played in 2 games after he was initially drafted.
DC Dirty Bird
April 19th, 2011
12:44 pm
Can’t argue with cwltank, we do need to get away from the “ball control” offense. When was the last time a team won a Super Bowl with that. Don’t say Steelers because our defense is no where close to being as dominant as their defense was when they won it in Big Ben’s second year.
Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
1:29 pm
Falcons57
Nothing you said made any sense. I don’t know what game you watched, but our Dline stunk. Just getting to the QB is not good enough. Don’t tell me you got to the QB, tell me you SACKED the QB!
Rodgers had 25 receivers? You might want to look at the NFL rule book.
I guess I really do need to spell it out for you… WE NEED A DEFENSIVE END THAT WILL SACK THE QUARTERBACK. THIS POSITION IS INCLUDED IN THE “TRENCHES.”
Also, in case you haven’t noticed, we have a need at guard, center, and offensive tackle.
This “concept” is very well understood. Quarterback can’t throw the ball if he is on his a$$.
You’re welcome Tough Guy.
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
1:37 pm
Its simple Perrier Jerry did not make an impact like a fist rounder should. Stop blaming hsi injruy for his 2nd year. He had the first year 2 learn so he could put that to use in his 2nd year.
Did he make an impact? No. Thus, he is a bust.
The Real Falcon
April 19th, 2011
1:39 pm
UGASlobberknocker,
Wrong!
Those of us that are Season Ticket Holders (investors) are paying for the right to express our opinions about the products we are purchasing.
If you are simply sitting on your duff watching TV then yes, you are indeed less of a fan and you should always yield to those that invest the time and the price to attend the games.
You are in second place is this discussion with a meek and weak voice!
jerry
April 19th, 2011
1:55 pm
What I didn’t like about the Peria pick was the fact that he had already had a knee injury in college and the fact that he would be 25 years old when he played his first game for the Falcons. Was he slow in school or what?
gk
April 19th, 2011
2:09 pm
I want Brooks Reed even if its in the 1st round. He is the most explosive defensive player in this draft. A lot like Clay Matthews
DC Dirty Bird
April 19th, 2011
2:15 pm
Mocking your Mock, its hard to argue against you. Quite frankly we have a need for playmakers on both sides of the ball. It depends on what you value. I’m not sure many people understand our O-Line situation with respect to free agency. One thing is for sure, we do not have a dependable left tackle whom one would consider the protector of the franchise. Joe Tess, IMO, late first round picks aren’t supposed to be impact picks but value picks. That’s why most of the good teams draft best available there instead of greatest need. You’ll be glad to know that I never agreed with the pick. We left Clay Matthews, Zig Hood, and Vontae Davis on the board that day. I’m just not for labeling the guy a bust because he’s been injured. If he stinks up the joint this season, he’s a bust and a black mark on TD.
crawdaddy
April 19th, 2011
3:10 pm
The Falcons have so many needs that they should draft the best player available with the 27th pick. My feeling is the first round talent is not that great, but the later round talent is very good. They can take a chance on some of those guys.
Mocking your Mock
April 19th, 2011
3:16 pm
Thanks DC.
As long as we have TD running the show, we will not draft a wide receiver in the first round. He came from the Patriots. He knows how to build a team. Say what you will about the guy, but he has done an incredible job building this team. Many people put too much emphasis on the 1st round. Look at what the guy has done in the other rounds.
It has been proven that you can find a good WR in the later rounds. If you don’t believe me go look down in Tampa, Carolina, or NO. Tampa got two GOOD receivers late in the draft, Steve Smith was a 5th round pick(?), and Marques Colston was a 7th round pick.
Go for the grit, not the glitter with your late 1st round picks.
Joe Tess Fish House
April 19th, 2011
3:41 pm
pleez perdon mi engless – eyi oz et awl 2 huuked awn fonecs!
ugaclassof2004
April 19th, 2011
3:42 pm
Gosh I sure do hate spending first round money on a DE. We’ve gone defense the last couple of seasons with marginal results. I think the Falcons are in a good position to build for depth. I say opt out of the first round and stack the cupboard with defensive players, O-Line, and WR’s/TE’s in the later rounds. I think most of the really talented guys on defense will be gone by 27th anyway.
chris in canton
April 19th, 2011
4:20 pm
I love reading all the mindless comments like larrys and kenstricklands.Thomas Dimitroff make his living by picking talent for our PRO football team. Since coming to Atlanta the FALCONS or 33-15 n the NFC the only team to come close is Philly at 30-18 in the AFC Indianapolis 36-12,New England 35-13, Pittsburgh 33-15 have better records. I would think that is the reason they are where they are in life and TD is making the MILLIONS where he is.Making comments and having a fantasy football team is as close to Pro Football as they will ever have THANKFULLY. I hope they are as good in their lives as TD is at football
FalconsFan13
April 19th, 2011
4:30 pm
I like the fact that we are bringing in Kerrigan, Cam Jordan, and Ayers for workouts. I like all three of these guys and if we could get anyone of these guys our defense would be that much better. I’m not too high on Clayborn though, he just doesn’t seem to have that disruptive motor that we need and he doesn’t seem to be an elite pass-rusher. I don’t think any of us can anticipate what TD is going to do with #27 pick until draft day. He has shown he can and will be aggressive if need be. I have all the faith in TD though, the “Process” continues starting April 28th.
denverfalcon
April 19th, 2011
4:36 pm
TJ Hook, I love that trade idea, but unfortunately, without a CBA players cannot be involved in trades, so we would have to give up too many draft picks to get the number ten pick, unless of course a miracle transpires in the next week and a half.
Delbert D.
April 19th, 2011
4:40 pm
Watching that Ryan Ayers video, I didn’t realize he is 6′4 255. Really good motor, and big hitter.
logan30228
April 19th, 2011
5:59 pm
Kerrigan or Clayborn would be my choice, and I hope one of them remain when 27 comes. if both are gone, and someone calls, make the deal and do like the Pats have done for years, trade down, get more picks and pick up late round value that can develop into a solid perrenial contributor to the team. many of the star, stand-out players that the pats currently have came from late round value picks. I say take the time to build it right and have years (plural) of sustainable domination over this division and league down the road. And irregardless of the pick this year it won’t matter as there will be no football this year anyway!
Wheel Barrow
April 19th, 2011
5:59 pm
This tells me TD will look to trade down and pick up extra picks. Never trust anything a GM says this week or next. He said that to make sure the other teams know that he really likes the 27th pick and they will have to pay handsomely to move up. He is just increasing the value of the pick.
bama52
April 19th, 2011
6:07 pm
If Cameron Heyward is available at 27th we better take him.
Bobby Petrino
April 19th, 2011
8:11 pm
Soooooooooooooooooooeeeeeiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ken Strickland
April 19th, 2011
8:15 pm
REAL FALCON-You’re welcom. You can always tell when you’re dealing with an ignorant, sensitive little B!TCH by the way they respond to getting their feeling hurt by the truth. Posting under someone else’s name and believing everyone is stupid enough to think it’s not him/her, says it all.
To even think about pulling that mindless stunt, one has to believe everyone else is as stupid as he/she is. As I’ve said before, STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES!!
cwltank
April 19th, 2011
11:04 pm
I wish I knew some of you guys personally. I would break you. I will bet all I have the Falcons will not draft a DE in the 1st round. 1st rounders start, they dont ride the pine. We drafted debt at OL last season. We have guys on the practice that are primed and ready. We may lose Clabo or Dahl but I sure we will keep one of them. Abraham & Moore missed multiples sacks. They got there & choked. The Falcons need to put up more points. A predictable offense keeps your defense on the field. Its my guess they were exahausted. I like the defense add a player or 2 and we are top 10. I hated the offensive play calling last year. It reminded me of Pop Warner. Turner, White, & interception lol
cwltank
April 19th, 2011
11:07 pm
Oh yea, I may not be the sharpest pencil in the box, but did’nt the Packers win the Super Bowl. Also, I think the Falcons were the NFC champions. So can some explain how can the Falcons have so many needs. They lost to the Superbowl Champs & Split with the defending Super Bowl Champs. Im just saying………
Big Ray
April 19th, 2011
11:55 pm
Aight, so we’re not going to trade the first round pick unless somebody makes a sweet deal.
Well, uh, that’s what happens when people trade up. They have to offer a sweet deal. This is just Dimitroff selling/shopping his pick in case anybody’s interested, and telling all that it won’t come cheap.
Dimitroff is comfortable with the pick, but believe you me, he’ll sell if the deal is right.
As far as I’m concerned, this is the smoke and mirrors that always goes on this time of year. It’s a poker game, never tip your hand. The possibility of a pick trade is just as strong (or weak, depending how you see it) as it was a week ago.
JONESBORO SLIM
April 20th, 2011
12:09 am
I want to see Atlanta get Okla RB DeMarco Murray for two reasons 1. He’s a great running back with speed (4.3 40) and good pass protector 2. Excellent as a slot receiver…therefore the “Birds” get two positions filled with one player….
TD Has Yet To Prove He Can Draft Winners!
April 20th, 2011
12:21 am
Obviously most on this board still have confidence in TD’s ability to draft quality players that are a fit on the team. I’m sure I’m probably one of the view in this city that thinks TD don’t know what the H#&*ll he’s doing. He’s way in over his head. The quicker Arthur realize this he will save himself a lot of time and heartache in the future.
Case in point- out of our last four top 1 or 2 rd draft picks, we still can not claim we’ve drafted bonafide play-maker on either offense or defense. Not good….if we did he played sick or dead in January.
John
April 20th, 2011
12:22 am
Joe,
Please lay off the crack pipe, and take some English lessons. He had a bum knee. They let him rest because they wanted to protect their investment. I say the Falcons were lucky to draft him. If Bowers falls to 10 I hpe the Falcons trade up for him if and only if they are sure his knee will heal.
Todd
April 20th, 2011
6:10 am
The real sweepstakes begins next year when Andrew Luck enters the picture. I would offer Ryan and the Falcons first rounder for the rights to draft Luck, he’s that good. This franchise has only been around since ‘66, yet no super Bowl W’s. The blue print has been set for cookie cutter dome teams, St. Louis, Indy, New Orleans. Dominant defense’s don’t exsist indoors, might as well give it up. I’d go nothing but skill position players in this draft.
Smooth
April 20th, 2011
6:57 am
Steve > Roswell the only thing plain and simple is you.
cwltank
April 20th, 2011
8:38 am
I predict Snelling being traded. He has value & Turner is our featured back. We can at least get a 3rd for him & find a speed back. Norwood, if he is resigned will bounce back & give us that playmaker we need. If we had a deep threat, no team could stack the box & Turner would be free to run.
coleski
April 20th, 2011
9:11 am
Who are thes crazy people, always downing smith & td?
Todd
April 20th, 2011
9:17 am
I like smitty, my only problem with him is he just seems happy to be there. TD is overrated, no doubt. Like I said the blueprint has been made, better add speed to burn. Matty has shown cracks in the pressure, that’s why I would give him up next year for Luck. I’d Trade Turner this year if the labor situation is solved before the draft, better to get rid of these guys a year early.
Mocking your Mock
April 20th, 2011
9:41 am
Todd
Please give it a rest. “Matty cracks under pressure.” Really? Really? I mean, really? The guy has lost 2,yes 2, games at home in his career. In all his wins, at least 7 were coming from behind. What are you talking about man?
Please get some sleep and use a condom every time. Can’t fix stupid.
Todd
April 20th, 2011
9:51 am
0-2 in the playoffs…nuff said. Luck is exponentially more talented than Ryan, he’s bigger, stronger arm, more accurate, smarter, and YOUNGER!!! Mocking you mock….UNBELIEVABLY STUPID. My guess is your parents are siblings, good luck dude.
Ken Strickland
April 20th, 2011
11:14 am
TODD-It appears from your comments that you have delusions of being a one of a kind GM and HC all rolled up into one. Anyone that would even think about trading a QB that’s made 2 Pro Bowls in his 1st 3yrs, while coming off a 13-3 season, plus a 1st rd pick, for an unproven college QB is beyond delusional.
Making dumb trades like the ones you’re suggesting would only contribute to helping other NFL teams become Super Bowl contenders. And yes, MRyan is O-2 in playoff gms, but how may playoff or national title gms has Luck won, or even played in? You’d actually suggest trading away proven Pro Bowl commodities just to acquire unprove college players just because their POTENTIAL might cause you to have an erection?
Stick to what you do best, which obviously doesn’t require using any common sense.
cwltank
April 20th, 2011
11:28 am
I agree, Todd your parents wasted that sper_. Matt is just fine & Smith has improved also. Why do you think our offensive coordinator is gone. He was so predictable, we need to become more pass orientated. 3 & 4 reciever sets.
Singletary
April 20th, 2011
11:38 am
Steve “is greater than” Roswell — I’m sure you didn’t intend the mathematical read of your screen name, but I find it indicative of mindset. Sometimes the mark of a leader/positive member of society (and adult) is wait and see/be supportive of those who were hired because they have more experience and know more than you and I. I’m all for promoting your favorite pics or where you see the needs are on the team, but please don’t become “Choke” or “Seen this B4.” If and when he really screws up (like when he chose someone other than Dorsey OY,) we have a fair right to criticize.
Now, let’s hope we have some 2011 football about which to flail, fret and fantasize!
hbcuclassics
April 20th, 2011
5:02 pm
2011 Falcons Easy Button 3.0
1.27 Jimmy Smith, CB, 6′2, 211, Colorado – “elite” corner fills need; sophomoric behavior non-cancerous, Owens questionable, Williams out. Secondary suspect.
2.59 Bruce Carter, OLB, 6′2, 243, UNC – “elite” linebacker is Top 10 talent but for ACL. Like Moore/Jerry put on IR/rehab for a year; and reap Pro Bowl reward later.
3.91 Greg Little, WR, 6′3, 231, UNC – stud receiver with hands, strength, speed, agility. Makes big plays and acrobatic catches, bench pressed 225/27x; NCAA suspension irrelevant.
4.124 Jordan Cameron, TE, 6′5, 254, USC – long, athletic former WR and hoopster.
5.158 Johnny Culbreath, OT, 6′5, 285, SC State – AP/FCS All-American, 3xMEAC Champ; best lineman in HBCU football – think Larry Little.
6.192 Frank Warren, RB, 5′11, 195, Grambling – AP/FCS All American, “Sweet Feet” broke Walter Payton’s All-time SWAC rushing record w 1,592 yds in 2010; 3rd in NCAA rushing.
7.209 Raymond Webber, WR, 6′2, 215, UAPB – AP/FCS All-American, led NCAA w/ 101 rec. 1,429 yds.; 10TDS, 130 ypg avg. think Jerry Rice. Coach: Monte Coleman.
7.228 Ricardo Lockette, WR/KR, 6′3, 199, FVSU – 2009 DII 200M Champ, 4.39/40
7.229 Matthew Johnson, QB, 5′11, 185 Bethune – 2010 HBCU POY, 2010 MEAC POY
hbcuclassics.com
lech112
April 20th, 2011
9:16 pm
The Falcons need to get a pass rusher — http://bit.ly/NFLMockDraft5 — and they might get a very good one (if he can stay out of trouble).
geno
April 21st, 2011
6:15 am
defensive end ??……please !. ..ask yourself whos the best defensive players in the league…….palamalou, revis, R. lewis, C. matthews, woodson, assamayou , ed reed . . ..well there you have it…..LBs, Safteys and corners more valuable than DEs….
hbcuclassics
April 21st, 2011
3:16 pm
2011 HBCU Draft Top WRs
1. Raymond Webber, 6′2 218, Ark-PB
2. Ronnie Childs, 6′2, 195, Albany St.
3. Ricardo Lockette, 6′3, 199, FVSU
4. Jeremy Franklin, 6′3, 196, JC Smith
5. Larrone Moore, 6′1, 185, Del. St.
6. Jevaughn Reams, 5′11, 185, Bethun
7. Anthony Mayes, 5′11, 190, Jackson
8. Dexter Manley, 6′1, 185 Elizabeth
9. Joe Hills, 6′4, 204, Tennessee St.
10. Donte Davis, 6′0, 181, Hampton
http://www.hbcuclassics.com
BIE E MAC TOWN
April 21st, 2011
7:29 pm
please get some gators on that team proven champs