Atlanta Falcons: Show Super Mario Williams the money?
Mario Williams (90) has posted 53 sacks over his first six seasons with the Houston Texans. (Dave Einsel, Associated Press)
We’ve heard the rumor that the Falcons are going to pursue Houston Texans defensive stud Mario Williams.
There is no way the Falcons can comment on it because that would be considered tampering and a hefty fine would be in order. The Falcons would end up in Commissioner Roger Goodell’s doghouse along with the New Orleans Saints if they commented on Super Mario.
But the rumor is starting to grow legs. At least three people with ties to the NFL Network have floated this scenario. All – Steve Wyche, Bucky Brooks and Jason LaConfaro – are our pals and highly respected members of the NFL media community. Here’s some of the speculation.
Loading ...
With the negotiations for defensive end John Abraham and middle linebacker Curtis Lofton in holding patterns, the Falcons have to do something. They can’t lose arguably their two top defenders and not replace them with someone of similar or greater stature.
We have to look to some of general manager Thomas Dimitroff’s recent comments for guidance. In an exclusive interview with the AJC on Jan. 10 he provided some hints.
Q: Can this defense, as constructed, compete for the Super Bowl title?
A: “. . . Obviously, there are still areas that we can improve upon. We need to continue to pressure the quarterback. . . . With that said, I love the tenacity of this defense. I’m encouraged by the direction of this defense. Like I’ve said since the very beginning in 2008, we will always continue to look to see where we can upgrade our talent across the depth chart and specifically on the defensive side of the ball.”
The following day at the “Come to Jesus” press conference with Arthur Blank, Dimitroff was very clear about a few things.
“We know that we need to get better in many, many areas,” Dimitroff said. “It is my job to
John Abraham has 53.5 sacks in his first six seasons in the NFL with the New York Jets before the Falcons acquired him in a trade. (Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com)
make sure that I step back with Coach [Mike] Smith and obviously, Mr. Blank, and look at all aspects of the football operations and determine where we need to make changes and where we need to adjust going forward.”
Dimitroff noted that there would be no “sacred cows”on the roster. “I don’t care where we drafted them or how we acquired them in free agency,” Dimitroff said.
Now, finally at the NFL Scouting combine, Dimitroff gave us some more insight to the team’s offseason modus operandi after their third exit from the playoffs in four seasons. He knows they must get better and may have come to the realization that “hey, maybe the Cardinals, Packers and New York Giants were just better teams.” The Packers and Giants did go on to win the Super Bowl. The Cardinals were a miraculous Santonio Holmes catch away from winning?
Q: How do you all rate the quality of pass rushers in this draft?
A: The edge pass rushers are something that we covet. They are not always easy to come across. There is a good group of guys that get up the field and turn the corner athletically and burst to the quarterback. We are all searching for that and they come in all different kind of packages. They don’t all have to be 6-4 and 270 pounds or 265. They at times can be 6-1, 6-1 ½ 230 pounds. It depends on the system that you are playing and there are certain systems out there that allow some to rush out of a wide-tackle nine and be very productive. Those same players might not be very productive in another system.
Free agency is set to start at 4 p.m. on Tuesday and the Falcons almost have to make a major move or two.
After turning over the coaching staff, they must upgrade the talent. While they have the fifth-most regular-season wins in the league over the last four years, they can see that the Carolina Panthers, the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers are going to be factors in the NFC.
Other teams projected to be in the Super Mario sweepstakes are Chicago, Green Bay, Seattle, Dallas and Tennessee. In addition to the Super Mario chatter, some in the agent community believe the Falcons could also make a play for Miami defensive end Kendall Langford. He played for new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. Here’s Langford’s bio.
Last season, before the Falcons signed defensive end Ray Edwards, they went after Charles Johnson, but the bidding got out of hand as Johnson received a six-year, $72 million deal. The bidding for Williams is expected to be reach the $100 to $110 million range and average more than $14 to $16 million per year.
Blank said the Falcons want to win rings and seems to know that he has to upgrade his talent after three playoff losses.
Should the Falcons go all Jerry Maguire and “Show Mario the money?” Will they blink at the sticker price? Could he be the perfect replacement for Abraham?
–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
191 comments Add your comment
MIke#1
March 9th, 2012
10:24 am
Mario Williams is pretty much exactly what the Falcons need. If they don’t pursue him aggressively, I might start thinking the Falcons just aren’t going to be seriously chasing a title anytime soon.
Joe
March 9th, 2012
10:26 am
Im off to get my anus bleached…
gb5684
March 9th, 2012
10:31 am
Enter your comments here
FALZ613
March 9th, 2012
10:31 am
We need to get this guy and we need to keep Lofton….What are the odds we get a starting safety through free agency or the draft or will we be sticking with what we have?
gb5684
March 9th, 2012
10:33 am
they better they would be total fools let lofton test free agency and abraham bring in williams dent can hold his own in the middle besides spoon is a better linebacker than lofton we can also upgrade with nicholas total idiot on the field u never even know he is out there
Paul
March 9th, 2012
10:34 am
Mario Williams would be a fantastic pickup for the Falcons. That being said, it may not matter who plays on defense if our OLine play doesn’t improve dramatically next year.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
10:36 am
Joe — That’s nasty!
Say It Aint So
March 9th, 2012
10:39 am
The price tag for Williams will be high. If we sign him, Lofton and Abe are gonners for sure. Let’s hope Dent can fill the void.
jp
March 9th, 2012
10:39 am
falz613- im pretty positive that we are sticking with what we have at safety. probably draft a backup in the later rounds of the draft
Jfreak13713
March 9th, 2012
10:40 am
Yes, they will make a play for Williams but they will also be smart about spending too much money on one player. See the Hawks and Joe Johnson as an example of what not to do. They need help in a few areas on defense and Williams would certainly fill a hole but they also need DB and have to decide on RB.
GDawg
March 9th, 2012
10:42 am
Two words sign him
Jamaaliver
March 9th, 2012
10:44 am
No!
Too expensive. Also…he’s never won anything.
I want proven winners. If I’m shelling out big bucks, it’s for guys who have at least done well in the playoffs year after year.
peacengrits75
March 9th, 2012
10:45 am
There’s a DE in Indianapolis on the trading block…just sayin.
Sly Boarders
March 9th, 2012
10:45 am
Talk about the draft all you want, but with the exception of the other former Texan (I don’t count Edwards, yet), TD has been money in non-draft acquisitions. IF Williams is the man (and how cool would it be to land him and Nicks, but I digress), then I have every confidence in TD and crew to make it happen. Let’s get this party started!
Go Falcons!
Ryan
March 9th, 2012
10:46 am
Mario Williams would be a great pickup, but I dont think the falcons can afford to put that ,much money in one player with so many needs. I hope Lofton resigns with the falcons. He is the best middle linebacker we have had since my all time favorite falcons player Jessie Tuggle. I think that we should make a hard run at Nicks. He would improve out oline tremendously. Ryan needs protection to be successful and lead us to the next level. Hopefully, we can draft a tight end and dl to help with our depth.
@nyc_texan
March 9th, 2012
10:47 am
Stud muffin?
JSS
March 9th, 2012
10:47 am
This is the “inflation” article I’ve been waiting for three seasons! You finally touched the “scared cows,” the running scared when Charles Johnson’s bidding hit the bizarre sphere, and lastly “they were just better teams” issue that has never sunk in with Falcons fans (especially the snarky ones)!
Mario Williams is going to cost luxury yacht money. Some folks of the same folks who crying about Abraham are going to have a stroke if the Mario deal goes to level it should under the current salary structure!
Too bad, they aren’t being honest about no “scared cows!”
t reeder
March 9th, 2012
10:48 am
they will make some more cuts to fee up some cap space !!!! and we will get mario
Jeff B
March 9th, 2012
10:49 am
@FALZ613 – Why do we need to find a starting safety? We just resigned ours…
I think we have more cap room than we think. For example, DeCoud’s cap hit this year on his new contract is only $2M. The cap hit of Snelling and Biermann is less. Grimes’ cap hit will come down a few million, after he signs a long-term extension (which I view as inevitable). Additionally, we know we can free up some more space by cutting expendable guys like Baker and perhaps Ovie.
Let’s say Mario’s eventual contract averages $14 million a year. Can we struture a contract so the first year’s cap hit is less than $12M? Yes. Can we afford $12M in cap room towards an impact signing? Yes.
So I think this is more about selling Mario on our team vs. his other suitors, and not so much about our cap situation.
**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**
March 9th, 2012
10:50 am
Joe, thats out of order. Wrong blog. We talk Falcons here dude.
Birds would be nuts to go after Williams. We have already overspent for #23 and #93. I fully expect Bierman to be much better under Nolan. I look for Sidbury to contribute. We have very REAL needs along the O-Line. If we pass on anything it should be DE and NOT O line. We desperately need a Guard and a Tackle. The verdict is still out on Mike Johnson, but #75 and Hawley have been cast….KATS!!!!!
FBD
Greg Mendel
March 9th, 2012
10:50 am
@Paul got it right. Money — and lots of it — would be best spent on the O-line. Until we have a really solid O-line, the Ryan-White-Jones-Gonzo-Douglas tandem won’t become the terror it should be. And it SHOULD be a terror.
Keeping it Real
March 9th, 2012
10:50 am
Need to trade up in the draft to get RGIII if they really want to upgrade.
mark
March 9th, 2012
10:51 am
We simply cannot afford Super Mario, end of story. TD has always said he is not going to “leverage” the salary cap and mortgage the future. Won’t happen. Also, Lofton is good, but we can find someone else to troll the middle that does not want 8-9 million a year
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
10:57 am
Just fixed my “insert poll” thingy. So now we can get an “official” vote and send it along to Mr. Blank.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
10:58 am
FBD — Good. I thought Joe was out of order. Is that the health&fitness blog?
Super Bowl Shuffle
March 9th, 2012
10:58 am
Build the O-Line and D-Line, the rest will take care of itself.
Tony
March 9th, 2012
10:59 am
The defense wasn’t the problem last year! They score the only points in that playoff game against the Giants
jerry
March 9th, 2012
10:59 am
Since the NFL has a salary cap, it’s all about getting bang for your buck. Like drafting a future All Pro in the later rounds, e.g., Justin Tuck, the 74th pick when the Falcons took Babineaux with the 54th pick.. So they can’t just throw money at players. Dimitroff hasn’t gotten enough bang, more like a pop.
Frankie
March 9th, 2012
10:59 am
watch the commnets after I say this…
Do not make the same mistake the skins made with albert haynesworth…mario williams is not haynesworth…he is better. but the falcons do not need to pay him 100Million.
Make your best offer if he comes cool if not be ready for the next DE/DT..offer.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:00 am
@nyc_texan — stud muffin?? Think I’m just going to change that to “stud.”
GB70
March 9th, 2012
11:01 am
We really need to get Williams and work some magic and get Nicks ( OG) from the AINTS …..Both offense and defense lines need upgrades
Frankie
March 9th, 2012
11:02 am
defense scored the only points in the playoffs…yeah and they got scored on 22 points more tha they scored..I would say defens IS the problem, Offense IS the problem…
HEART and agressiveness of the players on the team ARE the problem..to many business desicion tackles being made…
Sid
March 9th, 2012
11:03 am
JSS
March 9th, 2012
10:47 am
**************************************
“scared” cows? Probably if they see a really huge bull.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:06 am
Frankie — Like the “business desicion tackles” being made line. Uncle Herm would love that. That has to stop if that’s the case.
Nookah
March 9th, 2012
11:06 am
I think we have to make a run at him if we want to have a consistent pass rush. Even though Nolan said he would rather have 5 guys get 4 sacks than one guy getting all sacks or something to that nature. Whereas I understand the rationale you cannot pass on an opportunity to get a talent like Mario.
Restructure/extend Matt’s contract and whoever else you have to do but we need Mario to bring the pain from the outside and Lofton for continuity and chemistry in the middle.
As Buck Brooks says, get Mario and we win the South. Then we’ll take it from there and the Falcons will win their first playoff game in 4 years.
Go Falcons!!!
Sid
March 9th, 2012
11:07 am
Paul
March 9th, 2012
10:34 am
Mario Williams would be a fantastic pickup for the Falcons. That being said, it may not matter who plays on defense if our OLine play doesn’t improve dramatically next year.
****************************************************
I agree totally, however if we are willing to pay that kind of money to Williams we should probably resign Abraham and work on that O line.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:07 am
Keeping it Real – RGIII? The Falcons have a quarterback already. A quarterback with a 41-19 regular-season record. Y’all need to back off the Ice Man!
BIRDSFLYHIGH
March 9th, 2012
11:09 am
DONT DO IT! Sid & Matthews are ready to play! DONT DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!
Sid
March 9th, 2012
11:09 am
Keeping it Real
March 9th, 2012
10:50 am
Need to trade up in the draft to get RGIII if they really want to upgrade.
***********************************************
How many years of 1st round draft picks do you want to give up?
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:10 am
FBD — Based on the recent comments coming out of FB, they are fine with the Oline and think Pat Hill and a healthy Sam Baker will smooth things out. I would think an ass-kicker like Nicks would be of interest.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:10 am
t reeder – They may not have to make any cuts to free up the cap space.
BIRDSFLYHIGH
March 9th, 2012
11:11 am
D.LED! Most of the Falcons fans dont know a good thing when they see it! Take Matt Ryan away & we dont make the playoffs 3 out of 4 years! Know doubt he can improve but I’d rather have him than a lot of Qb’s in the league.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:12 am
JSS – Yeah, when it happens three times, the best team may have won the game. You have to at least consider it, especially since each team won pulling away.
Sid
March 9th, 2012
11:16 am
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:10 am
FBD — Based on the recent comments coming out of FB, they are fine with the Oline
*********************************************************************
Are you serious DLed? Say it aint so…..!! I can imagine what Ryan is mumbling to himself.
(off topic) How far has Orson Charles dropped in the draft? Obviously he didn’t do well on the Wonderlic. Get a cab dude, stay at home………..don’t be an idiot.
Joe Tess Fish House
March 9th, 2012
11:22 am
They did the same thing with cheep shot artist Donta Roberson….Showed him 2 much mony and now they are stuck with this looser.
Dont do it Mr Dummytroff. Dont over paid 4 Marino Williams.
hike!!!
March 9th, 2012
11:25 am
Wouldn’t signing Mario go against the new DC philosophy of “rather have 4 guys get 4 sacks rather than one guy getting 16.
Greg Mendel
March 9th, 2012
11:26 am
DOL — If Flowery Branch is content with the Falcons O-line, FB and opposing teams are in complete agreement.
Big Crimson 75
March 9th, 2012
11:28 am
I’ll take Mario over Abe & Loftin!!
Falcon James
March 9th, 2012
11:30 am
Would like to have him, but I think the price will be too high. Can’t afford to let Lofton go. Abe is a gonner for sure. I think the Bierman deal is going to factor into this as well. I want to see what we going to do with that pitiful O-Line we got.
DC Dirty Bird
March 9th, 2012
11:32 am
I’m tired of fans being as JSS says “scared cows” when it comes to free agency. In my opinion, other than Peerless Price, our FA pick ups were good, we just miscasted. Edwards would be better rushing opposite Williams. Robinson would be better playing press coverage.
BUILD THE DEFENSE FIRST! We don’t need Nicks, we need a better LT.
Falcon James
March 9th, 2012
11:34 am
Joe Tess- I think you and I finally agree on something. My biggest fear is that we pay Mario the money he think he worth and then he quit playing just like Dunta did. Dunta is about the worst move in the history of the Falcon franchise. Too bad we stuck with him for another year. What a waste of money.
JSS
March 9th, 2012
11:34 am
@ Sid…
Auto-correct.. And I’m doing narrations today, the “sacred” gets my apology…
Blame it on the Al-kee-hol! Poor Orson, what did he blow? I hope he was smart enough to ask for the blood test if he was just over the limit!
BIRDSFLYHIGH
March 9th, 2012
11:35 am
Falcon James, Akeem Dent will do just fine if Lofton has to go!
GB70
March 9th, 2012
11:37 am
Oline is soft and lost its edge when they let Dahl go to the Rams……Baker couldnt block a sick 80 yr old lady
Falcon James
March 9th, 2012
11:38 am
Agree wit you Birds! Didn’t think about Dent
Rod "straight outta Augusta"
March 9th, 2012
11:38 am
Super Mario is a great pllayer, but we cant go all in on this guy. Guys like Kendall Langford and possibly Kamerion Wimbley would be great fits for creating a pass rush.
Falcons 73
March 9th, 2012
11:42 am
The Falcons definitely need to infuse some REAL talent on the defensive side of the ball. If you were going to throw money around, I would say DE would be the most pivotal position on the field (considering how offenses are structured in the NFL these days). Look at the difference a healthy, productive DE can make on an overall defense as opposed to a CB, LB, or DL. One stud DE can change the whole complexion of a mediocre D.
With that being said, the Falcons could and should do all the restructuring they need to make Mario Williams a Falcon. The CAP will go increase massively in two years, so the only hit the Birds would take, would be the next few seasons (and if Williams is healthy and productive he will make them legit).
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
11:50 am
Greg Mendel — All of the OL jobs will be open for competition, but Coach Smith supported Baker when asked about him at the combine. He said he was fine if Baker were the starter and noted that they’ve won a lot of games with him. Smokescreen? Coachspeak? IDK.
mark
March 9th, 2012
11:55 am
this shot doesnt come every day! we need to show the money!!! this is an elite DE we really need this one bad!!!! if not its gonna be another 1 n out! let lofton n abraham walk, they cant compare to marios speed swagger motor, i hope thomas d pulls the trigger in this one!
The Real Falcon
March 9th, 2012
11:59 am
Sorry to be tardy for the party. Ugh. But if we can we must!
FalcFans.com » 2012 Falcons Free Agent Tracker
March 9th, 2012
12:01 pm
[...] Kendall Langford, Dolphins (Source: AJC.com) LB Lofa Tatupu, ex-Seahawks (Story) (worked out on 3/9) DE Mario Williams, Texans (Source: [...]
Joe Tess Fish House
March 9th, 2012
12:01 pm
Just so you no Marino Williams is from the same team as that looser Donta Roberson. This has truble write all over it.
abby normal
March 9th, 2012
12:02 pm
I realize the Falcons have to make a move or two but I’m always leery about signing free agents to these huge contracts. Just look at the Robinson and Edwards fiascos. I also realize Mario Williams is a terrific player, but 100 million? Can’t see it. Our primary need is to fix the OL.
**Frederick(Bailey)Douglass**
March 9th, 2012
12:04 pm
“Fine with the O-Line”
WHAT!?!?!? In what satellite reality??? The only other worse “roast-over” that I have ever seen on an NFL stage was when Jerry Rice toasted Charles Dimry for 4 TDs at the old statdium. What Trent Cole did to Sam Baker was very close to that…man against man and Baker was totally destroyed. I’ll say it plainly:
Sam Baker, #75 and #61 need to be reconsidered. Period. If TD/MS go into the 2012 season depending on any of these individuals to open running lanes or to adequately protect Ryan, they are out of touch.
Pat Hill is good…but he does not instill courage. You gotta bring that with you.
FBD
DJ Sniper
March 9th, 2012
12:13 pm
No matter what the coaches say, I’m sure that Sam Baker will not be a Falcon any longer. Rumor has it that they are going to take a look at Marcus McNeil once he’s released by the Chargers. If his health is fine, then they may try to sign him as the starting LT with Svitek as his backup. That’s some nice depth at that position.
For everybody who has been hard on Dunta Robinson, keep in mind that he’s been playing the past 2 years in a scheme that’s is NOT suited to his talents. Let’s see how he does under Nolan first.
Joe Tess Fish House
March 9th, 2012
12:24 pm
@ DJ sniper
And what scheme is that? It dont not matter what shceme he play in he has 2 cover and not get so many cheep shot penilties. Face it he is a horible player and it was a horible sighing 4 the Flacons.
bert & ernie
March 9th, 2012
12:30 pm
Considering Jennifer’s girth, I think heiffer deserves two “f”s
J.J.M.
March 9th, 2012
12:33 pm
lol nobody cares about matt ryan regular season record
Greg Mendel
March 9th, 2012
12:34 pm
@DJ Sniper: I agree regarding Baker. I’m also curious about the effect of the two new coordinators. I feel positive about those changes, and I hope they result in a couple of current Falcons making big contributions they couldn’t make because of previous schemes and the way personnel were used (such as Robinson).
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
12:34 pm
The Real Falcon – You’ve never tardy for our party!
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
12:36 pm
FBD – Maybe “fine” is too strong. They know they can’t come up short in short yardage situations. But they also know that they can’t fix all of their problems n the free agency era. Four of five of those guys have been good enough to win with. (Remember 43-21. They are not the Browns. IJS)
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
12:37 pm
Joe Tess Fish House — Perhaps a reunion with Mario would be a good thing for Dunta!
Northern Bird
March 9th, 2012
12:37 pm
They are not going to pursue him. The guy is obviously incredible but injury prone. The falcons won’t spend that kind of money to land him. D Led said it himself when referring to the pursuit of Charles Johnson last yr. When the price gets into the ‘crazy’ zone the Falcons get out.
I definitely see us going after OG Nicks to improve the OL but not 15 mil a season on super mario. It’s not realistic, though the very conversation does get me excited…
bigboo220
March 9th, 2012
12:37 pm
They should go for it. They have enough cap to sign him and resign Lofton. I would still like to see them free up some cap space and upgrade the OL. And what Nolan said was he would rather have 10 players with 4 sacks then have 4 players with10 sacks. That’s where his defensive scheme and blitz’s will come in to play but I’m sure he wouldn’t mind having 1 player with 10 sacks if the sacks are still spred around amongst the defense. Dunta should do a lot better under Nolan than he did under the vanilla zone we played the last few years.
life long bird
March 9th, 2012
12:43 pm
You guys are being a little tough on a couple of players. I have had the same surgeries Sam Baker and Ray Edwards have had. It is amazing they are able to play so soon after the procedure. I had both my inside and outside meniscus removed and while I was able to run within a couple of days I did not fully recover for close to a year. Sam Baker had a ruptured disk repaired and it takes all of your core strength away. Get these two guys healthy and I think we will see two different players.
As far as Dunta, let him play man coverage aggressivly and you will see a completely different player. The soft zones we have played for years were crap.
There is no way we should not win our division this year. Saints are done and I think Cam will have a litle tougher second year with film studies. Go Birds!!
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
12:43 pm
J.J.M. — You have to care about it. If you don’t win in the regular season, there are no trips to the playoffs. Football 101!
Falcon Fan
March 9th, 2012
12:44 pm
hey DLed, any chance, if Williams becomes too high of an asking price, that the Falcons pursue Dwight Freeney? Heard he might get the chopping block…
DJ Sniper
March 9th, 2012
12:45 pm
I keep hearing people say that Mario is injury prone. The guy has missed 14 games in 6 seasons, and 11 of those games were last year. Injury prone is not the term I would use for him.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
12:51 pm
Falcon Fan — Freeney turned 32 on Feb. 19. I don’t think they’ll pursue him, but you never know.
Kramer
March 9th, 2012
12:55 pm
Show him the money and let Lofton go. Start the Dent era and go from there. Without a pass rush it does not matter in this league how good your DB’d and LB’s are in pass coverage. Any solid NFL QB with enough time will find an open receiver.
BIG Z Section 238
March 9th, 2012
12:55 pm
Mario Williams is exactly what the falcons need. Here are several reasons why we HAVE TO GET HIM.
1. We don’t have a player on our defense or maybe even on our team that people fear and must account for at all times.
2. He is an explosive player that TD has beening talking about the past 2 seasons.
3. WE don’t have to pay a first or 4th round pick this year. That should freen up cap space.
4 We can cut, restucture, give contract extention or not resign several players to make room ie Matt Ryan, Abraham, Ovie, Baker, Robinson, Lofton.
5.He will make our defense better because they will have to worry about him and over look other players.
6. He will make our secondary better because QB’s will be rushing to get the ball out quicker.
7. Julio Trade. If TD thought we were that close to a SB last year way not go for the gusto AGAIN. Its clear the AB wants a Championship right now and we are just to close not to go for it ALL.
8. Pass rush has been missing from our defense since CHUCK SMITH!!!!
Must I go on???
Mave2124
March 9th, 2012
12:55 pm
Forget Super Mario…CARL NICKS! O-line!
falcons relax
March 9th, 2012
1:10 pm
WE WILL NOT TARGET ANY O-LINEMAN IN FA. We’ve brought in a new o-line coach and invested too many picks on o-line. You have to groom the talent then evaluate it. Carl Nicks? Nicks is quoted saying he expects to get a better deal than Evans. Thats like 50 mil. We just gave blalock 40 mil. GO ALL IN ON SUPER MARIO.
Simple as that, we finished 12th with BVG, imagine what will happen if we have mario and nolan calling the shots. NFL Network Jason La Caforna said it, Seattle and Atlanta are the front runners. WE don’t have a first round pick and TD and Blank have expressed being agressive in FA. They will go hard at Mario, especially after going after charles johnson last year and Abe being a FA this year. WE HAVE TO GET MORE PRESSURE. Mario brings all of that plus more.I can’t wil til tuesday
welikebaseball2
March 9th, 2012
1:10 pm
Hey D-Led, think we might go after the Colts’ DE Mathis? He’d cost a lot less than Williams, who I’d love to have, & has put up almost identical numbers as Abraham. He might not be a step up over Abraham but, if we can’t afford Williams, he definitely wouldn’t be a step down. Plus, if doesn’t hurt that he’s a couple years younger. Also, am I missing something or is Langford’s sack numbers pretty much non-existent? In no way is he an adequate replacement for #55. Not by ANY stretch of the imagination.
Michael
March 9th, 2012
1:14 pm
I am all for going after Mario. I know that TD has talked about not breaking the bank and risking the future in the past, but one’s outlook on “the future” tends to change after 3 playoffs exits (2 of which were absolutely embarrassing). I think this regime knows they need to make major steps forward in the postseason or else there may not be much of a “future” for them to prepare for.
Mario Williams is THE best option out there to upgrade our pass rush. Having a legitimate pass rush will make this whole defense better. I love Lofton and Abraham but they epitomize what the Falcons have been as a team the past couple of years: Solid and Consistent overall, but not able to MAKE THE BIG PLAYS WHEN THE MOMENT DEMANDS A BIG PLAY. With Williams, we would have a PLAYMAKER on every level of the defense (Spoon @ LB, Grimes in the secondary assuming we finalize his deal)
I would love Carl Nicks too, but I think a pass rush is more important to this team at this point than a guard. Carl Nicks was a 4th round pick, you can find guards in the draft or you can give the one you drafted in the 3rd round in 2010 a legit shot (Mike Johnson, the guy paved the way for Ingram during his Heisman year)
Michael
March 9th, 2012
1:15 pm
Oh yeah, and trading for Freeney makes no sense. If you want to pay over 8 million for a DE who’s on the other side of 32 with declining sack numbers then you should just resign Abraham. @WeLikeBaseball2, Mathis resigned with Indy already.
MGibby
March 9th, 2012
1:17 pm
It’s funny how everybody hates on Dunta. NEWSFLASH: Good CBs cost money. Even in the loose zone scheme we’ve been running, he’s been a solid corner and as far as being a cheap shot artist, GTFOH! The 2 nasty hits he’s been involved in were not cheap shots, just a victim of the BS defense-less receiver rule.
Everybody always talks about how they love grimes, but tell me this, why is it that you never see Grimes covering the opposing number 1 receiver? This coaching staff has no problem benching players. The reason you never see it is because Dunta is a better corner.
Add Super Mario and solidify the O-line!
ROD
March 9th, 2012
1:26 pm
Yes, yes, yes. He’s younger than ABE, and he will help in Mike’s Nolan defense. If they wouldn’t have signed that inconsistent Kroy B, maybe they would have had some money left over. We need some pressure on the QB, because we are not getting it from Edwards. SO, YES, YES, YES!!!! They should have cut Dunta Robinson, he can’t cover. Bring in Champ Bailey!!!!!
dirty 4 life
March 9th, 2012
1:26 pm
Since the Falcons love to talk about how they want to win a super bowl NOW, then do it. Trade Matty “i cant throw an accurate pass longer than 25 yards” Ice for a top 5 draft pick, get one of the best defensive ends in the draft with it, drop fat boy Turner, and go get Peyton RIGHT NOW! Snelling and Rogers will be just fine with Peyton in town. Hes won with worse.
welikebaseball2
March 9th, 2012
1:27 pm
@Michael: Thanks for the update. Don’t know how I missed that. Bummer. I really like Mathis & thought he would be the perfect replacement for #55. A younger, affordable DE with solid sack numbers. Oh well, sign me up for the We-Want-Mario movement!
mark
March 9th, 2012
1:31 pm
Mario would be a beast in Nolan’s system plus if Edwards stays healthy with Mario it should give us a great outside push. Dled what do you think our odds are? Also do you think we let Lofton walk? Keep up the great work, I love this time a year it is my only fix before the season starts.
welikebaseball2
March 9th, 2012
1:31 pm
@MGibby: I agree with you on most of your post…except saying Grimes is not as good as Dunta simply because he doesn’t cover the #1 receivers. The Falcons don’t play the matching game. Our CB’s cover whatever WR is on their side of the field. I do agree that Dunta is not the garbage everyone says he is & has indeed been solid. However, Grimes has proven to be the better cover corner between the two.
dirty 4 life
March 9th, 2012
1:35 pm
Peyton with Roddy, Julio, and Tony! We would be unstoppable. Thats a better recieving corps than he ever had in Indy. If the Flacons really want a ring now, they’ll do it. Peytons got at least 3 great years left.
bigboo220
March 9th, 2012
1:37 pm
MGibby …. have to agree with you. The reaso you hear so much about Grimes is because he has been one of the most targeted db’s in the NFL. The reason he has been targeted is because Dunta is covering the #1 receiver pretty well. I love Grimes but he gets beet a lot. But all the db’s will look a lot better if we are getting consitent pressure on the qb. I think Mario will help that a lot. Not to mention Nolan should get a lot more out of some of these guy you hardly ever see like Sidbury. If our defense is actually getting off the field on these 3rd downs our offence will have more chances to get in a groove with all these weapons we have.
take bad with good
March 9th, 2012
1:39 pm
One of the Birds true fans are here just checking in for the season I got one ? were the HE– is [seen yall before} bounty f–l!!!!
SeenThisBFalcon
March 9th, 2012
1:42 pm
TRADE FOR OSI UMENYIORA
Jason LaCanfora
March 9th, 2012
1:46 pm
Scooped!
http://blogs.nfl.com/2012/03/09/ex-seahawks-lb-tatupu-looked-good-in-falcons-workout/?module=HP11_headline_stack
Flo=Ri-Duh
March 9th, 2012
1:47 pm
I would rather replace LT & LG with two All Pro OL that are under the age of thirty and sign them to 6 year contracts. The OL was terrible in key situations last year.
DJ Sniper
March 9th, 2012
1:49 pm
Robert Mathis has already re-signed with the Colts, so he’s not coming here. Also, Matt Ryan is NOT going anywhere. Does he have his faults? Of course he does, but the guy has done pretty well during his 4 years here. Now that he’s no longer shackled by Mike Mularkey’s system, let’s see what he does under a new OC.
Jason LaCanfora
March 9th, 2012
1:51 pm
Ledbetter…You’re the beat writer for the Falcons, yet I just beat you to the punch on Tatupu’s work out. What gives?
bigboo220
March 9th, 2012
1:55 pm
I think we made key upgrades on the coaching staff that will make everybody look better this year.
Jason La Canfora
March 9th, 2012
1:57 pm
Oh yeah….You misspelled my name……You’re a professional how?
By the way, Steve Wyche says hi.
True Falcon Fan
March 9th, 2012
2:09 pm
ALL, Atlanta Falcon Fans —- we will soon see if Mr. Arthur Blank can play in the same arena with the likes of the Jerry Joness’, types among the 31 other NFL —- if Mckay and Dimitroff try to make the play for Super Mario —- this will be very interesting to watch indeed, once IF they succeed how the coaches make it melt together in the locker room. In big D as in Cowboys the big difference here is the team lives and breaths Super Bowl goal every year, big difference from ATL — So the point is these Cowboys PLAYERS welcome any time when Jones brings in the BEST players for the team!
JSS – NO implosion happens in the Dallas Cowboy locker room!
Joe knows the shoot!
March 9th, 2012
2:10 pm
After the Lays WOW potato chips anal bleaching has become common place! Cmon DOB get with the times!
TJ
March 9th, 2012
2:19 pm
Per CBS Sports: Falcons hovering, hope to land Mario Williams
Ichabod
March 9th, 2012
2:22 pm
Wow, super Mario sure got expensive in a hurry… from 81M last season to 100M-110M! Enough to give Smitty epigastric distress. Anyway, Ryan likes the way the D plays, and really would like Nicks.
Just seems that super salaries suddenly result in less than super results, some how. Go for the OL.
ATrueFalconsFan
March 9th, 2012
2:25 pm
Trade Matty Ice. Just kidding but he has no playoff wins and Joe Flacco has what, 6 playoff wins.
Atlanta Falcons: Show Super Mario Williams the money? | NFL Online News
March 9th, 2012
2:28 pm
[...] Atlanta Falcons This entry was posted in Atlanta Falcons and tagged Atlanta, Falcons, Mario, Money, show, Super, Williams. Bookmark the permalink. ← 2012 free agents by team (ProFootballWeekly.com) [...]
Terrell
March 9th, 2012
2:31 pm
ATrueFalconsFan
Well he’s credited with 6 wins but how many has he truly played a big part in?
Mike
March 9th, 2012
2:41 pm
FYI for the Dunta haters http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/54853/dunta-robinson-gives-falcons-cap-space
Sid
March 9th, 2012
2:44 pm
So if Orson Charles drops a few spaces would the Falcons take him @ 55………………??
Bird Dawg Country
March 9th, 2012
2:51 pm
They need to do something after the Edwards bust of last year.
Abraham is as good as gone. Even if he is actually on team, he has become an average rusher against good teams.
Signing free agents to big contracts is always dicey on how they react after they get the “big money”, i.e. Edwards. Although I believe the Falcons didn’t use good judgement on his injury issues before signing.
It is funny how many people thought Williams was a bust after taking a while to become the player he has become. Even the best need time, especially ones on expansion teams.
Best Interest
March 9th, 2012
2:52 pm
If Mario Williams comes to Atlanta he will end up playing like Montel Williams. Mario stay in Texas.
ATrueFalconsFan
March 9th, 2012
2:53 pm
A don’t know when we are going to figure out Dunta is not an excellent DB. I talked to him a couple times at Training Camp and sounds like a very good intelligent guy but he is not the very best in the world at his position.
Joe Tess Fish House
March 9th, 2012
2:55 pm
4 get Marino Wiliams. Payton Manning is talking 2 the Broncos if that is the case than the Flacons need 2 trade for Teabow! How awesome would that be?
Mr Blanks PLEEEZZZ trade 4 Time Teabow now!
Bird Dawg Country
March 9th, 2012
2:55 pm
If Falcons had full compliment of draft picks I would use one on O. Charles (3rd round or possibly 2nd if had to). But they don’t have luxury of a full draft, so wait till next year to pursue a tight end.
Greg Mendel
March 9th, 2012
2:56 pm
If the buzz is legit, the Falcons may be getting ready to make a big move or two. I’d prefer something that gave Ryan two or three more seconds in the pocket, but getting Mario might — might — give us a pass rush. Is a Mario/Nicks coup possible? For that matter, is a Peria Jerry-for-anybody-or-anything possible?
Left Coast Dawg
March 9th, 2012
3:03 pm
What is a “Scared Cow”?
welikebaseball2
March 9th, 2012
3:11 pm
@Mike: I was just about to post that. Dunta, the apparent goat around here, seems to sense the urgency of the upcoming season. Now, let’s be real, he’s not losing or letting money go. He’s just agreed to have some of the payment deferred. Still, it’s a move with the team’s current state in mind and I can appreciate that. For those who haven’t heard…this from ESPN: “Earlier this week, he signed off on some tweaks to his contract that will save the Falcons $1.75 million in cap space this year. Robinson waived a $3 million option bonus that was about to come due and also agreed to lower his base salary for this year by $1 million.”
Big Dude
March 9th, 2012
3:20 pm
It’s harder to defend against 4 guys rushing the QB as opposed to one. If he demands all that money, he’s only thinking of himself and is not a team player. Just my opinion.
True Falcon Fan
March 9th, 2012
3:21 pm
@Mike —- great post! Most on these bloggers don’t understand the type talent DR is for that matter how any of our DB’s can or should be with a awesome front DL four, handling the line, QB hurries, Sacks & tackling RB’s. The bottom-line is DB’s are not paid to tackle RB’s running the ball out of the backfield.
Bravesfan79
March 9th, 2012
3:26 pm
this article didnt say enough about what position he plays, and whos place he would take on the defense. Does he play the same position as Abraham? I thought so, but you made no mention of it. Also…. what have the critisims been off him in Texas, where alot werent happy he was made such a high draft pick.
True Falcon Fan
March 9th, 2012
3:28 pm
I promise you one thing if your son is Mario Williams i.e., “SUPER MARIO” you want him to make all the $$$$$$$$$$$$$ he can get —- his NFL career is way to short to be mindful of money fairness to “ANYBODY”! —- If you’ve never played the NFL game, i challenge you to find ex-player and ask him about money/pay fairness…. Just my opinion.
Nativebird
March 9th, 2012
3:42 pm
And now some discussion that will actually have an impact on this teams chances next year: offensive line.
fansince74
March 9th, 2012
3:43 pm
I would love to get him but don’t sell the farm to do it. A 100 million dollar contract is is too much for a DE. We need an offensive line. The Falcons scored 2 points in their play-off game: TWO ! and we think a DE will fix things.
Dean Wormer
March 9th, 2012
3:49 pm
Fat, drunk, and stupid is no way to go through life.
Fill the obvious needs please.
Mike
March 9th, 2012
4:00 pm
@ fansince74, as a Falcons fan who lives in NY and attended the playoff game I can tell you that the Giants DEnds had a LOT to do with us only scoring 2 points. I’m not saying we don’t need OLine help, but I am saying that if there’s a position to spend 100 million on besides QB it’s DEnd.
The Falconator
March 9th, 2012
4:22 pm
Most of us would agree with the fact that you win with defense in the NFL. Having said that, the urgent need for the Falcons is to keep Ryan upright in the pocket with time to throw and keep the running backs from being slam dunked at the line of scrimmage. Two solid O-line guys are needed on the left side. No question about that. $14MM is an awful lot for one guy unless he’s a major game-changer. However you look at it, Nolan has a big challenge ahead of him. Before going all in on Williams, let’s see what Nolan can do with Sid and the Beerman.
CJ
March 9th, 2012
4:23 pm
We’re not going after Mario Williams…… We still haven’t done anything with Harry Douglas or Todd McClure!!!
Epic Falcons Fan!!
March 9th, 2012
4:34 pm
I think we should sign Mario or Robert Mathis,sign Lofton, and sign Carl Nicks to boost our O-Line. I have heard rumors about trading Dunta and Michael Turner.
JSS
March 9th, 2012
4:45 pm
“JSS – NO implosion happens in the Dallas Cowboy locker room”
No, they usually happen at bars at airports when Jerry Jones has a few too many shot glasses sitting around…
@ Left Coast Dawg…
See Pg. 2 at 11:34AM…
@ DC Dirty Bird…
It was an auto-correct error; but it actually works, they run “scared” when the big horses are on the block then they end up over paying for marginal talents!
J.J.M.
March 9th, 2012
4:45 pm
colts signed mathis…
joewhite
March 9th, 2012
5:14 pm
I have my super mairo poster in falcon gear already make it happen now falcons.
Greg from Marietta
March 9th, 2012
5:27 pm
I agree that ‘Super Mario’ is a great DE and that the Falcons would be a better team with him, but no player is worth $100-$110 million.
Epic Falcons Fan!!
March 9th, 2012
5:30 pm
Ok what do you guys think about michael turner for a Lamichael James or a Trent Richardson
Epic Falcons Fan!!
March 9th, 2012
5:33 pm
Maybe they could sign Desean Jackson!!! He would fit well with Dirk Koetter’s new four verticals scheme
MaxxFalcon
March 9th, 2012
5:34 pm
DOL- 1st of all, we should throw the house at Mario Williams. He would instantly make our Defense much better and could be a real monster in Nolan’s D. 2nd, to a comment you posted here- Falcons really still think Sam Baker is the answer at LT? Maybe a healthy Sam Baker can block, but I wouldn’t know since he’s never been healthy at any level. It’s time for him to go. Reynolds should be in competition with Clabo for RT, Hawley is not more than a backup C, and Mike Johnson should get his shot at RG, but I just can’t agree with Baker being our guy at LT. Healthy or not, I saw him get abused constantly last year, just way over-matched against the good DEs. How healthy was he week 1 when Peppers was tossing him around like a rag doll?
Atlanta Falcons: Dunta Robinson provides cap room | Atlanta Falcons
March 9th, 2012
5:38 pm
[...] Atlanta Falcons: Show Super Mario Williams the money? [...]
Epic Falcons Fan!!
March 9th, 2012
5:50 pm
I still think Lamichael could be coming to the “A”
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
6:07 pm
Sid and Epic Falcons Fan!! – David Wilson or Lamichael? All I saw James do was run the speed sweep out of the speed. He was awesome. However, Wilson has some major wiggle.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 9th, 2012
6:09 pm
Epic Falcons Fan!! — As far as your “Turner for James/Richardson” question. I saw, proven vs. unproven.
Atlanta Falcons: Show Super Mario Williams the money? | football-feed.com
March 9th, 2012
6:14 pm
[...] to Original Content From Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog): read more Related Articles Share About Author [...]
True Falcon Fan
March 9th, 2012
6:17 pm
Then you must know the real story about the fall-out between Jerry & Jimmy right after#2 SB win……………………Man it was crazy around here, all Jerry wanted to do was sit with da boys “The coaches” drink a little whiskey and share some BS together…Jimmy looked right at him in the eyes and said “You are Not welcome or wanted at this “F”ing table” — “this table is for coaches” not owners! Then all hell broke loose, the rest is history….and ALL da love was gone forever Jimmy & Jerry……………..I’m proud of you JSS sometimes you do know what da hell your talkin’ about….right-on man……. ask DLed, my bet is he knows this story to be “TRUE” —- Like the — True Falcon Fan
Quint in ATL
March 9th, 2012
6:40 pm
I have seen a few guys over the last few days talking about cutting Ovie…seriously? I mean, I know it is hard to quantify what he does because he doesn’t gain yards or score touchdowns like a running back, but I though his going down to injury this year was a huge blow to the Falcons offense. Is there someone better or at least comparable to his production and protection?
Firsttimer
March 9th, 2012
6:50 pm
Let’s slow down here Falcon fans. I am reading these comments and some of you sound like a kid on Christmas that wants a Ferrari just because it is a Ferrari. Let’s think about the team needs. Our defense was among the top ten under the tutorlege of BVG. Think how much better they should be this season. Before we mortgage the farm on one player why not give some of this young talent we already have an opportunity to play. I think Sidbury could be a beast playing DE/LB in Nolan’s scheme. I think Clay Matthews can also be a factor. Why draft these guys if you are never going to give them an opportunity to prove themselves? Re-sign Lofton; Dent is not the defensive play caller and Lofton is the best MLB we have had since Tuggle. Spend your FA money on improving your OL and pick up a stud nose tackle. This is not basketball where one player can carry a team to the championship. Build a team, that should be TD’s approach.
Firsttimer
March 9th, 2012
6:52 pm
Enter your comments here
JSS
March 9th, 2012
6:54 pm
Mark Ingram is twice the back that Richardson is (blocker and inside runner); but people are still living under the pipe dream that a college running back not named Adrian Peterson or Barry Sanders (what’s that? They’ve failed to do it too) is going to walk on football field and carry you to Super Bowl and win. It has only happened once in the last 12 seasons (Jamal Lewis in 2000 for Baltimore)… It is one of the great myths in the modern NFL…
Firsttimer
March 9th, 2012
6:54 pm
Sorry…that should be Cliff Matthews and kudos to Quint in ATL’s post.
Teenwolf
March 9th, 2012
7:11 pm
Great article Led. While I won’t be going to get anything bleached, I would love to see Williams in a Falcons jersey. If it comes down to paying Lofton 7-8 million a season for a two down linebacker, go ahead and spend the money for Williams.
Firsttimer
March 9th, 2012
7:42 pm
Bounty
WANTED
Seenthisb4 and hiramsaint
atlfalcons831
March 9th, 2012
8:02 pm
Its already going to be a good season(Since the saints are being punished lol) But if we get mario williams..that will make all saints fans throw the paper bags over their heads again lol
cwltank
March 9th, 2012
8:07 pm
I think the penalties will hurt the Saints, so we will be South champs. On whether we should sign Mario or Nicks? Hell yea, they would be foolish not to persue every effort to sign them. Cut Ovie & Forney, if you have too, just get er done!
The Boss
March 9th, 2012
8:11 pm
@ Joe Tess Stink Hole-
Do you ever have anything positive to say? And your “act” is so tired… figure out a new schtick would you?
TD – Sign Mario! Tickets sales alone will pay for it and all the wins won’t hurt either!
kreedham
March 9th, 2012
9:04 pm
I’d rather get that Saints OL. It would subtract from them and add to us. Two wins!
mrzizzle
March 9th, 2012
9:12 pm
SIGN HIM YESTERDAY!!!
bama52
March 9th, 2012
10:17 pm
If there’s a chance sign Mario. Signing him should make Abraham want to stay.
Dunta Robinson provides cap room; Tatupu works out | Local Philadelphia News Aggregator
March 9th, 2012
10:22 pm
[...] mονе beneficial tο both parties. Thе Falcons dіd nοt reveal іf thіѕ mονе wаѕ раrt οf a master рlаn…Houston Texans defensive еnd Mario Williams οf Nеw Orleans Saints offensive guard Carl [...]
Joe's Anus
March 9th, 2012
11:27 pm
I just got bleached!
Bleached Anus
March 9th, 2012
11:34 pm
Anal Bleaching is so refreshing….just sayin
Falcon fan in Texas
March 10th, 2012
12:07 am
If the falcons are serious about winning they will pursue Williams. As much as I love Lofton and Abraham, they are expendable if this is the case. We can slide Spoon to the middle and find an OLB in the draft or FA that can fit our need. Williams automatically helps take the pressure off of Edwards, in which he can contribute more like he did with Vikings playing opposite side of Allen. It makes sense at all levels.
You say Williams hasn’t won anything. Who on the current roster has? At this point you upgrade where you can with the best players available. Our biggest issue has always been pressure on the QB. We can have a stud on the DL which will only help take pressure of the DBs.
Falcon fan in Texas
March 10th, 2012
12:08 am
Joe – Congratulations on the bleaching. Here’s to a brighter a future!
are you serious?
March 10th, 2012
6:00 am
yeah lets trade everything to draft RG3 who will be out of the league or a backup in 4 years
marko
March 10th, 2012
7:30 am
Super Mario’s going to be cashing some pretty big paychecks where ever he ends up next year. I’m kind of lukewarm about him becoming a Falcon.Last season Houston kicked our butts pretty good without him. Mario was injured. While he’s obviously an extremely gifted athlete when he’s healthy, He’s not always the most durable guy. We had the same problem with Abraham. He’s Stud when he’s healthy, and a dud when he’s not. When you go to work, a beat up pickup trucks a better option than a Ferrari sitting on blocks. Should the Falcons sign him if the price is right? Sure, but realize that we have a better chance of turning cow pies into gold than the Falcons have of signing Mario Williams at a reasonable price.
Mr. Costanza
March 10th, 2012
8:39 am
I would rather have two or three good players that play than one great player that is often injured.
Ichabod
March 10th, 2012
10:02 am
Like the man said, when he is in prime shape is is super, like in 2011 he had 5 sacks in the first 5 games, then tore his pectoral muscle and was out for the rest of the season. All players say that whatever injury they had is “healed completely” when in FA. It must have been a pretty big tear to keep him out the entire rest of the season. lol.
Atlanta Falcons Free Agency: Mario Williams Rumors, Vince Manuwai Signs And More at atlanta.hoops227.net
March 10th, 2012
11:10 am
[...] you know who it is? If you guessed Kendall Langford (who?), then you are absolutely correct. D. Orlando Ledbetter of the AJC reports that “some in the agent community” feel the Falcons could try to sign the 3-4 [...]
jc_dawg
March 10th, 2012
11:31 am
The game is won and lost in the trenches folks….like it or not. That said….sign Williams and work on the O line. Abe and Lofton are gone.
I’m telling you…the trenches….thats where its won and lost.
terrell
March 10th, 2012
12:51 pm
Lbetter, you cant define a qb by HIS TEAMS RECORD. If that was the case, Denver wouldnt be looking for a new qb. Btw, the “iceman” usually melts when it matters most. Not a Ryan hater or anything. Just sayin.
terrell
March 10th, 2012
12:55 pm
Slide Spoon to the middle? Um, no thanks. Dent and co will be fine.
philip minutillo
March 10th, 2012
1:11 pm
I would be shocked if we got Williams. Not getting my hopes up. The Falcons had a chane for Peppers and they did not spend the money. TD just doesn’t get it. They need to buld a DEFENSE like the Ravens Period! That will then fill in the seats and bring more of a fan base.
SGT CHRIS
March 10th, 2012
1:40 pm
speaking of TEs–dallas clark is a free agent, and why not go after brandon jacobs at RB??
Smegma
March 10th, 2012
2:41 pm
Unnh Joe?? Mr. Bleached??? You’re looking for the L.G.B. board. And I apologize for any similarities to that place you may see here. But we’re trying to get better!
jalex49
March 10th, 2012
3:44 pm
Got to go after Williams and see what happens. Need to keep Lofton and work Dent into the rotation. Abrahan would be good to get back for a couple of years, but I still believe Biermann can be productive at defensive end.
Got to get offensive linemen that can protect! As far as the draft it would be nice to see Atlanta get Boykin as a corner/punt returner. Hope Atlanta goes after Ediie Royal at wideout and Carlos Rogers at corner.
Best of luck. Can’t wait to see what happens!!! Go Falcons!
Falco peregrino
March 10th, 2012
4:25 pm
It would be a crime against football not to pursue Mario. Just sign him. This team has focused too much on offense, and now to turn the corner, they must sign a stud on defense, and Mario is the man. Do what Green Bay and New England didn’t do. Focus on defense.
PlanB
March 10th, 2012
6:59 pm
My 2 cents. I had rather have Mario and Dent for the same money as Abe’s asking salary and Lofton wanting 8 mil. but I don’t want Mario if it means not having a good OL. I can see Mario making things much more difficult for Brees and would love it but we have spent alot of money on the offense and without an OL, it is wasted. Koetter needs to get the stiff out of Matt & let him play ball. Don’t take injury chance but if open, run or dump off to a RB. I think MM & MS have him playing so conservative we are stopped on many drives that shouldn’t have been stopped.
tidog
March 10th, 2012
8:10 pm
Kendall Langford can be signed for less money and he’s a Hampton University grad, hopefully the Falcons get this one right. Fear the Pirate.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 10th, 2012
9:24 pm
tidog — No reason to fear the Pirates! Maybe if he was a Bison.
R Brown
March 10th, 2012
10:38 pm
DOL – “Show Super Mario Williams the money”?
From your mouth to Arthur Blank’s ears
R Brown
March 10th, 2012
10:42 pm
AB has ALWAYS been a major player in the Free Agent arena. AB is the best owner any team could hope for not only because he let’s his football people do their thing but he is not shy about paying for it. He has made a FA splash each year he’s been here. No reason to doubt him now.
cwltank
March 10th, 2012
11:19 pm
Has anyone stopped to think about the Falcons playoff defeats. The teams they lost too either won or played in theSuperbowl. So when I read that the Falcons have a lot of needs or that Matt Ryan is a bust, it upsets me. Finally, the Falcons are changeing their approach on players and improved their coaching staff. I love the moves and after they cut and upgrade a few more players, you all will too.
cw1545
March 11th, 2012
1:16 am
I had a feeling after the season before last, that the Falcons had lost a little faith in Lofton after his subpar season that year. I don’t know if management was sold on him and they really had a lot of interest in Dent that season. He had a pretty good season this year and really took advantage of his situation. He will get a nice contract and be a good MLB for another NFL team, the Falcons have bigger needs and can adequately fill his vacancy, in my opinion.
birddroppings
March 11th, 2012
7:02 am
When you consisitently give up 30-40 points a game to the better teams you need more than one or two men and spending all your money on one guy won’t give you the defense you need for the title. Spend the money wisely on several players.
Joe
March 11th, 2012
10:30 am
I think the best we are going to get out of Abraham is behind us, Its time to move on. Like hime as a player, but he is getting long in the tooth.
Falcon 228
March 11th, 2012
10:35 am
What do we do here fans. Do we spend the money or do we go into the draft with what we have and look at the late round picks. When we look at the Giants and their defensive picks they are the best at finding these guys that can not only make the big plays but they combine that with making them in a key part of the game. And they’re not 1st round picks.They picked Lofton because he was a play maker. But he never did make that key play. Sure, he played 99% of the playes on defense last year. How many interceptions, fumble recoveries, sacks or tackles for a loss did he have last year or for that matter during his tenure here in Atlanta? They have to get better at making these late round defensive picks. Mario Williams will be a great pickup but I still prefer we look for that help in the draft and spend money on the OL.Mike Nolan will give us a better eye on our defensive choices in the later rounds of the draft. Making the tackle is great but making it after the a gain of 4 or 5 yards? AMF Lofton.
PlayBoi100%
March 11th, 2012
10:38 am
If we cut 23,33,93,72 and sign 55 back let 50 go to big sign Philip Wheeler to take 50 place,Carl Nicks the OG we need,Red Bryant a mean DT we need,Dwight Lowery a safety that can cover and hit a up grade from 28,Cedric Griffin and Will Allen are better then 23 and would cost less money. We could draft a RB to take fat boy spot. We don’t need Williams but he would be great to have…Mr.Blank listen to me we need some nasty mean players. We don’t need no more clean cut guy to fit a Good Guy Image……….It’s not working change up our d-f needs to match or 2009 o-line nasty
Disgusted
March 11th, 2012
11:35 am
As a fan of course I would like it, but if I were a cap expert (and I do not profess to really care about the busines side of thngs), the FO has to think long and hard in planning this.
It is alot of money. Mario should be far better than Haynesworth (better player and perrson), but it IS alot of $$$$$$$.
Maybe that is why they are pursuing guys who were good but comming off injury. The Tatupu sign could be great but I want to see it.
Charles
March 11th, 2012
2:35 pm
Nike, pay me, FALCONS, JUST DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A-Ville Ranger
March 11th, 2012
3:51 pm
Trading Abraham and Lofton for a gimp and a gifted under-achiever would be 2 steps backward. Williams is a big puss and he always will be. Why would we give the soft as butter Williams 100 million but pass on giving the more productive Charles Johnson 72 million ?
cdog
March 11th, 2012
4:06 pm
WHATEVER THE FALCONS DO, PLEASE DON’T WASTE YOUR TIME SIGNING CHRIS REDMON. HE CAN’T MOVE THE TEAM PAST MIDFIELD.DRAFT OR SIGN A BACKUP BUT SAVE THE MONEY ON REDMON
Chris Eagle
March 12th, 2012
4:49 pm
Kendall Langford? I hope we do not “settle” for another Ray Edwards clone. If you want Charles Johnson/Mario Willaims, then go for it.
Richard
March 13th, 2012
9:47 am
SPEND THE $$$$$$$$$$ ON THE DEFENSE AND OFFENSIVE LINE & SEND Roddy White to the Patriots for one of their first round picks it would truely benefit both teams!!!!!!!!!!!!!