Falcons re-sign linebacker Mike Peterson
Here's Mike Peterson (53) stretching as the Falcons opened their first 2009 minicamp in Flowery Branch. CURTIS COMPTON / ccompton@ajc.com
Terms of the deal were undisclosed. Peterson, 36, was a starter in 2009 and 2010 before shifting to a reserve role last season. He received a $50,000 signing bonus and a base salary of $910,000 in 2011. He was not tendered an offer, when his contract expired on March 13.
In 2011, he started five games and played in 15 before going on injured reserve with a torn triceps that required surgery.
He was originally selected as a second round (36th overall) draft choice by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL Draft. Peterson, one of the most-respected players in the locker room, currently has 1,607 career tackles.
The Falcons were thin at linebacker after releasing Matt Hansen and with Lofa Tatupu suffering a serious pectoral injury last Thursday in the weight room.
Tatupu was scheduled to see Dr. James Andrews today. The team has not provided an update on his status.
PREVIOUS POST
- In a 37-21 victory in Oct. of 2009, Cowboys linebacker Keith Brooking (51) cheers toward the Falcons bench after teammate Patrick Crayton scored a touchdown. The former Falcon had two tackles for the Cowboys. (Vernon Bryant, Dallas Morning News)
BIRDLAND - With the pectoral injury to Lofa Tatupu and the release of Matt Hansen, the Falcons are back in the linebacker market before the start of training camp on Thursday.
The extent of Tatupu’s injury will be known after a visit to specialist Dr. James Andrews on Monday.
The group of available veteran linebackers includes a couple of familiar names in Mike Peterson and Keith Brooking. Peterson is the logical choice to return, since the present regime elected not to re-sign Brooking 
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Brooking’s celebration after the Cowboys beat the Falcons in 2009 would also have to be forgotten for the former first-round pick and Georgia Tech standout to return to Flowery Branch.
Here’s a quick look at some of the prospects:
Mike Peterson, age 36, 6-foot-1, 230-pounds: Played the last three seasons with the Falcons. He was a starter in 2009 and 2010 before shifting to a reserve role last season. He started five games and played in 15 before going on injured reserve with a torn triceps that required surgery. He was originally selected as a second round (36th overall) draft choice by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL Draft. Peterson, one of the most-liked players in the locker room, currently has 1,607 career tackles. Twitter handle: @MikePeterson53
Channing Crowder, 28, 6-2, 247: Last played with the Miami Dolphins during the 2010 season. He
Channing Crowder on Radio Row for Super Bowl XLVI. (D. Orlando Ledbetter/Dledbetter@ajc.com)
played under new Falcons coordinator Mike Nolan for two seasons. He played in 82 NFL games and made 74 starts. On his radio show in Miami he announced his retirement on Friday, according to Florida Sun-Sentinel Dolphins beat writer Omar Kelly. At the Super Bowl, the former North Springs High standout talked about making a comeback with Nolan and the Falcons.
E.J. Henderson, 31, 6-1, 235: He started 107 of 125 games over the past nine seasons for the Vikings. He rebounded from a horrific injury in 2008 and made the Pro Bowl in 2010. He could fit the bill as a two-down run stuffer. Twitter: @56ejhenderson.
Gary Brackett, 32, 5-11, 235: He played in one game last season after starting the previous seven seasons at middle linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts. Falcons director of player personnel David Caldwell was with the Colts during part of Brackett’s tenure. Twitter: @GaryBrackett58
Keith Brooking, 36, 6-2, 245: After spending his first 11 seasons with the Falcons, he played the last three seasons for the Dallas Cowboys. He’s a former five-time Pro Bowler and played one season under head coach Mike Smith in 2008.
–D. Orlando Ledbetter, The Atlanta Falcons beat blog
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141 comments Add your comment
Herschel Talker
July 22nd, 2012
4:05 pm
Keith Brooking is a clown.
If he’s motivated, Channing is the man.
FalconsToTheSuperBowl
July 22nd, 2012
4:07 pm
GARY BRACKETT….no one else.
Day OneFan
July 22nd, 2012
4:15 pm
Channing Crowder would be the obvious choice considering his age and his familiarity w/ DC Nolan.
Well-Endowed Birds Fan
July 22nd, 2012
4:38 pm
Keith Brooking would be a great addition, if he could go the distance like Mike Cox.
bsg3003
July 22nd, 2012
4:38 pm
lol Keith Brooking? Really? after that debacle in the Arizona game and after how he acted when he was with the Cowboys, i’m suprised anyone would even contemplate his return back here.
Peterson is real old so i don’t know about him. He has familiarity with the team so there’s that.
Channing Crowder would be my choice because he’s young and he knows Nolan’s Scheme well.
We really don’t need henderson because akeem dent is supposed to be that type of 2 down backer.
FalconsToTheSuperBowl
July 22nd, 2012
4:39 pm
Signing Mike Peterson doesnt make sense….he plays outside linebacker. We need to sign a middle linebacker. Gary Brackett was the team captain for the Colts and has played in 2 Super Bowls. We should sign him.
mountain_jim
July 22nd, 2012
4:42 pm
We should sign Lofton … oh wait…
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
4:44 pm
Oh boy, beggar’s banquet is not just a record label! One of the worst things about this region is the incessant need for vengeance and not forgiving insults! Y’all let little Keith Brooking come home!
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
4:44 pm
@ Ledbetter…
You’re welcome
Romedawg
July 22nd, 2012
4:46 pm
I hope the Falcons teach Brooking a valuable lesson about burning bridges. He acted like a low class punk and I would rather have anyone else on the list other than him.
Rock Perdoni
July 22nd, 2012
4:47 pm
Brooking is an ass-clown.
DirtyBirdsRiseUp
July 22nd, 2012
4:48 pm
EJ Henderson? The same guy Harry Douglas STIFF ARMED and scored on when we played the Vikings last year? No thanks.
MrShields
July 22nd, 2012
4:49 pm
Bring in Crowder!
Michael M.
July 22nd, 2012
4:53 pm
Crowder probably will be the pick but Brackett should be the logical choice.Brooking needs to go home to Senoia and retire. They ( Falcons Brass) do their own thing so no surprise either if they sign Henderson.
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
4:54 pm
How can you “burn a bridge” that did not exist? Dude, he was released!!! Hit the bricks, kicked to the curve, sent packing, given the one-way ticket…
Rick
July 22nd, 2012
4:55 pm
Please no Brooking! He is a pile jumper! Looks like some good options out there to grab for one year and see if they are motivated to be on a winne. What are you thoughts DLED?
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
5:04 pm
How helping out Ed Hartwell like they did Chris Redman? He could use the alimony money!
Bro
July 22nd, 2012
5:06 pm
There are a lot of linebackers out there. Why spend money on an old guy? Go for a young guy who wants and needs a job. It is time to use the draft picks obtained. If they can’t play, then cut them now.
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
5:16 pm
JSS,
Why do you resent everything Falcon?
Your incessant, unwavering and unending disparagement of anything Falcon sounds like the person served the papers in a bitter divorce.
Prove me wrong: list five things you admire and respect about their owner, their coaches and their players.
ernisTbass
July 22nd, 2012
5:18 pm
Brooking A- doesn’t have enough history of injuries to be considered and B- he would show up late anyway
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
5:25 pm
Whenever in doubt, always go with size, speed and youth.
The Real Falcon
July 22nd, 2012
5:30 pm
Always a Brooking fan. From high school and college but the rant after going to Dallas soured me on him. No way do I want this guy back!
to real
July 22nd, 2012
5:31 pm
Keith brooking get tha hell outta here anybody dat gives up a first down tha way he did in dat playoff game with tha cards back in 08 4th and 13 and you playing tha flats his name should not even be spoke of in atlanta I hate dat fool anit with tha cowboys anymore since we play them dis year cuz we own dat fool a beat down!!!! Crowder is tha best choice cuz his age and he know mike system already its nothing for him to learn goin into camp
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
5:47 pm
Larry…
Why are you directing a comment towards me? Remember last February?
falconfan 24-7
July 22nd, 2012
5:53 pm
No one on the list is worth signing. We need to find someone that will make an immediate impact on the defense like a younger version of Ray Lewis or a Clay Matthews type that Iwill not take plays off.
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
6:00 pm
And I am not answering you…
But I have always…
Commended
Brent Grimes for making himself into a worthy NFL cornerback…
Given Michael Turner for somehow gaining the 3rd most rushing yards in the NFL while playing in a single dimensional offense during his his stay here (and being under-appreciated and demeaned)…
Roddy White reluctant admiration for finally living up to his draft potential by finally working hard…
and gave the now departed Eric Weems and Michael Kornean much admiration for their overachieving work ethic! They should enjoy the money they earned on the open market!
As far the coaching staff, nothing to say… They please the likes of you and make me money in Las Vegas!
As far as for the Stadium chaser on the public dime, Dick Dastardly… Well @#$%& that *@#$ and his hand picked crooks too!
Enjoy, and never darken my portal again!
Paddy
July 22nd, 2012
6:04 pm
Falconfan 24-7 a younger version of Ray Lewis & Clay Matthws you say. You failed to mention the names of these great candidtes out there that are out of a job, waiting on the Falcons to call them LOL
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
6:12 pm
Call the Raiders, they might let you have their jail bird MIKE LB cheap… Oh I forgot, questionable character, never mind!!!
Greg
July 22nd, 2012
6:24 pm
I think falconfan 24-7 speaks the truth. This isn’t about signing the best available player no one else wants. This is about getting an impact player. We don’t have the option of taking a big step down from Lofton. Are we serious or not? Peterson? Please. Brooking. You’ve got to be joking. Crowder is solid against the run, but he’s a big man, and not so fluid dropping back into pass coverage…a scheme the Falcons have been using a lot. Brackett is quicker, and I’ve always liked him, but he’s on the small side, and he’s got some gray in his beard. Would he still be really stout against the run? Has he lost a step or two? I don’t know.
Still laughing at the name "falcons to the SB"
July 22nd, 2012
6:24 pm
You should worry about winning a playoff game first and scoring more than 2 points….fact, you are inferior to the Saints and will never achieve what we have – a SB victory….we will own you this year….your franchise is the laughingstock of the NFL….right there with the Viqueens….who dat, we dat, you ain’t dat….enjoy watching us win our second Lombardi this year, loosahs….must be terrible to be so jealous of the Saints success….
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
6:40 pm
You are only going to get an impact player in the draft or in the active phase of UFAs! This is what happens when squander away money in signing bonuses and long-term contracts! It is also what happens when you don’t take developing players you draft really seriously… Go and look at 2010 Green Bay Packers, they withstood major injuries in their LB core by simply doing just that!
Those black dots on the draft board are coming back to haunt in many different ways!!! Hey what is Odell Thurmann doing these days? Anybody got the number for AA?
5150 UOAD
July 22nd, 2012
6:42 pm
Brooking is to old and DOL just threw that name out to get hits.
Keith was dissed by Falcons but he's too old
July 22nd, 2012
6:49 pm
Keith’s celebration was a bit much, but the Falcons essentially crapped on a great career from a hometown boy in favor of a guy who he had a lot in common with, Mike Peterson. They’ll probably resign Peterson. Our linebackers stink anyway, so they can’t get much worse.
Were it me, I’d try to get EJ Henderson….
rollo lawson
July 22nd, 2012
6:53 pm
Mike Peterson was playing better than Lofton last year we he got into the game. I know for a fact he makes more impact plays than Lofton. His pick 6 would have won the game for us in Houston if not for the bogus illegal contact penalty against Robinson. In addition, Peterson is a great locker room guy. I like his leadership. Could be the perfect mentor to Akeem Dent. I think this could be a blessing in disguise if Dimitroff pulls the trigger and signs Mike.
Chub Rock
July 22nd, 2012
7:00 pm
Did Spoon bounce off Matt Forte last season and Forte ran for a TD? Yes. Does that mean Spoon can’t play the game at a high level? If your answer is no then maybe just maybe the same logic can be applied to the HD/Henderson situation. Name a linebacker that has not missed a tackle? I dare you. Channing Crowder has never been good at anything but running his mouth and he is nothing more than a run stopper just like the rest of these choices. I personally would rather have a guy who went to a Pro Bowl recently, as a backup MLB than a guy(Crowder) who has NEVER excelled in any system whether he knew the scheme or not. I’m not even gonna entertain the notion of Brooking or Brackett since both are washed clean of any real ability to play the game anymore. Henderson came back from a serious knee injury in 2008 or 9 and went to the Pro Bowl in 2010. Henderson is considered the best MLB available in free agency and has lowered his financial expectations. I really like Mike P. as a player and a person but the ride does stop for all. If Henderson is not willing to sign for the vet minimum or very close to it, I would go with Peterson over Crowder. I wonder why Crowder did not play last season? He was not injured. It was because no one wanted his loud mouth in their locker room.
1eyedJack
July 22nd, 2012
7:03 pm
Brooking looks like the stunt man double for Rocky Balboa when he got his face beat in by Apollo Creed.
Chub Rock
July 22nd, 2012
7:10 pm
Paddy- I’m with you or that one. Just where are these young versions of Ray Lewis and Clay Matthews hiding? Walmart? Impact players are not just sitting under a tree somewhere waiting on the Falcons to snatch them up. The choices are right here in front of you.
Mike Franklin
July 22nd, 2012
7:16 pm
Was always a fan of Brooking even though he was a GT product. The celebration in the game mentioned above was a lot hurtful but… this is a business. He can play for the Cuban national swim team if it suits him. This year’s colors for that groups is gold and black, lol.
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
7:23 pm
JSS,
Aside from your obvious disdain for Authur Blank and seemingly, Matt Ryan, are you otherwise an Atlanta Falcon football fan? Do you want this “team” to win or lose?
Sport
July 22nd, 2012
7:25 pm
Why don’t we wait and see if Lofa has spit the bit before talking about possible replacements.
Rev Blake
July 22nd, 2012
7:31 pm
Brooking celebrated a win that he had very little to do with. Plus, he whined like a toddler after the AZ loss. Too immature for a man his age. Take the one who has youth along with experience in Nolan’s scheme.
Joe
July 22nd, 2012
7:49 pm
Give their top performing UFA from Training Camp a shot. Often times your best “diamond in the rough” is right under your nose.
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
7:52 pm
Larry, you are still talking at me? I have said this ad nauseam: I’m a pro football fan… I don’t care who wins on Sunday, Thursday, or on Monday! I had Atlanta Falcons season tickets from May 27, 1982 until January 7, 2007. That is the day Arthur Blank hired Bobby Petrino… I have known pro football players since I was 4 years old… I’ve seen it all…
This team is not built to win playoff football… The coach is not a strategist… The strengths of your offense are not equally distributed to dictate to other teams of equal or greater talent… Until they address what other “real” playoff teams will present them, they will lose 8 out of 10 times against types of teams… They have been neither physically strong enough to impose their will, nor or they intellectually (in a football sense) flexible enough to defeat the aforementioned teams when all things are equal….
Please STOP messaging me, we have absolutely nothing to discuss and it keeps me from saying what I think of you (socially and politically)…
D. Orlando Ledbetter
July 22nd, 2012
8:12 pm
JSS – What are you and Larry fighting about. Guess I’ll find out as I read on.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
July 22nd, 2012
8:17 pm
5150 UOAD — Just went down my list of veteran free agent middle linebackers.
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
8:24 pm
@Ledbetter…
No fight, the word means nothing on AJC blogs… Kinda like North and South Korea, sixty years technically still at war!
Why did you leave Odell off the list?
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
8:25 pm
“the word truce”
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
8:29 pm
JSS,
What is your issue? Yes, we’ve had our message board wars in the past and agreed–at least I did with the initial olive branch–to call a truce. I believe I’ve held up my end of the bargain, agreed?
I’m simply trying to get where you’re coming from. You seem at have aligned yourself at times with CHOKE and ‘poop, who are clearly appear at times racist with their constant attacks on Ryan and idolatry for Vick, so I’m, frankly, trying to define your motivation. I mean seriously, even if they are not Matt Ryan fans where’s the need–especially from CHOKE, not ‘poop–to obsessively assault and disparage Matt Ryan unwaveringly and unendingly? Even with his physical limitations the man is a decent guy who tries his best and keeps his nose out of trouble.
Your comments above give me a better understanding as I’ve been a season ticket holder since 1988. I too didn’t care for the Mora or Petrino hiring’s–especially dumping Reeves for the ammonia sniffing Mora.
You’re a sharp dude with a tremendous insight and historical perspective, but I think you at times devalue your contribution by some hidden bitterness and resentment…just trying in my mind to separate you from some folks here that that have nothing of consequence to offer but are obsessed with beating up on some players for reasons that are highly suspect and questionable.
Lighten up, man…I actually agree with comments and share your perspectivemore than might believe.
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
8:31 pm
JSS,
What is your issue? Yes, we’ve had our message board wars in the past and agreed–at least I did with the initial olive branch–to call a truce. I believe I’ve held up my end of the bargain, agreed?
I’m simply trying to get where you’re coming from. You seem at have aligned yourself at times with CHOKE and ‘poop, who are clearly appear at times racist with their constant attacks on Ryan and idolatry for Vick, so I’m, frankly, trying to define your motivation. I mean seriously, even if they are not Matt Ryan fans where’s the need–especially from CHOKE, not ‘poop–to obsessively assault and disparage Matt Ryan unwaveringly and unendingly? Even with his physical limitations the man is a decent guy who tries his best and keeps his nose out of trouble.
Your comments above give me a better understanding as I’ve been a season ticket holder since 1988. I too didn’t care for the Mora or Petrino hiring’s–especially dumping Reeves for the ammonia sniffing Mora.
You’re a sharp dude with a tremendous insight and historical perspective, but I think you at times devalue your contribution by some hidden bitterness and resentment…just trying in my mind to separate you from some folks here that that have nothing of consequence to offer but are obsessed with beating up on some players for reasons that are highly suspect and questionable.
Lighten up, man…I actually agree with some of your and share some of your perspectives more than you might believe!
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
8:32 pm
Orlando, release my last post, please! There’s nothing offensive or vulgar in it whatsoever!
This filter/delay is at times absurd!
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
8:34 pm
I’ll try it in two parts to see if this will work…sigh!
Part one:
JSS,
What is your issue? Yes, we’ve had our message board wars in the past and agreed–at least I did with the initial olive branch–to call a truce. I believe I’ve held up my end of the bargain, agreed?
I’m simply trying to get where you’re coming from. You seem at have aligned yourself at times with CHOKE and ‘poop, who are clearly appear at times racist with their constant attacks on Ryan and idolatry for Vick, so I’m, frankly, trying to define your motivation. I mean seriously, even if they are not Matt Ryan fans where’s the need–especially from CHOKE, not ‘poop–to obsessively assault and disparage Matt Ryan unwaveringly and unendingly? Even with his physical limitations the man is a decent guy who tries his best and keeps his nose out of trouble.
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
8:37 pm
Come on, DOL!
Larry
July 22nd, 2012
8:39 pm
I’ll try it with a couple of dots …
JSS,
What is your issue? Yes, we’ve had our message board wars in the past and agreed–at least I did with the initial olive branch–to call a truce. I believe I’ve held up my end of the bargain, agreed?
I’m simply trying to get where you’re coming from. You seem at have aligned yourself at times with CHOK.E and ‘poo.p, who are clearly appear at times racist with their constant attacks on Ryan and idolatry for Vic.k, so I’m, frankly, trying to define your motivation. I mean seriously, even if they are not Matt Ryan fans where’s the need–especially from CHOK.E, not ‘poo.p–to obsessively assault and disparage Matt Ryan unwaveringly and unendingly? Even with his physical limitations the man is a decent guy who tries his best and keeps his nose out of trouble.
Your comments above give me a better understanding as I’ve been a season ticket holder since 1988. I too didn’t care for the Mora or Petrino hiring’s–especially dumping Reeves for the ammonia sniffing Mora.
You’re a sharp dude with a tremendous insight and historical perspective, but I think you at times devalue your contribution by some hidden bitterness and resentment…just trying in my mind to separate you from some folks here that that have nothing of consequence to offer but are obsessed with beating up on some players for reasons that are highly suspect and questionable.
Lighten up, man…I actually agree with some of your and share some of your perspectives more than you might believe!
falconjonk
July 22nd, 2012
8:52 pm
Just bring Gary Brackett ok.
Hamad Meander
July 22nd, 2012
9:09 pm
Answer D: None of the above
Rick
July 22nd, 2012
9:18 pm
Well I see all of the “I hate the Atlanta Falcons non fans ” are back on the blog. Still hard to figure why non fans get on here and bash the home team. But anyway, heres my opinion, I think anyone we bring in will be just a backup to Dent. I think Dent is going to surprise some people this year how else do we feel good enough to not resign Lofton? I know money had something to do with it but I think all of us as real Falcon fans have asked about player development on both sides of the ball…..correct? I think Dent has developed, learned how to play behind some good vets and now its his turn! We only need a backup in case if injury or to spell him every now and then. So lets go Falcon Nation, many of us are getting what we asked for, players who develop into starting roles! Rise up!
Whadda Ya Know?
July 22nd, 2012
9:22 pm
Keith Brooking? DLed I can’t believe you even thought the Falcons would consider this clown after they basically told him he was washed up.
Atlanta Falcons: Peterson’s return likely; Brooking’s is not | NFL Online News
July 22nd, 2012
9:24 pm
[...] Atlanta Falcons This entry was posted in Atlanta Falcons and tagged Atlanta, Brooking’s, Falcons, likely, Peterson's, return. Bookmark the permalink. ← NCAA set to hammer Penn State [...]
Big Ray
July 22nd, 2012
9:55 pm
Larry,
Nice try, but even a graphing calculator couldn’t compute JSS’s issues….it’s hopeless. Especially since he keeps coming on a blog that is centered on a team he can’t stand. Talk about retarded….damn, I think I just insulted the mentally challenged on that one…
As for backup LBs, I’m fine with anything except Keith Brooking. He got the pink slip because he felt he should have been paid like a Pro Bowler when in fact he was playing like a practice squad chump. Enough said.
falconfan4ever
July 22nd, 2012
9:58 pm
Who ever they select will be a back up. I like Dent as a starter to begin the season. Some where down the line someone saw something out of him to be drafted. why not give him a chance at it. If it doesn’t work out then Tatupu should be ready to come back from the injury. I think we will be just fine what ever happens. There is no reason to panic. RISE UP FALCONS !!!!!!
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
10:03 pm
“Aligned?” What is this the 1947 House Committee on Falcon Fan Activities? Sorry to tell you folks but MCR has been 91% right regarding Ryan and his play over the past seasons.
I’ve told y’all for years that I ain’t here to make friends…
Choke will tell you that we’ve had our spiffs; but we have an agreement, I mind my business and he minds his own blogging!
Folks just like Michael Vick is a grown man, so is Matt Ryan! All of this “like” talk isn’t helping him one bit! Shoot, Jim McMahon was an average QB in the overall scale of things; but that dude didn’t how Chicago fans talked him down, same for Phil Sims… But in Atlanta, it is you folks are suffering from some form of POW mentality! “Why does the world not love us?” “Why?”
Geez, it is a football game played for money as its form of allegiance! I’m done, STOP messaging me!
Falcon Fan
July 22nd, 2012
10:05 pm
If its just going to be a backup why not Brooking. He could mentor some of the younger guys on defense and play sparingly to give Dent a breather. I like that move alot. Plus it can be his apology of sorts to Falcon nation and he can go out a Falcon.
JSS
July 22nd, 2012
10:06 pm
Ha ha, issues? You folks are ripe tonight!
Larry, tell Ledbetter to email you my reply…. STOP messaging me!
bo joe ellis
July 22nd, 2012
10:41 pm
If you can’t find any one besides these 5 clowns then get Crowder.
BIG J
July 22nd, 2012
11:30 pm
Brooking doesn’t want the FALCONS. The Falcons showed no class when they cut him. Instead of thanking him for staying with a looser franchise, they spouted to him ” It’s a young mans game”. They got what they deserved in the Cowboys game. Anyone would be a fool to sign with those losers. They will probably sign someone from the Dept Of Corrections team. Pro sports has become nothing but my cities thugs vs your cities thugs.
Aaron
July 22nd, 2012
11:55 pm
Don’t need 36-year olds.
Grimey
July 23rd, 2012
12:00 am
Id like a solid Mlb that can take a leadership role.And have starting dent at mlb
Jarrett
July 23rd, 2012
2:00 am
My cities thus vs your cities thugs??? Sooo Matt Ryan is a thug now??? Tom Brady too???Some of these comparisons go a little far… Football is a thinking mans game thug or not… The concepts andstrategies require that you learn to out-think your opponent as much as anything else so I I’m not really sure that was a good analogy to use…
Saints R.E.A.M.
July 23rd, 2012
8:00 am
Channing – - what type of shape might he be in considering he planned on retirement? However, most Falcon Fans would sign him. Interesting…..
Jss is a pillow biter
July 23rd, 2012
8:02 am
JSS, have you looked over any of your posts? Maybe you should have been doing your English homework instead of whining about a Pro Football team. I figure you stopped purchasing the Season tickets because you most likely lost your job(assuming you @ one time had one) or your parents cut you off. Please get laid, or make a friend..or if a human won’t come near you-get a dog! Either way I,m sure I speak for everyone when I say please stay off a blog that is for “fans’” not Poindexter nerdy geek types that most likely only played Rec ball and have some pitiful vendetta. PS. we sholda kept Lofton, Lofa will be back soon and Dent’s Backup will play sparingly as did the aforementioned so it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme
Brian Van Gorder
July 23rd, 2012
8:19 am
Please, ANYBODY but Keith Brooking!!!
Big D
July 23rd, 2012
8:42 am
We had a good line backer, Curtis Lofton, but we let him go to the Saints. Now we need a line backer?
SawThat1nce
July 23rd, 2012
8:47 am
Why didn’t the Falcons draft Clay Matthews?
Esquire
July 23rd, 2012
9:00 am
I think Dled was joking by including Brooking on this list. And while we are on the subject of linebackers Curtis Lofton was a league leader in missed tackes.
Will the Falcons Add a Free Agent Linebacker? | XSDirect
July 23rd, 2012
9:08 am
[...] DOL breaks down the free agent linebacker options. And to be honest, Mike Peterson does seem like the best option. [...]
Rodster
July 23rd, 2012
9:11 am
Brooking is a low-class, a$$-clown.
Bring in Brackett.
kingdaddy
July 23rd, 2012
9:49 am
Get Brookings & E.J. OR M.P. Then make Brook run the stairs everyday, then cut him right before the season starts. No Glory in ATL. for Brook. Only HEARTACHE…
PMC
July 23rd, 2012
9:51 am
Crowder would be a decent canidate because he knows the scheme.
If Mike Pete can play though, I’d love him to be here over you know… Robert James…anyway.
Buckeye
July 23rd, 2012
9:55 am
Anyone but “I’m always at the ball two steps late” Brooking
kingdaddy
July 23rd, 2012
10:05 am
Get Brookings, treat him bad, then cut him, lol…
Good Grief
July 23rd, 2012
10:06 am
Brackett would probably be the best choice, as he has experience both playing and leading. The age wouldn’t be a big deal, as it might only e a year or two contract at most.
The key thing is that the Falcons need to start working on defense in the draft. The offense will come around, and we have enough threats on the edge to stretch the defense and opening up the running game. We may need a RB very soon, but that shouldn’t be difficult. But we have to build a defense.
Say It Aint So
July 23rd, 2012
10:21 am
Brooking is a career pile jumper. Falcons are looking to move forward not backward. Just say no!
Pile jumper Brookings
July 23rd, 2012
10:27 am
HA no way the need 2 sigh the pile jumper Brookings. Hes a waist of a rooster spot.
jerseyfalcon
July 23rd, 2012
11:09 am
Isn’t EJ Henderson on the Dolphins now?? gary Brackett never played in a 4-3/3-4 hybred system…so he won’t be good. Brooking…hurts just typing his name out, so he’s out. Peterson, there was a reasonw hy he was let go and not retained to teach the younger guys…he’s 36, which means he’s lost not just one but maybe four steps and what good is that? Basically the Falcons are screwed at MLB because Dent isn’t proven at all ( dont care if he was a ‘beast’ as all you people down south call EVERYONE out of a Georgia school ) Plus ons are barely under the cap…they ahve about 2.8 or 3 mil left, so they can’t sign a MLB AND a half way decent LT is baker falls apart again……This is a long post and i doubt anyone would actually read this but oh well.
smh...
July 23rd, 2012
11:17 am
I woundn’t sign none of these guys if I had to. But since I have to sign at least one of them… I guess it would be Crowder.
Joe Falcon
July 23rd, 2012
11:29 am
Brooking was great, in his day…but his day is done. Now, he’s a “shoe-string” tackler. The “last man on the top of the pile”.
Stephen Hawking would make a better MLB, right now.
SeenThisB4
July 23rd, 2012
11:30 am
If Tatupu is visiting Dr. James Andrews, then there is no way he is just missing the beginning of falcan’t camp. He will be lucky to make it back before the season ends, if he doesn’t just go ahead and call it a career. Makes that soft defensive underbelly, even softer.
scott
July 23rd, 2012
11:44 am
Why were the Falcons banking so heavily on Tatupu who didn’t even play last year ? It wasn’t like we had Ray Lewis and now he is hurt. There should have been a better plan than banking on this guy. They should have signed Lofton. From what I remember he was pretty good…remember Falcons execs ???? It’s their own fault they are in this mess. Bring back Fulton Kuykendall or Buddy Curry.
Northern Bird
July 23rd, 2012
12:25 pm
I’d say EJ Henderson or Crowder. EJ was a great run stuffer with the Vikings, though he had the two Williams bros up front too…
Mike P was a great pro – but too old, and like others have said on here re. the return of Brooking: ‘No way Jose’ – as much as i liked him during his 1st contract with the falcons – the guy is an idiot !
Big Ron
July 23rd, 2012
12:27 pm
All of these guy are to old,
thats all you could come up with
JSS
July 23rd, 2012
12:29 pm
Whodini missed their calling, the freaks come out at 8:02 in the morning! “I,m,” “Sholda,” “Season,” and dang the list is too long… Larry the Cable calling out folks is just un-American! P.S. Sylvan called and you’re late!
Ted Striker
July 23rd, 2012
12:38 pm
The betting line in Vegas just moved to “JSS over Larry” in this debate by 13 points. Never seen anything like it. It started out even, then the spread rocketed to double digits as I scrolled down.
If the conversation (?!) continues it’s going to be a blowout with JSS hanging 47 verbal smackdown points on Larry, who clearly won’t manage to score.
I’m calling my bookie. I see easy money.
yeahsure
July 23rd, 2012
1:22 pm
Falcons showed no class when they cut Brooking?
Arthur held a freakin press conference when they cut him.. Who else gets that treatment? Do you see the patriots holding press conferences for every vet they cut? Brooking is dead to me and this franchise. Spoon will wear that number 1000x better than overrated Brooking ever did.
Anyways, lets bring in Chowder. He knows Nolan and he’s young. As long as he comes in shape.
JSS
July 23rd, 2012
1:35 pm
Be careful Ted Striker, the long knives are out! You don’t want to get dragged into this one… You know I have “issues!”
Thanks for the backup, enjoy the upcoming season and my best to you and yours!
Hard Truth Soldier
July 23rd, 2012
1:37 pm
Funny isn’t this? I mean to be this close to training camp and not have a plan in place is a statement within a organization. One Super Bowl appearance since 1966 says it all.
senior falcon
July 23rd, 2012
1:42 pm
No to Brooking. Yes to the most ag-ile, mo-bile and hos-tile among the others. As for JSS and Larry, get a room.
Mr. Hankey
July 23rd, 2012
1:45 pm
Brooking? No way, Renee. I detest, despise and can stand him and that was when he was a Falcon. After his behavior after the Dallas game in the Dome I’d just as soon spit in his face. The good thing is I can back that up. That’s what 15 years of martial arts will do for you. Watch out Keith. I got a loogy waiting on you, asspipe.
Georgia Sports Reports
July 23rd, 2012
2:06 pm
Think maybe we should’ve resigned Lofton now??
UPGRAYEDD
July 23rd, 2012
2:42 pm
All those cats are too old, except Crowder. Crowder knows Nolan’s system. He’s still young enough. This one’s a no-brainer, as long as Crowder still has the fire.
Bluto
July 23rd, 2012
3:23 pm
“Larry, you are still talking at me? I have said this ad nauseam: I’m a pro football fan…”
AKA front runner.
Nobis is already on the payroll
July 23rd, 2012
3:43 pm
I’d go EJ of the ones mentioned. Od course, I would’ve preferred we keep Lofton, and Dahl the year before that so as to maintain O line integrity.
Peerless Price
July 23rd, 2012
3:52 pm
Putting Brooking in a game is like using Hasheem Thabeet as a starter. It all looks good till the whistle blows.
rollo lawson
July 23rd, 2012
4:20 pm
Say no to Highway 56 aka Brokeback Brooking aka Brooking 3:16.
REAL FALCONS FAN
July 23rd, 2012
4:25 pm
THIS IS AA NO BRAINER . DENT IS A FATSTER VERSION OF LOFTON ,NO DISRESPECT TO THE POLICE. DENT IS FASTER ANDA THUMPER, PETERSON WILL PROVIDE LEADERSHIP AS A COACH ON THE FIELD . KNOWING HOW THE FALCON’S OPERATE THE CHANCES OF CROWDER BEING A FALCON ARE SLIM , HE WOULD HAVE TO WOW SMITTY ,AND THEN SOME . GIVE ME PETE ALL DAY LONG AND HE HAS BEEN A SPECIAL TEAMER ,AND STILL HAS SPEED. EITHER WAY T.D. ,AND SMITTY WILL MAKE THE CHOICE THAT BENIFITS THE FALCON’S! RISE UP GO FALCON’S .
RobbE33
July 23rd, 2012
4:48 pm
Leave Brooking in the heap with MeAngelo. I enjoyed him while he was here but his antics showed why Falcons let him go.
philip
July 23rd, 2012
5:18 pm
Good move on brining in Peterson. I think it a short term fix. Any other LB on the radar??
BravesFan79
July 23rd, 2012
6:06 pm
As a longtime Falcons fan i still got love for Brooking. Would be awsome to see him back in a Falcons jersey! Football is a emotional game, he plays with emotion. That’s what we need in a part time player like he would be now!
James
July 23rd, 2012
6:13 pm
Please tell me you folks don’t act like this in public…
I like Peterson and am glad to have him back, but If Dent doesn’t work out well, we might be in a a bit of trouble.
Big Ray
July 23rd, 2012
6:41 pm
Signed Mike Peterson, huh? Ehhh…not the worst we could do, and besides…he’s fine in limited snaps. Make him work hard all season long, and he wears down.
phil
July 23rd, 2012
6:41 pm
Brooking? Are you kidding me?
Brooking? Why even mention the name of this pathetic has been?
phil
July 23rd, 2012
6:43 pm
Peterson…
36 years old. Tired. Worn out.
Yep, here we come, Super Bowl….sigh.
True Falcon Fan
July 23rd, 2012
7:05 pm
Where is ZERO “do nothing” & “expect somebody to take of his worthless A$$??? Maybe momma will or is!!!!!
Dan
July 23rd, 2012
7:08 pm
I would take Crowder but if we settled for Peterson must have been because he came cheaper
Robert
July 23rd, 2012
8:03 pm
We could of brought in crowder but oh well
Just Sayin.....
July 23rd, 2012
9:01 pm
Why do the Falcons do this every season? When most teams are set and looking forward to trainng camp, the Falcons find themselves scrambling and settling for injury prone and/or cut players.
Dimitroff anyone?
SeenThisB4
July 23rd, 2012
9:06 pm
LOL! It’s going to be so easy! LOL! Peterson?! Ba ha, ha ha ha!
Just Sayin.....
July 23rd, 2012
9:13 pm
Can anyone tel me how with only 6 spots in the playoffs can we really believe the Falcons are a shoe in to beat out one of these teams for a playoff spot when they are in the current state?
San Fran
Philly
Green Bay
Giants
Lions
Bears
Saints
San Fran will probably win the West, Philly or Giants in the East, Green Bay in the North, the rest of the teams listed will be scrambling for the remaining 3 spots, so are we so certain the Falcons can make it in? If so, how and where?
nfcchampsliveinga
July 23rd, 2012
9:28 pm
Give Dent a chance. The guy played at UGA in both 4-3 and 3-4 scheme. He is faster than CL50 and more athletic. Dent will do fine as a run stopping MLB, just like CL50 did. He has to learn quickly, but i dont expect a huge difference from his play than CL50. Dent my turn out better in passing downs than Lofton. Dent will do fine!
SeenThisB4
July 23rd, 2012
9:39 pm
I’m sure Peterson will pick up that new scheme in a flash too! Peterson! That’s hilarious!
nfcchampsliveinga
July 23rd, 2012
9:40 pm
As far as the NFC South goes, the Saints are unlikely to repeat as a division winner. NFC South history isnt own there side.
SeenThisB4
July 23rd, 2012
9:49 pm
Not playing a history book.
nfcchampsliveinga
July 23rd, 2012
9:56 pm
The D will be fine, the only change will be at MLB. Dent was drafted as CL50 replacement. Nothing new here. He has his opportunity to take the position as I expect him to. Peterson is a good veteran to have who is familiar with the team so the chemisty piece wont be an issue.
ws
July 23rd, 2012
10:09 pm
Why Peterson? He never played forr Nolan. We must be going too still run a Mike Smith defense!!! Can not blame BVG ANYMORE; Falcons name should be the Altanta Jags!!! They love old over the hill player . And add sign ever injury player that they can. What is the hold up on Mc Neil?
nfcchampsliveinga
July 23rd, 2012
10:17 pm
McNeil has to be a medical issue, which means he more than likely cant pass the teams physical. MP53 is familiar with the team and has team chemistry already. Tatupu was plan A, now the team had to move to Plan B. MP53 is still productive in a limited role and will provide additional leadership as he didid for SW56.
Falcons Bring Back Linebacker Mike Peterson « The Falcon Project
July 23rd, 2012
10:34 pm
[...] Falcons have signed veteran linebacker Mike [...]
jaz
July 23rd, 2012
10:47 pm
Thought Tatupu’s expertise was LB with great pass defense. With a pec injury, he won’t be raising his arms up for a while, so I would have expected a replacement with similar skills, not just a run-stopper.
JR
July 23rd, 2012
11:00 pm
We are in a mell of a hess
Just Sayin.....
July 23rd, 2012
11:12 pm
The average window of opportunity is 3 years in the NFL. This coffin is pretty much shut. Its Carolina and Tampa’s turn.
nfcchampsliveinga
July 23rd, 2012
11:30 pm
Atlanta isnt in bad shape as many are tryin to put us in. Dent will have few responsiblities in the MlB position. SW56 will be the QB of the Defense. He will be making the calls and adjustments not Dent. For the record, MP53, MS, and Van Gorder mentored SW56, not Nolan in his first 2 years in the NFL. SW56 had a pro bowl year last year, Nolan had nothing to do with that. Nolan can continue to develop SW56 into an elite OLB, which I think he will. Personally, Im more concerned about LT than MLB. The D will be fine. Dont underestimate team chemistry.
JSS
July 24th, 2012
12:02 am
A man can’t even enjoy a nice dinner out without some Sleestak mentality megalomaniac fool trolling about defaming people’s mother… Dude, go and rest your limited brain until after the pre-season…
At least Grandpa Abe, Abuelo Gonzalez, Uncle Festus McClure, and Spinster Uncle Petersen can keep each other company at Denny’s senior breakfast!
DR. FALCON
July 24th, 2012
12:16 am
YOU GUYS ARE A JOKE! WHO THE HELL BROUGHT UP KEITH BROOKING? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? WHILE YOU ARE AT IT, SEE IF FULTON KUYKENDALL IS AVAILABLE! BETTER YET, CHECK INTO BUDDY CURRY! THOSE TWO GUYS, SHOULD HAVE FRESH LEGS! THEY HAVEN’T PLAYED IN YEARS!!! GET REAL! BROOKING?
garcia
July 24th, 2012
5:12 am
Why all the angst over a back up MLB position? Dent is our starting MLB.
Signing Peterson, for the back up role is the smartest thing to do. Once teams break camp, other MLB’s of decent quality will be shed and the Falcons will get a chance to work them out.
Not a big deal.
Season Ticket Holder Sec 128
July 24th, 2012
6:24 am
Anybody but Brooking. He is a Azz Clown….
Saints R.E.A.M.
July 24th, 2012
8:47 am
I expect the Falcons to have problems stopping the run and the pass this year. Enjoy. Defense will be ranked 18th in the league…..Enjoy.
Float on
July 24th, 2012
9:48 am
I expect the saints to have problems stopping the run and the pass this year. Enjoy. Defense will be ranked 19th in the league. Enjoy.
Mr Post it note:
July 24th, 2012
10:32 am
These are nice camp guys to give the O some reps, but in late August many vet LB’s will be cut because of overblotted contracts. I am sure a couple of these guys would like to play for a playoff contender and for Mike Nolan. TD will pick one up then.
Just Sayin.....
July 24th, 2012
1:09 pm
I don’t get all the love for Dimitroff. All he does is draft injury prone players and unproven contracts. Every year he picks up other teams leftovers because his signings and draft picks are injured, which he should have anticipated if he had done his homework. Then there is the cap issue.
Look at Philly in contrast. They signed all those big free agents, resigned all their top performers yet they still are 15 million below the cap.
Dimitroff is a joke.
ASHCAN!!!!!!!
July 24th, 2012
1:26 pm
Don’t matter who they sign this team still won’t make it to the superbowl. Go ahead, take a shot at me for telling thr truth. Matt ryan can’t and will not win in the playoffs, he’s 0 for ugly.
LexLuth
July 24th, 2012
2:24 pm
Brooking has, and always will be, a better show boater than a linebacker. He is not needed here.
True Falcon Fan
July 24th, 2012
2:28 pm
Dled are you kidding me,,,, what is up with you
DION JONES
July 25th, 2012
1:00 am
Why we didn’t pursue Brackett or EJ Hederson? They are 2 outstanding football players who can help our line backer core. Brooking should not come back to Atlanta remember he bit on the play action vs Arizona in the playoffs and we lose and released him; any chance we can try to sign Brackett or Henderson??? RISEUP