Dimitroff is playing a dangerous game
In the past two weeks, the Falcons have politely folded up Keith Brooking, Lawyer Milloy, Grady Jackson, Michael Boley and Domonique Foxworth and left them on the front porch like used sweaters for the Salvation Army.
That’s the thing about having one great season: Nobody is going to say general manager Thomas Dimitroff has goofed because his transcripts are still Harvard-grade. His team just orchestrated one of the most remarkable turnarounds in NFL history. His benefit of the doubt isn’t anywhere close to expiring.
But at the very least, Dimitroff is playing a dangerous game.
Locker-room chemistry and leadership are important commodities in any sport but particularly the NFL, where a hard salary cap limits depth and the number of veterans a team can carry. Say what you want about how little we expected from the Falcons last season, even after Dimitroff’s first veteran bloodletting (Warrick Dunn, Alge Crumpler, Rod Coleman, et. al): Keeping Milloy and Brooking at least ensured some veteran stability on the defensive side of the ball.
Loading ...But look at what this latest sweep has created. Five defensive regulars are gone, and the one returning starter whom everybody suddenly seems to be counting on to lead the masses is linebacker Curtis Lofton.
Kind of seems like a lot to put on a 22-year-old coming off his rookie season, doesn’t it?
“I texted Curtis and told him he’s the guy on defense now,” Brooking said Wednesday during a farewell news conference at owner Arthur Blank’s home office.
Dimitroff will rely heavily on the draft. That tends to be the smart course of action in the NFL. Owners who operate their team like they’re in a fantasy league tend to implode. (Unfortunately, Brooking just signed with one of them: Dallas.) But Dimitroff also must know that New England, the model organization he came from, makes a point annually to dot its roster with veterans.
Many question what Keith Brooking has left physically, but nobody can doubt his passion or leadership.
A lot of things went right for the Falcons last season. Logic dictates they aren’t likely to live such a charmed existence next season. Matt Ryan threw a touchdown pass on the first play of 2008. That set the tone for what became four months of nirvana.
But often after such magical seasons, reality sets in. Schedules get more difficult. Opponents approach you differently. Game plans spontaneously combust.
Ask New Orleans. Ask Seattle. Ask, well, the Falcons.
Individually, losing Brooking, Milloy, Jackson, Boley or Foxworth probably isn’t that big of a deal. Collectively, they leave a black hole. Dimitroff is counting on too many things going right. John Abraham and Jonathan Babineaux are nice players. But guys who will jump on a table and take charge if things start to go south? Not likely.
Lawyer Milloy led the Falcons' young secondary last season, but he is expected to sign with Seattle soon.
Brooking acknowledges the obvious: He’s not the same player physically he was as a rookie in 1998. But he said he still brings the Cowboys “the ability to be a leader by example, vocally if I have to. I can pull the young guys to the side and teach them what it takes to be successful in the NFL.”
He called the Falcons’ decision to part with five veterans “significant.” But he believes in Lofton and in the leadership of coach Mike Smith
Maybe he really believes they’ll be OK. Then again, it’s not exactly in his nature to publicly second-guess anybody, particularly an organization whose owner just hosted his goodbye press conference
But come September, a number of guys in the Falcons’ locker room are going to be looking at each other, waiting to see who jumps on a table — and a few of the candidates were left on the porch.
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166 comments Add your comment
Sage of Bluesland
March 4th, 2009
8:10 pm
Give me a break, Jeff–you’re dead wrong on our precious Hometown Hero being any sort of “leader”. Funny, when DeAngelo was imploding for all to see in 2007 against the Panthers at home, where was our local-boy-done-good then? It was Alge Crumpler–off the bench–who was trying to calm the idiotic corner down. Brooking was nowhere to be seen.
Brooking sits alone on the bench, too. Have you SEEN it?
But, he sure does give a ‘rah-rah’ pre- and post-game speech to the news media, doesn’t he?
Keith Brooking is such a joke–and he always has been. I just don’t know what this team will do without him…Stop foisting this fraud down our throats. It’s offensive.
When the Cowboys–and their fans–realize what an ankle-grabbing, pile-jumping, instinctless oaf of a linebacker on their team, will you write about how wrong you were? I beg of you: Please stop with the emotional pity-party over Keith Brooking. It’s over.
Ole Man Bourbon
March 4th, 2009
8:16 pm
Dmitroff is making difficult decisions to win rather than the easy decisions to please. Have to admire that, whether it works or not. It’s idling and hoping things stay the same that kills NFL teams.
Not to mention, the Atlanta D has been neither particularly spectacular nor spry, lately.
There were personnel moves that still needed to be made with the team. Can’t say I’m disappointed to see them being made through a combination of attrition and the draft.
MattyB
March 4th, 2009
8:21 pm
Well said, Jeff. Like it or not, it seems that regardless of last season’s success, this franchise is truly building itself for the long-haul and not instant gratification.
Dan
March 4th, 2009
8:23 pm
But Jeff – not only did the Falcons go 11 – 5, Dimitroff worked for the Patriots, where Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick invented the NFL.
Just ask Mark Bradley if you need to know the obvious – “He’s the smartest general manager the Falcons have ever had…. Dimitroff would be the smartest GM a lot of teams have ever had. After 14 months and an 11-5 season, he has earned the ultimate affirmation: If this team makes a move, we see it as a shrewd one. Because it’s a Dimitroff move.”
Ask Mark for some Kool-Aid and get on message.
Will
March 4th, 2009
8:33 pm
“In Dimitroff we trust.”
Seems to me that Dimitroff is letting go people who are either just past their prime or who are thinly disguised malcontents.It was obvious that Mike Smith and Van Gorder acheived a lot last year with smoke and mirrors on the defense. To be sure, the Falcons and Smitty achieved a lot last year…but the defense was not as stout as it should have been at season’s end and in Arizona. I still think that with even a little bit better defense, the Falcons would have won that game. Even if we have to take a step backwards next season (2009) in order to get experience for 2010 and beyond, I with them. Go get’em Thomas Dimitroff, go get ‘em.
JWS
March 4th, 2009
8:45 pm
Those great leaders of our defense last year lead us to the 24th ranked defense. Thanks, but no thanks.
I’ll say this though, Keith is a good person and this was a nice thing they did today. Best of luck to him…
falcon21
March 4th, 2009
9:01 pm
Well said Sage of Bluesland, I’m glad you see KB as a player and leader as I do. The man gave his all but this is the NFL and that was not enough. Time to reload and TD seems to be the man to do it.
Arff
March 4th, 2009
9:10 pm
Very funny Dan!! My sentiments exactly. The drinking of the Kool-Aid has begun. 7-9 here they go!
BugKiller
March 4th, 2009
9:15 pm
Let me show you the difference in two men.
Thomas Dimitroff and Mark Richt.
Thomas Dimitroff proved last year and this year that he is willing to make the hard decisions, to cull those who aren’t pulling their weight from the team in order to produce a better product on the field.
Dimitroff doesn’t shy away from the hard decisions. Neither do guys like Les Miles, Nick Saban, and unfortunately, Urban Meyer.
Now on the other hand you have Mark Richt, who absolutely refuses to make the tough choices in cutting his dead weight to make his team better. Instead of acknowledging a problem, he makes excuses and retains the problems.
Exhibit 1: John Eason and his 8 years of incompetence as the Bulldogs wide receivers coach.
Exhibit 2: Willie Martinez and his 4 years of incompetence and diminishing returns, not to mention rampant on-field undiscipline and severe lack of fundamentals as BVG’s boys have moved on.
Les Miles, bless him, refuses to except average coaches, let alone mediocre coaches like Eason and Martinez. He fired just about his whole defensive staff after ONE BAD YEAR. With Eason we had 8 years of maddeningly inconsistent wideout play, and with Martinez, our defense has gotten statistically worse EVERY YEAR he’s been the DC, not just this last injury-prone year, and yet, Richt even saw fit to give Martinez a raise, when the Miami Hurricanes, Martinez’s Alma Mater, said thanks but no thanks to him, basically, Richt gave the man whom no one wants, not even his own school, a raise.
So, Thomas Dimitroff and Mark Richt.
I’ll put money on the table RIGHT NOW, with anyone who believes that Richt, the man too decent to make the truly difficult decisions, to make his team elite, to bring a championship to Athens, will actually win a MNC before Thomas Dimitroff brings a Super Bowl victory to Atlanta.
Thomas Dimitroff WILL bring a Super Bowl to Atlanta before Richt brings one, if ever, to Athens.
Because Dimitroff doesn’t refuse to make the hard decisions, he relishes making them.
Schultz, you’re full of it this time. You sure Moore didn’t ghost-write this column?
falcon21
March 4th, 2009
9:26 pm
I cannot argue the facts BugKiller, hard but true. MR is a good coach but may have too big of a heart.
Michael
March 4th, 2009
9:28 pm
I don’t really think any of those guys were really PTPers (sorry, Dick) for the Falcons, but yes, collectively that’s a lot of experience. Grady Jackson will probably be re-signed again during training camp just like he always is. Brooking is hard to see go due to leadership and effort, but he’s not the most physically gifted linebacker around anymore.
I would say the Falcons will need a veteran to fill one of those spots, but they can probably get away with rookies to fill the rest of the gaps.
Stephen
March 4th, 2009
9:30 pm
Jeff you must be running out of stuff to write about the Falcons to come up with this one. Have you noticed that the other NFL teams have also been cutting lots of players too because it is a business not a frat house. The players are suppose to be professionals in their approach with any team that hires them. The league is set up to create parity among the teams so the “playing a dangerous game” analogy is a little too overly dramatic to me since the draft hasn’t even happened yet.
turkey
March 4th, 2009
9:31 pm
Bugkiller, you are dead on.
Jay
March 4th, 2009
9:34 pm
If I was in Dimitroff’s shoes, I would have made the same decisions. I don’t see how Keith Brooking has made it this long. He will struggle in the Cowboys 3-4 scheme. He is too slow. The only player I would have resigned was Dominique Foxworth.
willie
March 4th, 2009
9:38 pm
TD is doing exactly the right thing. Let that initial run of overpaying go by. There are still plenty of FA’s available that are as good as the guys we have let go, and many of them are younger. Don’t just think about next season…think about the next 5. I am loving the way TD is handling this. Without a doubt, he brings in a safety and another FA or 2 (maybe a TE). There is plenty of time still this season to sign guys to keep us competitive next year. The key is building through the draft, which includes the compensatory picks for 2010 that we will get for the guys we let go this year.
Top Cat
March 4th, 2009
9:40 pm
The pace of change is a little scary, but as noted, we were “fortunate” on D this season…Next year will probably be rough (8-8 maybe), but things could really be rockin in 2010-2011. Hopefully, the roster produces 2-3 new starters, and FA/draft the same….Buckle your seatbelts guys…it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!
D3
March 4th, 2009
9:42 pm
Agree with you Bourbon & Will. There will be some growing pains next year with many new starters on D next year, but there were times when the “leaders” got burnt all over the field. God bless them and we appreciate their time and commitment to our team, particularly KB, but its time to move on, get younger, take our lumps, and get set to win for yearS, not one year. Brooking, Milloy, & Jackson over their prime, Boley was either a one hit wonder or had problems with coaching staff, and Foxworth probably should’ve been signed, but he was a little pricey.
It looks as though we’re not going after a veteran SS, like Jones or Phillips, which I truly wish we would to add experience in our secondary. We’ll definitely take our lumps next year, but Smith and Van Gorder did wonders last year with smoke and mirrors, so maybe they can do it again. Remember, Brent Grimes, Coy Wire, Kindal Moorehead, Jamal Fudge, and Chauncey Davis all made starts at some point last year.
Can’t decide on the latest news of LJ Smith. Playing fantasy all these recent years I remember Smith being a touchdown machine when he was healthy, but that was a HUGE IF!
GoodRiddance
March 4th, 2009
9:47 pm
Brooking never and I mean NEVER impressed me! He is a ten-yards down the field tackler, whips on big hits/sacks, and talks about it to the media after. I can not recall seeing Brooking hit anybody with FORCE in my life. Now, granted I am a late 80s baby but I have been a fan since Tuggle dawned a uniform. Now he was a beast and I have not seen any hits of his caliber leveled by a Falcons player since he retired. How many years was (isn’t great to say was???) Brooking here since then???
I am glad he joined the worst group of winers/losers and underperformers in the league!
Now let’s focus on what we have on the field in Lofton and Wire (though I think Boley could have contributed…we just could not bench Brooking because we wanted him to leave this year and needed the clause in his contract to not be depicted as harsh. Couldn’t cut the hometown hero. Now it is just a price tag issue). Maybe we get Cushing or another USC linebacker?
And Jeff, any updates on trading Vick?
BugKiller
March 4th, 2009
9:49 pm
Remember in Belichik and Pioli’s first year in New England, they went 5-11.
Then they won the Super Bowl in their second year.
Then in their third year, they missed the playoffs.
The Falcons are a year ahead, and if it wasn’t for the dead-weight “leaders” that Schultz loves so, it may have been the Falcons in the Super Bowl, not the Cardinals.
I fully expect the Falcons to miss the playoffs this year, and go anywhere from 7-9 to 9-7.
The schedule is brutal and the team will be young.
But this is how you build a real winner in years 3, 4, and on and on.
But what do I know? I trust Smith and Dimitroff and their coaches. The Falcons may surprise me and win the whole damn thing, or at least the division.
But I would not be disappointed with missing the playoffs this year. Not at all.
Chris Broe
March 4th, 2009
9:54 pm
Is today’s poll about the five free agents a JS an IQ test? Can your IQ be measured properly depending on whether or not you swung at that ridiculous poll he baited his blog with today? Come on. That poll is like asking what cases the the guy who said “Deal” would have picked if he had said, “No Deal”.
What if a guy took the very first offer and there were still two dozen cases to open? It would take an hour to get through the “What case would you have picked if you said “No Deal” to that offer? Then that offer? What cases now? Then if you decline that offer, then what? Who cares, Howie.
Something’s up. Probably a market rally, but something in the middle east is about to break. Cant you feel it?
I’m sorry. I have to say the word moron often. I just do. there’s so many morons exposed everyday, and I also feel strongly that life is a game of “Find the Idiot”.
Always know who the idiots are.
The eagle is the national bird, not the turkey, so it’s Ironic that Rush Limbaugh is the national emoticon.
Falcons Fan
March 4th, 2009
10:01 pm
When you gonna retire Jeff. Man you a poor writer!
foxdog
March 4th, 2009
10:12 pm
Can an article can be written in this paper that does not receive a response from some idiot taking a shot at Mark Richt? If the Falcons can have a winning percentage of 79% over the next 8 years (that’s 12 wins a year) then come back and compare their record to Coach Richt’s record!
David C
March 4th, 2009
10:17 pm
I just want to stop a 3rd and 16. Whoever can do it. Not much to ask.
Kurt
March 4th, 2009
10:19 pm
What Falcons fans lack in intelligence, they make up for in enthusiasm.
Jeff didn’t say keep everyone, idiots. He didn’t even say Dimitroff was wrong. He said it was a dangerous strategy. The smoke and mirrors was helped along by the veteran’s on defense. If you don’t think veteran leadership matters, you don’t know anything about football. Brooking was a mentor to Lofton.
Sad that he’s going to leave and all this ungrateful fan base is going to remember about him is his last play. Dude stuck around through some terrible seasons and turmoil and helped Lofton along, and he has led the team in tackles for years, so he’s obviously not terrible. But what does anyone care? Thanks for the memories, Keith. Good luck.
falcon21
March 4th, 2009
10:21 pm
I can’t see TD letting this team drop to 7 and 9 or 8 and 8. I think he has a plan to keep this team in the playoffs. I hope I am not wrong but as someone said earlier, buckle your seat belts, we are in for a ride.
Joe
March 4th, 2009
10:21 pm
Bugkiller,
As a sports fan it’s hard to see your team go from 11-5 to a rebuilding year/years. TD Is playing a dangerous game letting all the vets go (some needed to go). I’m sure he’s got a plan but for right now there is too many holes to fill via the draft.
Jeff Schultz
March 4th, 2009
10:21 pm
Hello night-readers. I’m checking in once before I check out for the night. First thing I noticed is the early results of the poll, with a relative dead-heat between re-sign none (33 percent), re-sign two (32 percent) and re-sign one (28 percent). Interesting how divided people are on this.
## Sage: I thought I was pretty careful to not say: “Falcons should have re-signed Keith Brooking.” I’ve never written that. I am writing that they are taking a risk by not re-signing ANY of the five guys, and, yes, I thought they would keep either Milloy OR Brooking.
## Dan: Thomas Dimitroff is absolutely the best general manager the Falcons have ever had – for one season. How’s that?
## Bug-killer: You’re comparing the difficult decisions of an NFL GM and a college coach? I wasn’t aware Mark Richt had to cut players and deal with a salary cap.
## A guy named “Turkey” agrees with a guy named “Bug Killer.” Is this a great country or what!
## Jay: I’m with you on Foxworth. Not sure he’s worth the whopper deal he got in Baltimore but he definitely was a keeper.
## D-3: I’m not a big L.J. Smith fan, but I guess it would be hard for the Falcons to take a step back at tight end.
## Falcons Fan: I will retire later than I had hoped, given the health of my 401K these days. But I do appreciate your interest in my future. Catch you one at Denny’s.
Great Falconi
March 4th, 2009
10:23 pm
Brooking, Jackson, Boley, and Milloy couldn’t stop the run. What is the point of bringing those players back if they can’t stop the run? As far as Foxworth goes, did you see how much money the Ravens paid him, Jeff? The Falcons were already working Boley out of the rotation last season. He got a big deal from the Giants.
Hey. It may backfire on Dimitroff, but the defense was not good enough to justify keeping older players or guys who did not fit the system. I think Dimitroff’s goal is to build a team of leaders. He doesn’t want a bunch of followers out there. I know Mike Smith wants that (look for “Ravens, Baltimore” on his resume). The Falcons’ draft is likely to be heavy on the defensive side. This was well-known during the season. I can drink the Kool-Aid for the plan. It makes sense.
Great Falconi
March 4th, 2009
10:23 pm
And you basically rendered my comment irrelevant. That’s cool, man.
Hope you didn’t get the herpes from the beer pong.
chuck
March 4th, 2009
10:25 pm
Foxdog, that is a retarded comparison. The Falcons don’t get to play Georgia Southern, Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, etc.
Jeff Schultz
March 4th, 2009
10:26 pm
## Foxdog: The answer to your question is no. It’s like expecting nobody to bring up Michael Vick. Oh jeez. Now I’ve done it. DUCK!
## David: I agree. Not too much to ask.
## Kurt: You articulated things very well. And no you can’t have my job.
foxdog
March 4th, 2009
10:39 pm
They played Detroit…
Whopper Dawg
March 4th, 2009
10:50 pm
They all needed to go except the corner, which as Jeff said, was too expensive. Piece by piece, he is building. Last year it was the offense, with the exception of DHall the destroyer (can you believe the contract he got from the Skins!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) Last year the offense got redone, this year the defense is the focus. Expect the three of the first four picks to go defense with maybe a tight end in the mix somewhere (hopefully not #1). Go TD, clean ‘er up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Second year in the system for everyone, Matty a vet now, coaching up again, cleaning up again – but TOUGHER SCHEDULE – I think 10 and 6 and we sneak in as a wild card.
Best wishes and good luck to Keith Brooking, I think he played his rear end off for the Falcons and I respect him for that.
The Whopper
Kevin
March 4th, 2009
10:51 pm
“In Dimitroff We Trust”
D. Orlando Ledbetter
March 4th, 2009
11:10 pm
“USED sweaters for the Salvation Army.” Now were these the cool “Bill Cosby” type sweaters. Or just the Wal-Mart or Target variety? Just trying to figure out if I need to get over to the Salvation Army or not!!!
Ted Striker
March 4th, 2009
11:14 pm
## Jeff: You raise some good points, Grasshopper. (You’d darn well better…there are ZERO/ZILCH/NULL/NADA/NO pics of hot babes in this article!?!). Still, my take – as if you actually asked: The greatest risk to wrecking team chemistry comes when a GM adds toxic players(s). Departing players jeopardize the status quo, but in terms of dangerous games — it’s not as bad as “The Hounds of Zaroff.” (Least not till week 11 when the Bucs and Panthers are both on fire & Michael Turner is nursing a sore ankle)
## Sage of Bluesland: You can claim Brooking was overrated as a team leader but unless we hear that refrain coming from someone inside the Falcons locker room, you know, someone who actually knows….
## Dan, ## Arrf: It ain’t the Kool-Aid that causes hallucinations — it’s what folks put in it. (That said, I’ll be darn glad when the words “kool-aid,” “thug,” “retarded” & “scholly” eventually lose popularity with folks posting on sports blogs)
## Bugkiller: Jiminy Crickits and Haysuess Christ Almighty Buddha!!! — What in the Wide Wide world of sports do Willie Martinez & John Eason have to do with the Falcons and free agency?
## Chris Broe: I have no frickin’ clue what you’re trying to say but — I’ll have some of whatever it is you’re having. Just email me the instructions as to whether I should sip it, slam it, shoot it, inhale it, snort it, or simply tie it to the hamster’s tail.
## Ledbetter: C’mon, we know you only shop at Nordstroms or Saks.
Tim Parker
March 4th, 2009
11:33 pm
I thought this was an insightful and considerate article, Jeff. I agree that the moves Dimitroff is making are dangerous; however, without risk, there is no reward.
Foxworth was the one player for which I knew there would be a bidding war, and one that despite all my hopes and dreams, I knew the Falcons probably not resign due to his asking price.
Brooking is a little past his prime and has lost a couple of steps. He was a great player for the Falcons (despite baseless, unsubstantiated claims of biased knuckleheads). RILB in a 3-4 defense is probably the best position for Brooking at this stage in his career.
Milloy is a gladiator. Unfortunately, he is past his prime and struggled to stay healthy this season. Age is catching up with the wiley veteran, and his storied NFL career is in its final chapter. We will all miss his vocal leadership and work ethic.
You have to love a guy like Grady Jackson. He was an anchor on the defensive line and out of all of the players lost this season, he could potentially be our greatest loss. If Trey Lewis can stay healthy and regain the form he had before his injuries, his loss will be minimized. Too bad we could not keep him around as a backup NT.
Boley = Wife Beater…Good riddens.
I have faith in Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff. They are a good team. Both are excellent evaluators of talent and character. Trust me, they will use the draft and free agency to fill the holes.
Tyger
March 4th, 2009
11:44 pm
**Falcoons Easy Button 2009**
The Falcoons have better depth than most think. Its time for Chauncey Davis and Stephen Nichols to step up, just like Roddy White and Mike Jenkins. Third years are significant.
The Falcoons have DeCoud, Irons, Trey Lewis, Houston all young talents that have been in the system for a few years now. Good pickups in Peele, Jefferson, Wire. Homeruns on Dahl and Tyson Clabo. You avoid the older, overpaid, slower, injury prone guys without legs.
The Falcoons have demonstrated that they can “coach up” a young, fast, talented, hungry team. I was very impressed with the coaching staffs game preparation each week. They kept it simple enough for the guys so they could focus on making plays. And thats important for a young team.
All that said, there will always be a place for a Wayne Gandy, etc. but not at speed positions.
I expect the Falcoons to reload in the secondary, LB, TE, OL, DL positions: 1. Sean Smith, 2. William Moore, 3. Nic Harris, 4. Brandon Williams, 5. Dominique Johnson, 5. Fenuki Tupuo, 6. Jackie Butler
ET
March 5th, 2009
12:36 am
Speaking of Mike Vick, now that you mention it, I guess the usual suspects will be lining up to sign him to run their offenses. I bet on the Raiders to win the Vick derby. I think with the time off to contemplate what he threw away, he will come back in pretty good shape and with an attitude and take them to the playoffs…only to lose in the first round like he ususally does.
I don’t want him back, but he will be a “throw on the run” sensation for a few more years…just not here. I hope he can run from PETA as fast as he does the players after him on the field.
WILLSTER
March 5th, 2009
4:13 am
allyou idiots,most of you typing,must not remember 1982,FALCONS WERE ON GAME FROM SUPER BOWL,WANTED TO GET YOUNGER,RELEASED,ALOT OF VETERANS,INCLUDING LEEMAN BENNETT,LOOK WHAT HAPPENED,THIS IS STUPID,THISD TEAM WILL NOT WIN 7 GAMES THIS YEAR,IGUARANTEE IT,IAM SO GLAD THERE ARE RED EYE FLIGHTS TO VEGAS CHEAP ,YOU PEOPLE,NEW ENGLAND WON WITH VETERANS,AND THEY HAD,A QB NAMED BRADY,THE FALCONS WERE LUCKY LAST YEAR,ALL YOU BELIEVERS,GO LOOK AT THERE SCHEDULE,IN2009,AND THEY WILL HAVE TO DEAL WITH THE VICK DEBAUCKLE THIS YEAR,5-11 IWILL BET ON IT,AND I WILL WIN, AND PEOPLE WILL SAY WHAT HAPPENED?championships are won in the OFFSEASON,this is why the falcons have never won one,they cant wipe there a right,this is why there is NO SUPER BOWL TROPHY IN ATLANTA,IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN,HAVE A NICE DAY.
BravesFan79
March 5th, 2009
5:38 am
I believe letting Brooking, Foxworth, and Grady Jackson go was a mistake and will make us weaker next year. Not to many guys like Grady that are that massive and can pretty much shut down the run game alone. We will miss Brookings leadership.
The Cowboys might actually be worth cheering for again as they cut crap like Pacman and TO and signed someone with the intelligence/leadership of a Brooking.
Someone can have all the “athleticism” in the world, but if they have NO Brains, Morals, or leadership ability (see M Vick, Pacman, Travis Henry, OJ, Lastings Millidge, Elijah Dukes, etc…) then whats the point? We see where it got the cowboys last year!
Yea some might call me a racist for speaking such truths, but if you were a “realist” instead of a apologist, you’d admit the same thing.
Micah
March 5th, 2009
7:28 am
Someone can have all the “athleticism” in the world, but if they have NO Brains, Morals, or leadership ability (see M Vick, Pacman, Travis Henry, OJ, Lastings Millidge, Elijah Dukes, etc…) then whats the point? We see where it got the cowboys last year!
========================================================================
BravesFan79, I won’t call you racist because I don’t know you, but it’s funny how you point things out like this. If Vick or Pacman of Henry had won a Super Bowl you wouldn’t be saying this at all. Tom Brady has moral issues: He gets married in his ex-girlfriend’s church with the girl he cheated on her with, but he’s a leader. Brett Farve, yeah he displays leadership: He doesn’t want to go through the offseason workouts but he wants to play in every game. How about Barrett Robins (center for the Raiders when they went to the Super Bowl) getting intoxicated. You’re a “realist?” Ok, I guess we see how low the bar has been set.
Cool Hand Luke
March 5th, 2009
7:42 am
A releasing of some of the old guard within a company will usually make folks nervous, regardless of the industry. The current offense will put up some points next season, and will probably be improved through the draft. The Falcons still have some vets on defense (Abraham, Davis, Babineaux, Coleman, etc.). Thomas D. is proving that he knows how to draft talent. Smitty and VanGorder are not going to let their defense weaken. Let’s remember that VanGorder is also a catalyst (Anyone who’s watched them practice will know.). I believe in this team. I think the naysayers will eat their own words come next season. By the way, Jeff, where is the pic of a hot babe?
CWE
March 5th, 2009
7:55 am
Good article…says what most intelligent people think,is it better to have leadership and less skill?I hope that TD can continue making the right decisions on the draft and free agency,but when going gets tough,who will the young guys look for leadership…I think 9-7 is a realistic outlook for next year(2 winning seasons in a row,maybe)and to all you Keith Brooking haters,learn something about football before casting such idiotic statements about a truly class athelete…you don’t lead the team in tackles that many years,without playing hardnose football.Thanks Keith
Observer
March 5th, 2009
8:08 am
Jeff – did any of the so-called “jumping on a table and taking charge when things go south” from these guys do ANYTHING for us in 2007? I didn’t think so. As a matter of fact, I remember “leadership” being a major complaint of the ‘07 bunch, which included all of the players you are talking about. Rah-rah is good, but the bottom line is you need players that perform on the field.
Mac
March 5th, 2009
8:19 am
Grady’s in Detroit, dude up above. Maybe Von Hutchins will help filll the leadership gap? Don’t know a lot about him. Would have like to see Foxworth stay, for both his play and possibly leadership, too.
marko
March 5th, 2009
8:58 am
Dimitroff does’nt take things one season a time. The seeds for this season were planted last year. Jackson and Decoud were’nt after thoughts. Did anybody notice that they play the positions of a couple of guys seeking employment elsewhere. For the life of me I can’t think of anything more questionable that starting a rookie quarterback and a rookie left tackle. Last year we got a pretty good idea of the kind of offense we were gong to build, rookies leading the way. This year we’ll get a better grasp of what our defense is going to be about. I’m thinking we’ve seen the last of that bend but don’t break crap.
Jeff Schultz
March 5th, 2009
9:05 am
## D-Led: I think either kind of sweater would be an improvement for your wardrobe.
## Striker: You’re right about the toxic player thing – why is why Dimitroff would rather drive off a cliff than sign Terrell Owens.
## Tim P.: I addition to those “off field” issues of Boley’s that you referred to, there’s this: He wasn’t very good last season and the Falcons were VERY disappointed in his play (as evident by the fact he lost his starting job). It will be interesting to see how the Giants use him and whether he turns it around.
## Willster: There’s a button on the left where you can unclick that CAPS LOCK function. Just FYI. Peace out.
## Cool Hand Luke: Hot babes once a week. Sorry. That is all.
## Observer: I agree. And I also think that, yes, a guy like Milloy can still perform, even if not as an every-down guy.
tryanx
March 5th, 2009
9:10 am
What a waste of my time and the blogs space. You said nothing about the article; in fact you said nothing at all. The fact that you used 195 words to do that shows a moronic persistence to watch your own words hit the screen. Your ramblings were a enept attempt at self proclaimed Guenis but the fact of the matter is that you are a legened in your mind.
Now that my tie raid is over I will remark on the article.
I have faith that Td knows what he is doing and I have seen it pointed out that teams like New England and Pitsburgh do not sign the big name flashy players and they have recent super bowl rings while Daniel Schnyder makes flashy moves every year and has not even sniffed the playoffs. We still have time and it appears that teams are not beating down the door to sign Jermaine or Sean. We are ok. Our schedule is pecievably stronger but the reality is that Dallas is in shambles and so is Washington. The Bills are not threat nor are the Jets. In our own conference Tampa Bay is much worse and the Saints minus that Drew Breeze passing attack, are no real threat.
Please quit this doom and gloom attitude because we let some people go and haven’t gone after the big names. For those of you who think we should have signed Foxworth, think of this, he was paid just about the same contract that turner got last year. Would that have been a good move. Let the second year guys have a chance to shine. That is were stars in this league come from, not perception.
tryanx
March 5th, 2009
9:11 am
sorry meant to proof read.
Chess
March 5th, 2009
9:25 am
We lost one good player Foxworth.
leland
March 5th, 2009
9:26 am
Dear Mr. JS–today not funny. Your pal, Leland
mdfalconfan
March 5th, 2009
9:42 am
Jeff
I think that what Mr.Dimitroff is doing and has been doing is creating a team to last. You can’t become a savy vet if you don’t play. Get that new “core group” started/created now to benefit in the future. Don’t be a naysayer the Falcons aren’t ready for the Superbowl yet…nor will they ever be if they can’t part with players when the time comes.
Rawdawg9
March 5th, 2009
9:45 am
As for column posted by Jeff everybody is entitled to their own opinion as to what, how and what they about certain situations. That is what you have to love about this Great Country we live in. On the other hand there does come a time when you have to part ways with players that you fill or essential to your team somewhere down the line and that TIME has come for quite a few guys on our Falcons as well as around the league. As I have always said to people day in and day out in my circle of friends and family professional sports is a business. Just look around the league and see the names of other players let go of for what ever the reason. In conclusion, I would like to see an addition like Derrick Brooks sign on with the Falcons for at least a year as a vocal leader for the young DEFENSIVE team we will put on the field this year, I don’t think you can go wroung with that guy. Let me know what you think my fellow Georgians.
Pete
March 5th, 2009
10:05 am
For Schultz or anyone else to question Dimitroff and the fantastic job he has done in one short year is…………..LAUGHABLE.
Mark
March 5th, 2009
10:10 am
Seriously? You include Foxworth on that list. Someone who began the season on another team, and only started half the season for us. Yes he was good, but a leader? Dunno about that. Terrible. Absolutely Terrible.
74Dawg
March 5th, 2009
10:14 am
where are the babes?
BravesFan79
March 5th, 2009
10:16 am
Micah: Wow are u serious? you compare someone that fathers 9 babies by 9 women, and a guy that left someone else paralyzed in a shooting…….. to a vet guy that dosent wanna go thru training camp?? and IM the one who set the bar low? lol….. wow talk about double standard….. typical… yall were dumb enough to celebrate a murderer going free in OJ simpson…. funny how low your societys standards are when it comes to supposid “role models”
Manny Ramirez won a world title with the red sox… and ive never liked the guy. Especially not after he pushed a old man down the steps because the big baby didnt get his tickets.
The real champions of the world have nothing to do with sports, but are selfless like Diekembe Mutombo… my favorite center of all time! Now thats a REAL man for u right there!
ValdostaMike
March 5th, 2009
10:20 am
Jeff,
I still find it hard to believe that no big league professional sports organization has hired you away from your column to run the show for them. GM Dimitroff must be kicking himself right about now for not consulting with you first. If Dimitroff deserves any criticism regarding Brooking it is for not cutting him before last season. Brooking, Boley and Malloy were liabilities on the field, the others would have hurt us cap wise. We may take a one-year hit, but he is building a solid foundation for the future not just for years that end with even numbers.
Stick to your usual cheap humor pieces, which I enjoy BTW.
74Dawg
March 5th, 2009
10:23 am
Now that I got that off my chest,er… the players who left could have been cut last year in a real house cleaning. Dimmy obviously replaced who he could and kept the rest to bridgeto this year so the birds wouldn’t really stink. He may well drop a few more next year,including some of McKay’s recent additions who are under performing. As for Foxworth,he is the only one I thought performed at a superior level last year. But keep 2 things in mind. He was in a contract year, played only a few games with the Falcons,and was basically run out of Denver. Sorry,that was 3. Maybe he is a malcontent,or otherwise an issue in the locker room. I have the impression Coach Smith has 0 tolerance for that.
Don’t know,but didn’t Foxworth end up in Baltimore? Just saying…
willdave
March 5th, 2009
10:31 am
On a personal level, I hate to see Brooking leave. He has been an exemplary player for this team both on and off the field for the past 11 seasons. Dallas is very fortunate to get such a classy veteran. I also hate to see Foxworth leave, as he was one of the most consistently dependable players on our defense this past season. Nevertheless, I’m sure Dimitroff carefully weighed the costs and benefits involved in retaining each player before deciding to let them walk away. After the miracle TD pulled off last season, I’m still not yet ready to second-guess this man’s decisions.
Dr. Warren
March 5th, 2009
10:32 am
Matt Ryan’s touchdown throw was the first pass of the season, not the first play.
Bigfalconsfan
March 5th, 2009
10:45 am
Bradley your an idiot anyone with any knowledge of the NFL knew it was time for these cats to go.Try to watch the games this season maybe you’ll have a better understanding.
NiteOwl
March 5th, 2009
10:48 am
I loved the lingering image at the end of the article: everyone looking around the locker room, wondering who on Earth could lead them now.
I’d like to extend that imagery a bit. Imagine the players in the locker room on the first day of training camp, realizing that Brooking and Milloy are gone, and they’re never coming back.
All the players begin to go catatonic. Their eyes roll back in their heads, and they lie down in the fetal position with their thumbs in their mouths, shaking uncontrollably. Somewhere in the far corner of the locker room, someone begins to cry.
Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff throw up their hands and decide to forfeit the season. Matt Ryan gives up football and moves to Nepal. Michael Turner decides life has no meaning, and suddenly refuses to see the point in taking handoffs when there is so much injustice in the world.
Mr. Blank realizes that the only course of action is to hire the ultimate leader, Mike Ditka, who trades all of our draft picks for Ricky Williams.
Face it, guys, it’s all over. There is no one to lead us. I’m going to lie down now and take a nap. When I wake up, I hope this will all have been a dream, and Milloy and Brooking will be back. If not, then I hope I never wake up.
Harold
March 5th, 2009
10:50 am
Schultz doesn’t give flip about any of those players except Keith Brooking. He questioned the age of Lawyer Milloy, the fitness of Grady and the heart of Mike Boley (Foxworth was new and not a starter or I’m positive he would have questioned him as well). Schultz would have nothing to say if Brooking was not among the players the Falcons released. I’m a long time season ticket holder and I’ve seen Brooking’s better days behind him. His foot speed has slowed considerably and he didn’t have great speed from the beginning – decent speed, but not great. Boley had his best defensive season 2 years ago but have declined ever since. Grady is great one on one, but double-team him and he’s average at best. As for Milloy, Schultz will agree with me because he mentioned the same thing when the Falcons brought him in, “he’s a veteran player but his best days are gone”. And Foxworth was a wash.
So Jeff, have the decency to say what you really feel and don’t masking your true beliefs – you’re only questioning Dimitroff’s moves because he released Brookings. I’ll miss Brooking as well, he’s a Jacket but his time is done.
TMoorecansuckit
March 5th, 2009
10:50 am
Jeff,
How many playoff games have you guided the Falcons to? Oh yeah, none. Think I will go with Dimitroff and his actual football experience on this one. Why don’t you go plan your next pulitzer winning article with Terrence.
Robert M
March 5th, 2009
11:02 am
Of the five that have gotten away, only two would merit consideration, IMHO… Foxworth and Milloy. I know Milloy was getting old, and that he had lost a step, but he was still a key player on defense, with huge tackles, huge hits and great double coverages. Foxworth, from what I understand, was offered more money by the Falcons, than what he got with Baltimore, but he is from that area and wanted to return home. So atleast TD and the boys did try to sign him. That one stings a bit!
D. Bell
March 5th, 2009
11:08 am
Did someone just compare felony crimes that resulted in jail time to cheating on a girlfriend and consuming alcohol?
Ok…
keith
March 5th, 2009
11:21 am
I say keep Vick and let him play linebacker (He couldn’t be much worse than Brooking was (is). At least then he might get the punishment he deserves. He would be punished by being runnover and trampled on, by actually having to play on the Falcons defense, which is horrible 85% of the time and at halftime they could let some pissed off pitbulls chase him around the field for our entertainment. If that happens I might actually pay to go see a game, but until then, I’m on the couch or in the bar with other options of things to do!
BugKiller
March 5th, 2009
11:21 am
Wow… some of y’all really don’t understand the concept of analogy do you?
And some of y’all (mostly the same some) totally miss the forest for the trees.
Schultz included in the some.
My point is, Thomas Dimitroff is willing to make the hard decisions in order to make his team the best it can be. From personnel to coaching, Thomas Dimitroff will not reward incompetence, he will weed it out, cull it from his ranks, and produce a better team for it.
Mark Richt refuses to take this approach, specifically with his coaches. He held on to an incompetent wide receivers coach for 8 years, and just gave a totally incompetent defensive coordinator a raise when NO ONE WANTED HIM.
This is why Thomas Dimitroff will put together a Falcons team (coaches and players) that will win a Super Bowl far sooner (if ever) than Mark Richt will put together a Bulldogs team that will win a MNC.
One man is unafraid to make hard decisions without his emotions coming into play, the other man is unwilling to do so.
Halberstram
March 5th, 2009
11:43 am
I haven’t read through the other comments, so apologize if I’m rehashing anyone else’s points. Every team is cutting veterans at this time of the year. The Falcons may add some other team’s veteran that was cut. I would give some time before saying the team is void of any leadership.
I would say that the only two that players probably looked to would be Brooking and Milloy as somewhat stated by Schultz. However, both of them are entering the end of their careers even though they don’t fully realize it. It would be hard-pressed to spend large money on backup veterans. Mike Smith is a defensive-minded coach, so I imagine he has talked with Dimitroff about whether it was worth it to keep both of these players. If they both believe it is not a necessity then I give them the benefit of the doubt.
Greg from Marietta
March 5th, 2009
11:47 am
**This isn’t going to set well with all the “Head-in-the-clouds” Falcons fans out there, but what Dimitroff is doing will pay off in the long run.** It will also disappoint a lot of people in the short term because after an exceptional 11-5 season in 2008, and a trip to the playoffs, they will be lucky to go 9-7 in 2009. But that is O.K. because by the 2010 season the Falcons should start to see the fruits of Dimitroff’s & Smith’s labors and become a consistently good football team. **Despite the daydream of the Falcons becoming the next New England Patriots (It ain’t gonna happen!) they will, over time, become a very good football team, which ain’t bad!** I don’t agree with the mass exodus of veterans but I do understand the infusion of new talent and the building of a team from the inside out. So all of the true Falcons fans should be patient with the team and with management this coming season when the wins don’t come as easily and as often as they did last year. Just keep in mind that this is a team in transition and that they “will get better”, so help me – Dimitroff.
TRD
March 5th, 2009
11:47 am
Falcons made a big mistake not signing Foxworth and Jackson.
Big Dog
March 5th, 2009
11:50 am
Sounds to me like you have more confidence in older players influencing the team than you do in the coaches and General Manager. The Falcons need good quality players,not extra sideline coaches.
NEXT#13
March 5th, 2009
12:09 pm
I agree with most that foxworth & jackson should have been resigned if it was possible,if not,so be it! It’s time to move on,j.s,.to bigger & better thing’s! oh & by the way jeffery… HOW MANY N.F.L. DRAFT’S HAVE YOU BEEN A PART OF!!! HOW MANY PLAYER’S HAVE YOU DRAFTED!!! HOW MANY G.M.’S OR OWNER HAVE CALLED UPON YOU FOR FOOTBALL RELATED KNOWLEDGE/ADVICE!!! YEAH THAT’ WHAT I THOUGHT ZERO,ZILCH,NADA!!! DO ALL OF US FALCON FAN’S & THE FALCON BRAINTRUST ONE,UNO,1 BIG FAVOR……SHUT UP!!!!!!
foxdog
March 5th, 2009
12:14 pm
Bugkiller, do you not realize that you are comparing apples to oranges…Oh never mind, a man who enjoys beating a dead horse usually can’ be dissuaded.
RedTailHawk
March 5th, 2009
12:20 pm
BravesFan79…I WILL CALL YOU A RACIST because I DO KNOW YOU!! You dont know crap about sports but you are always running your redneck mouth about race. I know you and your pointy little white hat. I know you as that coward who flexes his cracker keyboard muscles on the internet.
Chris Mack
March 5th, 2009
12:23 pm
Keith Brooking is the most overrated player in the NFL. We would have been idiots to sign him back but low and behold the retarted cowboys make another stupid move. Its gonna blow up in there face like T.O, Tank Johnson, and Roy Williams. All i have to say to that is Thank You Dallas.
Jeff Schultz
March 5th, 2009
12:24 pm
I see tempers are starting to flare a little. . . .
## Mdfalconfan, others. I agree that’s partly TD’s intent—build the defense though youth and speed. There’s no problem with that – as long as leadership develops within that you. It’s a gamble – that’s all I’m saying. And for any of you who want to read this only as some vicious attack on TD, whatever. Go ahead and vent.
## Harold: Are you that dumb or is this just a bad day for you? Do some research. I came out and wrote that the Falcons should re-sign Milloy. I’ve never written that about Brooking. And his name is Brooking – not “Brookings.”
## 74Dawg: As I posted previously, I get the feeling the Falcons wanted to keep Foxworth. But the money from Baltimore got way out of hand. That wasn’t the case with the others.
supa
March 5th, 2009
12:26 pm
It’s all about evaluating talent – both on-field and leadership. And Dimitroff, on average, is among the best at that.
Rob
March 5th, 2009
12:27 pm
Great job Dimi! Stick with the model. It does not lie, long-term. If long-term success is the goal in Atlanta not just back to back, short term, gratifying winning seasons? Keep up the model work!
vtfalcon
March 5th, 2009
12:37 pm
Jeff, why is it that you write negative articles 8 out of 10 times? Lighten up.
dap01
March 5th, 2009
12:53 pm
MICAH: Comparing Tom Brady (or anybody for that matter) to Pac Man and Vick is crazy!
Wink from Lithonia
March 5th, 2009
12:54 pm
I applaude Dimitroff for his actions. See fans in this blog are tearing each other apart regarding the play of Keith Brookings. All are entitled to their opinion, I personally wanted him gone a year or two ago, given that opinion, he still continued to wear the Falcon uniform. As a result he had my support on Sunday and open to my interpertation of his play. KB was a solid citizen, but his departure was not a result of our opinions; rather a decision by Dimitroff to not overpay for his services.
On the flip side, this will be the same reason, Michael Vick, will not wear a Falcon uniform. We can all recognize he performed at a high level between the lines, but may not have been such a solid citizen. To date he is part of our roster, but Dimitroff will turn that asset into some future draft picks for this franchise to move forward.
The bottom line in my opinion, it not dangerous what Dimitroff is doing. Sometime you have to get rid of your past to move toward your future. I think the very reason Petrino went back to coach on the college level is because he wanted control. Dimitroff is doing the same thing on the pro level. Why keep high priced veterans with declining skills, when you can develope young talent and gain financial control ( see 3-4 year contracts ) which would give you continuity in your PROCESS. Why bring in a TO, a dominant personality for 10 mil per season, when you can develope a Harry Douglas and lock him down for 3-4 years. As part of his philosophy, younger means faster & hungrier. The coaching staff would rather coach UP a player than to Manage personalities.
Dimitroff is playing to his strength and belief in his PROCESS…unyielding to emotional ties & public opionion.
Luv 2 Hate Me
March 5th, 2009
1:19 pm
Keith sucked and like how Jessie Tuggle was ousted it was Keith’s turn. The only player ATL should have kept was Domonique Foxworth or Boley. Keith was overrated and I agree with “Sage of Bluesland”.
Kenny
March 5th, 2009
1:22 pm
Thomas Dimitroff did good with the PAT’s. That’s all I can say !
Yes Brooking’s were just a hometown boy, to help put fanny’s in the seats.
I have never seen any Tommy Nobis or Jessie Tuggle in Keith Brooking’s.
We are talking about the Top LB’s the Falcons ever had. Those guys played hard every game.
Correct me if I am wrong !
Matt Yoder
March 5th, 2009
1:25 pm
I really hated to see the likes of Milloy and Brooking leaving but I think all too often there is to much of a deal made out of locker room leadership. If you have the right coach (AND WE DO) and the right staff you have ur team leadership right there! As long as we stay away from signing the likes of T.O. and the likes of D Hall we will have a GREAT season!!! GO FALCONS!!!!
SC
March 5th, 2009
1:34 pm
NiteOwl you mentioned Nepal, what a gorgeous country. Probably 95% of the ppl here hardly know where that is.
Singletary
March 5th, 2009
1:42 pm
Dorsey. Every I think about ragging on TD, I hear my spouse yelling “Go Dorsey” after another successful MR2 pass.
Do it, TD, because clearly I’m not challenging you for your job like KBrooking!. I’m confident he’s looked at the crop of players coming out, and he probably already has a substantial portion of the draftboard done… both for the Falcs and predicting what players will be taken by other teams.
Take Down
Top Draft
Too Dedicated
Remember, the man lives in Bouilder, but has a contract clause prohibiting snowboarding. What else is he going to do but his job.
GATORZONE
March 5th, 2009
1:46 pm
Singletary, your post was hard to follow. I did not understand it.
Smooth
March 5th, 2009
1:49 pm
Jeff, you are all wet. Have you ever played football? TD has done the right thing and I don’t think he is done looking at free agents as of yet. Give the man a break, it was time for KB to go the others where nobodies. Good moves TD.
ndadome
March 5th, 2009
1:52 pm
Wow, you guys. I must have read a different article. What’s everyone so upset about? There is a risk involved in letting veterans go and moving toward younger players. What we don’t know, and won’t until it happens, is what TD has in mind in terms of replacements. It will either turn out “to the good”, or “to the bad”. TD was not voted NFL Executive of the Year last September – that came at the end of the season. Before we started the season, all the experts were saying we’d win between one and three games. Let’s see how it plays out. Spend some of that angry energy on your yard, like that councilman in North Fulton did…convert that commode on your front porch into a planter and grow some ‘maters!
Matt Taylor
March 5th, 2009
1:56 pm
Brooking was the leader of our defense last year??? That explains why we finished in the bottom third in every defensive category last year. A second example today of the AJC sports section being useless for readers. Clearly, we didn’t have a leader on defense. Hopefully, Dimitroff and Smith will find/develop one.
Jeff Schultz
March 5th, 2009
2:03 pm
ndadome — I think you’re being way too level-headed about this. You just don’t fit in. Didn’t you know it was cool to hide behind strange nicknames and scream the loudest? I mean, EVERYBODY is doing it.
Seriously, though, while neither reader comments nor online polls — much like sportstalk radio callers — never should be confused with a scientific sampling, I find this interesting. In the updated poll results, re-sign two players (32%), re-sign none (31%) and re-sign one (24%) remain in a virtual deadlock. But also can look at it this way: 69 percent of the readers believed the Falcons should not have gone 0-for-5.
niteowl
March 5th, 2009
2:13 pm
I’ve got it. T.O. Will be our new leader.
brAves Sucios
March 5th, 2009
2:23 pm
I like the moves. . . if we can shift our free agent focus to the defensive side this spring and pick up two or three veteran leaders to spread amongst the line, linebackers and secondary we’ll be fine filling the rest of the holes with draft picks to develop over time. Go Falcons!
TheAntiMe
March 5th, 2009
2:29 pm
I think that Thomas Dimitroff is definitely on the right track. The leaders you speak of, Jeff, lead the Falcons to being the 9th worst defense in average yards per game last season. Although it is a desirable intangible to have for any team, I’m afraid that leadership, in and of itself, doesn’t feed Uga.
ndadome
March 5th, 2009
2:47 pm
What do I know? I thought Marion Campbell would be great – both times!
Harold
March 5th, 2009
2:53 pm
Dear Mr. JEFF “I’m angry because I’ve never received a Pulitzer and I take my frustrations out on knowledgeable commentators” SHULTZ,
GET OVER YOURSELF!
monty
March 5th, 2009
3:15 pm
You’ve got to know when to hold them and know when to fold them. I say we get some youth in here and coach them up. I believe Dimitroff has something up his sleeve!