Shockley had been off Falcons’ radar for a while
It was over for D.J. Shockley when he lost the No. 3 job to John Parker Wilson.
FLOWERY BRANCH — It was two months ago when former Georgia quarterback D.J. Shockley said, “I have all the confidence in the world that I can start in this league and play for many years.” He’ll need that confidence if he hopes to continue playing football. But you only get so long to prove it in the NFL.
It was clear after his fourth preseason in Atlanta that Shockley did not have a future with the Falcons. Whether he has a future in pros at all remains to be seen.
The quarterback who waited his turn behind David Greene at Georgia and then led the Bulldogs to the Sugar Bowl was released by the Falcons for the second time in a month Wednesday. This time carries a sense of more permanence.
Young backup quarterbacks don’t get a long lifeline in the NFL, unless their contract mandates it. Shockley’s didn’t, and he got a longer lifeline than most. When he was beat out by Alabama’s John Parker Wilson for the No. 3 job in the preseason, it sent a strong message about how the organization viewed him. Shockley was cut Sept. 5 and brought back a day later for the practice squad. Every general manager has had a shot at him for six weeks. Nobody has bit.
With injuries at running back now piling up, the Falcons needed a safety net at that position more than they needed Shockley. So they the signed Antone Smith for the practice squad. Shockley was gone.
Anybody who has met Shockley knows he’s a good kid. Anybody who saw him wait his turn in Athens knows about his mental toughness and his leadership abilities. But the NFL can be a harsh reality. Bottom line: He just hasn’t been good enough.
When I talked to him in training camp, Shockley said, “What I went through in Athens helped me in terms of how to handle things, mentally and physically. The biggest thing is patience. You can’t worry about things you can’t control. That’s just something I’ve learned over the years.”
Now it might be time to reassess career goals.
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161 comments Add your comment
ff
October 21st, 2009
1:43 pm
Hope you find a team, DJ. I hear the panthers might be looking…
Tide rising
October 21st, 2009
1:44 pm
I also remember when he said he thought he could be a starter in this league. And then it seemed like just a few days later that he was let go and JP Wilson won the job. I guess he just overestimated his talent and worth. The Not For Long league truly is a harsh reality.
Anyway, good luck to DJ in his future endeavors and at least he was able to draw a fat NFL check for 3 years to where he has some money banked away.
ff
October 21st, 2009
1:45 pm
dawggrad05
October 21st, 2009
1:45 pm
I wish him the best, he was exciting in athens when I was in school there, just didnt seem it could work in Atlanta
Brian Hunt
October 21st, 2009
1:47 pm
Good luck to you Mr. Shockley. You seemed like a great team player and you owe nobody any apologies for playing at the highest levels.
Ted Striker
October 21st, 2009
1:47 pm
Shockley may be having a bad week but it’s nothing compared to ESPN’s Steve Phillips. Have you seen the NY Post photo gallery of his mistress, Brooke Hundley?
Far be it from me to cast the first stone at anyone, but I will say this: I’ve never been tempted to cheat — by an unattractive woman.
dawgtownrambler
October 21st, 2009
1:48 pm
they will do the same to JPW. He is worthless. if Saban had not taken away all his decision making Bama would have lost more than 2 games last season. JPW needs a coach to think for him. That will be is downfall.
reebok
October 21st, 2009
1:50 pm
tech fan here. i hope you catch ob somewhere, DJ. good luck.
Jeff Schultz
October 21st, 2009
1:59 pm
Not only saw the photo. Read the story. Ouch.
Stan
October 21st, 2009
1:59 pm
Comedian Mitch Hedberg once said, “I’m sick of following my dreams, man. I’m just going to ask where they’re going and hook up with ‘em later.”
To a young man who’s made such an effort and done so much right, yet another obstacle is deflating and seems unfair… but dreams aren’t so easily defined. Whether it’s in the NFL, the CFL or out in the real world… I believe D.J. will “hook up with ‘em later.”
JPW
October 21st, 2009
1:59 pm
Good luck, DJ. We’re pulling for you.
RonnieGarDner
October 21st, 2009
2:00 pm
Food for thought.When Blank bought a struggling franchise he garnered some fan interest by signing drafting/signing UGA players in hopes fans would in turn show up at the dome. When the Vick situation came aboutand it looked like the Falcons would be a doormat again for a long time, suddenly there were more UGA players getting a look. Now, lo and behold the team is successful on the field and at the gate and thru the media. Brooking is gone,Thomas Brown is gone,DJ is all gone anfter being put on the practice squad. They were used to sell tix nothing more.For all the folks that thought DJ would/should be the starter I ask how long it will take for a team to sign him. Much like Glanville….he may be waiting a while. I do wish him well, but I can’t help but think this was a concocted move by the Falcons.
PTC DAWG
October 21st, 2009
2:02 pm
I think UGA could use a good QB Coach myself…..if both parties are interested, could be worth pursuing…
Rock Preston
October 21st, 2009
2:02 pm
Ted Striker….u are a nut!!!! HA!!!!!
TB
October 21st, 2009
2:06 pm
If Anthony Wright can start in the NFL, somebody has got to give DJ a shot…at least at backing someone up. Anthony Wright was brutal and seemed to stay in the league for 10 years….just sayin’
"Mr. Falcon"
October 21st, 2009
2:09 pm
Good DJ, hope you can find a new Team.
"Mr. Falcon"
October 21st, 2009
2:12 pm
I will be pulling for you. good luck.
collegeballfan
October 21st, 2009
2:13 pm
Shockley made a mistake in staying at UGA all those years. He should have transfered & played 2 to 3 years as a starter. Lack of experience in game situations really hurt him. Same with Joe Cox.
Ackshun
October 21st, 2009
2:17 pm
DJ Shockley is, right now better than about 5 starting quarterbacks in this league. If you are the Bucs, the Skins, the Browns, the Bills, the Panthers, or the Rams, I would place a call to his agent. I don’t feel DJ ever really had a chance here and you learn to play NFL quarterback on the field, not on the practice squad. When he was first described to me the person said imagine Mike Vick with a better arm and class. He will be just that. On the oh so vaunted playing capabilities of persons at the QB position in the NFL all I can say is if Joey Harrington was good enough DJ is too.
Vince Lombardi
October 21st, 2009
2:19 pm
players get cut every day. DJ enjoyed a couple a three years in the show (one on IR). he has options, they just may not include the NFL. life goes on.
When are head cases...
October 21st, 2009
2:21 pm
…meaning TB, PTC Dawg and Rodney GarDnergoing to get a clue about UGA athletes and college athletes in general, and that is that not all of them are meant to be in the NFL since they are obviously not good enough. To say that the Falcons are intentionally NOT signing local players is just plain stupid.
Shockley could not beat out Greene; hence, why would anyone think he could be a pro QB when even David Green could not be a pro QB? Her’s a clue – Shockley is just not that good a QB…….
Country Boy
October 21st, 2009
2:24 pm
I think DJ can play in this league. Very good mobility, good armstrength, model citizen. I know about lack of experience and some injury but hope he lands on his feet in the NFL.
Tucker T
October 21st, 2009
2:29 pm
Ok. I know this doesn’t have anything to do with Shockley but I gotta say this. I just looked at the pictures of Steve Phillips’s mistress and you have to be kidding me. When I first read the story I thought Phillips had gotten him a hot little 22 year old piece of tail. I’m sorry but that is a below average looking girl and for him to throw his marriage away for that? Come on. It would still be stupid to do it for a hot girl but at least he would be getting some hot action. I hope Phillip’s wife takes him for everything he has because he is a complete idiot. By the way, I wish Shockley the best of luck.
RonnieGarDner
October 21st, 2009
2:30 pm
Head cases: Don’t put ole Rodney GarDner in the group you outlined. I was on board a few seasons ago (as my comment show) that the Falcons only signed the UGA athletes to appease the local fan base. Once they (the Falcons) started having success they dropped them like a rock. I doubt that any team will pick DJ or Thomas Brown up. They may but I doubt it.
Lloyd Christmas
October 21st, 2009
2:31 pm
You are on pathetic loser. No offense.
Burdell
October 21st, 2009
2:35 pm
Ted Striker–
Wow, just looked at the Post’s photo gallery. You were being kind in keeping it at unattractive!
About DJ…it’s a shame they got rid of him. I like having local talent on the team.
Maybe Vance Walker can lose a bit of that gut on the practice squad and make the team next year.
GO JACKETS!!! BEAT THE WAHOOS!!!
georgiayankeesfan
October 21st, 2009
2:49 pm
i don’t get this town sometimes. this is a guy on the practice squad who used to start for UGA. who cares? how bout previewing next week’s Falcons game. when is ESPNAtlanta.com opening.
But SHE said...
October 21st, 2009
2:50 pm
Whoever called Phillips’ mistress below average must have never seen an ugly woman. That beeyatch is Rosie O’donnell nasty.
DHD
October 21st, 2009
2:50 pm
So?
morris
October 21st, 2009
2:55 pm
There is so much more to playing QB in the NFL than arm strength and mobility. Yet thats about all you ever hear fans and even some NFL types talk about. Timing, anticipation, footwork, study, being cerebral, and understanding all the little nuances of an NFL offense. Just because a guy is a good athelete and has a strong arm doesn’t mean squat in the NFL. Those two things can make you a star in college but not in the pros. Listen to a broadcast of monday night football with JAWS and Gruden, they do a great job of breaking down the QB position and what it takes to succeed. Its definently not all about physical tools. Does that mean a guy who has great physical tools is dumb if he can’t play QB in the NFL? No. There have been plenty of smart guys who had enough physical ablity who failed at the position. Playing that position in the NFL requires a special innate ability thats hard to put a finger on. Some guys just have it and some don’t. There is no formula for pre-determining who can succeed at QB in the NFL. Shockley is a great guy who just isn’t good enough to play QB in the NFL. Thats all there is to it.
Brian Asselstine
October 21st, 2009
3:00 pm
Holy crap!! I just looked at the Steve Phillips girl pictures. He had to be pi$$ a$$ drunk to be tagging that. Steve’s a fatty banger!
Tide rising
October 21st, 2009
3:09 pm
Ted Striker,
The homely girl pics remind me of why I was mad at President Clinton. Clinton was prez of the US, the most powerful man in the world! For Pete’s sake the man couldn’t do any better than Monica Lewinsky? Are you kidding? Couldn’t he have been more like JFK? At least JFK was tagging Marilyn Monroe. Now THAT was more befitting a president of the US. Steve Phillip’s wife is probably embarrassed. She would possibly understand if Phillips was hitting Erin Andrews but this leviathan? Jeeesh!
wxwax
October 21st, 2009
3:14 pm
Gotta like everything about Shockley but his judgment under pressure.
He got his one big shot to keep his job in the preseason. He was mobile, strong-armed — and woeful with ball security. He was so desperate to make a big play he kept turning the ball over.
Pity, I enjoyed watching him play.
PMC
October 21st, 2009
3:14 pm
Good luck DJ. Check out Cleveland…. their best option right now has a QB rating of 42. They need anything they can get.
morris
October 21st, 2009
3:17 pm
Tide rising, Clinton was tagging everything in sight it just happened that he got caught with lewinsky. I’m sure there were some babes he got a hold of while he Prez.
Chucktown38
October 21st, 2009
3:21 pm
BOOOHOOO Dawg fans! DJ was only on the team to keep you DAWG fans comming to the game anyway. I guess his lack to talent finally out wade the little bit of money he was making for Mr. Blank
Not Disappointed
October 21st, 2009
3:23 pm
Good luck to you in the future DJ.
Dude was to much of a team players. He should’ve went to another college to receive more playing time. The Pros are unforgiving.
He’s still better than some of the starting quarterbacks.
Ramblin Wreck.
Mr.Thomas Anthony "The Taxman" Jones, SR
October 21st, 2009
3:24 pm
This is why I hate the Atlanta Falcons and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Newspaper. First the racist Falcons backstab Mr. Michael Vick, the hero of Atlanta in a bush league move. When the girl accused the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback of rape, the Rooney family had private investigators investigate the girl, her family, her friends, and her co-workers. They went up to Canada and turned the place out. Look at the reports they some how got from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP/ also known as the Mounties) Blank and his racist backstabbers did absolututely nothing for Mr. Vick as the Atlanta Jounrnal-Constitution published lies and falsehoods. Fortunately there is a Hell for the liars at the AJc and up in Flowery Branch. Now that they through throwing mud at our hero Mr. Vickm they throw Mr. Donald Eugene Shockley out of the lifeboat. Never trust the Atlanta Falcons. They are a cutthroat buch of liars and trailer park trash. I was born in the Deep South and i see Trailer park Trash daily. They need to be exterminators. Watch out people, unless the City Of Atlanta comes up huge property tax and sales tax increases to pay for the new Dome Stadium Balnk and his henchmen will move the new Dome Stadium to either the Doravile/GM site or worse up to lily-white Forsyth County . Trust no one named Blank. Vick and Shockley did and now they were back-stabbed. Hopefully they will not bring in that fat racist Limbaugh to run more African-Americans off the team. I aa a Southerner! Never Forget and Never Ever Forgive!!!!!
PopeyeJones
October 21st, 2009
3:24 pm
GO DAWGS! Ah Shucks. I am SHOCKED am floored that the Falcons had the unmitigated gall and the unmitigated audacity to release someone who if given the opportunity would have become the GREATEST NFL PLAYER OF ALL TIMES! Oh Jeez!
curious onlooker
October 21st, 2009
3:25 pm
Wow, Steve Phillips must have been a Journey fan because he apparently slept with Steve Perry based on the photo!
Nativebird
October 21st, 2009
3:26 pm
Look, I like the kid too, heck. EVERYONE likes DJ okay! But that and cup of coffee won’t buy you D#$%^ in the NFL. Bottom line: If the kid is good enough, someone will give him a shot. So far? Well, let’s just say Thomas Dimitroff got another one right!
GW
October 21st, 2009
3:28 pm
Save this story and insert JPW in a year or two.
Trust me...
October 21st, 2009
3:29 pm
..Blank ain’t building a stadium in Forsyth County!!! Gwinnett or Hall County, maybe, but not Forsyth.
Trust me...
October 21st, 2009
3:30 pm
…and Forsyth County sure ain’t “lily-white” -= just goes to show your racist side with that statment, along with most of what else you have spewed today!
Wow, I hope Mr. Anthony...
October 21st, 2009
3:32 pm
…is correct about moving the Falcons to stadium that is out of downtown Atlanta!
gabeaux
October 21st, 2009
3:43 pm
taxman, tell us again how and when the Falcons stabbed Vick in the back. I must have missed that.
PMC
October 21st, 2009
3:46 pm
I still don’t understand how anyone observes this team and thinks… oh wow they are racist? Deductive reasoning is a good thing.
Of the stars on the team on offense and defense aren’t 9 out of 10 African American? Do we not cheer for them? Heck we even got Tony Gonzalez. If you’re only rooting for skin color or nationality everybody gets to pull for him.
JudasSenzure
October 21st, 2009
3:48 pm
I dont believe anyone on the Falcons backstabbed Vick. Vick stabbed and backstabbed dogs and thus the trick was turned on him after he was released from prison. The Eagles were the only team in the league that would have signed Vick or else Vick would have had to end his career prematurely. I wish that Al Davis and the Raiders had picked up Vick in Oakland. JaMarcus Russell is having difficulty learning the pro game and I thought the Raiders would be a good fit for Vick to start, with JaMarcus backing up Vick. JaMarcus has had so many problems throwing the football that he often looks like a statue or a manequin out there. The Raiders would have come out of the blocks quickly with Vick with all of Vicks spectacular NFL experience and Russell could have eased himself into the starting job without looking like an idiot being thrown in there. JaMarcus Russell will probably become a great quarterback, but I think Vick would have taken the Raiders to the pinnacle of greatness had he signed with Oakland.
Nick
October 21st, 2009
3:50 pm
Good luck DJ.
Gary
October 21st, 2009
3:55 pm
I live in Forsyth County. We aren’t lilly white as Mr. Anthony suggests and we sure aren’t building a stadium for Mr. Blank. We love the Falcons, but will be glad to drive to Atlanta and watch them. As long as they pick a more desirable and easily accessible area for a stadium. I could see the old GM plant or somewhere in Gwinnett.
layinlow
October 21st, 2009
4:01 pm
Wow. Who was that paranoid black psycho with that post at 3:24? Funny how when the Falcons cut a black guy they are a racist organization but when they cut somebody like brooking that psycho above cheers. Talk about racism. BTW psycho, ben rothleisberger was being sued in a civil case and Vick was being prosecuted by the feds. I’m not even going to waste my time trying to explain the difference because you probably would still be incapable of understanding anyway. In a civil case a team is in a position to help a player out by using the P.R. department. But how in the hell can a team help an individual who is being prosecuted by the federal government? Did the Giants help Plaxico when the state of New York prosecuted him? Uh no.
MAD-DONNA
October 21st, 2009
4:04 pm
Hey Chucktown 38, before you attempt to belittle DJ or the UGA fan base, you should learn to use the proper words! Here is a little help this time, but you’re on your own after this! It’s “outweighed”, not “out wade”!
bamafan
October 21st, 2009
4:11 pm
I looked at the photos at the new york post. From the first couple of pics, I wasn’t sure the person was a female.
GrowlerWilson
October 21st, 2009
4:12 pm
People like Plexico Burriss, Mike Vick and Adam “Pacman” Jones are referred to as “thugs”. They can’t help themselves because their lives are a train wreck headed for disaster. All you can do is pray for them because they are going to ruin their lives all by themselves. Plex goes into a nightclub and literally “shoots himself in the foot”. Vick drowns, kills and electrocutes dogs the way that prisoners on death row are put to death. Pacman is a bully who beats up innocent people for no reason. All three guys will never make the hall fame. They will however make the “HALL OF SHAME”.
layinlow
October 21st, 2009
4:16 pm
Vick would have taken the Raiders to the pinnacle of greatness had he signed with them instead of the eagles? Really? Dude are you serious? The raiders are awful and Vick is nowhere near leading any team in the NFL to greatness, especially one out of the abyss. Man there are some delusional folks on these sports blogs.
Alan
October 21st, 2009
4:24 pm
TAX MAN JONES, you are a hate monger and quite frankly have no idea about which you speak, here’s a tip, go hide in a dark place and don’t come back out for the world will be a better place without you. GO FALCONS-GO SOUTHERN RUSH.
David Run-Run
October 21st, 2009
4:28 pm
[ This G-rated comment has been blocked by AJC editors. ]
Just An Observation
October 21st, 2009
4:42 pm
First – Shockley should not have been behind David Greene but we all know why that happened. I agree with an earlier blogger who stated that staying at UGA was a huge mistake for Shockley.
However, with that said…., I do wish him the best and hopefully he’ll get another opportunity in the NFL to prove himself.
What's Important
October 21st, 2009
4:43 pm
Jeff, unfortunately we can’t even say a decent goodbye to a good kid without the two or three idiots on both side coming forth and taking the blog hostage. Might as well close it down now, the downhill spiral has begun.
idiot
October 21st, 2009
4:45 pm
“The Taxman” Jones,
You are an idiot. Shockley was beat out fare and square by John P. Wilson. Are you saying that the Rev. Jackson become part owner? or maybe bring affirmative action to the NFL???
FALCONS FAN
October 21st, 2009
4:52 pm
Tax man, what are you talking about-Falcons are not racist, our starting running back is black, our starting WR is black, our TE is black our whole DL is black, What the hell are you talking about, MV7 did this to himself, yes he was fun to watch, but what did he ever do to the Falcons, oh wait he fipped us off. He served his time and deserves to play but we have moved foward and moved on, He is a great athlete but no a great OB, just wait and Matt Ryan will one day be a Hall of Fame QB, when was MV7 ever compaired to Peyton Manning, Please understand football and understand what you are talking about before you make stupid comments. If you dont like the falcons, become an eagles fan and stay off of our blog sites.
John in Rome
October 21st, 2009
4:55 pm
TAX MAN, the only back stabbing done was Vick to Blank after he signed him to 80 mil contract!
Biker Garrie
October 21st, 2009
4:59 pm
Good luck DJ. You are an exciting quarterback. If you had bnot gotten hurt the other year in preseason you could have won the starting position when Stupid Vick got in trouble. It is all a matter of bad timing. Good luck, I hope you find a team.
Fiddycent
October 21st, 2009
5:05 pm
Not to change the subject, but Lord what the he!! was Steve Phillips thinking. That chick is one ugly beeeeattchh! I don’t think I’d do her with Steve Phillips unit. Damn man, that is one ugly crack house lookin ho!
Radio Listener
October 21st, 2009
5:07 pm
Thank Goodness. I’m so glad the Falcons have let DJ go for good. Now he can focus on landing with a team where they aren’t hanging onto him for the PR…don’t say it isn’t true when the lead is “fan favorite”. Shock had an untimely injury during the Mike Vick saga that really was his greatest set back. Shock will get another shot, he will it may just take a little more patience. That is something Shock can do but he should really be filled with relief. Sometimes being able to get a away from home is what’s best.
MV#7
October 21st, 2009
5:09 pm
MR.MICHAEL VICK WILL ALWAYS OWN!!!!!!THE ATLANTA FALCONS BECAUSE SUNDAY DURING HALFTIME (FALCONS GAME) THE HALFTIME SHOW WAS ABOUT MV7…LOL..
HE’S BEEN GONE NOW FOR 3YEARS. WE UNDERSTAND YOU MISS HIM!!!LOL.. AND BY THE WAY MATT(NOODLE ARM)RYAN PU**Y BOY WILL ALWAYS BE SH*T!!!!!!!!!!!!
Najeh Davenpoop
October 21st, 2009
5:19 pm
I don’t mean this in a mean-spirited way — he should try the UFL. I think he has enough talent to belong on an NFL team, but bottom line is he’s been in the league for a few years and hasn’t proven anything. NFL teams will always be more willing to take a chance on an unproven rookie than an unproven veteran. The UFL will give him a chance to prove he can play, so that he can stay on the radar of NFL teams.
Keep it Real!
October 21st, 2009
5:20 pm
See Georgia fans, that is why you will never win a BCS championship your talent is overrated! Their are not too many stars from Georgia in the NFL!
Let’s give Matt Ryan sometime to grow here throwing 2 interceptions almost costs the Falcons the game!
Fans in the South sure love to suck up to their overrate players!
And I am OUT!
DamYankee
October 21st, 2009
5:23 pm
Maybe Phillip’s girlfriend can suck-start a Harley.
VolsRule
October 21st, 2009
5:25 pm
There comes a time in all Professional athletes careers that it it over. The Falcons owed it to DJ to allow him to get on with his life.
DJ seems to be a class act and a bright kid. How would you like to be his age and start off in life with his base savings her received from the Falcons – not a bad way to start!!!
Best of luck to you!
All I'm Saying Is...
October 21st, 2009
5:26 pm
Shock will be fine if he keeps the faith, works out the remainder of this season, and has his agent work the phones to get an invite to camp next summer. There are too many lousy QBs starting in the NFL (the two in Tennessee, Russell in Oakland, Tampa Bay, etc.) for him to go without another opportunity…
BuzzGT
October 21st, 2009
5:32 pm
He needs to be playing somewhere to gain the experience that he missed out on at UGA. He should try the CFL.
Chucktown38
October 21st, 2009
5:38 pm
Wow all of the racist comments on here.I have never felt so bad for being white. According to some I guess the color of my skin makes me a racist to huh.
Chucktown38
October 21st, 2009
5:40 pm
Keep It Real Thats not the south just Dawg fans
All I'm Saying Is...
October 21st, 2009
5:42 pm
As for the Steve Phillips situation: Wow! And I don’t mean wow as in I’m impressed. What an explosive situation from humping around with a very unattractive 22 years old woman.
And, apparently, this is far from the first time that Steve has not had his meal at home, if you know what I mean. What goes around, truly comes around. Now his actions have not only led to more pain and embarrassment but also to his 16 years old kid being cyber stalked.
Lets be realistic people
October 21st, 2009
5:46 pm
Good luck DJ…This is garbage, nothing more than Dimitroff & Smith’s attempt to remake the Falcons into some distorted image that they have so put “their stamp” on it. This guy was never really given a fair shot & that’s just the truth…Remember you guys calling Dimitroff a genius as GM are most likely the same fans that called Rich Mckay a genius as well in his early tenure. Nothing against the kid, but Matt Ryan is overrated. Shockley with the same opportunity would have very likely outperformed “the franchise facelift” & Redman/Wilson give me a break….but this is a business & the Falcons are preparing to make that move to the N. Suburbs.
Hef
October 21st, 2009
5:49 pm
DJ beaten out by Parker,really. Neither one is going to be a starter in this league,but at least DJ offered a different dimension to the position. We now have 3 not very mobile QB’s with Ryan being the most mobile. Not a positive move in my book,I guess thats why GM’s get the big bucks.
Paddy
October 21st, 2009
5:56 pm
Just saw the photo of Phillips ex girlfriend. I think I know her. She bags my groceries at the Piggly Wiggly. Sad to say, there are many pretty girls at Pigly Wiggly, she is just not one of them.
Mike Vick Curse....................
October 21st, 2009
5:56 pm
Douglas………….Done
Jerry…………Done
Williams………..Done
Moore……………Done
Norwood………….Done
Mughelli………….Done
Who’s next?????
I told you fools you will never win another playoff game……….
VOOOOOOO DOOOOOO…………. VOOOOOOO DOOOOO………..
2004 & COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hef
October 21st, 2009
5:57 pm
LBRP-I agree,one winning season is not a career. Lets see if the Falcons can sustain & build off of last year. I do disagree with Ryan though,I have’nt heard nothing but praises. I do wish they kept DJ,I thought he would be a good backup.
Mike Vick Curse....................
October 21st, 2009
5:59 pm
Turner……………Near Done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2004 & COUNTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
BG
October 21st, 2009
6:05 pm
I hope a team picks up DJ. DJ is a class act and He would be an asset to any team that signs him. Good Luck DJ!
jerry
October 21st, 2009
6:26 pm
Mike Vick Curse: I don’t believe your curse is going to work here. Try Mozambique.
Billy Bob
October 21st, 2009
6:31 pm
I think your curse worked on Vick. Prison time, Financially, Non-factor for Philadelphia. I would watch highlights of Vick if there were any, but I am sooo glad he’s not a Falcon any more!
Marie
October 21st, 2009
7:01 pm
Good luck, DJ. You’re a great guy!
Rick Denson
October 21st, 2009
7:05 pm
Tough break for DJ. He is a really classy guy with allot of heart and talent. It just wasnt in the cards for him with the Falcons. His best shot at getting his turn would have came had not he torn up his ACL during Preseason because during that same season the Vick Scandal broke and we were left with “Horrible Harrington” to carry the load. DJ was having a very good preseason and surely would have got a short before the Falcons made the move to get Chris Redmond. Coming back from the ACL injury the Falcons team had moved in a completely diferent direction with very few players left from the Vick era and it is now the “Matty Ice- Turner the Burner Show”. I’ve met DJ and think he’s a good kid with a bright future in whatever direction he takes. The NFL is a tough business and even if he doesnt make it with another team the kid is a class act and he’ll be fine. He’ll always have the NFL experience and the great accomplishments made at UGA…. and nobody can take that away from him!
Mike Vick Curse....................
October 21st, 2009
7:15 pm
http://www.atlantafalcons.com/News/Articles/2009/01/Wild_Card/Falcons_Cardinals_Game_Story.aspx
Oh the memories………………….
Falcons Woes
October 21st, 2009
7:17 pm
INJURIES…………INJURIES………..DAMN INJURIES……………
Ed
October 21st, 2009
7:19 pm
That’s too bad, I’ve been pulling for Shockley. He was one of my favorite Georgia quarterbacks. He seems like a guy who will do well in the future – who knows, maybe he can get into coaching or an analyst job.
Find a new team losers
October 21st, 2009
7:39 pm
Ryan is 15-6 in the regular season as a starter. He is actually ahead of manning, brees, and brady at the same point in their careers. These Mike Vick loving ******’* can’t stand the fact that Ryan is going to be a star and their hero is finished as a franchise QB. They wanted soooo bad for Ryan to fail but it just isn’t going to happen. When Ryan has finished his career in Atlanta he will be the greatest QB in franchise history. They show their racism by pulling against Ryan only because he is white. Atlanta is the only sports town in this country where part of the fanbase would turn on their home town franchise because their hero QB turned out to be a criminal and they just can’t accept that fact. No these lowest common denominator of human beings blame the owner of the team, the true fans, and anybody who want praise their fallen hero. What petulance these losers demonstrate.
BigDawg
October 21st, 2009
7:42 pm
So Steve Phillips likes fat ugly girls. That’s not a crime because if it was most Tech graduates would be in jail, Why do you think they post on the Georgia blogs so often? Because they like dogs. BOW WOW!!! Fat ugly girls need loving too. To bad about Shockley but I think he is done. Great point was made about him not being able to beat out Greene at UGA and he couldn’t make it in the NFL either. Maybe he can go to the CFL.
Steve
October 21st, 2009
7:59 pm
I’m still trying to figure out how in the hell he got beat out by John Parker Wilson. He was the reason Bama lost in the SEC championship game last year. A three year starter with one decent year vs. an all-sec qb and sec champion. Something’s not right in the ATL. DJ will find a home somewhere. Sometimes its about finding the right fit. Just ask Brady Quinn.
clos21
October 21st, 2009
8:05 pm
Come On man! DJ never had a chance to succeed with the way they handle him. sticking him out there with third and fourth string talent! Even last year when it suppose to had been an “open quarterback compentention” yeah right! I am a falcon for life but I don’t care for this team! So if they failed I won’t loose no sleep. if they win I just enjoy the moment!
Rocket Rod
October 21st, 2009
8:49 pm
Any consolation to you DJ, this club traded Bret Farve back when they were needing a Quarterback. Look what became of him.
Falcons Woes
October 21st, 2009
8:57 pm
Find a new team losers
October 21st, 2009
7:39 pm
Ryan is 15-6 in the regular season as a starter. He is actually ahead of manning, brees, and brady at the same point in their careers. These Mike
“Ryan is 24-years old, at his age Vick had been selected to 2-pro bowls, finished 2nd in MVP voting, won 2 playoff games, taken team to the championship games and what does Ryan have – CHOKE in the playoffs”
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FLACCO
October 21st, 2009
9:00 pm
Hey Matt – when are you going to win a game that matters, like a freakin playoff game?
Starring Ted Knight as Judge Smales
October 21st, 2009
9:04 pm
I know that Shockley was supposed to be the greatest thing coming out of UGA, but what did he do before the 2005 season that warranted such talk? Remember the Florida game where Guss Scott took him to the house & the next thing you know, he’s on the bench the rest of the game. BTW, name me any UGA player that made an impact with the Falcons.
Falcons Future
October 21st, 2009
9:11 pm
Ok, Falcons were going to see how good y’all are going to be. It’s evident it was in the plan to release Shockley early on. Like, the guy said earlier, you never put him with the 1st string to give him the opportunity to show his talent. They said, it was going to be an open competition. 99% of the fan base saw what was happening, it was just a matter of time. Here is a talented, very intelligent, athletic, pocket as well as mobile quarterback who has learned 3 different offensive systems in 4 yrs. You can’t tell me this guy isn’t going to be something special to the next team that chooses him. He a great leader, a team player, so much so that Matty Ice will miss him. He goes to practice early, stays late, go in on his off days to break down film. Just remember D.J. when one door closes another one will open. This is the reason why the Falcons haven’t been a super bowl contender in how many years??? Go Figure? I agree with the other blogger, when he said that Blank used the Ga players to build the fan base and now the fans are there he let all of them go. Well, he has lost 7 ticket holders here, we will watch it on t.v.. Good Luck D.J. keep the faith your time is coming.
JJB
October 21st, 2009
9:21 pm
Falcons Future, the rest of the NFL have had 7 weeks to sign DJ but did not. They could have signed him, but needed to put him on the 53 man roster to get him on the team. No team saw enough potential in him to sign him during this time. It sucks for him, but reality is reality. I will never be a millionaire (most likely), Mike Vick’s best playing days are behind him (most likely), and the Falcons are building a great long term team. I would rather build a good team than worry about my favorite players being on it.
JJB
October 21st, 2009
9:23 pm
And let’s be honest some more, Are you really buying tickets to a game because of the third string quarterback? If so, you have never gotten to see him take a real snap in a real game. How sad.
SHOULD HAVE DRAFTED FLACCO
October 21st, 2009
9:24 pm
Matt “Choke” Ryan has won as many playoff games as DJ – Zero, so what big accomplishments does Matty Lice have besides stinking up the place?
sidslid
October 21st, 2009
9:33 pm
I am a neutral college football fan (nothing for or against UGA). Never could understand the Shockley bandwagon. He was David Greene’s back up and Greene was nothing more than a jock strap carrier in the pros.
Falcons Future
October 21st, 2009
9:35 pm
It doesn’t matter why I bought my tickets. Kudos to the Falcons now he could move on. Whether you think someone will pick him up or not that is you, you are entitled to your opinion. He hasn’t had a chance to play. You don’t know who has inquired about him in last 7 wks. Whether someone picks him up this season or next he will get picked up!! Mark my word.
Matt Ryan
October 21st, 2009
9:54 pm
This is classic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yI9GP_j-FoU
An intelligent thinker alright – this is hilarious!
roll tide
October 21st, 2009
10:05 pm
I cannot believe how you people are so SHOCKED about DJ being released. We all know that he was beat out year before last by that kid Randall from VA TECH but Blank had to sell tickets so he kept DJ. In three years no other team has asked about DJ so that should tell you something. If he was that good at Georgia they would have made way for him to play along with Green. So evidentally they knew then what Blank knows now. And by the way Roooooooooooooooooooooollllllllllll Tide !!!!!
good guy
October 21st, 2009
10:10 pm
I’m in the camp that says if Harrington, Simms (Phils’s son, not Phil), Wright, Slash, etc…can find an NFL job, surely DJ can. He’s at least as talented as those hacks. Maybe a fresh start away from family/friend pressures would be good for him. If not, then he had a good run, will always be a hero in Athens, and has a great life to look forward to in whatever his chosen field. Go get ‘em, DJ!
Redneck@!
October 21st, 2009
10:14 pm
Now the falcons have all white qbs No more triggers. Now we can win and get back to a normal game. F Michael Sick
Redneck@!
October 21st, 2009
10:15 pm
Git rid of all the triggers and it will be a better city!@!
harry
October 21st, 2009
10:21 pm
I hate how guys like Greene and Shockley who won championships dont get a real shot in the nfl, but stafford who beat florida once get 70 million
President Obama
October 21st, 2009
10:21 pm
Redneck@!
I’m your master – get over it!
President Obama
October 21st, 2009
10:22 pm
harry
October 21st, 2009
10:21 pm
I hate how guys like Greene and Shockley who won championships dont get a real shot in the nfl, but stafford who beat florida once get 70 million
“Or Matty Lice who couldn’t win a freakin A.C.C. title.”
Wreckmaniac
October 21st, 2009
11:22 pm
This is a perfect example of the NFL hoax. DJ would have had a much better chance if he had left UGA instead of sitting on the bench behind
Greene all those years. But some kids, for some dumb reason, would rather go to UGA and not play than go where they can play. Where’s the logic ?
Wreckmaniac
October 21st, 2009
11:25 pm
By the way, is Greene getting a check from the NFL these days ?
Wreckmaniac
October 21st, 2009
11:31 pm
BigDawg: I would rather get it on with a fat, ugly girl that wait to be
nailed by an alligator.
Wreckmaniac
October 21st, 2009
11:36 pm
So among the “great three” Shockley, Greene, and Pollack none are now working in the NFL? Now, I well understand that Pollack was seriously and permanently injured and I know he was awesome. But the point is, again, why bet on an NFL career ? The odds are too small.
College players need to plan for a real life. They owe nothing to fans who want a nat champ.
kool$kat
October 21st, 2009
11:47 pm
Dawg Gone!!! Good riddance.
THWG!
Not Michael Adams
October 22nd, 2009
12:11 am
Georgia people will always love Shockley. If he doesn’t catch on elsewhere, all he has to do is hang up a State Farm shingle or something like that and guys like me will become paying customers out of pure admiration for his loyalty and high character if nothing else. Being the starter at Mississippi State would have done nothing for him but got him killed every week while he led them to an upset or two.
Time
October 22nd, 2009
12:13 am
DJ – You’re probably my second favorite Dawg of all time. Behind Hershel. Good luck and keep at it, and hopefully you’ll catch some good luck along the way.
Because DJ has to be the most unlucky player I’ve seen in a long time. Signs at UGA as a heralded recruit destined for big things. Then David Greene kind of comes out of nowhere to lock down the job for his first 3 years. Waits patiently, with little to no complaining about his situation. Most guys transfer, DJ led by example and stayed and we won a SEC title with him.
Then the Falcons take him, the Vick situation happens and he’s playing well in the preseason. Well enough that I believe he would have got his chance as a starter. But, a season ending injury killed any chance of that. Hit with the bad luck bug again.
I still firmly believe he has the physical talent, and his intangibles are unquestioned. If he had 2-3 years of starting at UGA, he’d have been a high draft pick. But, wasn’t meant to be. Someone will sign him, and hopefully he’ll finally get the shot he has waited so long for.
redandblack80
October 22nd, 2009
12:37 am
Keep it real?That name fits you to a T…….Champ Bailey ring a bell>Voted ONE OF THE 10 BEST PLAYERS OF ALL TIME in the NFL(Sports Illistrated)……..HINES WARD>MVP Super Bowl for the Steelers…………………..Fran Tarkenten>started the proud tradition of representing UGA in the pro’s……….DJ SHOCKLEY-Good luck in the future and GOD BLESS YOU,& keep your chin up,your in everyone’s prayers..Join the MARINES and follow Tripolli in representing the MARINE CORPS.
tchance
October 22nd, 2009
8:10 am
Best of luck to you DJ. You showed a lot of class the way you handled the situation at UGA. You’ll land on your feet.
PINKANDGREEN
October 22nd, 2009
9:22 am
Why are we talking about Michael Vick? What has been done is done. This is about DJ Shockley. I knew DJ from North Clayton. I think his dad is an idiot and it showed when he stayed at Georgia. He could have received better preparation for the NFL at another school However, if he hadnt gotten hurt that season, I think he would have had a chance to showcase his skills. However, it didnt work out that way. There are many teams that need a good quarterback and I hope DJ gets the opportunity to prove himself in this league.
DigbyD
October 22nd, 2009
9:22 am
Just another grossly over-hyped former UGA player.
H Nupe
October 22nd, 2009
9:30 am
I think the Falcons made a mistake by letting DJ go. The other QB did nothing to beat Shockley in the pre-season at all. I know the NFL is a business and that may be the bottomline for getting rid off him. Hope you can start somewhere else DJ and truly show what you can do, Good Luck man.
George Bush
October 22nd, 2009
9:40 am
No president owns anyone Obama. This is America…..well for now until you get through with it and turn into a 3rd world country like your african homeland.
DON”T BLAME ME I DIDN’T VOTE FOR HIM!!!
Just An Observation
October 22nd, 2009
9:51 am
I hate the racist comments…coming from both sides!!! PEOPLE GROW UP and let’s just stick to the topic of the blog which was suppose to be about DJ Shockley.
Hopefully DJ will get picked up by some other team where he’ll be given an opportunity to prove whether or not he can consistently play QB at an NFL level.
CDR
October 22nd, 2009
10:00 am
I wish Shockley all the best in the world, but this whole “waited his turn” BS at UGA is beyond sickening at this point. When you have a better QB in front of you, you don’t play. Unless of course you’re Coach Richt and have a pointless, hurtful QB rotation for 3 years. But why don’t we ever hear about all of the other QB’s in the nation that have “waited their turn?” Not every freakin’ good QB coming out of high schools starts as a true freshman. I think Shockley, for whatever reason, has been babied all his life. By his parents, coaches and most certainly the media. He’s not a pro QB. He was good in college after he “waited his turn” but that’s it, end of story. Everybody move on!!!
Go Dawgs
October 22nd, 2009
10:12 am
Hey georgiayankeesfan, I’m willing to pay for a one way ticket if you will take your a55 back to New York and stay there. If you don’t like how things are done in the South, you should move back to wherever you came from. Have a nice day now, y’hear?
Who let the retards in here?
October 22nd, 2009
10:18 am
I see that the short-bus emptied out its passengers into this blog. To put it as politely as possible, some of you people are just plain stupid. If you’re going to make racist statements, use poor grammar and misspell things, you’d be better off keeping your mouth shut. Remember that “it’s better to say nothing and be thought an idiot than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.” Retards.
Chucktown38
October 22nd, 2009
10:25 am
Question? How many of you Vick fan really have season tickets, or have ever gone to a game?Now you are the same as DJ sitting behind a TV some were playing Monday morning QB
Steve n' l-ville
October 22nd, 2009
10:25 am
CDR,
BINGO!!! You pretty much summed up exactly how I’ve felt towards DJ from day one. You are exactly right. Why isn’t every other kid that’s had to wait their turn labeled the same way Shockley has been? Why is it any different for DJ than the hundreds, more like thousands, of qb’s over the years that have done exactly what he did? Richt treated him like a charity case while at UGA and even admitted to playing him in order to “keep a smile on his face.” I lost a lot of respect for Richt after he made those comments and he’s nowhere near getting it all back. Great post again CDR.
GrowlerWilson
October 22nd, 2009
10:59 am
I notice a lot of you still have Vick on your minds. Why dont ya’ll Vick Supporters and Vick Fans just move to Philly get season Eagles tickets and follow Vick around on Twitter 24/7.
dan
October 22nd, 2009
11:17 am
Wow all the idiotic comments are truely astounding!
DJ was a great QB for UGA. Yeah Greene was good, but DJ was better, and this is coming from a guy who loved David Greene. Greene played for 4 years and racked up all of those wins, I loved the way that Greene could lead a team in the 4th quarter. But if I had to choose between 2004 David Greene and 2005 DJ Shockley, I’ll go with Shockley all day. Shockley was a threat to score every time he touched the ball, and was very underrated as a passer. He put up better numbers than Greene did his senior year and had his team in National Title Contention is his ONLY year as a starter.
With all that being said: Shockley is a career NFL backup at best. He has the athletic ability, but his arm strength isn’t as good as a Matt Ryan. He’s a good college QB, and that’s it. It’s too bad he wasn’t given a chance, but when you’ve been in the league for 3 years and can’t elevate your game then you’re not good enough.
dan
October 22nd, 2009
11:19 am
Wow all the idiotic comments are truely astounding!
DJ was a great QB for UGA. Yeah Greene was good, but DJ was better, and this is coming from a guy who loved David Greene. Greene played for 4 years and racked up all of those wins; and I loved the way that Greene could lead a team in the 4th quarter. But if I had to choose between 2004 David Greene and 2005 DJ Shockley, I’ll go with Shockley all day. Shockley was a threat to score every time he touched the ball, and was very underrated as a passer. He put up better numbers than Greene did his senior year and had his team in National Title Contention in his ONLY year as a starter.
With all that being said: Shockley is a career NFL backup at best. He has the athletic ability, but his arm strength isn’t as good as a Matt Ryan. He’s a good college QB, and that’s it. It’s too bad he wasn’t given a chance, but when you’ve been in the league for 3 years and can’t elevate your game then you’re not good enough.
CoryWilson
October 22nd, 2009
11:34 am
Most people appear to be in a STATE OF SHOCK regarding SHOCKLEY. Of course SHOCK did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to impress anybody at the Combines, in preseason or anywhere to make anyone believe that he is nothing more than a backup and a bench player. However the minute SHOCK is released, most people are SHOCKED out of their minds. C’mon folks, this is a business. It is the national football league; the greatest applecart on the planet. The only team that can use D.J. Shockley’s awesome skills is the Oakland Raiders. JaMarcus Russell will be released soon since he is having such a difficult time in Oakland. Shock’s agent will get the call for Shockley to come on down and interview his client. Shock will soon be getting the ROYAL SHOCK TREATMENT as he will be signed on an nfl roster soon and brought back on board on an NFL roster. Dont worry about Shockley because his situation will soon be resolved and Shockley will get back on the track to fame and fortune.
dawgrific
October 22nd, 2009
12:03 pm
good luck DJ!
by the way, blank made vick the face of the franchise (see $100 mil. contract) before vick stabbed blank in the back, then blank came out against limbaugh’s potential ownership (which I think was a mistake, by the way), so……a racist organization…..
I THINK NOT you idiots!!!!!!!
crash001
October 22nd, 2009
12:22 pm
GrowlerWilson – that was a pretty harsh statement you made about Vick and the other two. I agree that all made poor choices but to classify them as thugs is going too far. Do you classify the American Government for what was done to African American during slavery or what Germany did to the Jews? I wish DJ the best of luck but there is no way that John Parker Wilson is a better QB than DJ. John Parker is not even college material but it is something who and where you at
J.Mike's Missives » Birdseed: October 22, 2009
October 22nd, 2009
12:23 pm
[...] Shockley had been off Falcons’ radar for a while, Atlanta Journal-Constitution The search has begun for Shockley and the AF.com team wishes him well. [...]
GrowlerWilson
October 22nd, 2009
12:40 pm
dawgriffic: Great comments. You are right. Vick deserved what he got because Vick was more than a backstabber. Vick was a dogstabber as well as a backstabber before Vick finally stabbed Blank in the back. I had a feeling that Vick was a nogood SOB when Vick stormed off the football field greeting his adoring fans who helped pay him his $100 million contract; he saluted those fans by giving them the finger in the infamous finger flipping tirade. That is when I scratched my head and said, “I think this guy, Mike Vick is a punk and a thug and I think he will end up in jail someday.” I wrote that in a blog at the time and it turned out to be true. Why the Vick Supporters still love and adore this guy, I will never know.
Matt's Next Big Game Will Be .................
October 22nd, 2009
12:50 pm
His 1st big game………….
THE SCRUB SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SashaStevens
October 22nd, 2009
12:55 pm
I believe DJ Shockley and David Greene were the BEST dual quarterback tandem the college game has ever seen. They were BOTH great talents who could have made it in the pros, but they either had bad luck or their talents never quite panned out and they will always be remembered as great college talents that fizzled in the NFL. Weve seen this before with the likes of Ryan Leaf and others who never quite made it in the nfl. The latest bust at qb in the nfl is JaMarcus Russell. Russell has a cannon for an arm but can’t keep it under control. Russell whistles the ball over receivers heads, behind them and underneath them. JaMarcus Russell will be know as a qb who couldnt throw it in the ocean.
LukeMerriman
October 22nd, 2009
1:01 pm
The Vick Supporters will continue pushing their way through with their insidious blogs by either bad mouthing Matt Ryan by attempting to put Ryan down or trying to over sell Vicks pathetic eroded skills. I know ALL of the Vick Supporters are sick and jealous that Ryan will be headed to the hall of fame after his playing career is over, while Vick will be kicked out of the league soon, probably by next year. That is what really sickens ALL the Vick Supporters of the world.
ShockAbsorber
October 22nd, 2009
1:15 pm
I hope that most of you will try your best to absorb the shock of losing DJ Shockley. Shockley was unfortunate and probably had the worst luck of anyone who ever made it to the nfl. Truth be told, DJ Shockley SHOULD have a starting job in the nfl right now. Shockley is better than 80% of all starting qbs in the nfl. Life dealt Shockley a horrific deck of cards and although Shockley had great skills, there was nowhere for Shock to display his incredible talents. Maybe Shock will get a starting job for a team in the Arena Football League, the Canadian League or the USFL. I really wish the best for DJ.
ron
October 22nd, 2009
1:19 pm
john parker wilson was handed the 3rd string job he did not out perform shockley.however fighting over a 3rd string job is not worth the aggravation,one will never take a snap during the season anyway.it’s a thankless job without any merit.i’ll just say hang on dj there is a future in football on the gridon or behind the scenes coaching or as a broadcaster.i heard he was a good student at uga,hopefully he has his degree or is close to attaining it.
mgdawg
October 22nd, 2009
2:00 pm
Did Shockley and/or David Greene last long enough in the NFL to be eligible for the players association pension? I get the feeling they were both a season short.
GuntherStevens
October 22nd, 2009
2:08 pm
The people who are referring to Matt Ryan as Matty “Choke” Ryan are straight up fools. Like I mentioned in my blog the other day: Steve Young who is an authority on qbs seeing that he is in the hall of fame and has several championship rings with the San Francisco 49ers and learned a great deal about football under the great coach Bill Walsh, I would say Young knows a great talent when he sees one. I heard Steve Young say himself that he felt that Matty “Ice” Ryan played last year in his rookie season like a seasoned veteran. The exact words he used was “like a hall of fame quarterback”. That my friends in my opinion is the highest complement that you could ever give someone at the starting qb position after their first season. I cant thing of something that you could say that would be more of a complement than that. But yet you dummies keep taking your pot shots at Ryan which is totally unjustified. Ryans record in the NFL so far is 15-6. Its not undefeated but its a great winning record and its better than Mike Vicks record was in the same amount of games. MATT RYAN IS THE REAL DEAL and you will see that as the season plays itself out.
AlternateReality
October 22nd, 2009
3:10 pm
For many years the Falcons wouldn’t draft UGA players because they feared the backlash that would arise if they had to release them. I think we’re seeing that today. I don’t know if Shockley got a fair shake, but I think he had some chances this preseason and didn’t take advantage of them. But as it’s been pointed out, he’s been available for 7 weeks now and no other team has signed him, so that has to tell you something about what the league thinks about him.
Maybe he will catch on with another team and show us that he really can play in the NFL. Time will tell.
Shamus Thacker
October 22nd, 2009
4:04 pm
Shockley should try a Canada stint if the NFL is cold right now. Didn’t do Warren Moon any harm.
Shamus Thacker
October 22nd, 2009
4:37 pm
Why is there never any consideration of Tommy Nobis for the HOF? Prejudice, because he played for poor teams most of the time? If that’s the reason, it sucks. Has he been considered not good enough? I was just a kid, but man, the guy left it all on the field every week. More of a bone-crusher you’ll never see. He and Brezina were some dreaded dudes I’m sure. Brezina would come-in helmet first, hands and arms up like wings behind the back. He was like a damned missile. lol Never saw anybody else hit quite like that… Humphrey and Zook were the ends; what pass-rushers they were…
Y’all can thank me for the nostalgia tour later..
Shamus Thacker
October 22nd, 2009
4:58 pm
If the Falcons, or scouts from any other NFL team, saw even a glimmer of starter-material in DJ, he’d have a job right now…
I like the man. Here’s hoping he’s prepared for life’s next step…
savannahdawg
October 22nd, 2009
5:28 pm
I hope you get your shot soon. You are a good man DJ!
JRCRICKETS GUY
October 22nd, 2009
5:32 pm
Thanks for everything and the best of luck!
Pitbull
October 22nd, 2009
7:15 pm
Jeff, I know you have never really liked us but I think this has to be said:
One more comment: Let’s face it. When you go to UGA you are a Bulldog for life. When you got to Tech you are a Yellow Jacket for life. The hatred never ends and most enjoy seeing the other school’s team lose almost as much as they enjoy seeing their own team win.
With that in mind Tech grad Marc Curles should never be allowed to ref another Georgia football game. And do not forget that that Tech grad SEC Director of Officiating Rogers Redding is the one who assigns him to the Georgia games.
And let’s not forget how hard the SEC crews have been on Georgia for the past few years. Some say it is for the Georgia celebration two years ago but this has been going on for longer than 2 years. Georgia is one of the most penalized teams in the country and we have been willing to chalk it up to not enough discipline. The AJC has almost made a artical series our of that.
But perhaps Rogers Redding is not the fair minded head of SEC officiating that the SEC paints him out to be, Perhaps that Tech hatred for Georgia still burns deeply in his soul and his spoken or unspoken direction to his ref teams is throw the flag at Georgia if they even look like we can penalize them.
Don’t forget the Jaspe rSanks non-fumble that led to a Tech win and the suspension of the SEC refs from working the SEC CG about ten years ago. I ref’ed little league and the first thing they taught me was you can’t call what you can’t see and the ref’s admitted that none of them saw him fumble because he didn’t. The ball was ripped out after he was down and all the refs saw was a bunch of Tech players jumping up and down claiming there was a fumble on their home field so the refs called one.
I guess if Tech cannot compete on the field (until this year) then having Redding Rogers in the SEC home office over the refs is the next best thing. Perhaps Grant Field should be changed to Redding Rogers Field because he sure does more for Tech than whoever Grant was.
Redding Rogers needs to go and Marc Curles needs to be fired if the SEC is to maintain any integrity. Otherwise if the team Redding wants to win has the lock then why tune in? The only reason I can think of is to see which team Redding has picked to win.
Is anybody getting their pockets lined from all this? I don’t think so. I think the SEC is just Redding’s little toy and he has his refs call the shots for the teams he wants to win. What a jerk.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
October 22nd, 2009
7:44 pm
I will win a playoff game someday dammit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Big XII
October 23rd, 2009
9:38 am
So when are you hillbillies going to realize NOT every player from Georgia can play in the NFL?
ChamberMaid
October 23rd, 2009
12:19 pm
DJ Shockely may not make it in the nfl, but he will be enshrined in the Georgia Football hall of fame for his contributions at the University of Georgia. Shockely will allways be remembered as the ULTIMATE TEAM PLAYER and someone who never complained ONCE although he knew he was being discriminated against by racists and knew he should have been the starter all along instead of David Greene. Shockely couldnt help it that he was black and because of that he was given a backup role instead of a starting role. By keeping silent about that it may have cost him his NFL career. Too bad. Good kid. Good luck DJ!
ChamberMaid
October 23rd, 2009
12:46 pm
Had Shockley had the opportunity to start at quarterback for the full years at Georgia, as he should have been, then Shockley would be performing at least as well as Matt Ryan is now for the Falcons for some other team in the nfl. Its too bad that our society still discrimnates against people just because of the color of the skin on their backsides.
GumbyWilliams
October 23rd, 2009
4:04 pm
I dont understand why Mike Vicks name keeps coming up in these BLOGS. Vick is a sick individual who should certainly not be wearing an Eagles uniform. Vick should have been kicked out of the league until eternity for the indiscretions he did to poor, helpless, innocent dogs. But whats interesting is that despite the fact that Vick has acted like the low life that he is, DJ Shockley has been the complete opposite of Vick and has been probably the nicest guy the Falcons have ever had on their roster; a model student of the game and a model citizen in the community. However Vick is welcomed back from jail with open arms, gets his Nike deals back, while Shockely is released from the Falcons team as if he has leprosy or something. Its so unfair the way people are treated in our society. The Eagles should have been trying to acquire DJ Shockely because Shockely can help them more than Vick can. Vick will get into trouble again and will be eventually kicked off the Eagles roster for good. But in the meantime, Vick is allowed to enjoy an NFL paycheck while Shockley must take his place in the unemployment lines. Its ridiculous and I am fed up with the system.
Obamawilldogreatthings
October 25th, 2009
3:14 am
Mr. georgiayankeesfan,
We love the guy because he showed loyalty, dedication and commitment to his teammates. And now because of it he doesn’t have the experience he would have had if he had left the Georgia program and gone somewhere else. So please don’t insult our athletes by saying “who cares”? Obviously, we do. Besides, if Harrington is good enough to start at qb in the NFL (for multiple teams) then certainly DJ has more than enough talent to do so as well. I believe the real problem is the excuse the owners and gms are using to deny him an opportunity……. experience on the field with the first string of an NFL team. Not a make believe team with a guy being touted as a genious because his first year guy drafted out of college had a good regular season. I believe he played well. But if Dimitroff was a genious then why can’t he find a good cb at 6ft or better? Some teams have several but we can’t find one. I also agree with one of the other bloggers who says this was a pre-arranged ploy by management to get the locals interested in the Falcons. A good PR man would have kept DJ on as a well liked classy kid to represent the franchise after the Vick era debacle. OOOPs! My bad! Maybe they did do that!
Obamawilldogreatthings
October 25th, 2009
3:39 am
Also, Mr. Davenpoop made a great suggestion for DJ to try the UFL to prove himself. It is funny how nobody wants you unless somebody else wants you too.
Finally, Mr. Keep it Real please check your facts again. The NFl does now and in the past has had stars from Georgia. Remember Denver and their running backs of the past. (UGA). Denver’s current cornerback…..known as a “shut down corner” (UGA). Former corner for redskins (UGA). Linebackers and receivers (Cincinnati, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia) (UGA). Just to name a few. Didn’t that guy from the steelers win an MVP award for his performance in the Super Bowl? Oh yeah, UGA! I think Dallas also took a guy from the UFL to play running back for them. I think he went to Georgia (H. Walker). The Miami Dolphins have one of the most storied franchises in the history of the NFl. They still have an undefeated season of 16 games culminating in a victory in the Super Bowl. Correct me if I am wrong but didn’t they have a guy starting in their defensive backfield from UGA? ( J. Scott). New Orleans Saints took a defensive tackle and defensive end from Georgia a few years ago. This past NFL draft had Denver take another running back from UGA (Moreno) and Detroit took a Georgia qb as the no. 1 pick in the draft (M. Stafford). Now you keep it real!
Sed99
October 27th, 2009
8:15 am
While in Athens, I thought Shockley was one of the best quarterbacks I’d seen in a long time. I was more impressed with him than I was Green. I can say that I’m thoroughly shocked that things are not going in a more positive direction for him in the NFL. Shockley’s leadership skills are unquestionable and there’s no doubt to the power he has in his throwing arm. D.J. I will keep my hopes up for you and keep confidence that you will find a home in the NFL. Best of fortune to you D.J.
dt
October 27th, 2009
1:21 pm
Good College QB NFL is such a different level Hope he Coaches he will be a good one