You’re on clock for Falcons (and why not Thomas?)
Why would the Falcons be scouting Demaryius Thomas unless they're interested in him? (Johnny Crawford/AJC)
I’ve looked at several NFL mock drafts and I have come to a stunning conclusion: Everybody is guessing. OK, maybe not so stunning.
But the same few names keep coming up around the Falcons’ pick at No. 19 overall. All are good players. All make sense in their own way. In a moment, I’ll list them and then you’ve got a chance to vote for which of the five you would prefer to see in a Falcons’ uniform in 2010.
One name may surprise you: Demaryius Thomas.
A few weeks ago, I told you why I believe Thomas has a chance to become, not only a solid NFL receiver, but possibly the most impactful NFL player out of this Georgia Tech class. I’m including defensive end Derrick Morgan. That doesn’t mean Thomas is a better athlete than Morgan. But Thomas’ skill set at the position he plays translates perfectly for the NFL: He’s big, strong, tough, blocks, can catch and goes after the ball.
Now comes word that the Falcons attended Thomas‘ private workout for 10 NFL teams Sunday. The receiver is coming off a broken foot and was unable to go through drills at Tech’s “Pro Day.” So he arranged Sunday’s workout.
Loading ...His draft stock has been going up recently but there’s a pretty good chance he will be available if the Falcons stay at 19. Most of the speculation has them taking a defensive player, possibly Michigan’s Brandon Graham or Missouri’s Sean Weatherspoon.
So why would they be scouting Thomas? Even if he slips to the second round (unlikely), the Falcons don’t have a second-round pick, unless they make a trade. There are only two logical conclusions: 1) The Falcons like him and they’re considering taking him in the first round; or 2) They want us to THINK they like him, continuing NFL general managers’ traditional pre-draft disinformation campaign.
I would’ve phoned Thomas Dimitroff today to ask him about No. 2. But it has sort of becoming a running joke between us at draft time and I promised I wouldn’t ask him again this year.
So here are the players (listed alphabetically, not by anybody’s rankings). Take a look and then weigh in with your comments and vote in our poll. On Thursday night, we’ll get some answers.
♦ Brandon Graham, defensive end/outside linebacker, Michigan: He wouldn’t be huge at defensive end (6-2, 268) but he has been compared to Dwight Freeney and led the NCAA in tackles for loss. He also was MVP of the Senior Bowl with five tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble.
♦ Jermaine Gresham, tight end, Oklahoma: You think, “immediate needs for Falcons,” and tight end probably doesn’t come to mind. That’s because they’re starting a future Hall of Famer, Tony Gonzalez. But there’s a possibility this could be Gonzalez’ final season, and tight end is an important position in Mike Mularkey’s offense. Gresham, who has had a private workout for the Falcons, was an All-American in 2008, with 66 receptions and 14 touchdowns. He did not play last season, recovering from a knee injury.
♦ Maurkice Pouncey, center, Florida: I know. A center is the most un-sexy pick of the draft (nothing personal, Maurkice). But Todd McClure is nearing the end of his career and the offensive line hardly is set up for the future. (Case in point: Sam Baker.) Pouncey (6-5, 305) is physical and can play center or guard.
♦ Demaryius Thomas, wide receiver, Georgia Tech: He would be a great second receiver behind Roddy White, and sets up a nice battle for the other spots between Harry Douglas (coming off a knee injury), Brian Finneran (ALWAYS coming off an injury), Michael Jenkins and Eric Weems.
♦ Sean Weatherspoon, linebacker, Missouri: A classic outside linebacker who could fit in well in the Falcons’ defense. He also had a private workout in Flowery Branch, and the team could be looking at him as a replacement for Mike Peterson.
♦
Today’s earlier posts
Jonathan Dwyer will overcome bad pre-draft rumor
Mettenberger saga shows Richt no longer soft on crime
♦
Follow me on Twitter @JeffSchultzAJC and on Facebook.com/JeffSchultzAJC
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
122 comments Add your comment
Bat Masterson
April 19th, 2010
3:05 pm
ha First.
Bat Masterson
April 19th, 2010
3:07 pm
I think the guys running the show will make a good decision, regardless.
Not Disappointed
April 19th, 2010
3:07 pm
Demaryius blocks like no one else business. He could be something special with the Falcons! Me likey alot Jeff!
Pi$$onaDAWG
April 19th, 2010
3:08 pm
I still think the Falcons trade down for more picks and save money on a 1st rounder. I like Bey Bey, but I think we need more players not 1 st rounders.
The Grinch
April 19th, 2010
3:09 pm
Any of them would be fine, but if we go o-line don’t you think we need a tackle worse than a C/G? When Samantha stubs her toe again, I sure as heck don’t want to see Svitek(sp?) out there playing matador.
jasont13
April 19th, 2010
3:09 pm
Funny how Schultz list, Harry Douglas (coming off and injury), Brian Finneran (Always coming off an injury). Schultie I’ll list it for you as well. Thomas (Coming off an injury). How can you mentione two guys who’ve played in the league that were injured and not mention Thomas in fact being injured himself. Falcon’s need a defensive player in the 1st round.
thebighairybeast
April 19th, 2010
3:19 pm
Come on Jason dont be a goober. Schultzie mentioned Thomas’ injury in the main article. Lighten up!
Walker, Texas Ranger
April 19th, 2010
3:22 pm
Pouncey, Gresham, Weatherspoon, Thomas in that order based on availablity. Great points on the departures of McClure (last year) and Gonzo (could be last year). Pouncey gets the nod cause he could help right away. The only way Thomas moves up is if we move Jenkins. We have got to get a replacement for Peterson. Statistically one of the worst OLB’s in the NFL. Any way of getting 4 picks in the first round?
Walker, Texas Ranger
April 19th, 2010
3:23 pm
availability, idiot
Reid Adair
April 19th, 2010
3:23 pm
If the Falcons were to trade down in the first round and pick up an early second-round pick in the process, I could see going after Demaryius Thomas with the second-round pick. I just don’t see them ignoring defense or even offensive line with that first pick, especially if they stay at No. 19.
Olik
April 19th, 2010
3:24 pm
Would love to trade down and pick up a second round, but assuming no trades, my order of preference would be:
1. Graham (will be a stud in pros)
2. Pouncey (agree we need o-line help, and love his versatility, but I’m ok if it’s a rd 3 pick of Tennant or Walton)
3. Weatherspoon (assuming there’s an OLB in rd 3 that can play)
4. Bey Bey (a good WR should be available in rd 4)
70. Gresham (a TE in round 1 is a luxury we can’t afford)
So…
Rd. 1: Graham
Rd. 3: best OLB
Rd. 3 compensatory: best C
Rd. 4: best WR
PaulieOldschool
April 19th, 2010
3:26 pm
As always, Jeff, well done. I like each of the 5 for different reasons. I also think Dez Bryant would be a good pick for us at 19, for many of the same reasons as Thomas. Nevertheless, I think that TD has a trade up his sleeve and we will see movement from the team in terms of picks Friday.
NO chance on BeyBey
April 19th, 2010
3:26 pm
Unless CJ Spiller falls to the Falcons at 19 (which isn’t happening), there’s no chance the Falcons take an offensive player at 19. If they really want Pouncey or BeyBey, they can easily trade down to get them (and possibly get a second round pick out of it).
Olik
April 19th, 2010
3:27 pm
Enter your comments here
Ramblinwreck83
April 19th, 2010
3:33 pm
I would also have to agree that a defensive player must be taken round 1. O-line help would be nice as well as another target for Matty Ice, but D needs to be top priority.
Dawgs2010
April 19th, 2010
3:37 pm
Need to focus on the lines. Forget about the skills positions this year.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
April 19th, 2010
3:41 pm
what are the chances of TD pulling one over on the mockers and drafting a player that is not on anyones mock board ?
oh I would be happy if it was Thomas I think he would be a huge help to the birds ,
be happy with pouncey
but I wouldn’t be surprised if the falcons don’t start picking until round 2 after a trade with somebody for two picks
Ree Roe
April 19th, 2010
3:44 pm
Jeff keep it real. If the Falcons take Pouncey, you & Mark will rip the organization to pieces. I know you probably put him up there b/c he’s been championed by our Falcons “beatwriter” in his mocks, but for the defensive problems this team has it would be a DUMB move to take a C with the 19th pick.
-REElated to Roe!!
dawgdawgdawg
April 19th, 2010
3:45 pm
No, we need someone that can actually catch….Thomas can’t seem to do that.
Barnacle Bill Bavasi
April 19th, 2010
3:53 pm
I wouldn’t be taking a tight end in the first round, unless he was another Tony Gonzalez. The backup is pretty good and could start for some teams. Just don’t ever bring back Pollard.
Adidas...
April 19th, 2010
4:05 pm
Uhhh “scouting” Thomas …… He’s in the local area, so there’s no real expense to incurr by paying a visit to Tech..
Did you really say, “Sure Hands”?? 30 – 24 & he drops a perfect pass with no one within 5 yards of him…
Surreeee Handz!!
ugay outhouse morons
April 19th, 2010
4:06 pm
hahah dogpoop inbreds, Bay Bay going to the Falcons, too bad you have no input whatsoever
kelvin davis
April 19th, 2010
4:10 pm
I called that pick.. The Falcons will get Thomas or Bryant… They would love to add a defensive player but the draft is deep with that… And its obvious that Matt Ryan or Roddy White must of said something to Mike Smith or TD for them to be showing this much interest in an offensive player when defense is our number one concern… Dez Bryant would also be great if he fell to us at 19 but Thomas would be great for the Falcons… And he will be very good from the start.. Look at how much better Roddy White has gotten from when Bobby Petrino was the coach… Our offensive coaches definitely will help Thomas become a great player
wxwax
April 19th, 2010
4:12 pm
The Falcons are a team with big needs.
A wide receiver isn’t one of them, not with Douglas coming back.
They need a pass rush and better play on the o-line.
But given Dimitroff’s fetish for drafting injury-prone players, I bet he takes Gresham.
82Dawg
April 19th, 2010
4:14 pm
ugay outhouse morons ……great just what the falcons need is another receiver who can’t hold to the ball when the game is on the line. Bring back memories to you?
wxwax
April 19th, 2010
4:14 pm
Adidas wrote: “Did you really say, “Sure Hands”?? 30 – 24 & he drops a perfect pass with no one within 5 yards of him…”
I agree. That was a terrible play in a big game and it makes me wonder about him.
HugoStiglitz
April 19th, 2010
4:15 pm
A passing attack with Matt, Roddy, Tony, and Bay Bay would be downright scary. Do it Falcons!
kelvin davis
April 19th, 2010
4:16 pm
Not that many memories… One we had Peerlice Price who was small and not worth everything we gave up for him and two Michael Jenkins is not big he’s just tall…
Pi$$onaDAWG
April 19th, 2010
4:19 pm
Thomas can’t catch in a non-passing Offence ,but he more catches and yards than AJ Green! How does that happen with that UGA Passing Machine in Athens?
Russ4Heisman
April 19th, 2010
4:20 pm
“In the flexbone, almost every pass is either a tunnel screen or a play-action pass, usually off a rollout. Thomas’ long receptions usually began with a play fake (often to Dwyer), with one or another wing backs drifting toward the sideline for an option pitch. All of this run action sucks up the secondary, sending safeties and corners toward the quarterback, Dwyer, and the pitch men. “Thomas usually starts his route by pretending to block a corner or safety, then runs a fly pattern. If the quarterback rolls to his side, Thomas twists into a corner route. The cornerback, worried about the option first, doesn’t have a chance.
It’s exciting, but the scheme does much more work than Thomas does.”
http://www.footballoutsiders.com/walkthrough/2010/walkthrough-drive-draftnik
kelvin davis
April 19th, 2010
4:20 pm
It doesn’t make me wonder about him… You make it seem like he’s the first player to ever drop a pass in a big game… It happens and you move on from it
Pi$$onaDAWG
April 19th, 2010
4:21 pm
Wait I know the answer! You QB likes to throw the ball to the other team as much as his onw team.
IceFan
April 19th, 2010
4:23 pm
Would not be surprised with anything at this point, but really hoping they trade down with the Pats for 22nd and a 2nd rounder. If we’re picking at 19 though, I like Weatherspoon.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
April 19th, 2010
4:23 pm
what about Douglas will he be recovered 100% do you think he will have the same explosion or will it take a year to play back into shape?
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
April 19th, 2010
4:24 pm
I almost through a brick at my screen when i noticed the name Peerless Price he was almost a Aundray , maybe he was an Aundray
jarvis
April 19th, 2010
4:25 pm
He has great hands in the clutch.
82Dawg
April 19th, 2010
4:25 pm
Pi$$onaDAWG…..you are right he was in a Offence that called its self an offense
mark
April 19th, 2010
4:25 pm
i think the falcons are going to trade down with the pats and get spoon and a second round pick
to get thomas
Spence
April 19th, 2010
4:25 pm
Get off Tech’s junk. Thomas is a system receiver that has about as much experience running real routes against CBs focused on stopping him as you do, Schultz. Maybe he is a gifted athlete (surely there are other 6′+ 4.4 receivers in the draft) but any team taking him before the third is getting a glorified high school player.
Chucktown38
April 19th, 2010
4:27 pm
This would be a good few pick-ups in the draft.
1st Morgan
Trade Norwood and Anderson for a Second round pick
2ND Washington from TCU
3rd Tenant from BC
3rd La Fells from LSU
kelvin davis
April 19th, 2010
4:28 pm
Ok so you wanna talk about system receivers… It don’t matter to me what system you play in cause you still have to catch the ball
Pi$$onaDAWG
April 19th, 2010
4:34 pm
Spence UGA played all season with a Glorified High School player at QB. Cox was great wasn’t he?
thunderbull56
April 19th, 2010
4:38 pm
Jeff for once, I wholeheartedly agree with you.We missed the boat bad enough not trading up to get Calvin.BTW was it JA we picked first in that draft.We are not nearly as loaded with playmakers as we want to believe.And I will repeat myself from one of DOL’ blogs.We could not get a sack of Pop Warner league footballs and a pair of used cleats for Norwood and Anderson combined.
Norm Van Brocklin
April 19th, 2010
4:42 pm
I’d take John Wayne from Apache U.
MSS
April 19th, 2010
4:54 pm
i’m happy with Spoon or Graham at 19
Paddy
April 19th, 2010
4:59 pm
Jeff, you have caused all of us to take pause. Nice going. I still think we should go defense!
mountain_jim
April 19th, 2010
5:00 pm
Those of you who think Pouncey will be available after a trade-down are going to be surprised at how early he goes, I predict. Possibly Pitt at 18. No way he makes it to the 2nd round.
BigTimeTECHFan
April 19th, 2010
5:07 pm
I’m Bey Bey fan but I like Decker from Minnisota. we could get Decker with one of our 3rd round picks, if he last that long?
Falcon Fan
April 19th, 2010
5:08 pm
Whatever TD does will be good
ER Steve
April 19th, 2010
5:11 pm
Don’t ever take a WR in the first round in my opinion. They are so often busts. I like our WR core for next year. We have our superstar and some interesting young talent in Douglas. Hopefully he has a good year. Defense or O-line in my opinion. I like Graham alot as long as he fits Smiths system
kelvin davis
April 19th, 2010
5:20 pm
Why can’t we trade down with New England and take Demaryius Thomas? Then in the 2nd Round we can take Washington… Is anything wrong with that… And in the 3rd we can get Tennant and maybe Cunningham if he is there… Is anything wrong with those 4 picks… That looks pretty good to me
savannahdawg
April 19th, 2010
5:21 pm
The Falcons don’t need another receiver! Please get real. Enough of this draft the local guy stuff.
GT4Eever
April 19th, 2010
5:51 pm
I don’t think Thomas is so far on base. Everyone keeps saying this is the deepest draft in a while. WR may be one of the lightess of postions so why not go get Thomas. We still could get a good OLB, OL or DL in the later rounds. Everyone believes his route runnning would need work but his intangibles are off the charts. As JS pointed out; big, strong, fast and an excellent blocker. Matty sure would love to have a target like that to go along with Roddy and TG.
Don Green
April 19th, 2010
5:54 pm
This is the wrong Thomas. Falcons ought to go after Earl Thomas from Texas. Guy is a hitting machine and can play CB or S. I know they already picked up some DB help, but I am telling you the guy is a future All-Pro.
collegedude
April 19th, 2010
5:55 pm
Pouncey or the TE Gresham long before a WR.
Falcon fans, come meet & have lunch with 3 Falcon’s legends & support a local charity at the same time. Jeff Van Note, Jessie Tuggle, & Buddy Curry will be there and have a Q&A session with those in attendence. Check it out here: http://www.falconnationcharities.org/lunchwithlegends.html
larrymunsonthe3rd
April 19th, 2010
6:00 pm
There are alot of better players in the draft although he is really good
LAMAR
April 19th, 2010
6:12 pm
Why Don’t the FALCONS offer our two underacheiving DE,to the REDSKINS for their 1st round pick and we could take SUH in the 1st round.Also Albert Haynesworth would be worth a 5th round pick and the Falcons could possibly offer to pickup some of Haynesworth salary.This way the Falcons could alternate between a 3-4-4 & 4-4-3.What have we got to lose.Make it happen FALCONS.
LAMAR
April 19th, 2010
6:13 pm
Enter your comments here
Steve
April 19th, 2010
6:13 pm
D. Thomas has BAD HANDS, drops a lot of passes. I wouldn’t take him in the 2nd round.
SPS
April 19th, 2010
6:13 pm
I’d love Thomas – if we had a 2nd round pick. We can’t gamble at #19. We need someone who starts on opening day, and makes us better immediately. I’m still guessing it is Weatherspoon.
Pi$$onaDAWG
April 19th, 2010
6:17 pm
Steve tell me about the passes Thomas has dropped? How many in what games? Back up Bad Hands with facts.
SPS
April 19th, 2010
6:17 pm
LAMAR: You apparently left out step 1 of your evil plan, which must include slipping drugs into the drink of the Redskin’s GM, or kidnapping his children.
DIRTY BIRD
April 19th, 2010
6:19 pm
GUYS, THE PATS HAVE 3 2ND ROUND PICKS, AND HAVE PHONED THE FALCONS ALREADY. FALCONS WILL TAKE ONE OF THEIR 2ND ROUND PICKS AND MOVE DOWN TO WHERE THE PATS ARE A FEW SLOTS BACK, AND TAKE EITHER THOMAS,POUNCEY OR GRESHAM! THEN WE GET A GOOD PLAYER IN ROUND 2 ALSO.. THIS MAKES THE MOST SENSE AND I BET THE FALCONS DO IT. WE MEED OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE LINE HELP, AND LINEBACKERS ALSO. I SAY MOST OF THE GUYS WE TAKE WILL BE ON BOTH LINES IN THIS DRAFT. 2 LINEBACKERS, AND ANOTHER DB WILL BE ADDED ALSO. LOOL FOR ONE WR PICKED IN THE LATER ROUNDS IF THEY DON’T GET THOMAS FROM GT. IM NOT A TECH FAN, BUT HE IS A STUD WITH THAT SIZE AND SPEED. HE WOULD BE ANOTHER BIG THREAT ADDED FOR MATT RYAN AND CAN STRETCH THE DEFENSE ALONG WITH WHITE ON THE OTHER SIDE. WE WILL DO WELL IN THIS DRAFT I SENSE!
UGA89
April 19th, 2010
6:23 pm
Yeah, it is too bad that Thomas dropped that pass against UGA. Tech would have marched down, scored, and won the game –2010 would have been three-in-a-row, instead it will be two-out-of-three and two-in-a-row in Athens.
LAMAR
April 19th, 2010
6:28 pm
SPS This Deal can be made.The REDSKINS GM and OWNER are waiting for the Falcons to pickup the Phone.The clock is running.A&A for S&H.
DIRTY BIRD
April 19th, 2010
6:29 pm
I DONT THINK THOMAS DROPPED ALOT OF PASSES. UGA FANS I BELIEVE ONLY RECALL THE DROP AT THE END. HE DID DROP THAT PASS THAT LIKELY WOULD HAVE LEAD TO A GT WIN, BUT THOMAS IS A GREAT PLAYER. MOST UGA FANS DONT WATCH MUCH OF TECH IT APPEARS. LOOK AT HIS NUMBERS PEOPLE. LOOK AT HIS STATS, BETTER THAN AJ GREEN HANDS DOWN IN AN OPTION OFFENSE. YARDS PER CATCH, NO COMPARISON EITHER. GIVE THE KID CREDIT AND DONT JUDGE ON 1 PLAY. HE DID CATCH ONE AND BULLDOZE THE UGA DEFENDER AND TAKE IT 80 YARDS TO THE HOUSE! HE DIDNT DROP THAT ONE!! WHO WOULDN’T WANT A 6-3 225 POUND WR WHO RUNS 4.38 AS HE HAS BEFORE? FALCONS WILL DO WELL
Mike Jay
April 19th, 2010
6:35 pm
Hey Let’s trade Jamaal Anderson and Norwood For Wahsington’s 1st round pick, Albert Haynesworth and a second. Then we can draft spiller and Thomas in the first and pick up some defense in the second!
Ok maybe not….
Realistically I don’t see them drafting thomas with a first. too many ? marks for a first round reciever imo. I know he’s moving up but that is only due to lack of talent at the positoon in this draft. Now If the y trade back into the second It might be worht considering but will he be any better than jenkins? Both tall, good blocking WR with questionable hands? Plus it wil ltake him a year – two before he will be making a big impact. WR’s are slow to devolop unless they are a special talent.
Mike Jay
April 19th, 2010
6:36 pm
Dude,
Caps lock, far left hand side in the middle. Use it and somebody might actually read what you have to say.
Dawgs2010
April 19th, 2010
6:47 pm
Jeff Schultz is just trying to contribute his mandatory article of the day. This pick would make no sense what-so-ever. Schultz is just talking gibberish.
thunderbull56
April 19th, 2010
6:49 pm
Jeff, if your not good for anything, you are great for stirring up the UGA/GT pissers whenever you favourably reference a GTer.I’m telling all of you, it’s a lot easier to draft a bust in the first round.Reference our Birds storied past.To play for an undermanned team like Tech,Thomas looked tough as ‘ell to me.Sorry UGA/GTer’s I’m not ashamed of being a huge fan of the boths of you.
hayden thomas
April 19th, 2010
6:56 pm
i think that we need to skip on this wide recieverf. we can get mike moore, from uga, in a late round and put him in slot. we need to get a pass rusher in the 1st round. we may need to trade up to get him. idk…we will see come draft day
Screen Pass
April 19th, 2010
6:58 pm
Only way I see getting Bey Bey is if we trade our first round pick, which i think we should do regardless. The only DE really worth a 1st round pick is D. Morgan so unless we trade up to snag him, our 1st round is better served trying to get 2 second round picks…even a low 2 and 3rd round would probaly be better. I like the idea of trying to get a game changer on offense like Spiller or D. Thomas…I’m just not seeing it happen though. This draft will probaly be best served to try and get as much depth and high upside “projects” as possible. I like Graham but it could be worthwhile to take a high upside medium bust risk like Hardy for DE. Please do not waste a first on Pierre-Paul or Dez Bryant…thats all I really ask.
tom
April 19th, 2010
7:00 pm
forget this guy. Last tech guy to play for the Falcons and is now in Dallas never filled the shoes of Jesse Tuggle. Hometown crap doesn’t cut it. Go elsewhere
JoD
April 19th, 2010
7:05 pm
Didnt Thomas pwn and stiff arm a Uga cb, to score on a 76 yrd run? I like picking up Thomas only if we trade down, but I have a feeling he wont be there if we do. Oh well.
jasont13
April 19th, 2010
7:09 pm
DirtyBird, you said his stats were better than AJ Green’s in an option offense. Well they better be considering AJ didn’t play in 3 games and UGA has a pro style offense meaning there are usually 3 or 4 other options to throw the ball too.
Delbert D.
April 19th, 2010
7:12 pm
Thomas isn’t as slow as some think. He once had 4.38 speed, but he got larger and stronger. The guy is a crushing, sit-them-on-their-pants blocker, and he has very good game speed. He has a very good stiff arm technique. The majority of his receptions the past 2 years were catch, stiff arm and run. He can be a lethal weapon with an NFL QB throwing to him in single coverage. Within a year Jenkins and Douglass would figure to be WRs #3 and #4.
He may not have hands like Larry Fitzgerald or AJ, but almost nobody does.
JoD
April 19th, 2010
7:24 pm
This is a good example of Bey Bey’s strength
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S81xw6fwHKM
Thomas is the reciever at the bottom of the screen, and destroys the saftey.
etadog
April 19th, 2010
7:31 pm
I said it last week and now ESPN does the same: Dimitroff likes OL that have potential to play multiple positions. Falcons take Idaho Guard Iupati (as much as I hate Tech, would be okay with Bebe-dude is a beast)
Bill Campbell
April 19th, 2010
7:35 pm
Thomas hasn’t been a receiver in a real offense! Run down the field as fast as you can and we will throw it to you…won’t get it done in the pros! You have to run routes and he only did one. No wide receiver recruit now who wants to go pro would ever go to Tech to play in Johnson’s offense! Tech was lucky to have Gailey’s players while they were there. That kind of talent is gone!
LCDawg
April 19th, 2010
7:48 pm
Trade up for Eric Berry. He’ll make an immediate impact and be a perennial all pro.
Dawggy
April 19th, 2010
7:58 pm
Schultz,
you are the dumbest of the dumb!! What a waste of a 1st round draft pick. Now if he were still around in the 3rd or 4th round then MAYBE.
BigGAdawg
April 19th, 2010
8:15 pm
Thomas is a great player, however, I believe our greatest needs lie elsewhere.
My vote is for Brandon Graham or Sean Weatherspoon if they are still available and Maurkice Pouncey if they are not.
Sarge1
April 19th, 2010
8:22 pm
I can’t beloeve CMR kicked Mettenberger off the team. He fit in so well with all the other thugs..
BirdDawg
April 19th, 2010
8:27 pm
While all of these guys look to be very good players in the near future, I think you have to go with the guy that gives the Falcons the most significant upgrade and sets them up well for the future. With that being said, I think that if all of these players are available when the Falcons pick, you have to go with Sean Weatherspoon. The reason being is that Mike Peterson is getting up there in years and there really isn’t anyone on the roster right now prepared to replace him in what is a serious area of need for the Falcons. The same argument could be made for Gresham except that Tony G didn’t appear to slow down at all last year and unless he has a significant drop off in production, chances are he’ll stick around beyond next year. Brandon Graham would be third on the list simply because I’m not fully convinced that the players the Falcons have now can’t produce really good push up front. With more PT for Kroy Biermann and Lawrence Sidbury, the return of Peria Jerry and continued great play from Jonathan Babineaux, I think the Falcons could be very stout up front. All of these factors should lead to a return to form for John Abraham, although he is getting up there in years also.
Sensei John Kreese
April 19th, 2010
8:37 pm
Hey “PI$$”, what was the score of the UGA/Tech game again? What’s that record against UGA?
Seems like UGA’s “glorified high school” QB did just fine against Tech. Oh, as far Butterfingers Thomas goes, he reminds me of another Tech WR who came out with tons hype and a history of choking with the game on the line. Calvin Johnson, anyone? No thanks. I’d rather have wins than stats anyday.
UGA fans are so .....
April 19th, 2010
8:51 pm
Typical inbred UGA fans crapping all over Thomas because he played for Tech. Name me a UGA player that made ANY impact with the Falcons.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2010
8:51 pm
I don’t believe we will take Thomas or Bryant if they are there at #19. Too many other pressing issues with no picks in the 2nd round.
Those who keep saying “there are defensive players available later in the draft” obviously think there are first year starters who will be around in the middle rounds. That is usually not the case.
Anybody who keeps suggesting we trade for Albert Haynesworth needs to be stabbed in the butt with a pitchfork. Look what he did to the Redskins right after they gave him a huge contract. He has no motivation, he has $41 million in guaranteed money. Why do you think the ‘Skins are trying to get rid of him? Dummies…
Big Ray
April 19th, 2010
8:55 pm
For the last time….
Picking Pouncey in the first round works only if we’re able to get into the second round. Otherwise, you’re waiting until late in the third round to try and draft guys at LB, WR, DT, and DE, who can help you in their first year . Most of those guys will be GONE by then, and we’ll be left with guys who will take 2-3 years to develop. Gonzalez will have retired without a SB ring, and we’ll still be chasing the Saints.
No thanks.
Josh M
April 19th, 2010
9:07 pm
Graham will be gone by 19 (to the Titans, I’m guessing), so the pick will be – drumroll – Everson Griffen. I just keep hearing bad reports about Weatherspoon’s personality, and I think that’s enough for Atlanta to pass on him. And our most pressing need, by far, is a pass rush.
PMC
April 19th, 2010
9:09 pm
It wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world. Smart guy, Athletic, fast, good hands, should be a good blocker, good in traffic. Across from Roddy White. This draft is ridiculously deep at OLB and DT… DE not so much.
That said, I wouldn’t mind finding a Brandon Lafell, Carlton Mitchell or Jacoby Ford later on either.
Jenkins has been here long enough to prove he really shouldn’t be a #2. He’s really better at 4 or 5 for depth.
PMC
April 19th, 2010
9:10 pm
there are absolutely starters at DT and OLB that will be there in round 3 and maybe round 4.
I believe there are one or two potential starters at DT that will be there in the 5th.
Jason Elam's Brother
April 19th, 2010
9:29 pm
Two things are certain: The front office will make well-reasoned choices, and no matter what they do, they’ll get killed on these blogs. So many ways to go with this draft!
UGA fans are so .....
April 19th, 2010
9:32 pm
Still waiting UGA fans
chuck
April 19th, 2010
10:17 pm
The terrible Falcons of long ago would do something stupid like drafting an injured WR in the first round. TD is way too smart to make that bad of a decision.
The Falcons of Dan the dingbat Reeves would pick a TE even if we had two all Pro TE’s already on the roster. TD is too smart to make that silly of a mistake.
The pick will be whichever of the other three is available and rated higher by TD. It’s quite a change from the past but the Falcons are in competent hands and I trust TD to make the right decision.
chuck
April 19th, 2010
10:23 pm
I saw Haynesworth during Spring Break in Pigeon Forge. He was way out of shape and the lack of discipline tells me he’s quite content with his millions and could care less about staying in shape to help his team. We don’t need any cancers in the locker room.
Halsey
April 19th, 2010
10:37 pm
I just want the Falcons to trade down a little, and get a 2nd rounder or another 3rd rounder. One or two of the guys mentioned by Jeff could still be available if the Falcons trade down a little.
kelvin davis
April 19th, 2010
11:14 pm
I would like to say a few things… 1. Demaryius Thomas will be very good in the NFL as long as he doesn’t go to the Raiders… They don’t know what to do with talent.. Look at Darren McFadden… But yea if Atlanta does get a 2nd Round pick we should take him if he’s there.. 2. Brandon Graham or Sean Weatherspoon should be the pick..I have a feeling that New England will move to 19 only to get Graham.. So that leaves us with Weatherspoon or Pouncey… 3. Yall need to stop saying Thomas has bad hands and can only run one route… Unless you sat there and watched him practice every day you can’t say he only runs one route.. Yes he ran alot of fly routes at Georgia Tech but that was the play call so o well… He still did alot of great things from what I saw… 4. Defense is our number one need in the draft but you have to realize if some of the players we want are not there then we should go with the best player available whether it be offense or defense… I think we will trade our pick 19 to the Patriots for their 22nd pick and one of their 2nd round picks and I think we will go with the best player available at 22… Then after that we will take care of our needs in whatever order they come in… But yea like I said Thomas does’t suck and Mike Smith and Thomas Dimitroff know what to do…
charles harris
April 20th, 2010
12:58 am
Get the speedster Jacoby Ford!!
Atlanta Falcons Talk » Blog Archive » You’re on clock for Falcons (and why not Thomas?)
April 20th, 2010
1:13 am
[...] Link [...]
Hey Bey-Bey
April 20th, 2010
1:56 am
I say trade down, grabs a late 1st and 2nd then possibly snag Bey-Bey later in the first. If not I’d go with Graham or Spoon as a safe pick.
GTFan1
April 20th, 2010
6:28 am
What are your thoughts of mock drafts?
http://thesportsdebates.com/2010/04/13/the-mock-draft-value-debate%E2%80%A6-a-complete-waste-of-time/
John
April 20th, 2010
7:37 am
Like the trade-down suggestion to get back a second round pick.
Grisham or Pouncey sound good as #1 pick.
As far as a WR goes, have the Birds considered the kid from Texas? Seems like he’d be a good compliment to White.
Bill
April 20th, 2010
8:18 am
If Thomas is available at 19 the Eagles will trade up to get him, I hear from friends in Phila they might move up to 10 (Jax) to get McClain.
NFL News and Notes – April 20, 2010 | The Other 31
April 20th, 2010
8:30 am
[...] Tech wide receiver Demaryius Thomas is unlikely to make it out of round one, writes Jeff Schultz of the Atlanta [...]
FalconFanVirginia
April 20th, 2010
8:51 am
I say trade down and draft Kyle Wilson CB Boise St. If we can cover a WR our D line will be able to do more. It is hard to get a sack when everyone is open for the QB in the first 5 steps.
If we pick at 19 Taylor Mays or Earl Thomas would be great to have as well. I know we have Moore and DeCoud but that would be a hard hitting safety group.
hawesg
April 20th, 2010
9:30 am
If Spoon and Graham are gone, and the Falcons are looking at Hughes and Kindle as the best options on defense, I could see that New England trade happening, the Falcons dropping down a few spots and picking Thomas with the Pat’s pick, then picking a weakside LB with the Pats second round pick.
But I really think either Graham or Spoon will be available, though the more I see of Jerry Hughes, the more there is to like.
clay
April 20th, 2010
9:40 am
I like all of them in there own way. As long as we have TD running the show, I will never question what they are doing. IN TD WE TRUST.
mez
April 20th, 2010
9:41 am
seriously? those are the only two “logical” conclusions you could come up with?
Nativebird
April 20th, 2010
9:50 am
1 19 Brandon Graham DE Michigan
2 51
3 84 Matthew Tennent C Boston College
3 99 Eric Norwood OLB South Carolina
4 118 Riley Cooper WR Florida
5 150 Charles Scott RB LSU
6 166 Jeff Owens DT Georgia
7 172 Colin Peek TE Alabama
7 190 A.J. Jefferson CB Fresno State
or
trade up, picks 99 and 150 with Houston at 51, and do this:
19 Brandon Graham DE Michigan
51 Brandon LaFell WR LSU
84 Matthew Tennent C Boston College
118 Dakota Watson OLB Florida State
166 Jeff Owens DT Georgia
172 Colin Peek TE Alabama
190 A.J. Jefferson CB Fresno State
siskel_god
April 20th, 2010
10:15 am
Albert Haynesworth is available for a 3 and has already been paid 31 mil, Dimitroff was in on him last year when nobody believed he was so why won’t we make this move now? I guarantee that the idea has already been discussed and Fat Albert is a possibility here in Atlanta. Having Abe, Jerry, and Albert could be nasty. I say bring him in, we still have the supplemental at the end of the 3rd, take the best available player at 19 and see what happens. I think Rennie Curran with the supplemental pick would be great if we could get a solid OL in the first or Spiller if he falls.
Ted M
April 20th, 2010
10:17 am
Does anyone know what Thomas’s time was in 40 at his personal pro day?
Simply Hampton
April 20th, 2010
10:55 am
Why would we draft a WR first. That is the most assinine thing I have ever heard. I say trade with NE and get spoon later. Because graham probaly will be gone. In a perfect world I would draft Graham beacuse he can play DE/OLB. Then Spoon. You can not and must not gamble in the first round!!!
Chad
April 20th, 2010
11:03 am
Jason Pierre-Paul
Simply Hampton
April 20th, 2010
11:13 am
What!!! who would take a one demenisional pass rusher with the first pick if you are building for the future. You can’t pay first round money for a 3rd down rusher who I think will never develop. Javon kerse was a freak but tackles caught up to him. JPP is no jevon he looks stiff and lanky to me.
Birdseed: April 20, 2010
April 20th, 2010
11:33 am
[...] You’re on clock for Falcons (and why not Thomas?), Atlanta Journal-Constitution This, I must say, is an intriguing suggestion. The only thing I ask before you go nuts in the comments would be to remove any bias toward Georgia Tech or Georgia. The scouts do that. As draft prognosticators we should do the same. [...]
Jeff
April 20th, 2010
12:02 pm
Everyone here is off base. No linemen, I repeat no line or LB is worth a #1 pick period! Meat and potatoes are better in later rounds. How many years running can you look at these types of picks in the NFL that turn out to be busts? Too many to count. Very few pro bowl linemen/ line backers we 1st round picks.
1st round picks should never, ever be based on need and need alone.
1st round Value= skill players. We should and I beleive will take a WR, RB or a DB in the first round if we stay there.
We do not need more linemen or LB to sit the bench or Practice squad
for 2 or more years before contributing.
Countdown's trouble spots: Milledgeville and Remerton? | Jeff Schultz
April 20th, 2010
5:01 pm
[...] ♦ You’re on the clock with the Falcons (and why not Thomas)? [...]
We're LIVE from Hawks-Bucks (and 2-0 would be huge) | Jeff Schultz
April 20th, 2010
7:05 pm
[...] ♦ You’re on the clock with the Falcons (and why not Thomas)? [...]
Derrick J
April 20th, 2010
7:53 pm
This GA, GA Tech thing is getting out of hand, This is still the FALCONS website right? Attention my beloved Tech fans. Please resist the urge to get into a debate about Demaryius Thomas with a drunken uga fan sitting at his pc wankin off to internet porn while barking at the top of his lungs like the opening kickoff at a home game!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woof,Woof.Woof…Gimme a F’n break
When Josh Smith is on, the Hawks can't be stopped | Jeff Schultz
April 20th, 2010
10:18 pm
[...] ♦ You’re on the clock with the Falcons (and why not Thomas)? [...]
Draft day: Falcon options; Berry rips Deion; Tebow to Vikes? | Jeff Schultz
April 22nd, 2010
10:39 am
[...] Missouri linebacker Sean Weatherspoon and Georgia Tech wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. Those are the same five names I threw out to you to you in a poll earlier this week. After nearly 1,400 votes, you ranked them in this order: Graham (33 percent), [...]
Draft day: Falcon options; Berry rips Deion; Tebow to Vikes … | Current Events | Twitter Trends | Google Trends
April 22nd, 2010
8:15 pm
[...] Missouri linebacker Sean Weatherspoon and Georgia Tech wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. Those are the same five names I threw out to you to you in a poll earlier this week. After nearly 1,400 votes, you ranked them in this order: Graham (33 percent), [...]