Time to mock! Kiper, McShay say Falcons take . . .
Kiper: Falcons take Maryland receiver Torrey Smith.
McShay: Justin Houston goes from Dogs to Birds.
It’s that time of the year again: Football darts!
Yes, NFL mock drafts officially shifted into full gear with ESPN’s two major draftniks, Mel Kiper and Todd McShay (seeming mortal enemies), both releasing their projections.
Not surprisingly, both agree on little beyond the fact that the other is an idiot. Also, the Washington Redskins are going to draft Auburn quarterback Cam Newton with the 10th overall selection.
Below, I’ve listed the mock drafts of each. They’re available only to ESPN “Insider” subscribers. But I’m a man of the people so I’m giving it to you. Besides, I figure if ESPN threatens me with violence for giving away this high-level information for free, I’ll at least get about 17 mocking blogs out of it. So I’m pretty sure they’ll leave me alone.
Here are the other picks I’ve highlighted (with Kiper’s and McShay’s analysis):
– Kiper has Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green going sixth to Cleveland. McShay has Green going fourth to Cincinnati. So they agree on the state of Ohio.
– Kiper has Bulldogs outside linebacker Justin Houston going 24th to New Orleans. But McShay has Houston being selected 27th by — ta-da! — the Falcons.
– Kiper has the Falcons drafting Maryland wide receiver Torrey Smith.
OK, here are the mocks. Feel free to mock. They’re for entertainment purposes only. Tell me what you think.
By Jeff Schultz
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♦
Mel Kiper’s mock draft
1. Carolina: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn.
2. Denver: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU.
3. Buffalo: Marcell Dareus, DE, Alabama.
4. Cincinnati: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson.
5. Arizona: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri.
6. Cleveland: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia.
The Browns need a No.1 wideout and Green has fit the profile since he landed between the hedges at Georgia. Green is a complete package, with size, speed and solid route-running skills, and he will be the best friend of a young quarterback as a player that’s able to go up and take the ball away. Cleveland has some good pieces, and Green is exactly what Colt McCoy needs.
7. San Francisco: Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina.
8. Tennessee: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M.
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska.
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn.
A gifted athlete, Newton has good arm strength and size, has developing accuracy and continues to show that the more you ask him as a passer, the more he’ll develop. This spot might be a bit high based on his current grade in the eyes of scouts, but Newton’s skill-set is such that personnel people are going to become more enamored, if they already aren’t. Newton has character questions that need to be answered, but the Redskins have a long-term need at this position and the prospect of developing Newton is a tantalizing one.
11. Houston: Aldon Smith, OLB, Missouri.
12. Minnesota: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado.
13. Detroit: Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA.
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR, Alabama.
15. Miami: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama.
16. Jacksonville: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa.
17. New England: J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin.
18. San Diego: Cameron Jordan, DE, California.
19. N.Y. Giants: Mike Pouncey, G/C, Florida.
20. Tampa Bay: Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue.
21. Kansas City: Stephen Paea, DT. Oregon State.
22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College.
23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin.
24. New Orleans: Justin Houston, DE, Georgia
An outside linebacker to some, I see Houston developing into a great edge-rusher as a 4-3 defensive end. The Saints need help at that spot and Houston is a guy who could pay big dividends into the second half of his rookie season as he grows into the role. With great length, quickness and pass-rushing instincts, he’ll help the Saints get to opposing QBs without being forced to rely on the blitz.
25. Seattle: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas.
26. Baltimore: Brandon Harris, CB, Miami.
27. Falcons: Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland.
Atlanta needs to develop a pass-catching target across from Roddy White, and Smith is a guy who can get downfield, work underneath and will always be a home run threat when he catches the ball. He also offers a serious threat in the return game. Atlanta doesn’t have a lot of holes and Smith could help take this offense to another level as an explosive threat opposite White.
28. New England: Mikel Leshoure, RB, Illinois.
29. Green Bay: Christian Ballard, DE, Iowa.
30. N.Y. Jets: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple.
31. Chicago: Aaron Williams, CB, Texas.
32. Pittsburgh: Tyron Smith, OT, USC.
♦
Todd McShay’s mock draft
1. Carolina: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson.
2. Denver: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
3. Buffalo: Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri.
4. Cincinnati: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia.
The Bengals need to find the heir apparent to Carson Palmer at some point but won’t find him in this scenario. With Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco likely on their way out of town, Green would be an ideal replacement. He is very smooth for his size and plays the ball better than any receiver in the 2011 class.
5. Arizona: Patrick Patterson, CB, LSU
6. Cleveland: Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina.
7. San Francisco: Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama.
8. Tennessee: Jake Locker, QB, Washington.
9. Dallas: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska.
10. Washington: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn.
A gifted athlete, Newton has good arm strength and size, has developing accuracy and continues to show that the more you ask him as a passer, the more he’ll develop. This spot might be a bit high based on his current grade in the eyes of scouts, but Newton’s skill-set is such that personnel people are going to become more enamored, if they already aren’t. Newton has character questions that need to be answered, but the Redskins have a long-term need at this position and the prospect of developing Newton is a tantalizing one.
11. Houston: Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&M.
12. Minnesota: Tyron Smith, OT, USC.
13. Detroit: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado.
14. St. Louis: Julio Jones, WR, Alabama.
15. Miami: Mike Pouncey, C, Florida.
16. Jacksonville: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas.
17. New England: Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue.
18. San Diego: Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA.
19. N.Y. Giants: Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois.
20. Tampa Bay: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa.
21. Kansas City: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri.
22. Indianapolis: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College.
23. Philadelphia: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin.
24. New Orleans: Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State.
25. Seattle: J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin.
26. Baltimore: Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State.
27. Falcons: Justin Houston, OLB, Georgia.
Houston played a hybrid role in college and could be a 3-4 outside linebacker, but he makes sense here as the heir apparent to DE John Abraham. Houston would help the aging Abraham stay fresh and have the chance to develop his skill set.
28. New England: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama.
29. Green Bay: Cameron Jordan, DE, California.
30. N.Y. Jets: Drake Nevis, DT, LSU.
31. Chicago: Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor.
32. Pittsburgh: Benjamin Ijalana, OT, Villanova.
♦
Posts you may have missed (free on demand!)
– Stacy Searels leaving Georgia? Can I offer him a lift?
– SEC’s get into ‘Smack Wear’ with BCS T-shirt (really?)
– Before you pre-judge Ryan, look at NFL’s ‘Final 4′ QBs
– Joe Johnson appears to be buying into Hawks’ new system
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143 comments Add your comment
Dawg in Oregon
January 20th, 2011
5:19 am
The Falcons need to beef up D and also establish a deep threat, but I would go for a deep threat first to open up the offense. We can’t compete very well in high scoring games without a quick strike ability. Fill the pass rush void thru free agency.bb
Desert Dawg
January 20th, 2011
5:23 am
Get Houston if he’s there…secondary needs help, in the form of someone who wants to SACK the QB…not just put a hand on them!
picassokat
January 20th, 2011
5:36 am
Not only did they both think Cam would go to Skins, they thought about it word for word. Is Ripley’s Believe It or Not still around?
JSS
January 20th, 2011
5:53 am
I hate mock drafts, it reminds me of the silliness that is college football recruiting. Well, that is without the players having any choice of destination.
The thing is, looking at both; the thing that stands out is that the teams above Atlanta in our division really get better in this draft…
I’m going to be bluntly honest about Justin Houston. He’s going to be a fine pro. But, he is a step below what we already have in terms of completeness. We need someone ready to contribute. Put it this way, do you think a player like Houston is better than Biermann (right now)?
Joe Tess Fish House
January 20th, 2011
6:02 am
Irregardless who ever the Falcons pick I garuntee he will be a bust.
Time Travaler
January 20th, 2011
6:05 am
Tess is rite. I won’t say who the Flacons pick but he does turn out 2 be a bust
The Ghost of Wally Butts
January 20th, 2011
6:09 am
So Mel has E-Bay Green going to Cleveland? Heh heh heh. Was it worth it skipping the last year at Fulmer Cup University? Why live in, say, Phoenix/Scottsdale or San Francisco when you can live in lovely CLEVELAND? Ha!
Puma
January 20th, 2011
6:18 am
Hey Jeff, since I havent heard from you I guess I can assume that I didn’t win the I-Pad.
It’s Richt, thats what I get for picking UGA over any team from Florida.
Atticus
January 20th, 2011
6:20 am
They are NOT taking a WR with the first pick. No way. You don’t take a WR that takes a few years to develop. You go FA at WR and get a defensive player in the fist round
really
January 20th, 2011
6:28 am
no one has the birds looking for a great running back to spell or replace Turner. I know he is the burner but come play off time this guy is all but burned off twice now. Time to get a healthy change of pace back maybe the Murry kid out of Oklahoma.
Paddy
January 20th, 2011
6:48 am
Joe Tess……not only are you a liar but you now have added stupid to what people think; irregardless is not a word. You hate the Falcons, why bother with their blog news? Go back to your Bengals!
leman bennett
January 20th, 2011
6:55 am
AJ on one side White on the other? why not trade up to get him?
The Real Falcon
January 20th, 2011
6:56 am
These are always a joke. It takes a WR 2-3 years to develop in the NFL and we can’t wait that long for contributions. Kiper and McShay both have DE’s going after our 27th pick which is what our real need is.
They only have an idea about the first 10 picks.
The Real Falcon
January 20th, 2011
6:58 am
leman bennett- because the Falcons are NOT the Bulldogs.
Buckeye
January 20th, 2011
7:18 am
No “Dawgs” needed. Losers.
Dr. Warren
January 20th, 2011
7:24 am
Kiper says the “Falcons don’t have a lot of holes.” What?! I saw 48 points worth of holes against Green Bay. Until we fix the pass rush and the secondary, why should next year against elite teams be any better?
Double Zero Eight
January 20th, 2011
7:26 am
The following have not proven to be recent
legitimate Number 1 picks:
Jamal Anderson (no pass rushing ability)
Michael Jenkins (inconsistent)
Peria Jerry ( very few tackles)
Sean Witherspoon (too many missed tackles)
Roddy White has proven his worth.
The Falcon sneed to take the best defensive end
available. A good QB will pick any secondary
apart if given the time to do so. Shore up the
secondary with a free agent.
Double Zero Eight
January 20th, 2011
7:29 am
Misplaced the “s” on Falcons with need in previous post.
It should state the Falcons need to take………
skydawg
January 20th, 2011
7:38 am
Just proves even more that Kiper is a blowhard. Falcons need D especially on the edge. If Falcons need help on the O, it’s with a change of pace RB to counter Turner and not another WR in the first round.
Sports Review
January 20th, 2011
7:40 am
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) [...]
Bud
January 20th, 2011
7:41 am
The secondary was fine before nickel back Williams went out so we won’t go secondary. The offense was just as productive before we got Gonzalez (and Ryan looked downfield more) so we won’t go TE. These guys seem to have it right that it will probably be one or the other, (DE or WR). However, if Ingram fell to Falcons slot they would probably jump all over him.
Watch some old footage of Turner with the Chargers and compare that with what he is now. He is a shell of his former self, speed and quickness wise, and will be 29 yoa next season.
NoogaDawg
January 20th, 2011
7:43 am
Kiper? Seriously? How could the Titans not pick a QB with their first pick? How could the Falcons not pick a D player after their showing in the playoffs?
Willie Coyote
January 20th, 2011
7:43 am
I would go Defensive line first. You can’t consistently defend elite QBs/offenses if you can’t get pressure with your front 4. I would think Sidbury would help the pass rush but maybe he can’t handle the run well enough, who knows.
Our receivers aren’t the ones to blame for the lack of explosive pass plays, the offensive philosophy of throwing everything underneath and to the sidelines is the real problem. Our deep routes are never run in the middle of the field and the routes our receivers run (outs, stops, etc.) are possession routes with little chance of the receiver having a chance to run after the catch.
I would also look for a speed back to complement Turner & Snelling.
Dirtybird4life
January 20th, 2011
7:46 am
We dont need Justin Houston thats for sure and that Wr might be nice in the 2nd round
Gator Mike
January 20th, 2011
7:51 am
I wonder what the cut will be for Cam’s scum bag preacher dad.
BeeBoppa LuLu
January 20th, 2011
7:56 am
I hope somebody takes Richt.
Walker, Texas Ranger
January 20th, 2011
7:57 am
No on BOTH, if Cameron Heyward is available, that’s who we need in the first.
Robert
January 20th, 2011
7:57 am
AJ and MoMass reunited in the league! That would be excellent.
charliecole
January 20th, 2011
8:02 am
all your sec news at http://www.secsportsworld.blogspot.com
dawg4u
January 20th, 2011
8:08 am
I would agree with drafting Houston over Torrey Smith for the Falcons. If Todd McShay is right about Mark Ingram still being available when the Falcons pick then I would definitely take Ingram over anyone else.
waynester
January 20th, 2011
8:10 am
The only problem with the spawn of “Ironhead” is lack of consistent effort/results–one of Smitty’s pet peeves. If J Houston falls to 27 it would be tempting but I have to agree with going with a proven vet DE through FA. I would be shocked if we took a WR in the 1st although there will be some good ones on the board. We can pick up a speedy RB in rd 2 (I like the kid from Okla, too) so my guess is CB in rd 1. Dimitroff seems to consider himself an “expert” judge of talent at the position so he may try to find another mid-round gem. Heck, it may be Heyward, after all…draft is a fun time to speculate and discuss, ain’t it?
Heyward!!!
January 20th, 2011
8:12 am
I’m with Walker, if Heyward is available then I think he has to be the pick. That dude blew up Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl. He was a one-man wrecking crew. Bring him home!!!
gt
January 20th, 2011
8:14 am
If the Falcons keep their present DC Houston will be their pick, they will deal for a proven receiver in the free agency market. It takes too long to develop a pro receiver now days from rookie up, and they have their team for the most part now. Calvin Johnson is just now starting to show up on the radar, and he is one of the best I have ever seen.
I don’t think Green will go as high. I think Jones will go before Green. If Georgia’s freshman quarterback is as good as advertised then Green is not. Carolina needs a quarterback more than a defensive player they can pick up in the lower rounds. I would look at Ryan Mallett but I can imagine what his IQ is,maybe playing in the offense he did in college he may be able to overcome the darkness. I know nothing about Jake Locker but the prototype QB in the pros needs to be like an offensive lineman in height. I just keep thinking the Falcons almost took Dorsey instead of Matt and if they had we wouldn’t of had a chance to get blown out by Green Bay, New Orleans would have taken that blow, Tampa Bay would have beaten Seattle and Atlanta would be having a better draft choice this year to screw up again.
You were prophetic, Jeff
January 20th, 2011
8:15 am
And the Falcons need a whole lot of defense to help us get over that 48 point, most embarassing playoff loss ever, -
This just in, Green Bay just scored again, and the Falcons D STILL has not stopped them from scoring….
rm
January 20th, 2011
8:17 am
They need a pass rushing DE. If that’s Houston then so be it, but they have got to get more pressure off the end. They should get a speedy WR via FA.
Is Mark Bradley really...
January 20th, 2011
8:18 am
…that delusional, writing an article that seeming tried to paint Matt Ryan as being the culprit in the loss Saturday night? Last time I looked (and I am still having nightmares), the defense had not stopped the ‘Pack’ even one time after the first series when they fumbled…I think Green Bay just scored again….
gossipnewssearch.com » Blog Archive » mel kiper 2011 mock draft
January 20th, 2011
8:20 am
[...] Time to mock! Kiper, McShay say Falcons take . . . – Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) Yes, NFL mock … draftniks, Mel Kiper and Todd McShay (seeming mortal enemies), both releasing their projections. Not surprisingly, both agree on little beyond the fact that the other is an idiot. Also, the Washington Redskins are going to draft Auburn … Jan 19, 2011 10:19pm [...]
Reid Adair
January 20th, 2011
8:49 am
Thanks for sharing that “inside” information with the common folks, Jeff.
I can understand possibly taking a wide receiver, but an outside linebacker? Not so much.
G
January 20th, 2011
8:57 am
First of all, Cam will be drafted higher than 10. Carolina, Arizona, San Fran & Buffalo all have QB issues and I don’t see them passing up Cam. As far as the Falcons, the answer for plugging our critical areas is not in the draft, at a #27 pick. Pick the best available player in the draft and move on free agency. The key to plugging the Falcons gaps will be found in free agency. The birds need “impact” players that can produce now. Other than Fairely, there are no immediate impact players in the draft. Sorry…….
Steve
January 20th, 2011
8:58 am
I really wish Carolina would take A.J.Green. They badly need a compliment to Steve Smith so they can keep the offense on the field for more than 15 minutes per game.
Jeff Schultz
January 20th, 2011
9:05 am
JSS — You might be right about Justin Houston. But for what it’s worth, I’m not as big on Kroy Biermann as I used to be.
Jeff Schultz
January 20th, 2011
9:06 am
Puma — Sorry, no you didn’t win the iPad. Neither did I. And yes, I foolishly also thought UGA would win the Liberty Bowl. Go figure.
Jeff Schultz
January 20th, 2011
9:09 am
If Mark Bradley really… — I’ll let Mark defend Mark. Safe to say both the defense and Ryan played roles in the loss. But I’d agree with you that the defense played a bigger role. Pretty bad when the other team doesn’t punt once.
Jeff Schultz
January 20th, 2011
9:10 am
Reid — Not saying Justin Houston would be a good or bad pick, but some think he can transition from OLB to DE.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
January 20th, 2011
9:13 am
SPEED is what the falcons need and a defense.
Jeff Schultz
January 20th, 2011
9:15 am
If Mark Bradley really … — Actually I just read the column and I thought it was pretty well thought out. Mostly just laid out facts but in concluded that Ryan is fine. I don’t disagree with the column.
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
January 20th, 2011
9:15 am
I like houston but i dont think a rookie will provide the pass rush help the birds need .
PMC
January 20th, 2011
9:18 am
These are preliminary picks but both are WAY off.
Kiper is giving the nod to Smith because Kiper is obsessed with all things Maryland.
Justin Houston is a 3/4 OLB. That’s where he has the highest value (see Tyson Jackson) He’s not going to be a 4/3 DE. If that’s the case then he’s not a 1st rounder at all.
GregKennesaw
January 20th, 2011
9:20 am
I wish that kid Kerrigan from Purdue would fall to us, he would be a good addition to the team.
PMC
January 20th, 2011
9:24 am
The thing that’s going to be weird this year is not having free agency before the draft. Probably helps the Skins a whole lot actually. The Falcons though need at least one NFL ready defensive rush end and they will probably have to get that through free agency even if they do draft another DE high.
I don’t feel like Abe is done by anymeans but… what depth do we really have at defensive end? Biermann is coming along, haven’t seen much of Sidbury really, Chauncey Davis is a career backup, you can take or leave Anderson really but he’s not making a whole lot of plays in the backfield either.
If they want to be an elite defense, they are going to have to get better at defensive end.
Dan
January 20th, 2011
9:24 am
Kyle Rudolph TE Notre Dame or Ras Dowling CB Virginia
Ryan
January 20th, 2011
9:24 am
I’d be thrilled if Ingram is there at 27. I would be happy with Ingram or Justin Houston. Please dont draft a WR in the first round. We can address that in free agency with a veteran to put opposite Roddy.
ASHCAN.
January 20th, 2011
9:28 am
The only players the falcons got right in a draft is jesse tuggle,D.sanders and that was in the smith era.Everybody else they draft end up being released or traded.The falcons organization biggest mistake is not picking up more vets in free agency.They have this attitude of we can rebuild from the draft but when a player becomes good who they draft that signes a 3-4 year contract,they end up not wanting to pay for him then he goes to another team and win superbowls.The falcons are a farm system team sort of like baseball that developes talent then send them on there way.So saying all that means it don’t matter who they draft will they select the right player and if so, will they pay for him? Until i see a change i will always be the falcons worst critic.
Sid
January 20th, 2011
9:28 am
How bout a bet that none of these pan out in the NFL Draft?
Time Travaler
January 20th, 2011
9:47 am
In the future the Flacons contune 2 make pour draft picks. They will be nown as “the team that couldt draft”
Enemas for Arbor Day
January 20th, 2011
9:48 am
Jessie Tuggle was not drafted. He was a free agent. Do your homework before you post here or I will make you plant a tree.
MR
January 20th, 2011
10:06 am
Needs: Speed at the RB position and an improved pass rush! There is no point in getting a receiver IF we continue to run the same routes. Also no point of adding DBs in FA if we can’t get any pressure on the quarterback.
IheartFalcons
January 20th, 2011
10:12 am
The Falcons don’t need help in the secondary. They need help on the D line. No DB can cover that long when the defensive line is not getting to the quaterback. Draft a DE, pick up a free agent receiver.
Joe Tess Fish House
January 20th, 2011
10:16 am
I kept tellin U all that Perrier Jerry is a bust. If he was even just a lil bit beter the defence wood get presure on the QB. Also I told U all that Abe is over the hill hes like 39 year old and gettin slower n slower. These thing were quiet oblivous in the game agains the Pack. At some point U all need 2 lissen 2 me and see that I no what I am tlakin about
Colt McCoy for Heisman » Blog Archive » Time to mock! Kiper, McShay say Falcons take . . . - Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog)
January 20th, 2011
10:23 am
[...] Original post by "colt mccoy" – Bing News [...]
A word about 'oversigning' (and revisiting Saban's dance) | Jeff Schultz
January 20th, 2011
10:35 am
[...] – Time to mock! Kiper, McShay say Falcons take . . . [...]
The Joker
January 20th, 2011
11:26 am
There is no way we take a WR or Outside Linebacker with all of the holes in the Defense(pass rush), we do need a receiver but I agree with what others have said about the Falcons getting one in Free Agency. I am also not completely sure on Ingram, he is a great back, don’t get me wrong but he has already had a knee operation(even though it was minor), not to mention all of the wear and tear he has taken during his alabama tenure. Someone like Trent Richardson would be a better pick if he were to come out, Overall, we need SPEED, SPEED, and MORE SPEED….as a Dome team, Speed has proven to be the winner…look at the Aint’s last year, the Rams in ‘99-2001, The speedy defensive players on the Colts during their Superbowl appearances…. It’s all about the SPEED!!!!
Ed
January 20th, 2011
11:30 am
If I were Dimitroff I would pick Cameron Heyward DE Ohio State, that guy lived in the Arkansas backfield in the Sugar Bowl. I think he would solidify the Defensive End position once and for all and come much cheaper than a Free Agent. The 2 positions that he will fill via free agency will be CB and WR.
Preston
January 20th, 2011
12:08 pm
Wouldn’t it make sense to get a badass DE to work opposite of Abraham? Maybe they’ll concentrate on that with free agency. Some DB’s are needed too! The GB game exposed our D bigtime. The offense isn’t as bad as people think, they just weren’t on the field enough with Rogers picking us apart with long drives.
Preston
January 20th, 2011
12:10 pm
BTW, NEVER pay attention to these mock drafts. Especially with the later picks like ours. This is just fodder for the masses.
Preston
January 20th, 2011
12:11 pm
I’ll be the first to predict that we don’t get Smith OR Houston.
FF284
January 20th, 2011
12:51 pm
Joe Tess—–Abe is over the hill? Yet he was the one player on the defense that did anything against the Pack. Peria Jerry is a bust? It was really his first year after missing last season. It does take two years to fully recover from a knee injury.
Your little pearls of wisdom are just completely and utterly STUPID!!!!!!!
E43
January 20th, 2011
12:52 pm
I think the falcons should try and get Minnesotta DE Ray Edwards and then use that 1st round pick on a receiver. its just too risky to use that pick on a a DE given the falcons history.
EASTWYCK
January 20th, 2011
12:59 pm
Here is what (I) think the Falcons should do.
1. Jeremy Beal DE/OKL 4/3 RIGHT END
2. Kyle Rudolph TE/N.D I perfer them to go after Zack Miller of Oak, Or Owen Danields of Tex. But Rudolph is an option.
3.Matt Reynolds OT/BYU
4.De’Andre Brown WR/S.MISS 6′6 And run a 4.4 and has sick hands!!!
5.Quizz Rodgers RB/OREst Scat back that can do it all.
6.Chris Carter OLB/FREst
7.Kai Forbath K/UCLA
So that’s what I think!!!! Go FALCONS!!!!!
Time Travaler
January 20th, 2011
1:00 pm
In the furture U will all see that Joe Tess Fish House is indeed rite about neerly everthing.
Joe Tess Fish House
January 20th, 2011
1:03 pm
@ FF284
It take 2 years 4 Perrier Jerry to get more then 2 tackels a game? Reely? Face it the guy is a bust. If he is stil hurt Y R they playing him? They are tryin 2 fool us in 2 thinkin he is not bust but I can see that he is.
Nuff said!
Kiper needs a haircut
January 20th, 2011
1:11 pm
What does Mel Kiper do during the rest of the year – besides let his hair grow!
Joe Tess Fish House
January 20th, 2011
1:14 pm
Mel piked against the Falcons and was rite. Thats what else he can do,
Kane337
January 20th, 2011
1:40 pm
Needs in this order:
DE – make Kroy a backup DE
CB – Champ Bailey will be a FA and won’t cost too much. Move Dunta to #2, Grimes to nickle.
LB – replace Mike Peterson. His contract is up.
RB – speed back. replace Norwood.
WR – speed, deep threat
West Coast Falcons Fan
January 20th, 2011
1:43 pm
Jacquizz Rogers of Oregon St We need a take it to the house on any given play type player on offense and please open up the playbook and stop being so conservative. We need another pass rusher on defense but I believe we can find him in the later rounds. It’s time to change the defensive philosophy and become more aggressive!!
Kane337
January 20th, 2011
1:45 pm
Just say no to Mark Ingram. He’s too injury prone. We already got one of those injury prone type of RB’s.
Josh
January 20th, 2011
1:48 pm
Not to rock the boat… but wouldn’t it be a good idea to get a TE in here to learn from the best, before the best leaves? Like how Aaron Rogers learned from Brett Favre?
waynester
January 20th, 2011
1:54 pm
In the Future no one needs to learn basic spelling or grammar as all communication is done telepathically.
Time Traveller– here’s a message for you……………………..
FF284
Watch out! Those aren’t Pearls Tess is dropping! In future, please remember–pearls aren’t brown and they have no offensive odor…..
F Troop
January 20th, 2011
1:55 pm
Addressing the pass rush through free agency makes the best sense. Impact rookie DEs are ridiculously rare, free agent DE’s are much more available.
I say address the WR issue through FA as well. Some big names out there. Falcons need the threat of a deep man even worse than getting a deep man. It’ll take some pressure off of Turner and Ryan.
Qhat to draft? We need an O-lineman that can help us in two years. Get some needed depth thru the draft. There are a few players that can help us there in this year’s class.
JONESBORO SLIM
January 20th, 2011
2:00 pm
Some of you people must be on scouting and coaching squad of the Washington Redskins…why would you pick a CB or LB when you need to address the pass rush….then you talk about a WR position, have you forgot about Kerry Meier whose on IR you were jumping up & down about him this past summer… lets see what he can do…the time is now lets go after a FG DE and a speedy RB………
F Troop
January 20th, 2011
2:01 pm
Only Abe and Bierman are legit pass rushers, everybody else are run stoppers. Therefore, since impact DE’s are so rare in a draft, address this via free agency.
I also think we outghta get WR help from free agency. Falcons need a known entity to complement RW. He must inspire fear and force safeties to be honest. At least five good WRs who are currently FA who could fill that role immediately.
What to draft? O-line and LBs. Our LBs are a bit injury-prone. We need depth there. Our O-line is getting old. Need depth there, too.
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2:06 pm
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Mike
January 20th, 2011
2:11 pm
I guess i’m in the minority when I say that the Falcons really dont have alot of needs. I personally think it’s the scheme that the OC’s are forced to install, and not the players. Granted, we do need a legit #2 corner and WR (sorry Grimes, just too short buddy). But beyond that, you can really pick and choose. With the amount of cap room teams will supposedly have next season, and with the commitment Mr. Blank has shown to this team, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them get 2 name FA’s.
And I for one think they go RB in the first round.
Mike
January 20th, 2011
2:14 pm
Oh, i meant OC and DC…can’t leave out BVG.
Josh
January 20th, 2011
2:24 pm
Rob Rang and Chad Reuter (with CBS) are both saying we’re going to go for a CB… Aaron Williams or Jimmy Smith (respectively).
ASHCAN.
January 20th, 2011
2:29 pm
@Anemas for arbor day,Don’t know what exactly planting the tree mean but that was funny.
Dennis
January 20th, 2011
3:01 pm
Has Mel Kiper every gotten *anything* right?
I’d come out of retirement and do what he does for a lot less and get just as many picks correct.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 20th, 2011
3:15 pm
Well one thing is for certain, they will never waste a 1st round pick on a player that spends 5 years in college ball and still throws 22 picks in the 5th season.
Oh wait…..they already did. My bad
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 20th, 2011
3:19 pm
Dimitroff should be placed on “double probation” for all the busts he has drafted.
All the best players were drafted by the previous regime or through free agency.
Roddy
Babs
Abe
Falcon Jim
January 20th, 2011
3:25 pm
Joe Tess is a very astute observer of the gridiron. Sometimes genius is not recognized when it is so contrary to popular belief. Deep vision can be clouded by others short-sightedness. Colloquial style should not be used to criticize, but look to the content. Joe Tess is a brave visionary and should be respected.
waynester
January 20th, 2011
3:30 pm
one other thing is certain–we would never spend 100 mill on a lying,lazy,low grade moron,dope smokin’,whoremongerin’,disease-riddled, embarassing abuser of animals–oh wait, we already did–with the previous regime–yeah, your bad….
waynester
January 20th, 2011
3:32 pm
Don’t censor me, brah…..
JSS
January 20th, 2011
3:35 pm
H-e-l-l just froze over…
Falcon Jim, gin and juice or something harder?
Ron Choke Mexico
January 20th, 2011
3:37 pm
They must draft a DE, If you run a 4-3, you must be able to pressure the QB with your front 4, or your DB’s are screwed.
What position isn’t a hit or miss in the draft? DE isn’t unique in that regard
If kerrigan is available, I say take him at 27
we don’t know yet if jerry is a bust, people were saying moore was a bust until this year.
what group of LB’s worth their pay, aren’t injury prone?
Ron Choke Mexico
January 20th, 2011
3:39 pm
TD signed, traded for, or drafted….
1) TG
2) Turner
3) Grimes
4) Moore
5) Lofton
6) Ryan
7) weatherspoon
lot of teams would love to have these guys.
Ron Choke Mexico
January 20th, 2011
3:43 pm
Falcons need DE, OLB, CB on defense. Offense needs 1 or 2 WR’s, 1 or 2 RB’s, TE…..
Falcon Jim
January 20th, 2011
3:45 pm
JSS
Joe gets beat up so much, just “sending a little kindness.”
alf
January 20th, 2011
4:16 pm
Ha you think they were going to try and win a superbowl.Try agreeing to a new stadium first.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 20th, 2011
4:21 pm
Ron Choke Mexico
January 20th, 2011
3:39 pm
TD signed, traded for, or drafted….
1) TG
2) Turner
3) Grimes
4) Moore
5) Lofton
6) Ryan
7) weatherspoon
lot of teams would love to have these guys.
____________________________________________________
Aren’t these the same guys that got blown out by 27 points to a number 6 seed?
I don’t think Green Bay wants them
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 20th, 2011
4:24 pm
The Falcons don’t need more talent – they need a “true” franchise quarterback.
Vick took the Falcons further with half the talent on the current Falcons team.
CHOKE is a JOKE
Heynow
January 20th, 2011
4:31 pm
vick was doing ok til he tossed that season ender
Johnny Fever
January 20th, 2011
4:33 pm
Is the thought process here wrong? Maybe its the lack of coaching? You can have the fastest car on the race track and have a bad driver? people here want to change whats wrong with the car.
alf
January 20th, 2011
5:03 pm
falcon jim the j azz
Don't Know Sarcasm when you read it
January 20th, 2011
5:13 pm
We are suppose to be commenting on the up coming draft and nothing esle ! Don’t respond to the ugliness !
Frozen Rope
January 20th, 2011
5:13 pm
Joe Tess is correct about one thing,, we dont need anymore injury prune fist round picks,,,,,
so when do pitchers and catchers report….
Don't Know Sarcasm when you read it
January 20th, 2011
5:14 pm
else.
Falcon Jim
January 20th, 2011
5:20 pm
English alf, if you want to be understood.
Earl Austin Jr.
January 20th, 2011
5:21 pm
did somebody say happy hour
Mark (another one)
January 20th, 2011
5:24 pm
I keep hearing that the pass rush is poor and we need a defensive end. I believe our defensive tackles aren’t getting the push needed, and offenses are able to single block them. That means they can slide a double against and end, and stop our rush. We need a monster for the middle who can force a double team and allow Bierman and Abe to rush.
We also have an aging line, and it needs fresh competitors. Games are won at the line of scrimmage, and we need people on both sides that can win the battle in the middle. McClure is 33 or 34, and we have a couple of other 30 year old starters. We can’t let the line weaken.
ATL4life
January 20th, 2011
5:32 pm
We need to get rid of Peterson and start Nicholas. Like to see defensive end to go in for Biermann here and there as well as a good nickel corner. Speed running back to replace Norwood is a must as well as a quick and explosive receiver to take the starting spot opposite of White.
ATL4life
January 20th, 2011
5:39 pm
Mark (another one), I want to comment on your statement. Your right that our defensive ends, but Babineaux does not need to be replaced and Peters was just a rookie this year and will be much better next year. The offensive line is fine, except for Sam Baker whom we need to get rid of. Todd McClure has a few years left and his back up we picked up in the draft last year is pretty good.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 20th, 2011
5:58 pm
Haha… I’m glad I’m not the only one who has noticed that Kiper and McShay look like they hate each other. Not quite John Clayton and Sean Salisbury, but still… I think Kiper is mad that he is no longer the only draft analyst on ESPN.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 20th, 2011
6:00 pm
Kiper is right to an extent that the Falcons don’t have a lot of holes — in that there are not a ton of bad players who start for the Falcons at any position. But what the Falcons are missing are playmakers. They could use someone on defense who can force turnovers; a Troy Polamalu-style safety or a Ndamukong Suh-style defensive tackle who forces defenses to account for them. Trading up might be a good idea.
Ron Choke Mexico
January 20th, 2011
6:26 pm
Same team beat your con-vick on a choke int
also the falcons beat the packers a few weeks before
and your wonderful mr brees got spanked by a 7-9 team.
in any given game, any team can win
FF284
January 20th, 2011
9:02 pm
Joe Tess—–Jerry is well enough to play but not well enough to play to his full potential. That is one of the reasons TD and Smitty drafted Corey Peters, thus making Jerry a backup this past season. This comming season we will see a lot more competition for the starting DT spot which will result in better play from both guys. What you also seem to forget is that Jerry only played in passing downs due to his knee.
Falcon Jim—Anyone that thinks Joe Tess is some kind of visionary needs to get to a doctor fast!!!!!!
Matt “Choke” Ryan—–You keep telling everyone how great a player Mike Vick is but he is typically a loser in the playoffs. Mike Vick has won a total of 2, that’s right 2, playoff games in his 10 year career. He lead the Falcons to wins over the St. Louis Rams and Green Bay Packers. The problem, for you, is that both of those teams weren’t considered great teams in those seasons! Green Bay had lost it’s defensive swager and St. Louis had gotten rid of Kurt Warner.
Since you like talking about Mike Vick here’s another little fact for you. Mike Vick is 2-6 in his 8 playoff games. In those eight games he has turned the ball over 17 times; including a five turnover performance against the Eagles!!!!! Yeah, he’s great!
Frozen Rope
January 20th, 2011
9:11 pm
Wow,, 17 turnovers in 8 playoff games,, very telling numbers. He needs to learn how to tuck the ball when he runs or that trend will continue,,, Choke is not interested in the truth,,, he’s just interested in bashing Matt Ryan,, I think its a little early to call Ryan a bust,, he’s done well in just three seasons,, time will tell.
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 20th, 2011
10:14 pm
“ARTHUR NOT HAPPY ABOUT EARLY EXIT”
-UH OH, Dimitroff, Smitty and CHOKE
Get ready to clean your lockers
Joe Tess Fish House
January 20th, 2011
10:18 pm
Sum of U R clules. This team is an allusion and will certainly fail if they keep pickin no good players in the draft as well as cheep shot thugs like Donto Robinson. Why sum of U get all wet over this team is funy.
Internet dater
January 20th, 2011
10:25 pm
Anyone have luck from E Harmony?
Internet dater
January 20th, 2011
10:27 pm
I have a Porsche.
Internet dater
January 21st, 2011
6:22 am
Enter your comments here
Ron Choke Mexico
January 21st, 2011
6:24 am
Hey choke,
TD, Smith, and Ryan aren’t going anywhere. Notice that the Falcons offensive staff is in demand by other teams.
stendek
January 21st, 2011
9:12 am
I hate to say it but Matt Ryan has not played worth a damn since his rookie season. The youngster was fully confident that season. His regression in season two was painful to behold. Screw the numbers. Sports are not always based solely on numbers. For proof look at Thrashers. Decent numbers as they go. No heart! Ryan lost his heart and confidence after his glorious debut season. Apologists will argue. Die hard Falcon fans who have been on board since 1966 will tend to agree. Professional teams seize moments. The New Orleans Saints grasped their moment to claim Super Bowl rings. This was the Falcon moment. Buried by a Ryan interception! Sure the defense sucked out loud. No argument. But all was not lost until that damnable pick six! At that point Ryan nudged closer on my crap list to throwaway QBs Jeff George and Chris Miller. Know why Falcons may not have such a golden moment again? Look at remaining playoff survivors. Green Bay Packers. Head and shoulders above rest. This team HAS a QB! Chicago Bears. PLEASE! New York Jets. Pardon my laughter. Pittsburgh Steelers. NOT THE STEEL CURTAIN GANG OF OLD BY ANY STRETCH! Who in the field could knock off Falcons? One. Spare me the Steeler crapola! Moment passed. Opportunity squandered. Such moments are rare. Long suffering fans understand my anguish. Apologists like Sara never will. The Georgia Dome gag was the absolute worst Falcon loss in history. Not in points. Something much deeper. Pride. Heart. Desire. All were missing from Falcon game plan. It started with QB. When all was intercepted and done it was ended by QB. Look for downward spiral in 2011. Debacles like this one extend far beyond the initial sunlight of morn. Sigh.
STENDEK Just above average at best! So very sad. 
Rowdy Roddy White
January 21st, 2011
10:24 am
Heres what id do in the first 3 rounds
1. Justin Houston, he’s played in a 4-3 and a 3-4 so he will fit both and has outstanding pass rushing ability.
2. Darvin Adams, one of the most underrated players in the country. Would be a 1st rounder if their offense didnt revolve around Newton, Dyer, McCalebb. Has big play abilty and is going to be a star receiver in the NFL
3. Noel Devine, here’s your change of pace back, cant miss here.
IN FA we pursue 3 players to fill voids in our defense and offense
We go after one of the key WR’s in Larry Fitz, VJax, Sid Rice, Malcom Floyd Fitz will opt out of his contract with the Cards cause he doesnt want to be there.
Bring Champ Bailey back home, we need a Veteran CB that can shut down big play receivers, This move is a no-brainer
Sign Rocky McIntosh to play linebacker, a very underrated player that is a tackling machine.
joe
January 21st, 2011
11:11 am
I know some of it is luck, but the Falcons don’t seem to have any playmakers on D ( that the other team has to game plan for). They obviously missed on Clay Mathews, I liked all the USC linebackers in that draft and the Falcons passed on 2 of them. You would have to say the Perry has been a bust( even without the injury he didn’t seem to be a difference maker) and now he doesn’t start. I guess Abe is the one guy an offense has to think about and he’s 33(?) years old. All I’ve seen Meriweather do is miss tackles. For having the rep as astute talent evaluators it seems like T. D. and his guys are missing more than they are hitting……
Ron Choke Mexico
January 21st, 2011
1:17 pm
stendek, you’re an idiot, Ryan’s year this year was his best, he went 13-3, only threw 9 interceptions, won numerous close games, and in regards to the packers game, go to the first game and look at the numbers, yes this game was bad, yes ryan made mistakes, but when the opposing team never punts, you can’t blame your QB, that’s just stupid
Ron Choke Mexico
January 21st, 2011
1:18 pm
I’m tired of all this chicken little bull, this team is good, do you think the saints fans were crying like this after they got spanked by a 7-9 team?
Falcon Jim
January 21st, 2011
3:03 pm
With regards to my comment on Joe Tess, please see the following definition:
mag·nan·i·mous
–adjective
1.
generous in forgiving an insult or injury; free from petty resentfulness or vindictiveness: to be magnanimous toward one’s enemies.
2.
high-minded; noble: a just and magnanimous ruler.
3.
proceeding from or revealing generosity or nobility of mind, character, etc.: a magnanimous gesture of forgiveness.
Highly overrated QB Matt Ryan
January 21st, 2011
7:10 pm
HELL WOULD FREEZE OVER BUT WE NEED A QB. WANT TO BE IS HIGH WHAT IS IS LOW! WASTE OF MONEY AND TIME ! ALWAYS A( C )QB IN THE NFL! NEXT YEAR IN THE NFC SOUTH SECOND OR THIRD!! YOU NEED HUGE PEOPLE ON THE D-LINE WITH SPEED dB’s THAT CAN SHUT PEOPLE DOWN!! 3-4 OR 4-3 HUGE PEOPLE UP FROUNT, SPEED LB ,SHUT DOWN CONNER! GET A QB THAT CAN READ DEFENSE AND GO DEEP . WE HAVE 5 TO 10 YARD PASSES WHIT A WEAK ARM! this GUY CAME WITH A WEED EATER MOTOR ARM FOR POWER!!
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 21st, 2011
9:27 pm
“OWNER ARTHUR BLANK NOT HAPPY WITH EARLY EXIT”
Jim Mora gone after year 3.
You fill in the BLANKS – pon intended
Matt "CHOKE" Ryan
January 21st, 2011
9:29 pm
EARLY EXIT PART I – 2008
EARLY EXIT PART II – 2010
EARLY EXIT PART III – ????
CHOKE better start cleaning out that locker
Just saying..
January 21st, 2011
9:57 pm
Another linebacker, more wideouts? Uh, anybody notice the 4 teams left have great D lines? And maybe we start breaking in a new running back? Without #33…
hind tit
January 21st, 2011
10:53 pm
Washington would be a fool to take Newton over Mallett.
FF284
January 22nd, 2011
11:06 am
Let’s go get Braylon Edwards and then make the draft about the defense again.
Keith
January 22nd, 2011
10:37 pm
need a DB or OLB. I’d like to see a WR in later rounds.
albert patterson
January 23rd, 2011
8:45 am
I feel that the falcon’s defensive problems with Green Bay was not only personnel but also coaching. When a quarterback continuously throws quick short passes, you must disrupt the timing by blitzing and/or chucking the receivers at the line of scrimmage. The falcons did not adjust at halftime which I feel caused them to lose this game.
RambleOn84
January 23rd, 2011
9:27 am
Unless we were somehow lucky enough to have Julio or AJ fall to us, I say we don’t pick a WR first. None of the other guys look ready to contribute immediately, which is what we need. A DE such as Houston (if he can play the position) would be a better pick for help immediately, but I say we pick Ingram if he somehow fell to us. Turner is not getting any younger, and we all know RBs have the shortest shelf life in the NFL.
A guy like Ingram could be our feature back for the next 5-6 years and pick up right where Turner left off.
It is not realistic to think Turner has more than 2 years (probably less) playing at his current level.
RambleOn84
January 23rd, 2011
9:31 am
In general, out biggest needs are, in order:
WR
DE
CB
RB for the future
OL
But you should pick the most talented guy unless you absolutely don’t need his position.
This draft is deep enough that we should be able to fill all these needs decently well.
We probably need to dip into free agency for one of these positions. I don’t know who’s available off the top of my head, but I’d take a hard look at all the available WR to see if anyone can make an immediate impact. I’d also look at speedy running backs (Norwood is just never healthy) and a solid corner.
Mike
January 23rd, 2011
11:40 am
I think we get our explosive receiver via FA. Rice, B Edwards, M Floyd, and V Jackson are all FA…and there is a good chance that Edwards or Floyd will not be locked up and will be shopping for new home. I say we take a shot at Nnamdi Asomugha. Having a shut down corner would free up defensive bodies to blitz and bring more than a four man rush. Draft I say we 1st round we go either Heyward or Kerrigan, 2nd round Murray RB Oklahoma, 3rd round best available OG, and then we draft for defensive depth and special teams. Also need to make sure we keep Grimes, Blalock, S Nicholas, Bryant, Koenan, and McClure (maybe short term 1-2 years) with the Falcons. We have locked up Gonzalez for another year. Snelling and Dahl I would say it depends on what we would have to invest to keep them. I am sure that Norwood, B Williams, and Peterson will be gone next year.
Good Try
January 23rd, 2011
2:41 pm
Matt “Choke” Ryan is either Jeff Shultz(Help his blog generate more views) or drmaryb (hawks blog- Who types just like choke)
Gators own uga
January 25th, 2011
10:08 pm
I agree with Bank Walker, Falcons need to draft Cameron Heyward-if he’s still there. Forget about Justin Houston-he’d be a bust like EVERY uga player in a Falcon uniform. (Scott Woerner, DJ Shockley, etc)
uga_usmc
January 26th, 2011
9:49 pm
Houston is a great pick here. He proved himself against SEC O-lines…plus he already has a Ga fan base. I do agree, however, agree that it would be hard to turn down Ingram. We need to take as much pressure of Matt as possible. Our line isn’t the greatest. If Matt doesn’t get a good number 2 receiver through FA, we need to find one in the draft. Ingram is, among other things, a great receiver out of the backfield. Kiper said we don’t have many holes…what about left tackle? Sam Baker isn’t that good. We have many needs on the O side. Say what you want about the GB game…that’s fine, but NB Williams was out and Owens got wrecked. I think we did alright against GB in the regular season with a healthy Defense. I would def prefer to see LTackle or RB (if Ingram is there), but Houston would be alright to. We need to pressure the QB. Witherspoon needs to pick his damn game up next season.
uga_usmc
January 26th, 2011
9:57 pm
I agree with Ramble about a FA WR who could make an immediate impact. It would be a miracle if we could lock up a WR and a left tackle through FA. That way we could concentrate on DE and RB. The only problem with that is WHO is available in FA at WR. I would hate to see TO in a Falcons uniform…even Ocho, who is solid, would be a mistake. Either one of those would be a bad idea.