2010 Falcons Draft Discussion

[Bosanac01]

There is a whole year left until this draft, but like we all know it's never too early to discuss this stuff. The 2010 draft will be 10x better than this one IMO.

Let take a look at some potential needs:

C
TE
OLB

I might be missing some but as of right now that's all I got. Center ro replace McClure, TE to replace/backup Tony Gonzalez. OLB to replace Peterson.

[kiranadwaney]

how about adding a right tackle so we can move clabo to right guard, a three down defensive end, a nose tackle and a starting cornerback.

[d34ng3l021]

I think by the seasons end, DE might be a huge need. I am not doubting Sidbury, but Abraham is getting old as well.

As the season goes on, we could be looking at S during the draft to replace Coleman.

[SimonRath]

I think by the seasons end, DE might be a huge need. I am not doubting Sidbury, but Abraham is getting old as well.

As the season goes on, we could be looking at S during the draft to replace Coleman.

i love coleman, i expect him to have a big year

[Bosanac01]

how about adding a right tackle so we can move clabo to right guard, a three down defensive end, a nose tackle and a starting cornerback.

I like o-line now as it is. I doubt the front office will change anything there, they love dahl at RG and clabo at RT just because they are two guys with a mean streak that just play like animals out there. You ask for a 3 down defensive end but right now we have kroy biermann and lawrence sidbury at those two spots. I didn't put nose tackle and CB on there because we drafted two of each this year. They might not fit as well but we spent high picks on them (jerry and owens). We already have a lot of d-linemen batting for a spot right now. As of CB, there are at least 7 guys who are battling for a spot and only chris houston is secured. Im pretty sure we can find a nice #2 corner and a great nickle/dime. Von Hutchins, Chevis Jackson, Chris Owens are all good possibilities for these spots. We also have David Irons, Brent Grimes, and William Middleton.

[Bosanac01]

I think by the seasons end, DE might be a huge need. I am not doubting Sidbury, but Abraham is getting old as well.

As the season goes on, we could be looking at S during the draft to replace Coleman.

You never know about DE, there are 4 decent DE's that we are undecided about right now. Jamaal Anderson, Sidbury, Davis, Biermann. They can all give you something, whether it's run stopping or pass rushing. They are pretty young and in the mist of all the competition someone will have to jump out. As of right now Im praying Jamaal improves a little more drastically then he did from his 1st to 2nd year.
Im not too worried about John Abraham's age right now. He's 30 years old but he's producing better than ever and you can say there's about 4 maybe 5 more years left in him. If he starts slacking at any point of time, i expect one of the young DE's that is looking the best to take his spot.

[BamaFalcon59]

Defensive end is still a huge need. Jamaal Anderson is horrible, and Biermann and Sidbury are just pass rushers at this point. If we are lucky one will be good enough to replace Abraham when he gos down hill. That means there is still a huge hole at left defensive end.

[Bosanac01]

As of right now we defenetly know we need C, OLB, TE to replace the older starters at those positions. DE is not one of those positions that we know for sure, Jamaal Anderson has another shot to prove himself worthy of starting, and biermann/sidbury have something to compete for. They are young players. If JA98 actually starts to have a productive year, we might as well just skip DE and assume Sidbury or Biermann will be the situational guys and ultimatly replacement for ABE.
If McClure, Tony G, or Peterson have productive years next year, we know we still will need C, TE, and OLB, because of their age. As of right now you can't tell me we'll go DE in the first round for sure. But for the other 3 positions you can say.

[Draft King]

Maybe we take one of the 3 big safeties coming out next year? Mays, Wright, or Berry?? If not I'd like to see us either address our LB woes or possibly the O-Line. (I just have a feeling the O-Line can't repeat our '08 regular season success)

[BamaFalcon59]

As of right now we defenetly know we need C, OLB, TE to replace the older starters at those positions. DE is not one of those positions that we know for sure, Jamaal Anderson has another shot to prove himself worthy of starting, and biermann/sidbury have something to compete for. They are young players. If JA98 actually starts to have a productive year, we might as well just skip DE and assume Sidbury or Biermann will be the situational guys and ultimatly replacement for ABE.
If McClure, Tony G, or Peterson have productive years next year, we know we still will need C, TE, and OLB, because of their age. As of right now you can't tell me we'll go DE in the first round for sure. But for the other 3 positions you can say.

No.

The three positions you named are all extremely easy positions to find players at. I could see outside linebacker, we value the position. Tight end won't be our top pick next year, that would be an idiotic move, and center is always unlikely.

You are delusional if you think Anderson is going to all of the sudden become a player. He hasn't even shown flashes.

Biermann was manhandled in the run game last season, Sidbury right now is a pure pass rusher. Of the two only Sidbury has starting potential, Biermann is too small. And banking on a fourth round pick starting is not a smart thing to do.

Chauncey is a good rotational defensive end, not a starter.

If Abraham gos down the defense is still in a world of trouble.

Defensive end is still a huge need.

Also, I wouldn't doubt cornerback if the proper value is available. Owens and Jackson are good, but considering that the ATL was looking at Darius Butler they still may be in the market for a top corner.

And that last sentence made zero sense.

[Bosanac01]

The point I made was basically you must fill some positions in the near future, but for others you have young players in place that can prove themselves worthy of a starting spot for a long time.

[BamaFalcon59]

The point I made was basically you must fill some positions in the near future, but for others you have young players in place that can prove themselves worthy of a starting spot for a long time.

And neither TE nor C will need players to step in immediately. Center maybe, but that's generally not a round one pick unless the top one is available. Tight end isn't a round one pick with Tony Gonzalez just being traded for.

Left end has no servicable starter. Anderson is a bust. Davis is a good rotational player. Sidbury and Biermann are not fit for the position, and even if we like an undersized line (and if one of them is good enough), Abraham will need a successor in time as well.

Left end has no true starter and no young players who can prove themselves worthy of starting there.

[pr0d1gy]

The one thing you all need to grasp is that you cannot look at the line by individual positions, be it O or D. Both lines are a cohesive unit and each player along that line must execute in order for the other guys to make plays. Moving pieces around and bringing in new ones, after the pieces we have got us to the playoffs, is entirely self defeating.

Now I am bad with names but that guy we brought in to play RG last year for the injured Forney quickly became the strong arm of that O line. He did very well against all but the VERY BEST and most talented DT's in both the run and pass game. Removing that guy for someone "more talented" would be akin to shooting yourself in the foot, which is what most teams do. Consistency on your offensive line is key to retaining your offensive potency. In the last few years several teams have lost key O linemen to FA only to watch their O go into the tank for at least a year or two, comparitively speaking of course.

Case in point, the Seattle Seahawks after losing Hutchinson basically have gone to complete crap. Alexander never broke a thousand yards again. The Steelers win the Super Bowl, let Faneca go, and have a tough year before working their way back up. I know this is a bit long winded but the one thing you always want is consistency on your O line and effort from your D line.

[BamaFalcon59]

The one thing you all need to grasp is that you cannot look at the line by individual positions, be it O or D. Both lines are a cohesive unit and each player along that line must execute in order for the other guys to make plays. Moving pieces around and bringing in new ones, after the pieces we have got us to the playoffs, is entirely self defeating.

Now I am bad with names but that guy we brought in to play RG last year for the injured Forney quickly became the strong arm of that O line. He did very well against all but the VERY BEST and most talented DT's in both the run and pass game. Removing that guy for someone "more talented" would be akin to shooting yourself in the foot, which is what most teams do. Consistency on your offensive line is key to retaining your offensive potency. In the last few years several teams have lost key O linemen to FA only to watch their O go into the tank for at least a year or two, comparitively speaking of course.

Case in point, the Seattle Seahawks after losing Hutchinson basically have gone to complete crap. Alexander never broke a thousand yards again. The Steelers win the Super Bowl, let Faneca go, and have a tough year before working their way back up. I know this is a bit long winded but the one thing you always want is consistency on your O line and effort from your D line.

Harvey Dahl, the right guard you spoke of, was not the strong arm of the offensive line last season. His pass protection wasn't great and he fouled too often.

[Bosanac01]

Harvey Dahl played very good for us last year. The key to a good o-line is chemistry and you get that by keeping the same unit out there, they did very well in their first year together.

[kiranadwaney]

Dahl did do a good job for us last season, considering I was expecting nothing from him at all, but I feel if we drafted a right takle and then moved clabo inside our offensive line would be sick. then just bring in a centre to groom behind mcclure.

i know we have kroy and just drafted sidbury as a 3rd down defensive end, but what i ment was we need a defensive end who can play against the run and pass, i.e an eveydown defensive end.

i am worried about how our defense will hold up against the run, a big run stuffing nose tackle is something we dont have. for the jags coach smith played with two tackles over 310lbs we dont have any unless trey lewis can stay health and contribute.

[Halsey]

It seems like the Falcons always have a major need at CB, so why should nect year be different. CB is not an easy position to be 'set' at, but it sure would be nice if the Falcons could go through a couple of seasons with little depth chart change at the position.

[d34ng3l021]

I want to keep our OL as is. They do have great chemistry together and I think Dahl will continue to improve and won't make as many bonehead plays/penalties as he did last year. Clabo, Blalock, and Baker are all very good.

But asking a team not to replace someone because of the good chemistry they have with their unit is stupid. Yes, the Seahawks running game suffered when Hutchinson left, but it wasn't cause of the chemistry disrupted because of it; it was because Hutchinson is an All-Pro guard who is one of the best run blockers in the NFL...

[d34ng3l021]

Wow. I want Taylor Mays on the Falcons so much.

[pr0d1gy]

I want to keep our OL as is. They do have great chemistry together and I think Dahl will continue to improve and won't make as many bonehead plays/penalties as he did last year. Clabo, Blalock, and Baker are all very good.

But asking a team not to replace someone because of the good chemistry they have with their unit is stupid. Yes, the Seahawks running game suffered when Hutchinson left, but it wasn't cause of the chemistry disrupted because of it; it was because Hutchinson is an All-Pro guard who is one of the best run blockers in the NFL...

It is less about chemistry as continuity. If you watch a lot, or played a lot, of football you will notice the teams who are good year after year have almost no change in their line during those streaks. None of our guys should lose their jobs unless they get injured.

[SimonRath]

Taylor Mays <3
or Eric Berry <3

[Bosanac01]

Taylor Mays <3
or Eric Berry <3

I'll rather go with Eric Berry, he's better and a hometown kid. Too bad both will be top 10.

I'm looking at CB with the first pick for sure. Not the strongest position however.

[Olympia Martin]

Our first round need after week 2 of the regular season is clearly cornerback. We have to stop diving into the trade pot at the last minute and picking up scraps from other teams to solve our corner issue. Someone like Patrick Robinson or maybe Joe Haden from Florida would be solid in round 1. We need a CB that can cover a tall wideout one on one.

[Falcon<3]

I would really like to see us get another DT. This draft is just so loaded with great ones, I really think we need 1 more DT anyway. Babs is good, Jerry is very injury prone and we knew that when we drafted him, he's also 25, and now will be 26 when he comes back. Not that he's too old to help us, cause I think he will be very good, but getting McCoy would be sweet, or Austin, either one can be big timers for us.

Clearly CB is a big need for us, but w/o pass rush we could have Aso out there and it really wouldn't matter.

OLB looks good for another year, unless someone falls in our laps.

Safety, we don't have a playmaker back there unless Decoud Steps up, but yeah, Eric Berry or Taylor Mays would be awesome to see back there, but I don't see us going that route, we're still banking on Moore to be a playmaker.

DE, I don't want to call this a need, but it clearly is, but who would we displace? Jamaal? He's got so much potential and he's so young, I don't see how we can let him go, but at the same time, his production has to increase. Chauncey could go, he's been the invisible man so far. Biermann and Sid are looking like promising rush ends, but why isn't Sid getting more snaps? I dunno, I want to call it a need, but I can't...yet.

C is for sure a need, McClure is showing his age, big time.

TE, I don't want another one, I honestly think if we keep winning TG can play 4 more years, he's so rejuvenated.

WR, I just want HD back =(

OL, looks good, but a stellar RT/RG wouldn't hurt my feelings.

RB, depends on what goes on with Jerious, I really think this is a big need. Turner isn't the problem this year, the OL run blocking is, but we also need a 2nd back who can stay healthy...I like Snelling, but I don't want Thunder and Thunder, I want a Felix Jones type cat.

[d34ng3l021]

If it was up to me, people would have a hard time convincing me not to take a DE and DT within the first 3 rounds. In my opinion, defensive line depth is the most important aspect of a team, behind the QB. We saw glimpses of what happens when our front 4 is consistently fresh and can get push against the OL in the Miami game where we sacked Pennington 4 times and 'limited' the RBs to 4.3 yards a carry. We also saw what happens when you have a deep DL when you see the Giants defensive success is built off of that. Getting a better pass rush and holding up at the point of attack from a strong defensive line is going to help our pass and run defense.

[Shiver]

When holding a team to 4.3 ypc is "limiting" then your in trouble.

[Falcon<3]

If it was up to me, people would have a hard time convincing me not to take a DE and DT within the first 3 rounds. In my opinion, defensive line depth is the most important aspect of a team, behind the QB. We saw glimpses of what happens when our front 4 is consistently fresh and can get push against the OL in the Miami game where we sacked Pennington 4 times and 'limited' the RBs to 4.3 yards a carry. We also saw what happens when you have a deep DL when you see the Giants defensive success is built off of that. Getting a better pass rush and holding up at the point of attack from a strong defensive line is going to help our pass and run defense.

Problem I see there is those guys just don't grow on trees, there aren't many of them out in the league.

What about Peppers when he leaves Carolina?

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Hopefully a pass rusher hits FA. That's something we need to be all over.

[Falcon<3]

Hopefully a pass rusher hits FA. That's something we need to be all over.

We have 3 "pass rushers" we need an every down guy

[ATLDirtyBirds]

We have 3 "pass rushers" we need an every down guy


We really have one. We've got two nice projects in Sidbury and Biermann, but it'd be nice to add an person who can bring it on every down at LE.

[Shiver]

The team needs to have Babineaux and Jerry split 50/50 next year and find some 310-320 lbs. run stuffing beast to play at NT.

[Falcon<3]

The team needs to have Babineaux and Jerry split 50/50 next year and find some 310-320 lbs. run stuffing beast to play at NT.

This is what I'm thinking as well. Then sub those 2 in on pass rush downs...nasty packages. Honestly, Walker can become that NT we want, and so can Lewis, but if we could land the kid from Oklahoma...*drool*

[Draft King]

This is what I'm thinking as well. Then sub those 2 in on pass rush downs...nasty packages. Honestly, Walker can become that NT we want, and so can Lewis, but if we could land the kid from Oklahoma...*drool*

No chance unless we lost every single game for the rest of the year. McCoy is a top 5 pick at worst top 10. I'm thinking we'll be picking somewhere in the 20s. I think we should look to draft either an outside linebacker or corner. I'm loving Curtis Lofton right now BTW, he's 2nd in the NFL in tackles at the moment. He'll be a stud for years to come.

[Falcon<3]

Yeah, Lofton is killer, but Nicholas is solid out there, we can't afford to replace Peterson's leadership yet, plus I really think we have something in Spencer Adkins, I mean I know he's super raw, but that's the good thing, he didn't get ruined by college coaches, he's raw and coachable with physical ability to spare.

With this many DTs coming out there's no telling how high/low some guys will go, not every team has a need at the DT spot, and I know he's a special player, but we've seen other special players fall in the draft as well. I don't think we'll have a shot at him, but McCoy in Falcons red and black would be sweet.

I also think we have to pick up a running back this year, not in the first round, but a change of pace back in the 3rd round would be very very nice. Then again, if a top RB slips down the draft boards for some reason, we could afford one in the first, look what Dallas has done, that's a nasty rushing attack. I know we have bigger needs, but sometimes if you have a special player in your lap, you gotta take em.

A big run stuffing force would be huge for our defensive line, so if Walker and / or Lewis can step up this year, I'm all for them being that guy and spending a first round. My favorite LB in college football is a freshman though, not seen that many play like him. Check the link in my sig. #7 from ASU...kid has it all. I really like Norwood but he's prolly too big to be a 4-3 OLB he may have to be a 3-4 Rush end.

Sig didn't show up for me. Here's the link:
http://thesundevils.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/burfict_vontaze00.html

[Falcon<3]

What do you guys think of CJ Spiller? I'm not sure how high he'll get drafted, but with Norwood showing he can't stay healthy, we need that dynamic speed threat back in our backfield to take some of the pressure off Turner and make teams wonder. I really like this guy, he basically replaces Norwood with Norwood 2.0, He's slightly faster (at least the times we have on them atm) and he's even more capable as a return guy. Don't get me wrong I really like Norwood, but if we don't re-up him we need to get someone to do his role. Even if we did pickup Norwood's contract, would it be such a bad thing to have Norwood learn how to play in the slot behind HD? Norwood was viewed as a WR by many teams, and we've used him out as a flanker before. Spiller is built more like a runningback, Norwood is just incredible any time he touches the ball though. I dunno what to think! But I do think CJ Spiller should be an option for us (if he'd even be available 3rd round)

[Bosanac01]

CJ Spiller is the top running back of the class right now. You won't draft him in the 3rd and get him backing up and returning kicks.
I know Norwood can be unhealthy a lot, but we still might end up resigning him. Snelling is a very valuable back as well. I will hold all talks on this position until the middle/end of the year since no one is running the ball well for us right now.

CB is the clear need right now. We also must get another OLBer to replace peterson. I hate to say this, but I would not mind drafting another DT in the first round.

We really need one right now and guys like GERALD MCCOY, NDAMUKONG SUH, MARVIN AUSTIN will not wait till the 3rd round. They all got size and would fit perfectly.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Peterson is fine. I've been quite happy with our linebacker play thus far. It's only going to look better if we had a DL that doesn't get constantly pushed back. Get me some more DL talent.

[Bosanac01]

Peterson had some nice plays but he messes up a lot.

[D-Rod]

I'd be happy for us to draft DT again in the 1st, unless we get a quality free agent. You can never have enough good big men.

No way we're getting McCoy, and Suh is also unlikely (though stranger things have happened). However, I would be happy with Austin, and I would also be quite happy if we drafted Mount Cody (it's not likely that we'd grab such a one-dimensional player in the 1st round, but I'd really like to plug him in and just say, f-you, you're not running on this down...)

[Falcon<3]

Suh > McCoy.

[BamaFalcon59]

I'd be happy for us to draft DT again in the 1st, unless we get a quality free agent. You can never have enough good big men.

No way we're getting McCoy, and Suh is also unlikely (though stranger things have happened). However, I would be happy with Austin, and I would also be quite happy if we drafted Mount Cody (it's not likely that we'd grab such a one-dimensional player in the 1st round, but I'd really like to plug him in and just say, f-you, you're not running on this down...)

I disagree.

Austin is overrated as can be, he makes no plays and is physically made up like our current two DTs.

Cody is also overrated and wouldn't fit in our scheme.

Suh and McCoy are beasts, but they both go top five in my opinion.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I'd much rather get an impact defensive end. Someone who can make plays in the running game. Just try and add a solid DT that can rotate with Babs and Jerry via FA and draft an end.

[dunagan15]

screw u guys, trade the house for Eric Berry haha

[Bosanac01]

hey guys, is there any place i can get a full game replay?

[scar988]

I'm now on board for getting a DE. while Anderson can shut plays down sometimes, he has proven to me he needs to play DT... fatten him up to over 300 and throw him in the DT rotation, then draft a DE and a DT with our first 2 picks. I want us to bring in either Greg Hardy or Derrick Morgan. 2 guys who play LE in college and can get pressure. something we haven't ever drafted. LE's who can get pressure. we normally just take RE's and try to flip them.

[dunagan15]

I know our DL has been kinda ehh this year, but they have been ok, Bierman is making an impact and we will get Peria back.

Right now we need serious help in the secondary. Not sure the range we will be picking but agin its gonna be lower than 20 so that may rule out Joe Haden, whom I love, and def the 2 safties Eric Berry and Mays.

Im not too sure how good Patrick Robinson is from FSU but we need serious help in the secondary (still have no idea why we let foxworth go) Grimes is terribad.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Im not too sure how good Patrick Robinson is from FSU but we need serious help in the secondary (still have no idea why we let foxworth go) Grimes is terribad.


Supposedly we offered Foxworth more money. He just wanted to be closer to home. I give TD credit for having a figure in mind and sticking to it. I really feel as if we get an impact LE our secondary is going to look a lot better. And as much as I love him and the plays off help him, Abraham isn't going to be around forever.

[dunagan15]

Supposedly we offered Foxworth more money. He just wanted to be closer to home. I give TD credit for having a figure in mind and sticking to it. I really feel as if we get an impact LE our secondary is going to look a lot better. And as much as I love him and the plays off help him, Abraham isn't going to be around forever.

Hmm didnt know that. But true bout TD, like it alot. In that case, Abe doesnt have much juice left we know, thats why I was hoping Sidbury would show a little promise to buy us a year or 2, w/ Bierman stepping up we at least have a few guys that can step in.

I mean the DL is helped out by the secondary and vise versa, in this case, w/ our secondary, we have to expect a sack in like 2 seconds..

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Hmm didnt know that. But true bout TD, like it alot. In that case, Abe doesnt have much juice left we know, thats why I was hoping Sidbury would show a little promise to buy us a year or 2, w/ Bierman stepping up we at least have a few guys that can step in.

I mean the DL is helped out by the secondary and vise versa, in this case, w/ our secondary, we have to expect a sack in like 2 seconds..


I agree that we need someone else back there too, but I'm much more a fan of building in the trenches. And supposedly, Foxworth hasn't played well at all in Baltimore.

[dunagan15]

I agree that we need someone else back there too, but I'm much more a fan of building in the trenches. And supposedly, Foxworth hasn't played well at all in Baltimore.

Ya ATL, I wouldnt be opposed to a DL either since one position will help the other in theory.

With that said can we get a thread started about some guys we could be interested in with our first pick..Don't worry about where we pick lets just throw some names out there.

[Halsey]

I wonder if the Falcons could get Shaun Rogers. Probably not, but he seems like just what the Falcons need.

[Falcon<3]

I wonder if the Falcons could get Shaun Rogers. Probably not, but he seems like just what the Falcons need.

I don't know how well he would fit in our 4-3 now. I know he was a force for a long time in it, but he's gotten so much bigger to fill that 3-4 NT role, I just don't know if he would be effective for us. Plus they would likely want a king's ransom to get him. It's becoming very difficult to find really good 4-3 DTs...friggin Vikings.

[Shiver]

I agree that we need someone else back there too, but I'm much more a fan of building in the trenches. And supposedly, Foxworth hasn't played well at all in Baltimore.

In fact, he has been god awful. As much as I dislike Houston and Grimes, I do not miss Foxworth at all.

Draft needs:

A RB who can split time with Michael Turner. We now know that Norwood can never stay healthy enough to contribute a consistent 15 touches per game.

We need a big body at NT, thus allowing Jerry to come back and play at UT in a rotation with Babineaux.

A big physical cover corner would be nice, a Rashean Mathis/Al Harris/Nnamdi Asomugha type. That would be a nice change of pace from the midgets we are currently using.

[Bosanac01]

We always go for short corners and i don't get it. I know jimmy williams was a huge bust, but come on. Chris Owens, Middleton, why draft them?

I'm not asking for the next deon, but a guy like aqib talib would be nice. He was too big, failed a drug test and ran a bad 40, but he can play. We need a CB who can play and not make so many mistakes.

[Shiver]

I hope our 2010 draft class produces more immediate results. Last year we seem to have gotten too cute and tried all these projects and we could have really used some impact right away. Although injuries are a big reason why Jerry and Moore aren't playing right now. Guys like Owens and Sidbury won't produce for a while, if at all.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I loved the Sidbury pick. I wasn't a huge fan of the Owens pick however.

[Falcon<3]

The only picks I liked were Jerry and Sid. Honestly I think all the other picks were a huge waste. I had a bad feeling about Jerry because of his knees/age though. I still expect him to bounce back, but man I really just wish we would have gone another way, but that's all hindsight now. I think Jerry next year when he recovers can beast it up for us, but we're ready to win now, next year we need an impact defensive player. LB, CB, or DLine. Just a big impact guy.

Getting Douglas and Jerry back will be huge, but missing out on our 2nd round pick is going to hurt us too. But TG is totally worth it. Hopefully getting those 2 back from injury will offset not having a 2nd round pick.

[BamaFalcon59]

Personally, I wanted Everette Brown when we were on the clock and really wasn't fond of the Peria Jerry pick.

Gotta wait it out, though.

[Falcon<3]

Personally, I wanted Everette Brown when we were on the clock and really wasn't fond of the Peria Jerry pick.

Gotta wait it out, though.

That's very true, I thought we were going to jump on it too, I forgot about that. I guess I suppressed that in my mind. But at the same time I think Sid is going to be a great player that will play much the same as Brown.

[Bosanac01]

Peyton Manning said there is no relationship like QB and center. He had Jeff Saturday his whole career to pave the way and they are a great due. Saying this i present...

Matt Tennant, senior center from Boston College. He is ranked the #2 center of the 2010 class.

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/03HC5u808Z14d/610x.jpg

6'4" 295lbs

2007 Season
Earned the starting role in preseason camp and started all 14 games at center for the Eagles in 2007...helped pave the way for Matt Ryan's record-breaking season...the Eagles finished with 5,924 yards of total offense and Ryan passed for 4,507 yards...got the first start of his career vs. Wake Forest in the season opener.

I think he would be a great draft pick. We do have more urgent needs then a center, but this is interesting. Right now he is looked at as a possible 3/4th rounder.

[Falcon<3]

Peyton Manning said there is no relationship like QB and center. He had Jeff Saturday his whole career to pave the way and they are a great due. Saying this i present...

Matt Tennant, senior center from Boston College. He is ranked the #2 center of the 2010 class.

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/03HC5u808Z14d/610x.jpg

6'4" 295lbs



I think he would be a great draft pick. We do have more urgent needs then a center, but this is interesting. Right now he is looked at as a possible 3/4th rounder.
Sounds good to me. I'm ready to have a C in our OL so we can have a rock solid group for the next hopefully 5 years. That's when you can really see a team start to become elite, when they can keep their offensive line together for a while, even if they aren't superstars they just somehow get the job done.

There's a DE I've been hearing a lot about, and a guy I took notice of quite a while ago, and I know we have a lot of DEs already but Jerry Hughes from TCU, Scott even has him as a hot prospect right now, The guy is just a really good defender. He'd be someone who could start and still get pressure, but would be good enough against the run, to not have to be just a pass rusher like Sid or Kroy (although Kroy seems to be developing)

[Bosanac01]

He's a sack machine, and TCU plays some pretty good competition. A little problem with him is consistency and he's not very tall, about 6'2".

[Bosanac01]

As this thread is slowing down I think this is a good time to refresh our needs.

primary needs:
CB x 2
DE
DT
C

secondary needs:
OLB
OT
OG

honorable mention:
RB... Norwood is a injury prone FA
QB... No I'm not quiting on Matt Ryan.

With so many awesome QBs in this draft I'm sure there will be quite a few that fall pretty far. If you look at all the great teams in this league, they have very valuable backups at QB(Check 2008 Pats). We drafted Matt Schaub in the 3rd round even though we had a pro bowl QB (VICK) who was hurt at that time. We learned this the hard way that year, and then it hit us again in 2007. We did not have a back up QB. Matt Ryan has gotten pretty good protection, but these last two games were not very pretty. Chris Redman basically had one good game in his career and I have no trust in John Parker Wilson to run this team. I'm not saying we should draft a QB in the 3rd with so many needs we have. We have 5 pick in the 2010 draft, I'm sure we'll look into the free agency to fill most of our needs, and maybe draft a QB in the 5th or 6th. Last 2 years in a row, we cut 2 5th round picks before the season started, so why not take a shot at QB.

[dunagan15]

Joe Haden better be at the top of our board. Norwood cannot be counted on as a secure backup, Im hoping Harry comes back strong b/c our offense needs that explosive player.

DE is a huge need as well but w/ no second rounder who knows.

[Bosanac01]

He need to fix our CBs first, then we have to look at DE. Our secondary is so bad, and they give up so much room, the QB doesn't need that much time to throw, so the DEs can't even get to him.

[D-Rod]

What I'd do:

Allocate primary resources to fixing our primary problem: the pass defense.

Clearly, CB needs fixing. But drafting yet more youth is not the answer; we need to sign the best vet we can, whether Dunta Robinson or Carlos Rogers, and maybe draft a little more depth in the 4th or 5th.

We also need to help out the secondary with pass rush. Abraham has disappeared, Anderson is apparently only a DT on 3rd down now, Davis is just depth, Biermann is ok but not a star (yet), and Sidbury is an unknown. I'd draft the best DE we can in the 1st round. He'll contribute on 3rd down in year 1, and will grow into Abe's replacement.

In the middle rounds, I'd look for an OT, scatback, OLB, NT.

Done.

[Bosanac01]

What I'd do:

Allocate primary resources to fixing our primary problem: the pass defense.

Clearly, CB needs fixing. But drafting yet more youth is not the answer; we need to sign the best vet we can, whether Dunta Robinson or Carlos Rogers, and maybe draft a little more depth in the 4th or 5th.

We also need to help out the secondary with pass rush. Abraham has disappeared, Anderson is apparently only a DT on 3rd down now, Davis is just depth, Biermann is ok but not a star (yet), and Sidbury is an unknown. I'd draft the best DE we can in the 1st round. He'll contribute on 3rd down in year 1, and will grow into Abe's replacement.

In the middle rounds, I'd look for an OT, scatback, OLB, NT.

Done.

I'm on board with signing a CB, especially with a weak class like this one. Robinson and Rogers are both veterans and are both from the state of GA. Either one, however, has an int this year, and their teams suck.

-----------------------------------------

I don't agree with drafting a DE in the first round who will only contribute on 3rd downs his first year. That's pretty much Sidbury right there. ABE will not be any younger next year. We can't wait 2 or 3 more years to fix the pass rush.

Thinking about it again however, that might make a lot of sense. Let's take a look at our current DE situation.

RE- Abraham- Biermann- Sidbury

LE- Anderson- Davis

Abraham will not be with the falcons for too long, so Biermann would start and Sidbury would be a great backup, that will get a lot of snaps. Our LE's suck, Anderson is no good and Davis is a career backup. Looks like in the 1st we'll have some options for a LE.

Carlos Dunlap- 6'6" 290lbs
Corey Wooten- 6'7" 280lbs
Everson Griffen- 6'3" 280lbs
Derrick Morgan- 6'4" 275lbs
Greg Hardy- 6'5" 275lbs

Since we only have 5 picks and a lot of needs to fill, we can even move down to get one of these guys. Right now falcons have a pick at about 15. We can get a few picks if we trade down to late first.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Im in total agreeance with D-Rod. The CB i like is Leigh Bodden, he has played real well this year and is only 27. The Pats have two other young CBs so its likely Bodden hits the open market. He is definitely a guy i want at this stage

What else happens depends on Brian Williams recovery, Chris Houston’s play and Chris Owens' play for the rest of the year. If Houston does not improve (which is very likely) and Owens shows nothing, then, we need to find ANOTHER veteran in FA as entering 2010 with the same CB situation is not doing the remainder of the talent on this team justice. Owens looked good the other night though.
LCB Bodden
RCB Owens
NCB Houston/Jackson/Williams
would be a likely scenario at this point.

From there id look to DE in the draft and we NEED to hit on who we select. At where we pick it looks like there could be some high risk/reward guys like Carlos Dunlap or Greg Hardy but a guy like Eversen Griffen is likely to be a safer bet at this point
1. DE
3. OT
4. OC
4.(comp Foxworth) TE – I like Jimmy Graham the Miami TE
5. LB
5. (comp Boley) Best Kicker in the draft
6. WR

[D-Rod]

Im in total agreeance with D-Rod. The CB i like is Leigh Bodden, he has played real well this year and is only 27. The Pats have two other young CBs so its likely Bodden hits the open market. He is definitely a guy i want at this stage

What else happens depends on Brian Williams recovery, Chris Houston’s play and Chris Owens' play for the rest of the year. If Houston does not improve (which is very likely) and Owens shows nothing, then, we need to find ANOTHER veteran in FA as entering 2010 with the same CB situation is not doing the remainder of the talent on this team justice. Owens looked good the other night though.
LCB Bodden
RCB Owens
NCB Houston/Jackson/Williams
would be a likely scenario at this point.

From there id look to DE in the draft and we NEED to hit on who we select. At where we pick it looks like there could be some high risk/reward guys like Carlos Dunlap or Greg Hardy but a guy like Eversen Griffen is likely to be a safer bet at this point
1. DE
3. OT
4. OC
4.(comp Foxworth) TE – I like Jimmy Graham the Miami TE
5. LB
5. (comp Boley) Best Kicker in the draft
6. WR

Agreed. Bodden is also a good option.

I think that Robinson has had a down year for two reasons - one, he's coming off a knee injury, which takes at least a year to recover from; two, he's pissed about the lack of a new contract, and held out all of TC. I think he'd be a great candidate to really come back strong next year.

Rogers is not having a great year in DC, and he's not really a superb playmaker (and cannot catch for ****), but he's just a very, very solid corner. He can also turn his head, unlike Houston. Rogers is able to shadow a #1 receiver and keep him fairly quiet. Houston (and hopefully Owens) are capable against #2 receivers.

I agree that we can't make another boom/bust pick at DE (although DE is simply a horribly difficult position to forecast - see the Anderson/Adams etc draft). However, I'm not sure that Griffin is a hugely safe bet either; remember, this is the first year when production has really matched his talent.

I also agree that trading down woult be ideal, but almost every team thinks that...

[D-Rod]

I think Derrick Morgan's top of my wishlist. Can line up at either LE or RE, and has good production to go with his athleticism.

I'm not sure whether Wooten has the explosion to be a consistent pass-rush threat at the next level - I see more of a 3-4 guy, Jamaal part 2.

I think our experience of losing both top picks this year to injury will push Hardy down the board.

Dunlap is an inconsistent idiot; I could see him being totally off our board, to be honest. Physically, however, he'd be the perfect LE.

I do like Griffen, but he's not totally safe either.

[D-Rod]

By the way, if he's still available, Sergio Kindle could be an option. We have DEs who can stack the line against the run, what we desperately need is someone who can consistently get around the corner quickly...

[ATLDirtyBirds]

By the way, if he's still available, Sergio Kindle could be an option. We have DEs who can stack the line against the run, what we desperately need is someone who can consistently get around the corner quickly...

I'm certainly a fan.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

DEs are a crapshoot...I just want a good one. I dont care who it is.

How about TE Jimmy Graham in the mid rounds 6"8 260lbs runs a 4.6 and loves to block and be physical. He could replace Peele and have a 1 year aprentinceship under the greatest TE of all time. STUD

Seeing the saints get these mid round Olinemen who have all the physical tools but somehow fall (Bushrod and Nicks) and then play right up to their physical ability is a bit frustrating. I want some 330lb monster in the 3rd who "flicks the switch" his first year and holds it down for 10+ years

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Are there any co-ordinators or assistants out there on the defensive side that would run an Arizona style hybrid scheme as the D co-ordinator of the Falcons? I really want a dominant defense and it just doesn't seem like we throw enough at an opposing QBs to make it difficult for them. I love the Jets scheme and the confussion it causes, i'd love to be a base 4/3 but at the same time be able to come out and prior to the snap we re allign and use some 3/4. I remember hearing they would look to mix it up this year but we haven't seen it. I know the players arent all that special, (our CBs especially) but i still think id like to see us use a different approach to confusing opposing offenses than the one currently used by VanGorder /rant


Here is where im currently at.
1st round DE
Jerry Hughes- I just cant ignore this guy, he is a beast in every sense. He is small-ish at 6"2 257lbs but he is amazing. Reminds me of Terrel Suggs with the aggression he plays with. With Hughes, Sid, Bierman, Abe we would have some 4/3 DE who could also be used as rush backers if we did decide to change our scheme up a bit. In addition to that im sure JA98 Babs and Jerry could handle the occasional 3/4 DE duty on the rare occasion that we changed up our formation.
Anyway i digress....i give you, Jerry Hughes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BWIcKqReGk


3rd round LT/RT/OG
This is Vladimir Ducase, he is a beast. Raw 330lb road grader who is athletic. Plays LT for the minutemen at the moment but many project him to gaurd at the next level. Would be an ideal 3rd round pick. He is exactly the type of player i expect the Saints to take in the 3-4th round and him turn into a stud for them. Check him out
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/284740-ducasse-ready-to-tackle-nfl-linemen

[Bosanac01]

I avoided Jerry Hughes on purpose. I thought we don't need a undersized DE right now. Man what a beast he is, reminds me of Kroy Biermann with than tenacity, but Hughes plays much better competition in college than kroy did. No question his biggest asset is his speed, but he can also bull rush. He looks like a guy ready to contribute right away.

Quickness off the snap- check
Speed- check
Bullrush- check
variety of moves- check
Hands- check

he has the making of a complete pass rusher in the NFL. Looks to me he'll go top 10, he's just very underrated right now.

[BamaFalcon59]

Seriously doubt a 6'2" 255 pound pass rusher from TCU is going to go top ten.

He would have to have DeMarcus Ware type workouts for that to happen.

[scar988]

Seriously doubt a 6'2" 255 pound pass rusher from TCU is going to go top ten.

He would have to have DeMarcus Ware type workouts for that to happen.

what teams in the top 10 run a 3-4 and need a good pass rusher:
1) Cleveland Browns
6) Kansas City Chiefs

[Bosanac01]

Seriously doubt a 6'2" 255 pound pass rusher from TCU is going to go top ten.

He would have to have DeMarcus Ware type workouts for that to happen.

Good point, but TCU is undefeated and they are ranked 4th in the nation. Their schedule hasn't exactly been a walkthru either. I think he'll be a great OLB in a 3-4 and isn't too undersized for that.

[D-Unit]

Seriously doubt a 6'2" 255 pound pass rusher from TCU is going to go top ten.

He would have to have DeMarcus Ware type workouts for that to happen.
..and even Ware was the 12th pick. ..or was it 13??? one of those...

[BamaFalcon59]

..and even Ware was the 12th pick. ..or was it 13??? one of those...

Something like that. But Ware's draft stock also skyrocketed due to his workouts, where as Hughes is already a first to second round pick. Not to mention the success of Ware and Merriman has brought teams to take lesser quality pass rushers higher in the draft.

Still, I don't see it happening. Even with those numbers his height holds him back. But that's the only thing I think would make it possible, and it's extremely unlikely. Ware is a ridiculous athlete.

Good point, but TCU is undefeated and they are ranked 4th in the nation. Their schedule hasn't exactly been a walkthru either. I think he'll be a great OLB in a 3-4 and isn't too undersized for that.

But still undersized. James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, and Elvis Dumervil have helped out the stock of shorter pass rushers, but the odds of one going top ten, especially from TCU, are still unlikely.

And yes, TCU is good. And they play some decent teams. But Hughes collected seven of his eleven sacks versus Texas State (3), Southern Methodist (1), Colorado State (2), and New Mexico (1).

what teams in the top 10 run a 3-4 and need a good pass rusher:
1) Cleveland Browns
6) Kansas City Chiefs

Not sure if you are agreeing with me or not, but yea. I don't see it happening.

[d34ng3l021]

What are your thoughts on a NT? Scott just wrote a blog about Dan Williams and it looks like Terrence Cody could have his stock around the mid-late first round. DE and CB are obviously the top priorities, but if we don't have anyone there, I wouldn't be opposed to grabbing a NT for our team. We have always had trouble against the run (though we seem to be improved because of good coaching and discipline) and a rotation with Cody/Williams, Peria Jerry, and Babs would be killer.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Eh, if there isn't a CB or DE for the taking (or a BPA situation that is too much to pass up), I'd just move down.

[Bosanac01]

a good NT is really hard to find, I'd hate to waste a mid 1st round pick on one, especially after selecting a DT in the 1st just one year earlier. Just gotta hope Peria Jerry come back strong next year.

[Bosanac01]

But still undersized. James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, and Elvis Dumervil have helped out the stock of shorter pass rushers, but the odds of one going top ten, especially from TCU, are still unlikely.

And yes, TCU is good. And they play some decent teams. But Hughes collected seven of his eleven sacks versus Texas State (3), Southern Methodist (1), Colorado State (2), and New Mexico (1).

I don't really think he'll be a top 10 overall pick. I just said that after watching his video, I jumped on his jock strap, and then I tried defending myself with it, but I agree with you.

Now if he ends up being a top 10 pick however, I'll deny this and i'll shove it in your face.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

I wish we could get
1) A hybrid scheme using some 3/4 around 40% of the time
2) Terrance Cody - primary NT in 3/4, and in the DT rotation in the 4/3
3) Jerry Hughes - DE rotation and OLB in 3/4
4) Leigh Bodden (FA)
5) Vladimir Duccase - our Carl Nicks

haha a man can dream

[Halsey]

I'm not saying it will be the Falcon's biggest need this upcoming offseason, but the Falcons really need to add another starting quality runningback to go with Turner. Turner might never get back to 2008 form, Norwood is a free agent and Snelling isn't starting quality. NFL teams need 2 guys that can so a good job as a starter.

[BamaFalcon59]

I think we are fine at RB. Turner is still a horse, he has proven he still has the same ability as he did in 2008. It's just a matter of injuries.

Norwood should be retained, we need his big play ability.

Snelling has done a great job this season.

I don't doubt we could use a Tashard Choice type in the middle rounds, but no pick in the first three. Keep in mind we only have two picks in the first three rounds...

[ATLDirtyBirds]

We just have too many needs. Unless we are major players in free agency, I expect that we will suck next year as well.

[Bosanac01]

The team is just a mess right now, how the hell did the falcons let this happen??

Having a great year with a rookie QB, and the next year just playing awfully bad. It will be extremely hard to fix this team.

I'm hoping we can get a few comp picks in next years draft. Here is how our lost free agents look like this year, statistically. All of them are starters for their teams.

Keith Brooking (11 g) - 85 tackles, 3 sacks
Michael Boley (7 g)- 50 tackles, 2 sacks
Domonique Foxworth (11 g)- 33 tackles, 1 int
Grady Jackson (11 g)- 26 tackles, 1 FF

[georgiafan]

Norwood needs to be gone he hasn't proved he can stay healthy and isnt a good fit for the offense. He is going to want agood amount of money and change of pace backs are a dime a dozen.

[D-Rod]

The team is just a mess right now, how the hell did the falcons let this happen??

Having a great year with a rookie QB, and the next year just playing awfully bad. It will be extremely hard to fix this team.

I'm hoping we can get a few comp picks in next years draft. Here is how our lost free agents look like this year, statistically. All of them are starters for their teams.

Keith Brooking (11 g) - 85 tackles, 3 sacks
Michael Boley (7 g)- 50 tackles, 2 sacks
Domonique Foxworth (11 g)- 33 tackles, 1 int
Grady Jackson (11 g)- 26 tackles, 1 FF

Without five starters on offense, it was ugly, and we clearly have serious problems at CB and DE and a few other problems as well. However, I can see us being fine next year with a few key additions.

I can see us having a couple of 4th rounders, but not a 3rd round. Boley getting injured hurt us there...

[DraftMichaelHuff]

i dont really have anything to ad, just showing off the sig.

[Bosanac01]

i added a poll just for fun, i left of DE though. That seems to be a popular option.

oh and nice sig dmh.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Dudes opposite of Clay Matthews is a beast, Kapman wont be a packer next year at OLB

Hed be another DE option for us. We could hope he comes back from his injury, and he and abe can sputter out some production untill we ready to go with Sid and Kroy

DE Kapman
Cb Bodden

And Attack the draft from there??

Been watching some Youtube vids on Mt Cody, i know he doesnt fit, have the ideal body fat % but look at him, he is beast!

how would this 2010 "class" look

Peria Jerry
William Moore
Harry Douglass
Leigh Bodden
Aaron Kampman
1
3
4
4
5
5
6
6

13 players (with only 2 free agent signings)

Then add the 7 that were out from the offence V's the eagles

20

52 man roster

Almost replacing half the team from this past Sunday lol

[Bosanac01]

20 sounds great, but i'm sure we'll sign more than 2 guys.

Also Im not a fan of Kampman. He's a great player, but I think next year Kroy will be ready to take over the starting duties. Here are Kroy's stats and how he progressed:

2008: 16g, 21 tackles, 2 sacks
2009: 12g, 32 tackles, 5 sacks

He's not even a starter now.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

I agree somewhat, it depends what we think we have

If we think we are still looking for our future DE - then id like a DE in the 1st
If we think Kroy and Sid are close but not quite yet - then Kapman would be nice
If we think Kroy and Sid are ready- then id look to a guy like Austen Lane in the 3rd to make it 3 consequtive years of Div2 Passrushers. I love 3 Stud passrushers from Richmond, Montana and Murray State for the next decade

[Bosanac01]

I like the last option. Kroy Biermann has definitely shows he's ready. The guys is our most productive DE and he's not even starting! Hell, he has more tackles then both JA98 and ABE, and more sacks then those 2 combined. WTF!

BABS has as many sacks as the other 3 starting DLmen combined, and he's a DT. 10 combined sacks from our starting DL, ******* teams have 10 sacks in one game. That's just sad.

[scar988]

The team is just a mess right now, how the hell did the falcons let this happen??

Having a great year with a rookie QB, and the next year just playing awfully bad. It will be extremely hard to fix this team.

I'm hoping we can get a few comp picks in next years draft. Here is how our lost free agents look like this year, statistically. All of them are starters for their teams.

Keith Brooking (11 g) - 85 tackles, 3 sacks
Michael Boley (7 g)- 50 tackles, 2 sacks
Domonique Foxworth (11 g)- 33 tackles, 1 int
Grady Jackson (11 g)- 26 tackles, 1 FF
Brooking won't get us any comp pick because of Peterson.... Boley is a 4th or 5th rounder (looking like a 5th). Foxworth is a 3rd or 4th (looking like a 3rd) and Jackson is a 7th.

[Bosanac01]

right now we're at pick 13 which is great but really we don't need a pick that high unless Joe Haden is available. This draft is much like last year, so unpredictable. We have 5 DE's we're using regularly, i doubt we take a DT for the second straight year. The front office seems to like chris houston. Brian williams might be back, and who knows how Chris Owens turns out. OLBer is easy to fix and there really arent any available that high up.

We really have too many needs, not all are urgent. But we could literally draft any position.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I'm pretty much hoping we lose every game now. Knowing us though, will will go 8-8 and see Joe Haden go a few picks before us.

[D-Rod]

A pretty good list of DEs from the draft forum (PFielder):

1. Derrick Morgan
2. Brandon Graham
3. Jason Pierre-Paul
4. Jerry Hughes
5. Greg Hardy
6. Greg Romeus
7. Ricky Sapp (he'll have to stand up in a 3-4 though)
8. Corey Wootton
9. George Selvie
10. O'Brien Schofield (he'll have to stand up in a 3-4 though)
11. CJ Wilson

This leaves off guys like Griffen and Dunlap.

At least we got a good year to pick up a stud DE. If we don't get the right value fit in the 1st, we could trade up for one of these guys in the late second or high third.

Morgan may be impossible if we do break the curse, but any one of those guys could make a real difference to our pass rush.

[thefalconer]

i want joe hayden goddammit.

is it worth the falcons to throw our final game against the bucs, which would prolong the "curse", in order for them not to be able to draft the ******* monster that is ndamukong suh?

[Draft King]

i want joe hayden goddammit.

is it worth the falcons to throw our final game against the bucs, which would prolong the "curse", in order for them not to be able to draft the ******* monster that is ndamukong suh?

Haden*** And no, definitely not worth it. I felt the same way in '06 when Vick and co. blew a 5-2 start, in the end I would have been happier with a 9-7 record missing the playoffs. This record is constantly spoke of and it's hard to be called a winning team with this monkey on our back.

[thefalconer]

Haden*** And no, definitely not worth it. I felt the same way in '06 when Vick and co. blew a 5-2 start, in the end I would have been happier with a 9-7 record missing the playoffs. This record is constantly spoke of and it's hard to be called a winning team with this monkey on our back.

haden.. my bad. haha yeah i expect people here to want the win and i do too. but i really don't wanna play suh twice a year. shudders.

[Bosanac01]

no question Suh will mostly likely land with the bucs. We really need a young center who can be with matt ryan for a long time, a smart guy, but also someone who is very physical and athletic.

[D-Rod]

The Rams will probably have first shot at Suh, but they may also take a QB. I think it's about 50/50. Hopefully Spags wants to focus on D and maybe pick up one of the free agent QBs or a 2nd rounder.

I would hate to see Suh in our division.

However, I definitely want the win to go 9-7.

Besides, McCoy is not exactly a bad runner's up prize for the Bucs. He may even suit their scheme better.

For our draft position, the difference between 15 and 20 is not huge. I'd rather be earlier, of course, but I think the momentum of finally breaking the curse would be more valuable for next season that a slightly earlier draft pick.

[Bosanac01]

I would not be surprised if we draft a WR, and as early as 3rd round. The depth in the position in this class is crazy with so many good WR's skipping their senior year for NFL. If we can land a guy like Demaryous (sp?) Thomas,(who will likely fall) I'll be STACKED!!

Let's take a look at the current situation:

WR-x: Roddy White, Marty Booker

Slot: Harry Douglas, Eric Weems

WR-z: Michael Jenkins, Brian Finneran


Roddy White is a probowl WR, with great talent and deserves to be our #1 WR. A shut down corner and double teams can easily take him out of his game like any good WR.

Michael Jenkins got himself a brand new contract last year, and he was thrown too much more this year. He did a good job of looking better on the stat sheet, but he dropped way to many balls at the most important situations.

The slot WRs Douglas and Weems are great, they can be used in reverse with their run after the catch abilities and help roddy strech the field vertically.

Booker and Finneran are done with the falcons after week 17. No matter what, we will have to replace those two, but why not just draft a really good WR to challenge Jenkins for the #2? Even though we pay him #2 money, he needs to perform and he desperately needs competition.

[scar988]

I agree with drafting a guy like Thomas. would give us yet another vertical threat (what would that be... 5?) and then just keep Weems and see what Bergeron can do (another vertical threat!)

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I could easily see us cutting Jenkins. I really do think we need another option. I think not only has he done an awful job of catching passes, but Matt is constantly locked onto White and Gonzo, because they are the only ones who can get open.

[Bosanac01]

It seems like Gonzo is constantly double teamed, Roddy won't get open 100% of the time & Matty won't take a shot down field on every pass to him.

Even after losing Harry Douglas it seemed like Matt Ryan had great options, but inability for Jenkins to catch (IMO) showed me that Matty lost confidence in him. That's why he held on to the ball so long, got sacked a lot more, and make a lot more picks. He didn't have an option after roddy and gonzo. Ironically, about 80% of his picks were when he threw it to Jenkins.

i agree with the option of just cutting him, save the money and get a younger WR who can eventually produce better.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

We currently sit at the 17th pick.

[Bosanac01]

We currently sit at the 17th pick.

We had the 13th pick before winning the last 2. If we beat the bucs, it is very likely we will go up to at least 20.

If we tanked after we knew the playoff were out of reach, we would have a top ten pick. Either 9 or 10. 3 meaningless wins costed us 10+ picks in the draft. Assuming we beat the bucs.

[scar988]

I could easily see us cutting Jenkins. I really do think we need another option. I think not only has he done an awful job of catching passes, but Matt is constantly locked onto White and Gonzo, because they are the only ones who can get open.

we won't cut Jenkins. He's an above average #2 WR. He doesn't hurt the offense when he plays and he gets open.

[scar988]

It seems like Gonzo is constantly double teamed, Roddy won't get open 100% of the time & Matty won't take a shot down field on every pass to him.

Even after losing Harry Douglas it seemed like Matt Ryan had great options, but inability for Jenkins to catch (IMO) showed me that Matty lost confidence in him. That's why he held on to the ball so long, got sacked a lot more, and make a lot more picks. He didn't have an option after roddy and gonzo. Ironically, about 80% of his picks were when he threw it to Jenkins.

i agree with the option of just cutting him, save the money and get a younger WR who can eventually produce better.
80% of his picks were to Jenkins? um no... wanna see the break down of who the picks are to, I'll show you:
WR Roddy White - 7 INT's
WR Michael Jenkins - 3 INT's
WR Marty Booker - 3 INT's
TE Tony Gonzalez - 2 INT's

3/15 is not 80%. more like 80% of his INTs aren't to him.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

we won't cut Jenkins. He's an above average #2 WR. He doesn't hurt the offense when he plays and he gets open.

I could see us not cutting him, but calling him an above average #2 is just false.

[Draft King]

We had the 13th pick before winning the last 2. If we beat the bucs, it is very likely we will go up to at least 20.

If we tanked after we knew the playoff were out of reach, we would have a top ten pick. Either 9 or 10. 3 meaningless wins costed us 10+ picks in the draft. Assuming we beat the bucs.

As terrible as not making the playoffs is, these wins are in no way meaningless barring a loss to the Bucs. I will take 2 consecutive winning seasons for the 1st time in franchise history 100% of the time over a pick 10 spots up. We can finally have a winning franchise.

[BuffaloBillsFan]

Terrence Cody would make you guys a better team, IMO.

I'm justa meager Bills fan though, but you guys could use a big body in the middle, then Curtis Lofton will go straight to the pro bowl, that guy is a freaking HOUSE.

[scar988]

Terrence Cody would make you guys a better team, IMO.

I'm justa meager Bills fan though, but you guys could use a big body in the middle, then Curtis Lofton will go straight to the pro bowl, that guy is a freaking HOUSE.

um. Peria Jerry was playing very well... we did take him in the first. We won't got DT in the first round back to back years. that's just ********.

[iBoldin]

um. Peria Jerry was playing very well... we did take him in the first. We won't got DT in the first round back to back years. that's just ********.

Yeah but isn't depth an issue? Jerry isn't exactly healthy all the time and both Jerry and Babineaux are DT type players, not nose tackles. Dan Williams is certainly better in a 4-3 but Cody could make due I think.

[scar988]

I could see us not cutting him, but calling him an above average #2 is just false.
oh really? of all #2 WR's he ranks these statistically:
#13 catches
#15 rec yards
#10 in Yards per catch (of guys with more than 40 catches)

the only #2's better than him:
Malcom Floyd
Pierre Garcon
Devery Henderson
Roy E. Williams
Donald Driver
Randy Moss
Mario Manningham
Torry Holt
Percy Harvin
Jeremy Maclin
Nate Burleson
Hines Ward
Devin Hester
Anquan Boldin

a good bit of these guys are pro bowlers or pro bowl caliber (bolded)... he's definitely an above average #2 WR. not a top 10, and definitely upgradeable but as the #3 option in the offense he is easily adequate.

[scar988]

Yeah but isn't depth an issue? Jerry isn't exactly healthy all the time and both Jerry and Babineaux are DT type players, not nose tackles. Dan Williams is certainly better in a 4-3 but Cody could make due I think.

um. We still won't waste time with one in the first round. Why would we waste our first on depth when we need starters at #1 CB, WLB and LDE. We would more than likely just sign a depth DT like Fred Robbins. We also don't use a traditional NT. We use a penetrating style DT for our NT spot as well. we run a 1 tech in Jerry, which is more about penetrating and forcing the double than the typical 2 gap nose tackle people assume is in our scheme.

Jerry has played one season in the NFL. kind of hard to say he isn't healthy all the time based on one year don't you think? a DT is not a need. it's a depth.

[Bosanac01]

I think OLBer is a bigger need than we thought, but I wouldn't like one in the first. Here's how I'd like this off-season to go:

free agency: CB, DT, O-line, K....

draft:
1- LDE
3- OLB
4- WR
5- C
6- QB

If we can get a few comp picks I would also like a RB, LT, and TE

Basically a lot of positions to fill.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

oh really? of all #2 WR's he ranks these statistically:
#13 catches
#15 rec yards
#10 in Yards per catch (of guys with more than 40 catches)

the only #2's better than him:
Malcom Floyd
Pierre Garcon
Devery Henderson
Roy E. Williams
Donald Driver
Randy Moss
Mario Manningham
Torry Holt
Percy Harvin
Jeremy Maclin
Nate Burleson
Hines Ward
Devin Hester
Anquan Boldin

a good bit of these guys are pro bowlers or pro bowl caliber (bolded)... he's definitely an above average #2 WR. not a top 10, and definitely upgradeable but as the #3 option in the offense he is easily adequate.


He's got 1 TD, and drops a lot of balls.

[scar988]

He's got 1 TD, and drops a lot of balls.
Jenkins Drops in comparison as compared to the other guys listed:
Mario Manningham - 10 drops on 88 targets (11.4%)
Roy E. Williams - 7 drops on 79 targets (8.9%)
Donald Driver - 8 drops on 103 targets (7.8%)
Nate Burleson - 7 drops on 100 targets (7.0%)
Devery Henderson - 5 drops on 72 targets (6.9%)
Randy Moss - 8 drops on 125 targets (6.4%)
Michael Jenkins - 5 drops on 80 targets (6.3%)
Hines Ward - 7 drops on 116 targets (6.0%)
Percy Harvin - 4 drops on 78 targets (5.1%)
Malcom Floyd - 3 drops on 60 targets (5.0%)
Devin Hester - 4 drops on 85 targets (4.7%)
Pierre Garcon - 4 drops on 88 targets (4.5%)
Jeremy Maclin - 3 drops on 69 targets (4.3%)
Anquan Boldin - 3 drops on 74 targets (4.1%)
Torry Holt - 2 drops on 86 targets (2.3%)

Jenkins is perfectly average in his amount of drops. He has missed 1 TD because of the drops and 1 INT was a ball that went through his hands. the other drops were on 1st downs... Jenkins is a much more reliable option than he is getting credit for. He gets unfairly criticized.

Stats through week 15 from profootballfocus.com

[Bosanac01]

MICHEAL JENKINS SUCKS!!

That's my ******* stat.

BOSFootballstats.com

[scar988]

MICHEAL JENKINS SUCKS!!

That's my ******* stat.

BOSFootballstats.com

my site is legit. whether you like it or not. you didn't give any argument towards helping you either.

[Bosanac01]

Im just not a big fan of stats. Michael Jenkins has not proven to be a big help and 3rd target like he should have. Seemed to me like Matt Ryan was hesitant to give it to him at times even if he has some separation and he'll rather take a sack than throw it his direction. That doesn't show up in the stat book. To give Jenkins credit, he can block real great, and that doesn't show up in the stat book either. It's just frustrating that Jenkins is really inconsistent, and he'll make like 5 catches and look real great. Then he'll drop like 3 straight.

Here's some stats for you though. (I know im going off topic now)
My campaign for Brent Grimes to be a Pro Bowler, comparing him to Darrelle Revis.

per NFL.com:

Brent Grimes: 5'10 181

7 games started, 64 tackles, 5 ints... 26 years old



Darrelle Revis: 5'11 198

15 games started, 54 tackles, 6 ints... 24 years old



According to first hand stats Brent Grimes looks legit and there doesn't seem to be much difference. We all seen how good Darrelle Revis is, just something to show why i hate stats.

[scar988]

going by the stats I like to use for coverage Revis deserves his pro bowl well over Grimes.

Revis - 3.86 YPA 6 INT's 2 TD allowed on 106 times targeted and 37.7% comp % allowed
Grimes - 7.76 YPA 5 INT's 2 TD allowed on 86 times targeted and 65.1% comp % allowed

Grimes is a good #2, but not a pro bowler

[d34ng3l021]

I don't think Michael Jenkins' sucks enough to be replaced. I really liked him at the end of last year, and he seems to have picked up some slack at the end of this year too. With the recent extension, I don't think the Falcons can replace him yet either (maybe Douglas takes the #2 role? Despite being perfect for the slot guy role?).

I think we can agree on the #1, #2, and #3 needs being DE, DE and CB, respectively, right? A pass rushing DE is going to make this defense a whole lot better because he can help out everyone in coverage (as oppose to the CB who only helps himself in coverage. does that make sense?). After that, OLB seems most important; Peterson is terrible in coverage.

[scar988]

no. the top 3 needs are #1 CB, a WLB who can pass cover and a LDE.

[Draft King]

Next year's receiver draft is sexy so if Michael Jenkins doesn't produce you could pick up a stud probably in the second.

[d34ng3l021]

no. the top 3 needs are #1 CB, a WLB who can pass cover and a LDE.

Is that in order? Because DE is by far our biggest need.

[scar988]

Is that in order? Because DE is by far our biggest need.

no. that's the tier 1. it's all the same importance.

[BamaFalcon59]

WLB isn't near as vital a need as CB or DE.

Much easier gap to fill.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I think corner is our biggest need. Without a doubt. With better corners we could blitz more and bring some more pressure. A LDE would be great as well though. I really don't think Abe is done. I'm thinking we'll see a recharged version if Peria can come in and play well next season. But adding a DE who can get a consistent rush would be incredible.

[dunagan15]

My 2 cents, we for sure need a CB, Are you guys really thinking of starting Brent Grimes? Who has been "OK" the last few games, and has yet been terrible every season for us? And Chris "I cant turn my head around to save my ******* life" Houston, probably rotating w/ a 2nd year guy w/o much experience Chris Owens?

Thats not gonna cut it, at all. I would much rather draft en elite corner in Joe Haden who does all the little things right and makes plays. He is physical w/ receivers and can actually make a tackle and make plays on the ball.

With 1 shutdown corner who can cover a teams #1 WR M2M, that pretty much allows our iffy corner to have some help when needed w/ the freedom of being able to blitz w/o worrying oh **** our Corners are terrible, how are we blitzing?

Sorry, lot of venting, but ya thats how I feel.

Also, I would not be upset w/ a DE either, but as bad as OLB is, there is experience there and I liked Nicholas alot this season as his first year starting, Id like to see more of Coy Wire as well so I'd rank our needs as this and in this order.

1. CB
2. DE
3. OLB

[ATLDirtyBirds]

It's a shame we have so many needs. CJ Spiller would be the perfect luxury add. Spell Turner and provide a dynamic option for Ryan in the passing game.

[Bosanac01]

going by the stats I like to use for coverage Revis deserves his pro bowl well over Grimes.

Revis - 3.86 YPA 6 INT's 2 TD allowed on 106 times targeted and 37.7% comp % allowed
Grimes - 7.76 YPA 5 INT's 2 TD allowed on 86 times targeted and 65.1% comp % allowed

Grimes is a good #2, but not a pro bowler


I wasn't saying Grimes is a pro bowler, but that his "First Hand Stats" (nfl.com) resemble much of a pro bowler, and a possible defensive player of the year.

[D-Rod]

It's interesting that Grimes has been much better at RCB than at LCB. Also, remember that he's still inexperienced. He'll be coming into his third full year next year.

Also Chris Owens has done a pretty good job since he's come in, so we are not devoid of hope at CB.

Houston is pretty much done, I think, but could perhaps become a decent NB.

However, despite the moderate optimism above, I do think that CB is our greatest need. We have one aging (or aged) superstar at DE, and more potential in Biermann and Sidbury that we do at CB.

As I've said before, I'd sign the best FA CB we can get hold of (e.g., Rogers), and look to draft a DE in the 1st round (or possibly the third, as it is a reasonably deep class).

According to how our needs look (in terms of need for depth/immediate starters and youth/experience) I would approach the offseason thus: (I'm assuming that the CBA isn't extended, so guys like Dahl and Clabo stay as RFAs)

Free agency:

Immediate starter CB
Experienced depth OL
Experienced 3rd WR

Draft:
1 - DE
3 - WLB
4 - RT
2 comp picks - WR, TE
5 - CB
6 - DT

[kiranadwaney]

Grimes has played better towards the end of the year and Owens has been ok since he has come in, but still coner is the biggest need by far. We have to try and eliminate so many big passing plays against us.

Abraham, Davis, Anderson, Biermann and Sidbury are currently a better group than Grimes, Owens, Houston, Hill and Jackson, so I would consider taking 2 corners in the 1st and 3rd.

There are currently too many needs to slove in one draft

Along with coner and end we still need to bring in a big run stuffing DT which would be a huge benefit to Lofton, another WR to compete with Jenkins for the number 2 spot, a kick returner and a wlb.

[scar988]

we need one corner. at RCB we could start Owens or Grimes and have the other at nickel and be fine. I think we should sign Champ Bailey if he gets cut.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Coin flip to determine if we pick 19th or 20th. I'm guessing a loss here.

[Bosanac01]

it's irrelevant, **** it.

[TheDirtyWord]

I would not be surprised if we draft a WR, and as early as 3rd round. The depth in the position in this class is crazy with so many good WR's skipping their senior year for NFL. If we can land a guy like Demaryous (sp?) Thomas,(who will likely fall) I'll be STACKED!!

Let's take a look at the current situation:

WR-x: Roddy White, Marty Booker

Slot: Harry Douglas, Eric Weems

WR-z: Michael Jenkins, Brian Finneran


Roddy White is a probowl WR, with great talent and deserves to be our #1 WR. A shut down corner and double teams can easily take him out of his game like any good WR.

Michael Jenkins got himself a brand new contract last year, and he was thrown too much more this year. He did a good job of looking better on the stat sheet, but he dropped way to many balls at the most important situations.

The slot WRs Douglas and Weems are great, they can be used in reverse with their run after the catch abilities and help roddy strech the field vertically.

Booker and Finneran are done with the falcons after week 17. No matter what, we will have to replace those two, but why not just draft a really good WR to challenge Jenkins for the #2? Even though we pay him #2 money, he needs to perform and he desperately needs competition.

I'm in agreement with you on Jenkins. He's simply too unreliable at this point and shows weakness in too many critical moments to be a true threat. We're six years into his career right now. He is what he is. So when you look at the Falcons long term in the receiving ranks, here's what you've got (after Roddy White).


Michael Jenkins: Is simply too inconsistent to be counted on as a true #2 option and 6 years into his NFL career is simply nothing more than a pedestrian option.

Tony Gonzalez was all we could have hoped for, but I’m getting the sense that he’s got one more year in him. Even if he’s got 2, that only takes us through to 2011.

Harry Douglas for all the promise he showed in 2008, will be coming off an ACL injury and still has only proven himself at the NFL level in spot duty. Has but 4 NFL games with more than 13 yards receiving.

The other WR’s on the roster are Brian Finneran, Marty Booker and Eric Weems.

So when you look at the long term picture here regarding Matt Ryan’s weapons in the passing game, you see that a replenishment is in order. In addition, 5 underclassmen WR have already declared which means the 2011 draft pool could be depleted at this position. I know there are other areas of the team that could use a 1st round talent infusion, but the biggest investment the Falcons have both organizationally and financially is in Matt Ryan. They have to continue to provide him weaponry and much like the Colts did with Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark (even though they already have Marvin Harrison), I say go for a WR.

With their 2010 1st Round Selection, the Atlanta Falcons select: Arrelious Benn; WR from Illinois.

One last point. Michael Jenkins best year came in 2008 when Harry Douglas was really emerging as a viable long term threat. While Jenkins was also playing for a contract, having a significant threat might help Jenkins focus to at least get back to his 2008 level of performance.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

I'm in agreement with you on Jenkins. He's simply too unreliable at this point and shows weakness in too many critical moments to be a true threat. We're six years into his career right now. He is what he is. So when you look at the Falcons long term in the receiving ranks, here's what you've got (after Roddy White).


Michael Jenkins: Is simply too inconsistent to be counted on as a true #2 option and 6 years into his NFL career is simply nothing more than a pedestrian option.

Tony Gonzalez was all we could have hoped for, but I’m getting the sense that he’s got one more year in him. Even if he’s got 2, that only takes us through to 2011.

Harry Douglas for all the promise he showed in 2008, will be coming off an ACL injury and still has only proven himself at the NFL level in spot duty. Has but 4 NFL games with more than 13 yards receiving.

The other WR’s on the roster are Brian Finneran, Marty Booker and Eric Weems.

So when you look at the long term picture here regarding Matt Ryan’s weapons in the passing game, you see that a replenishment is in order. In addition, 5 underclassmen WR have already declared which means the 2011 draft pool could be depleted at this position. I know there are other areas of the team that could use a 1st round talent infusion, but the biggest investment the Falcons have both organizationally and financially is in Matt Ryan. They have to continue to provide him weaponry and much like the Colts did with Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark (even though they already have Marvin Harrison), I say go for a WR.

With their 2010 1st Round Selection, the Atlanta Falcons select: Arrelious Benn; WR from Illinois.

One last point. Michael Jenkins best year came in 2008 when Harry Douglas was really emerging as a viable long term threat. While Jenkins was also playing for a contract, having a significant threat might help Jenkins focus to at least get back to his 2008 level of performance.

you're from the AF boards right?...i think you're one of about 3-4 knowledgable posters on there...you'll like it here, there are only about 7 of us and we dont always agree, but we know our stuff

[kiranadwaney]

as mentioned jenkins had his best year when harry douglas was emerging, so then maybe jenkins will be better next year as harry will be back from injury. i think that we have too many needs on defence to draft a reciever in the first, although i do agree that eventually we need to get someone else in to compete for the number 2 spot.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I wouldn't go first round on a wideout.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Imagine our DEs with
Sidbury at full potential
Bierman at full potential
Jason Pierre Paul, all 6'6 260lbs of him, at full potential

*homer simpson drool*

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Imagine our DEs with
Sidbury at full potential
Bierman at full potential
Jason Pierre Paul, all 6'6 260lbs of him, at full potential

*homer simpson drool*


I'm definitely a JPP fan.

[Bosanac01]

im a fan of his, we might need someone with more bulk though. Like Everson Griffen. Man i really love Adrian Clayborn, he was amazing in the orange bowl but he's going back to school.

[D-Rod]

I'm not a huge fan of JPP.

All potential, minimal production.

I'd rather have someone that can be reliably consistent than one with sky-high potential. More like Kerney (in prime) than Peppers, for example. Someone who might not take over a game, but will get consistent pressure and where you know the QB won't have all day.

[D-Rod]

I would be furious if we picked a WR in the 1st.

White is elite, Jenks is at least solid, and Douglas is coming back. Also, in this deep draft class good talent can be found in the 3rd or 4th.

Any IMPACT player has to be on D.

[kiranadwaney]

I'm not a huge fan of JPP.

All potential, minimal production.

I'd rather have someone that can be reliably consistent than one with sky-high potential. More like Kerney (in prime) than Peppers, for example. Someone who might not take over a game, but will get consistent pressure and where you know the QB won't have all day.

i kind of get what you are saying but nobody in the draft is gauranteed to be a consistent player and i would prefer peppers or a peppers type player to a kerney any day of the week

[dunagan15]

Im a fan of JPP just not for the Falcons. We have our project and young guy in Sudbury. Also, not a fan of WR in round one...Have you forgotten how our defense was this year??

Ive already stated previously my thoughts and they havent changed as of yet

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Im a fan of JPP just not for the Falcons. We have our project and young guy in Sudbury.


I do tend to agree with this however. If there's not another player that I like on the board though, I'd go for it. As it stands, I'd obviously want to pick a defensive player unless CJ Spiller is on the board. Then all bets are off. Too perfect of a fit.

[Bosanac01]

C.J Spiller might fit perfect, but there are still question marks. Much like norwood, he has his own issues with durability. This is not good.

[Shiver]

We don't need Spiller at all. A WR would be a little more tenable, but we need defense, defense, defense.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

We don't need Spiller at all. A WR would be a little more tenable, but we need defense, defense, defense.


I think you are underestimating the need. I fully agree with defense, but I just think Spiller is a perfect fit. But as far as the need goes, Norwood is most likely out and can't even be counted on. Snelling is all too similar to Tuner. Spiller would be an ideal homerun threat, and more importantly IMO, the playmaker/explosive check down option Matt Ryan needs.

[kiranadwaney]

I agree that spiller does bring a home run threat, an in my eyes more importantly a big uprage in our special teams with his return abilities but this currnet defence will again prevent us making the playoffs. the offence is not the problem, the problem is giving up so many big plays in the passing game therefore a coner who can cover and a pass rush is required.

[D-Rod]

Norwood isn't going anywhere if there isn't a new CBA.

[Bosanac01]

can't believe we sucked so bad in 2009 but still won't have our pick inside the 20.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Here is my current "ideal" offseason

F/A
(pipe dream) CB Champ Bailey
OR
(the more realistic) CB Leigh Bodden

Trade
atl trades pick (1st)19 875(pts) to KC for pick (2nd)37 530(pts) (3rd)68 250(pts) and (4th) 100 (100pts)

2) (fr KC) Vladimir Duccasse, OT UMASS.
I believe one of Harvey Dahl or Tyson Clabo will leave this year creating a need with very little depth behind it, Garret Renyolds looked good, but this guy would slot right in at RT or RG and also add value at LT if/when Baker goes down again. Possible re-think if Jerry Hughes was still here at this point

3) (fr KC)Jimmy Graham, TE MIAMI
Freak who we can use in the red zone and split at #2 WR as a rookie providing more weapons for Ryan, loves the block, and will learn from the best before taking over in 2011. We need him to suck at the senior bowl and run a 4.7 at the combine to still be here at this point (OVER 30=GONZALES)

3) Aj Edds, OLB IOWA
Big, fast and smart backer who should compete with Stephen Nicolas for a starting job as a rookie. I see Edds, Lofton and Adkins as a brutal LB core for the future. (OVER 30=PETERSON)

4) (fr KC)Austen Lane, DE MURRAY STATE
Probably think i waited way too long for a DE and i agree somewhat but look at the history. TD takes small school DEs who have production and potential. He does not like selecting juniors (JPP and Griffen) and does not select guys with spotty motors and/or character concerns (Griffen, Hardy, Dunlap). JPP is just as risky as Austen Lane but with Lane we pay a lower price whilst trading off very little upside. There is also the arguement we need instant help at DE from the rookie, but again, none of JPP or Griffen (leaving the others out for character reasons) come out ready to go...all will need to sit and learn. (OVER 30=ABRAHAM)

4) Eric Olsen, C NOTRE DAME
Big physical centre to groom. BAKER, BLAYLOCK OLSEN RENYOLDS DECUSSE look pretty big and mean for the future (OVER 30=MCLURE)

4) (comp) Naamaan Roosevelt, WR BUFFALO
Real solid WR, #4 WR as a rookie. A guy who could potentially challenge Jenkins on the flank (OVER 30=FINNERAN)

5) Nolan Carrol, CB MARYLAND
Injured as a senior, good size, team leader, could be a steal BAILEY/BODDEN,OWENS,GRIMES,WILLIAMS,JACKSON,CARROL. Houston and Hill seem like the odd men out

5) (comp) Leigh Tiffin, K ALABAMA
Best kicker in the draft, essentially a 6th rounder, ends the farse that is our kicking situation forever

6) Brandan Banks, WR, KENTUCKY
Freakishly fast return specialist who is severly undersized, worth a flyer at this point. (OVER 30=BOOKER)

7) (comp) Jeromy Miles, SS UMASS
With Miles, Moore, Coleman and DeCoud we would have some real nice depth at the position


This draft adds real depth across the board as well as some impact. Add the instant impact of Jerry, Moore and HD and you have 13 players with 2 or less years to add to our 2009 squad who stiill had nine wins without Ryan and Turner against one of the most brutal scedules on record.

Note also we would have no positions with players over 30 without one, and in most cases two, up and coming players with potential to take over from them.

Lots to be positive about

After a draft like this i think the 2011 draft and beyond will allow us to take BPA and approach it just like the Pats and Eagles do

[D-Rod]

Atljbo's write up of a TD interview, with my comments:

1.Sam Baker had to deal with injuries this year but he has no doubt that Sam Baker is a probowl LT when he's healthy... They are getting him 100% healthy.

I agree. We need better depth, but Baker is still locked in as a starter.

2. They are working on contract extensions with Norwood and Snelling... Both should be done soon.

Nice, assuming the price is right. Probably takes Spiller out of the equation.

3. Grimes and Owens grew up doing the year... Throughout the year they learned how to make plays on the ball... Grimes is really athletic... Owens will be a good player in this league... We must have ball hawking CB's...We will continue to improve the position thru FA or Draft.

Agree. They did a good job at the end of the season, but we definitely need a premier CB, or the best we can get.

4. He is very excited about Curtis Lofton and Stephen Nicolas future... He mention how how Cutis Lofton is an up incoming MLB and Nicholas is a sideline to sideline LB

Agreed.

5. Basically we will tender Clabo and Dahl.

No reason not to. See how they do next year, and how Reynolds develops, and then decide whether to give them longterm deals.

6. TD does not want to be known as a draft GM or FA GM... If a good FA that could help us out, we will aggressively go after the player.

Durr.

7. Kroy Biermann is a well-rounded athlete (the kickoff)

Love Biermann.

8. William Moore, Peria Jerry,and Harry Douglas rehab is going good and all 3 will be 100% next year.

Exciting to know that Jerry is not as f*cked as I thought. Apparently it was not an ACL or MCL, but a bone injury, which heals much faster.

9. Harry Douglas thought he could come back at the end of the season.

Same as above.

10. Next year roster will look different with the addition of Freeagents, draft picks, William Moore, Peria Jerry,and Harry Douglas.

Captain obvious :P

11. Michael Jenkins had some rough moments this year because of injuries but he is a good #2 WR.

Decent #2 WR, and could be upgraded, but the fact is he isn't going anywhere.

12.Compared C.J Spilleer to Jerious Norwood... Both are fast and explosive change of pace RB's.. Both contribute as a RB, WR, and Returner.

[Draft King]

What do you guys think of Rennie Curran??? Undersized linebacker from Georgia just declared, from what I've seen he's solid in coverage and always around the ball. Although he has good speed, I'm not sure if 5'11 / 225 cuts it as an NFL linebacker. He's an interesting prospect and if we can't snag let's say Derrick Morgan or a miraculous Joe Haden drop, I wouldn't be completely apposed to him in the 1st round. Thoughts???

[D-Rod]

What do you guys think of Rennie Curran??? Undersized linebacker from Georgia just declared, from what I've seen he's solid in coverage and always around the ball. Although he has good speed, I'm not sure if 5'11 / 225 cuts it as an NFL linebacker. He's an interesting prospect and if we can't snag let's say Derrick Morgan or a miraculous Joe Haden drop, I wouldn't be completely apposed to him in the 1st round. Thoughts???

I think he'd be more of a candidate for our 3rd round pick that a 1st rounder, but he's definitely the kind of guy I could see TD going for, and would fit nicely as Peterson's understudy and future replacement.

[Bosanac01]

I've seen like every game of Rennie Curran's career at UGA. The guy is a beast, he's so damn fast and he's built like a tank. He can blitz really well, and I can definitely picture him replacing peterson, curran is about 10x faster then him. I guarantee he'll run the top 40 out of any linebacker, sub 4.5

[ATLDirtyBirds]

What do you guys think of Rennie Curran??? Undersized linebacker from Georgia just declared, from what I've seen he's solid in coverage and always around the ball. Although he has good speed, I'm not sure if 5'11 / 225 cuts it as an NFL linebacker. He's an interesting prospect and if we can't snag let's say Derrick Morgan or a miraculous Joe Haden drop, I wouldn't be completely apposed to him in the 1st round. Thoughts???


I know that I'm a fan. I don't honestly see him as a top 20 pick though.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Atljbo's write up of a TD interview, with my comments:

1.Sam Baker had to deal with injuries this year but he has no doubt that Sam Baker is a probowl LT when he's healthy... They are getting him 100% healthy.

That's all fine and dandy, but he's going to play hurt other times in his career. He was simply atrocious this year and is obviously very injury prone.

2. They are working on contract extensions with Norwood and Snelling... Both should be done soon.

Snelling is a good move, very valuable. Norwood better be very, very cheap. I've also been a fan of his and what he can do, but he can't even stay healthy as a change of pace back. Notice how his YPC has gone down every year as well. I feel as if he could be upgraded.

3. Grimes and Owens grew up doing the year... Throughout the year they learned how to make plays on the ball... Grimes is really athletic... Owens will be a good player in this league... We must have ball hawking CB's...We will continue to improve the position thru FA or Draft.

Yup. Certainly looked better as we carried along. Don't forget though, we played some pretty terrible QBs in Brohm, Sanchez, and Freeman at the end of the year. Still need major help.

4. He is very excited about Curtis Lofton and Stephen Nicolas future... He mention how how Cutis Lofton is an up incoming MLB and Nicholas is a sideline to sideline LB

Agree

5. Basically we will tender Clabo and Dahl.

Makes sense.

6. TD does not want to be known as a draft GM or FA GM... If a good FA that could help us out, we will aggressively go after the player.

Might want to try and do that this off season. Some CB help would have been nice this past year, and I'm not talking about Brian Williams.

7. Kroy Biermann is a well-rounded athlete (the kickoff)

Yes.

8. William Moore, Peria Jerry,and Harry Douglas rehab is going good and all 3 will be 100% next year.

Good to hear

9. Harry Douglas thought he could come back at the end of the season.

Same as above.

10. Next year roster will look different with the addition of Freeagents, draft picks, William Moore, Peria Jerry,and Harry Douglas.

Absolutely pivotal to do a much better job this offseason

11. Michael Jenkins had some rough moments this year because of injuries but he is a good #2 WR.

Don't want to hear the injury excuse. He can easily be upgraded and is not worth the contract he got.

12.Compared C.J Spilleer to Jerious Norwood... Both are fast and explosive change of pace RB's.. Both contribute as a RB, WR, and Returner.
Why is he getting so many CJ Spiller questions?



My thoughts on the interview. Thanks for posting my man.

[Draft King]

So I just read up more on Curran, looks like he will find himself in the late 2nd-mid 3rd round as a prospect. I would love to draft him there, leaving size out of the equation, he has great character, works extremely hard, and has the production to back it up. I would love our offseason to look like this:

F/A - Dunta Robinson / Leigh Bodden (I prefer Robinson myself who seems like he is on his way out of Houston)

1. Derrick Morgan / JPP / Dunlap (whoever is available, I'm a Morgan guy myself)
3. Rennie Curran (stated above, this guy is undersized, but a beast)

This would address three of the biggest needs we have. We'll also most likely end up with a late 3rd as a compensatory pick.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

1. Derrick Morgan / JPP / Dunlap (whoever is available, I'm a Morgan guy myself)



Off the board, off the board, not worthy of being a top 20 pick, IMO.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Off the board, off the board, not worthy of being a top 20 pick, IMO.

Junior DEs scare me...JPP is a guy id probably like to be off the board when we pick. I love the idea of him, but hate the risk,
Griffen and Dunlap are similiar
Morgan, whilst not likely to be there, also scares me some although a lesser extent than the others

IF i could be certain though JPP and Sid would be my 10 sack-year DEs of the future. I love their athletism
-----
What about Jerry Hughes? What do we think off him

The good
Senior
Leader
Production
Competition
Agression
I gaurentee the front office LOVES him

The bad
Same body type as our current DE's
Can he play LE
Upside

[ATLDirtyBirds]

It might be a bit of a reach, but I love Brandon Graham.

[kiranadwaney]

For players like graham, dunlap and hughes mabey even cory wooton, i think we can trade down into the early second round and pick them up. Of the four based on talent and upside i would go with dunlap but there is no chance because on his character issues that TD will draft him.

if we dont get a corner in free agency i think then we have to draft one with our first pick, i.e partick robinson

[SimonRath]

The guy i want most is Rennie Curren.
And this is coming from a guy who HATES uga..

[Bosanac01]

I'll draft Rennie Curran even in the 1st. The guy will change up your defense.

[scar988]

Curran will be good in the 3rd and should be there.

[Bosanac01]

This is the best draft in a long time, IMO. There are so many great players, especially on defense. Almost every position is loaded.

[scar988]

I find it funny that the only 2 guys who think we need a NT are bills fans. they aren't accounting for our first round pick from 2009.

[Bosanac01]

I find it funny that the only 2 guys who think we need a NT are bills fans. they aren't accounting for our first round pick from 2009.

yea darn bills fans, we need to trade down in the 2nd round then draft a NT.

tsk tsk tsk

[SimonRath]

I'll draft Rennie Curran even in the 1st. The guy will change up your defense.

i agree. I'm kinda iffy about drafting a DE like Morgan in the 1st after Anderson screwed us over

[scar988]

i agree. I'm kinda iffy about drafting a DE like Morgan in the 1st after Anderson screwed us over

Morgan is a beast. He would be more than worth it as he is not just a one year wonder. He also uses technique. Unlike Anderson who didn't know what it was.

[Bosanac01]

Derrick Morgan is not a 10 sack guy. We need a great pass rusher, he's not gonna be that for you. He'll just play great defense and will be around the ball, but he won't be a big time sack master and he's not always in the face of the QB.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

God i hope the DE class sorts itsself out a bit better than it is now...i have no idea what i even think i want us to do...every guy has a flag of some kind that i ( and i suspect our front office) doesnt like, which is amazing considering how deep this DE class is.


edit:

size is important....but we didnt struggle to stop the run...iv watched a fair bit of footage on DEs in this years draft however nothing comes close to this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwoo94qwh_4

two things i wanna point out that TD will love

1) The violence within which he does pretty much everything. Look at 5.20
2) The speed and hustle, mightnt run as fast as the other DEs but he is always husting....Just like what TD raved about with Peria Jerry

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjIVN0cReBg

i know he is clowning around here but the guy seems to carry himself well, alot like everette brown last year ...good head on his shoulders

Remember we put most our value on characters and play on the feild, so lets hope he stinks it up this offseason...Jerry Hughes after a trade down would be mint

AJ Edds
3rd round pick
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqW2oL24N-g
i bet our staff love him

[D-Rod]

I really hope Morgan falls, though it seems very unlikely. I agree that he's not DeMarcus Ware,and will never notch up 15 sacks a year, but he's still a very good passrusher and is superb against the run.

He'd make a perfect LDE for us.

Fingers crossed that he performs badly at the combine (I don't think he's super athletic) and somehow falls to us.

All the others have some questions marks, but I still think 19/20 is a nice place to pick. There should be a number of options, and we can choose whichever one we prefer.

The fact is, if you have a player at an impact position like DE without any question marks, he's going to be a top 5 pick!

I think Jerry Hughes is the most likely to meet our criteria - great production, leadership, consistency, a senior, and very athletic. He's a bit undersized, but will definitely provide our primary need, passrush. An all-round end would be nice, but passrush is the priority.

Brandon Graham would also suit, for the same reasons. I could see us trading down a little bit if we like him...

[scar988]

Hughes is a good run defender too. I could see him being a very good pick.

[Bosanac01]

Derrick Morgan is very athletic. He also got 1480 on his SATs. WTF.

get this guy!

[dunagan15]

qkwbvwekvbqkvbwhvbwekvbw

[d34ng3l021]

Derrick Morgan is very athletic. He also got 1480 on his SATs. WTF.

get this guy!

He is the same year as me...My SATs (and everyone else's in the country) were changed to 2400 instead of 1600. He did have a 3.8 GPA in HS though, which is more than I can say.

[scar988]

He is the same year as me...My SATs (and everyone else's in the country) were changed to 2400 instead of 1600. He did have a 3.8 GPA in HS though, which is more than I can say.

he had 1480 on the first 2 sections. the 3rd section still isn't being quantified just yet.

[Bosanac01]

I wouldn't be surprised if it was out of 1600. GT is a really hard school.

[Olympia Martin]

I like Jerry Hughes but I just cannot overlook Brandon Graham's ability to constantly be in the backfield. He had no help at all and was the constant focal point of the offensive lines protection. Graham to me is a better fit in the 4-3 defense in the NFL than Hughes.

Morgan is just in a different league than these two and is head and shoulders the #1 DE prospect for numerous reasons, as some were stated. I would rate Morgan, then Graham then Hughes for us at pick #19/#20. I highly doubt Morgan is not already off the board.

[SimonRath]

my favorite players in the draft for the falcons to get are

Rennie Curren
Javier Arenas
George Selvie
Jordan Shipley
Jerry Hughes
Golden Tate

[georgiafan]

Curran is going to measure at 5'9 once he does that his stock will drop

[Bosanac01]

he'll be 5'9 1/2. Everyone knows he's short as hell, that's not gonna drop him that much. Unlike buster davis, Curran is not FAT, and he will show up at the combine. He'll run a great 40 and will put up 30+ at the 225. He'll get drafted in the middle rounds.

3rd of 4th.

[scar988]

Ideally we get DE Jerry Hughes and OLB Rennie Curran in the first 2 picks.

[Bosanac01]

IDK about taking 2 undersized guys. I think we need a bigger DE on the left side, Greg Hardy should be there in the first. Maybe we can wait till 3rd and get corey wootton.

i can't argue against curran.

[BamaFalcon59]

Hardy isn't worth a round one pick, not at nineteen/ twenty anyway, and Wooten won't be there in round three.

[D-Rod]

IDK about taking 2 undersized guys. I think we need a bigger DE on the left side, Greg Hardy should be there in the first. Maybe we can wait till 3rd and get corey wootton.

i can't argue against curran.

We've got plenty of size at LE in Anderson and Davis, and even Biermann has got pretty chunky. We're good against the run, what we need desperately is consistent pressure on the QB.

Hardy would be worth taking a risk on in the 3rd, or maybe moving up to the 2nd. I'm not convinced that Wootton is a major outside pass rush threat.

The outstanding criterion for our 1st rounder, in my view, is pass rush quickness.

[kiranadwaney]

My dream 2010 draft.

First off trade pick number 19 and a 5th rounder to New England for picks number 42 & 47

Then assume that we get a 4th for foxworth, 5th for boley and 7th for brooking in comp picks

2nd: Perrish Cox CB Oklahoma St
2nd: Greg Hardy DE Ole Miss
3rd: Rennie Curran LB Georgia
4th: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers
4th: Jordan Shipley KR/WR Texas
5th: Matt Tennant OC Boston College
6th: John Jerry OG Ole Miss
7th: David Gettis WR Baylor

[SimonRath]

My dream 2010 draft.

First off trade pick number 19 and a 5th rounder to New England for picks number 42 & 47

Then assume that we get a 4th for foxworth, 5th for boley and 7th for brooking in comp picks

2nd: Perrish Cox CB Oklahoma St
2nd: Greg Hardy DE Ole Miss
3rd: Rennie Curran LB Georgia
4th: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers
4th: Jordan Shipley KR/WR Texas
5th: Matt Tennant OC Boston College
6th: John Jerry OG Ole Miss
7th: David Gettis WR Baylor

LOVE IT!
but why 2 WR's?

[kiranadwaney]

shipley more for his return ability, think he will be a good slot reciever but never a number two. i think in time gettis has the size and speed (ish) you look for in a number two guy and in a year or two can compete with jenkins

[Bosanac01]

Matt Tennant is like a 2nd or 3rd rounder. He could be the #1 center of this class. I guarantee he won't last longer then that.

[kiranadwaney]

maybe it was too much of a dream then, just think that we need to draft a centre to groom behind mcclure, if tennant is gone i would not mind thomas austin from clemson in the fifth.

[Bosanac01]

So Kiper is giving us Sergio Kindle. He should definitely be there at 19 unless he blows up at the combine which is likely, then the raiders take him.

He's listed as an OLBer and he's 6'4 255lbs. I'd love it if we get this guy. He reminds me of Karlos Dansby. He's really fast, and versatile, and the guy doesn't miss tackles. At college he played ILB, OLB, and DE. He was asked to rush the passer a lot but also can cover.

He fits best in a 3-4. We need both DE and OLBer, so we can definitely use him in a lot of different ways in our 4-3. What do you guys think?

[DraftMichaelHuff]

So Kiper is giving us Sergio Kindle. He should definitely be there at 19 unless he blows up at the combine which is likely, then the raiders take him.

He's listed as an OLBer and he's 6'4 255lbs. I'd love it if we get this guy. He reminds me of Karlos Dansby. He's really fast, and versatile, and the guy doesn't miss tackles. At college he played ILB, OLB, and DE. He was asked to rush the passer a lot but also can cover.

He fits best in a 3-4. We need both DE and OLBer, so we can definitely use him in a lot of different ways in our 4-3. What do you guys think?

alot of things about the guy appeal to me, the character concerns (whatever they are) probably will spook TD a bit....we could do much worse though

Man, im really really hoping JPP is off the board when we pick...if he is on the board its gonna be so hard to not want us to take him. Even after JA98....even after him (JPP) not seeming too bright in interviews....just that athleticsm man, its amazing. He could be our Peppers at LE in time. JPP Kroy and Sid would be sick. But i know he'd need time to devlop and it would be so hard to be patient after seeing Jamaal take 3 years and ge no-where..In saying that though... if TD takes him...id have faith

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I'm a big Kindle fan. Unless we plan on having another undersized end though, he isn't a great fit considering how we really don't blitz ever.

[scar988]

we won't take character issues.

[Bosanac01]

not like we already don't have character issues on the team. We can work with that I'm sure.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

not like we already don't have character issues on the team. We can work with that I'm sure.


I know what you are saying, but I'd have to agree with Scar on this one. This should be a pretty telling draft though.

[Bosanac01]

Well I would like to agree with scar and say our coaches will not be taking anyone with character concers but I don't think they will just scratch guys from the big board just because of minor off-field issues.

In sergio kindle's case, Idk how much of a character concern it is but he just doesn't seem very bright and is a little immature, but he looks like a hard worker.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Saints vs Colts


It shows you can just never have enough offensive weapons.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

So we hired Tim Lewis. Which from what I've witnessed/Giants fans have told me, is an absolutely dreadful hire.

[Bosanac01]

So we hired Tim Lewis. Which from what I've witnessed/Giants fans have told me, is an absolutely dreadful hire.

We can't be much worse, probly nothing changes.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Beginning his coaching career in 1987 at Texas A&M, Lewis served under his former college coach at Pitt, Jackie Sherrill. He would later spend time at defensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants.

Despite his aggressive defensive schemes during his time in Pittsburgh, Lewis reverted to soft defense in his last two years in Pittsburgh and while in New York. In the case of the Steelers, it was cited as the primary reason that after the 2003 season that head coach Bill Cowher dismissed Lewis, the only defensive coordinator in Cowher's 15-year tenure in Pittsburgh to be fired. He would subsequently be replaced by current defensive coordinator **** LeBeau, who served the team in the same capacity from 1995-1996. Years later, Steelers linebacker James Harrison (who was cut by the team three times during Lewis's tenure) would mention how he hated how he was treated by Lewis, and that one of the reasons he agreed to come back for a fourth time in 2004 was because Lewis was gone.

Sam Madison, best known for his play as a man to man coverage cornerback, has been dropped back into zone on defense. Another player in the New York Giants defensive unit, LaVar Arrington, has also been dropped back into zone coverage time and time again, despite the fact that his three Pro Bowl seasons in Washington came while Arrington was being sent in on blitzes. Lewis' soft defensive schemes, including a diminished use of blitzing, led to unpopularity among several New York Giants faithful. This is despite his being considered a head coaching candidate by other teams before the 2006 season.[1] The New York Giants defense in 2006 finished 25th overall, 28th against the pass and 14th against the run, as the team barely made the playoffs at 8-8. He was fired on January 11, 2007.

[Bosanac01]

he seems overqualified. Holy ****. Good find.

[thefalconer]

holy ****. that sucks.

[dunagan15]

God im praying for a good offseason...

[D-Rod]

He's a secondary coach, he's not calling plays, which is the main complaint above. He certainly knows his stuff.

[zachsaints52]

He's a secondary coach, he's not calling plays, which is the main complaint above. He certainly knows his stuff.

He knows how to find a players best abilities and not use them. I like the hire :P

[2KD@VIS]

My dream 2010 draft.

First off trade pick number 19 and a 5th rounder to New England for picks number 42 & 47

Then assume that we get a 4th for foxworth, 5th for boley and 7th for brooking in comp picks

2nd: Perrish Cox CB Oklahoma St
2nd: Greg Hardy DE Ole Miss
3rd: Rennie Curran LB Georgia
4th: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers
4th: Jordan Shipley KR/WR Texas
5th: Matt Tennant OC Boston College
6th: John Jerry OG Ole Miss
7th: David Gettis WR Baylor

great draft don't know bout curran tho

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I want one of Spiller or McCluster so bad. I really feel as if we are a piece like of them away from being a great offense.

[d34ng3l021]

Seems like we may be interested in Perrish Cox

One agent I’d met last year came up and started chatting. He wanted to make sure I knew what players he’d signed. He also noted the local agent Todd France was having a really big season and then offered up some possibly valuable draft information.

“I’ll tell you what,” the agent said. “He’s not even my client, but I know the Falcons love that big kid over there (pointing). Perrish Cox, the cornerback from Oklahoma State.”

Now, I’m interested.

The NFL Network’s Mike Mayock had already alerted me to him, Florida State’s Patrick Robinson and Southern California’s Taylor Mays as possible first round defensive backs on the South team. Mays is a safety.

“So, Cox in the first round for the Falcons?,” I asked the agent.

“He won’t be there in the second,” the agent said. “And he’s not my guy.”

Unsolicited, the agent said, “He’s got three kids.”

Everybody knows the Falcons are looking for so-called “good character” players in the post-Michael Vick era. You can’t indict a guy for starting a family early, but the Falcons will want to know more about his family.

So the Falcons might have to do a thorough background check on Cox, who was also suspended for the Cotton Bowl. e apparently missed curfew by 30 minutes and fell out with head coach Mike Gundy.

Last season, the Falcons passed on Illinois cornerback Vontae Davis because of his “character” issues. He was selected one pick after they took Peria Jerry. He went on to have a fine rookie season with the Dolphins and made several all-rookie teams.

Cox is 6-foot and 190 pounds and went against touted receiver Dez Bryant in practice every day. (You know, until he got suspended.) He’s also an accomplished returner.

Link (http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-falcons-blog/2010/01/26/falcons-may-like-cornerback-perrish-cox/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_falcons_blog&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)

[Bosanac01]

I'm all for selecting a CB in the first. Perrish Cox is a reach at that point, but he's 6 foot and has ball hawk skills. I wouldn't mind that.

[Bosanac01]

Some pretty good CBs will be playing in the senior bowl. Gotta watch that.

[D-Rod]

• Michigan DE Brandon Graham was outstanding today. Graham doesn’t look the part out there but he consistently got the best of every blocker he was matched up against and drew an audible response from the crowd with a terrific spin move.

If he has a good combine, he may not even be there at 19/20. This guy is really taking the lead as my first choice. He's good against the run, consistent, has good character, has great technique, and gets pressure. What more can one ask for?

[D-Rod]

I don't want a CB in the 1st, unless Haden miraculously drops. We have youth and potential. We need experience and reliable performance.

[kiranadwaney]

We need a corner bad, but i agree if it aint haden in the first (no chance he will drop to us) then i say we trade into the early 2nd pick up an extra pick and can still get someone like cox, robinson or warren

[Bosanac01]

Looking at the weight-ins from the senior bowl Scott posted. It's really strikes that no one comes close to Sidbury's arm and hand length/size, especially the DE's.

He measured in at: 35 5/8-inch arm length … 10 3/4-inch hands. He's only just a little bit taller then 6'2 and he runs a solid 4.6. We have a future star if we can just groom him well and give him reps. I'm excited for him.

[Bosanac01]

Todd McShay says CB Kyle Wilson was the most impressive player in the senior bowl practices. He was considered a 2nd/3rd rounder and could possibly move up the 1st round now. Atlanta Falcons today released this article on him:

http://www.thefalcoholic.com/2010/1/29/1282503/cb-kyle-wilson-could-be-first

[d34ng3l021]

I am pretty excited about the CBs this year. Joe Haden has been the clear #1, but Kyle Wilson and Perrish Cox seem to be raising their stock as well. I wouldn't mind any one of those 3.

[DraftMichaelHuff]

Brandon Graham is a beast, just like Jerry was at the probowl last year.

His value will level at exactly around 19/20 and he is exactly the type of player TD will love

If he is there im pretty confident that if he is on the board, we will take him at 20

Here is my post senior bowl mock

F/A Leigh Bodden

1) Brandan Graham, DE - (ABE) Beast
3) Jimmy Graham, TE - (TG) Beast Potential
4) Rennie Curran, LB (Pete)
c 4) John Jerry, RT/RG. Showed ability to play RT and RG at senior bowl
5) Eric Olsen, C (Mclure)
c 5) Blair White, WR (Booker)
6) Amanti Edwards, WR/QB/RB/KR (Fin)
c 7) Ryan Hamilton, SS (Fudge)

F/A

1 Free agent is about TDs average and Bodden is a TD type guy.

Draft

1 junior 7 seniors. All high character. All blue collar. All smart. All love the game. All but 2 are allowing for our "over 30 club". Typical TD pattern of drafting productive high motor players with a spashing of high potential/upside guys (Jimmy Graham and Amanit Edwards)

Edit: Im for trading down as soon as Graham is off the board.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Yeah, Graham was a monster the whole week. I could easily see us targeting him. I remember an interview with TD a couple weeks back when he mention that a DE doesn't have to have ideal height but just needs to get after the QB.

[Bosanac01]

I like Brandon Graham as a player but I'm not quite sold on him for the falcons.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

According to Shefter, Peppers is more than likely going to hit FA. From what I've read, the Falcons will be in on him. I say go for it. Have to think about how much longer we are getting out of Abe/Gonzo. Peppers makes this a completely different and much more dynamic team. And while I don't think TD will go overboard on a contract, I seem to remember the rumor being the Falcons were in the final 3 for Haynesworth, so we are willing to make the big move.

[Bosanac01]

I don't think falcons even took one step toward Haynesworth. This year might be different, maybe Dimitroff has learned his lesson that you can't fix the defense just from the draft. I was thinking about Peppers today while watching the pro bowl, how awesome would it be if he puts on a falcons uni.

2 issues. I hear something that Peppers wants to play in a 3-4, idk why. Another factor is that he just turned the infamous "30" and he has a injury history. It's certainly worth the risk IMO. ACJ just released this article:

http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/2010/01/31/julius-peppers-could-be-answer-to-falcons-problems/?cxntfid=blogs_jeff_schultz_blog

[D-Rod]

I think Peppers would be an incredible addition. Yes, it would cost a huge amount of money, but there's no cap this year and it is, essentially, Blank's money to spend. We could also structure the contract to ensure that it is cap-friendly if (hopefully) the salary cap returns.

Still, I don't think it's likely.

I too love Graham. He doesn't have elite tools, but he just gets to the QB. A perfect TD player. Hopefully he's there at 19/20. If he runs a sub 4.7, he might not be.

[scar988]

I'd love to have peppers here. our DL rotation of Peppers/Jerry/Babineaux/Abraham and Sidbury/Anderson/Walker/Biermann would be amaziing

[dunagan15]

Im also on board with Peppers, a proven player and exactly what we need, we drafted our project DE in Sidbury last year and im just not too on board with one in the first, especially with Peppers on the market.

Im still really wanting Haden or an up an coming CB, Cox seems to be impressing, so hopefully he has a solid combine to back up a potential 1st round grade. I also would absolutely love Dexter McCluster from Ole Miss.

I saw a ton of his games this year and no matter who he played he was the most electric player on the field, RB, WR, wildcat...hes just a flat out playmaker and would offer an awesome piece to the offense as well as special teams. He somewhat of a poor mans Percy Harvin.

In the first, were in that tough spot at 19/20 where a perfect fit like Haden wont be there or any of the hig profile safties..so players like Cox, Graham, JPP, those type of guys are there but possibly not our style or possibly a reach (Sam Baker..)


Lets just hope FA lands us a big name and makes this a little easier

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Count me in for McCluster as well. I've always been a huge fan.

[d34ng3l021]

Not down for McCluster. How is he any different from Norwood?

I think Perrish Cox should be our 1st round pick. His stock is most likely going to rise and he could be a great addition for the team. Check him out against one of the best WRs in college (who had one of the best QBs in college throwing to him):

EDEyXfKr5gA

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Not down for McCluster. How is he any different from Norwood?



Better receiver. And hopefully he'd be able to take more than 10 snaps a game without getting hurt.

[dunagan15]

Not down for McCluster. How is he any different from Norwood?




A little something called...DURABILITY

[Bosanac01]

McCluster is a do it all kinda guy, he can only benefit the offense and we can pretty much line him up anywhere. Just another weapon for Mularkey to use. He's not rated very high right now, but there is a good chance he'll go much earlier then most people think.

[d34ng3l021]

A little something called...DURABILITY

Jerious Norwood had no durability issues in college either. As soon as McCluster has NFL LBs clocking him, he will probably have durability issues too.

This Julius Peppers thing is interesting. Schefter said 3 teams that are interested are the Falcons, Patriots, and Ravens (off the top of my head). Mort said there are 2, maybe 3 teams that are interested: Falcons, Jets, and maybe the Browns.

Are we actually going to try to pursue Peppers? I think he has only 1-2 good years left in him and I hope we don't give him a long term contract. But if we do get him, it would be great for the development of Bierman and Sidbury for future take overs, and our DL would be nasty if our offense can get the lead: Abe, Jerry, Babs, and Peppers with their ears pinned back? We need to be built like the Colts; we can trust Matt Ryan to get us the lead early (we were the best 1st quarter scoring team in 08) and the pass rushers are released for the rest of the game.

[Bosanac01]

Julius Peppers is the best thing that could happen to our defense. I would be ecstatic if we get him. A pro bowl DE with 10+ sacks a year who fits perfect, **** yea! That solves the biggest issue.

Secondly, we sign a vet CB (maybe williams) and draft parrish cox to start a little later and have grimes/owens compete for the #2/nickle. That will leave room to draft an OLBer in the 3rd which should be Rennie Curran if he's available. If William Moore can outplay/replace Erik Coleman, our defense will be much improved in 2010.

[d34ng3l021]

Julius Peppers is the best thing that could happen to our defense. I would be ecstatic if we get him. A pro bowl DE with 10+ sacks a year who fits perfect, **** yea! That solves the biggest issue.

Secondly, we sign a vet CB (maybe williams) and draft parrish cox to start a little later and have grimes/owens compete for the #2/nickle. That will leave room to draft an OLBer in the 3rd which should be Rennie Curran if he's available. If William Moore can outplay/replace Erik Coleman, our defense will be much improved in 2010.

The thought about a much improved defense leaves me drooling. Adding Peppers would create a chain effect: Abraham can turn those pressures into sacks (that might happen with Jerry coming back), our run defense will improve, and CB play will be much better. I am definitely warming up to the idea of getting Peppers.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Adam Shefter is getting me all giddy. He keeps mentioning that we are probably his most likely destination. I really shouldn't be, but I'm getting quite excited for this.

[BamaFalcon59]

I guess I'm the lone guy who doesn't want Peppers. I'm just not for signing 30 year old free agents to long contracts.

[Bosanac01]

I guess I'm the lone guy who doesn't want Peppers. I'm just not for signing 30 year old free agents to long contracts.

Do you want our pass rusher fixed? I mean sure we might not be #1 in the NFL but it's definitely going to improve our most urgent need if we bring this guy in.

Jamaal Anderson had 0.5 sacks this year and brandon graham never played a down in the NFL. There is no better option for us then Julius Peppers. It's worth the risk.

He also provides leadership and will serve as another mentor to our young DE's.

[BamaFalcon59]

Do you want our pass rusher fixed? I mean sure we might not be #1 in the NFL but it's definitely going to improve our most urgent need if we bring this guy in.

Jamaal Anderson had 0.5 sacks this year and brandon graham never played a down in the NFL. There is no better option for us then Julius Peppers. It's worth the risk.

He also provides leadership and will serve as another mentor to our young DE's.

Right, right. Because he gets by on technique.

30 year old free agents don't have a great track record, especially when they rely on their athleticism heavily.