Falcon Watch
A pre-Training Camp breakdown of likely position battles.
QB – Chris Redman looks set to be the starter in week one, but Matt Ryan will undoubtedly be itching to get into the side and make his mark and will push Redman in training camp.
OT – Two from Renardo Foster, Todd Weiner and Sam Baker will end up as the starters but the big question would be who and where. Right now I expect Baker to be the odd man out.
C – Todd McClure will be the favorite to start but young Alex Stepanovich could compete with him during camp and may be a better fit for Mike Mularkey’s offense.
DT – Trey Lewis and Jonathan Babineaux will be favorites to start but with nothing set in stone guys like Stanley and Moorehead could work their way into the lineup.
LB – Michael Boley’s position on the strong side is safe, but the other 2 spots will be settled between Keith Brooking, Stephen Nicholas and rookie Curtis Lofton.
CB – Chris Houston takes over as the #1 cornerback from DeAngelo Hall, while Chevis Jackson and Von Hutchins will compete for the opposite spot, though Hutchins would seem a better fit as the nickel back.
Full Version: Falcon Watch
QB - I am desperately hoping Mike Smith & Co. sit Matt Ryan for the vast majority of his rookie season. Can we please NOT turn this kid into another David Carr / Joey Harrington / David Klingler / name-your-high-first-round-draft-pick-qb-who-turned-into-a-bust-because-he-was-thrown-into-the-fire-too-soon? IMHO, the only time Ryan should see regular-season action is if the game is way out of hand - which may happen a lot, and not in a good way. Until the OL gets repaired, let Redman be the one to take all the sacks.
RB - this position looks really good with Turner and Norwood, and I happen to really like Snelling. FB Ovie Mughelli and TE Ben Hartsock are going to have their work cut out for them, however, to act as extra linemen and compensate for the subpar blocking skills for this current offensive line.
WR - there's lots of potential here with White, Robinson, and Harry Douglas, but let's remember that White's only been productive for one year, Robinson will be a first-time starter, and Douglas is a rookie. Adam Jennings looks fit to only be a backup KR, Joe Horn is way past his prime, Brian Finneran is trying to come back from serious injuries, and Michael Jenkins apparently is only fit to be a tall red-zone target.
TE - this group should excel at run-blocking, but don't expect much out of them in the passing game. Granted, OC Mike Mularkey's offense doesn't always ask for the TE to do much as a receiver, but it would be nice to at least have that option. I can, however, see Hartsock becoming a decent safety valve type of receiver. At 6' 4" 265lbs he's a big target who does have pretty soft hands. He just has no speed. Nonetheless, I'll take 3- to 7-yards gains over sacks or incompletions.
OL - when was the last time the Falcons had a good, all-around offensive line? I think I have to go back to the days of Mike Kenn and Jeff Van Note and R. C. Thielmann and Co. Baker and Blalock will be the left side for the next decade or so, but they're going to have growing pains to go through, no question about it. McClure, Forney, and Weiner excelled as run-blockers when Jim Mora, Jr. had them zone-blocking, but they're out of their element now. I wouldn't be shocked to see all three of them gone after this year. Forney's a free agent after the season, and even though McClure and Weiner signed contract extensions not that long ago, cutting them would not incur unacceptable salary cap penalties. Ben Wilkerson, Alex Stepanovich, and Tyson Clabo are good backups, but this OL still needs a major overhaul.
DL - DE looks good with Abraham, Anderson, and Davis. I thought Kroy Biermann would be an SLB in the pros, but apparently the Falcons are keeping him at DRE. I also thought Simon Fraser would be an LDE for the Falcons, but my understanding is that they're lining him up at DT. The keys to the play of the ends are Abraham staying healthy (what else is new?) and Anderson taking a quantum leap from his disappointing rookie campaign. I do expect Anderson to be much better than last year, but don't expect a Mario Williams-type jump in production.
DT is another story. There's just a bunch of bodies here. It looks like Jonothan Babineaux and Kindal Moorehead will rotate at UT and Rashad Moore and Montavious Stanley will do the same at NT, at least until Trey Lewis recovers from his injuries. A recent article from CBS Sportsline seems to indicate that the Falcons have no interest in bringing back Grady Jackson, which I think is a mistake. Am I alone in thinking that Glenn Dorsey would've looked really good in a Falcons' uniform?
LB - clearly the strong suit of the defense, if not of the entire team. Keith Brooking goes back to the weakside and will be backed up by Stephen Nicholas, who the coaching staff is very high on. Rookie Curtis Lofton (perhaps my favorite pick of the Falcons' 2008 draft) will start in the middle, with depth being provided by Tony Taylor. Michael Boley is this close to being a Pro Bowler, but a domestic battery charge from earlier in the year now clouds his future with the team. After the Michael Vick fiasco, owner Arthur Blank is extremely sensitive to potential dings to his team's image. If for some reason Boley were no longer a Falcon, Brooking would move to the strongside and Nicholas would be promoted to starter on the weakside. There's no depth worth mentioning behind Boley.
DB - where to begin? There's no CB on the roster that scares opposing offensive coordinators. Whether former Falcon DeAngelo Hall was overrated or not, he at least had the respect of the opposition. The same cannot be said of Chris Houston, rookie Chevis Jackson, free agent addition Von Hutchins, David Irons, and Brent Grimes. Ex-Jet Erik Coleman would appear to be an improvement at FS, but Eric Mangini must have benched him for a reason when he was with the Jets. SS Lawyer Milloy is an extra LB against the run but a liability in coverage. Rookie safety Thomas DeCoud may be starting sooner rather than later. Second-year SS Daren Stone has hurt his chances to be Milloy's heir apparent by getting busted for DUI earlier this year.
ST - PK Jason Elam stabilizes this position for at least another two or three years. P Michael Koenen is solid both at punter and kickoffs. Norwood became a top kickoff returner. Help is needed at PR. Does Norwood get a shot here? Do the Birds give Jennings a second chance? Do rookies Douglas and RB Thomas Brown get looks? I seem to recall that Grimes was a pretty good returner in college...
prediction - last place in the NFC South, 2 - 5 wins, "competing" for the top overall pick in the 2009 Draft
RB - this position looks really good with Turner and Norwood, and I happen to really like Snelling. FB Ovie Mughelli and TE Ben Hartsock are going to have their work cut out for them, however, to act as extra linemen and compensate for the subpar blocking skills for this current offensive line.
WR - there's lots of potential here with White, Robinson, and Harry Douglas, but let's remember that White's only been productive for one year, Robinson will be a first-time starter, and Douglas is a rookie. Adam Jennings looks fit to only be a backup KR, Joe Horn is way past his prime, Brian Finneran is trying to come back from serious injuries, and Michael Jenkins apparently is only fit to be a tall red-zone target.
TE - this group should excel at run-blocking, but don't expect much out of them in the passing game. Granted, OC Mike Mularkey's offense doesn't always ask for the TE to do much as a receiver, but it would be nice to at least have that option. I can, however, see Hartsock becoming a decent safety valve type of receiver. At 6' 4" 265lbs he's a big target who does have pretty soft hands. He just has no speed. Nonetheless, I'll take 3- to 7-yards gains over sacks or incompletions.
OL - when was the last time the Falcons had a good, all-around offensive line? I think I have to go back to the days of Mike Kenn and Jeff Van Note and R. C. Thielmann and Co. Baker and Blalock will be the left side for the next decade or so, but they're going to have growing pains to go through, no question about it. McClure, Forney, and Weiner excelled as run-blockers when Jim Mora, Jr. had them zone-blocking, but they're out of their element now. I wouldn't be shocked to see all three of them gone after this year. Forney's a free agent after the season, and even though McClure and Weiner signed contract extensions not that long ago, cutting them would not incur unacceptable salary cap penalties. Ben Wilkerson, Alex Stepanovich, and Tyson Clabo are good backups, but this OL still needs a major overhaul.
DL - DE looks good with Abraham, Anderson, and Davis. I thought Kroy Biermann would be an SLB in the pros, but apparently the Falcons are keeping him at DRE. I also thought Simon Fraser would be an LDE for the Falcons, but my understanding is that they're lining him up at DT. The keys to the play of the ends are Abraham staying healthy (what else is new?) and Anderson taking a quantum leap from his disappointing rookie campaign. I do expect Anderson to be much better than last year, but don't expect a Mario Williams-type jump in production.
DT is another story. There's just a bunch of bodies here. It looks like Jonothan Babineaux and Kindal Moorehead will rotate at UT and Rashad Moore and Montavious Stanley will do the same at NT, at least until Trey Lewis recovers from his injuries. A recent article from CBS Sportsline seems to indicate that the Falcons have no interest in bringing back Grady Jackson, which I think is a mistake. Am I alone in thinking that Glenn Dorsey would've looked really good in a Falcons' uniform?
LB - clearly the strong suit of the defense, if not of the entire team. Keith Brooking goes back to the weakside and will be backed up by Stephen Nicholas, who the coaching staff is very high on. Rookie Curtis Lofton (perhaps my favorite pick of the Falcons' 2008 draft) will start in the middle, with depth being provided by Tony Taylor. Michael Boley is this close to being a Pro Bowler, but a domestic battery charge from earlier in the year now clouds his future with the team. After the Michael Vick fiasco, owner Arthur Blank is extremely sensitive to potential dings to his team's image. If for some reason Boley were no longer a Falcon, Brooking would move to the strongside and Nicholas would be promoted to starter on the weakside. There's no depth worth mentioning behind Boley.
DB - where to begin? There's no CB on the roster that scares opposing offensive coordinators. Whether former Falcon DeAngelo Hall was overrated or not, he at least had the respect of the opposition. The same cannot be said of Chris Houston, rookie Chevis Jackson, free agent addition Von Hutchins, David Irons, and Brent Grimes. Ex-Jet Erik Coleman would appear to be an improvement at FS, but Eric Mangini must have benched him for a reason when he was with the Jets. SS Lawyer Milloy is an extra LB against the run but a liability in coverage. Rookie safety Thomas DeCoud may be starting sooner rather than later. Second-year SS Daren Stone has hurt his chances to be Milloy's heir apparent by getting busted for DUI earlier this year.
ST - PK Jason Elam stabilizes this position for at least another two or three years. P Michael Koenen is solid both at punter and kickoffs. Norwood became a top kickoff returner. Help is needed at PR. Does Norwood get a shot here? Do the Birds give Jennings a second chance? Do rookies Douglas and RB Thomas Brown get looks? I seem to recall that Grimes was a pretty good returner in college...
prediction - last place in the NFC South, 2 - 5 wins, "competing" for the top overall pick in the 2009 Draft
Okay heres my view of it.
QB-Redman looked solid last year in his games, and even good in one which I believe was vs the Seahawks. Hopefully Ryan becomes the Peyton type QB that Smith has been advertising him as, I honestly don't see it, but please prove me wrong. Ryan should see Harrington and say to himself "Damn, the last QB taken 3rd has come to this? Thats not going to be me....."
RB-Pound the ball, pound the ball, pound the ball. Turner WILL become a legit starting RB. He dominated in his few appearances recently, and I dont think it'll change here. Norwood is better than Reggie Bush. Ill fight anyone who disagrees... Norwood dominated the whole league last year, Reggie couldnt of even touched Norwoods ass. BUsh is most overrated player in this legaue. Mughelli is the best blocking FB. Hes a throwback that will knock anybody over. Dont forget we drafted Thomas Brown who isnt impressive in weight and on the track, but he knows how to play. Reminds me of Ryan Grant.
RC-Look at Erik's. I agree 99% BUT Jenkins is more thna just a red zone target IMO.
OL-Foster impresses me. Sort of reminds me of Jason Peters when he 1st started as a T. Would be a sign from god if he ever got to be at peter's level. I love Blalock, dont need to worry there. At C I like STepanovich over McClure. McClure is just too old and not as quick or strong as he used to bem, and thats not good since hes never been strong. RG needs to be addressed in the draft next year. Forney is garbage I think and Clabo is better suited at backup RT than at RG. I want Weiner at the RT spot, for at least half the year and then let Baker get his chance. Baker will be nice for a long time. He fell, but he shouldnt of, like Dan Connor. I like Wilkerson, Datish and Clabo as backups. OL is almost there Dmitroff, keep it up.
DL-Erik- your not the only one who wnted Dorsey. I was willing to become a slave to get Dorsey. Think about it, Dorsey and Brohm or Ryan and Baker? Hmmm... He would be a dominant force and I think Babs would compliment him perfectly. I like Lewis when he returns ans Stanley as solid backups. We do not have enough solid players, just bodies. At DE, the JA's are a nice combo. Anyone praying for Anderson to have a sophmore season like SUper Mario did in Houston? I sure am. Davis has always been a good backup, and Biermann is underrated.
LB-BLB. Boley-Lofton-Brooking. One of the top LB combos in the NFC I believe. Nicholas isnt ready right now, but if he develops like the coaches think he will, the position will be set for many years. Brooking still has great leadership, and will always give 100%. My favorite current Falcon. Lofton is a straight playmaker and I love him. Boley is, well damn good. Taylor, Rob James and Nicholas are all solid backups. James surprised me when we took him, but he has the chance to be a good player. His teammates aid he always wa going 110% which is good. I believe we still have Earl Everett from FLA and if he could make the team, thats another solid player right there. I remember he was a 2-3 round prospect 2 years back.
DB-Its a shame to see Hall and Williams go. Both wasted talents, but I see why they left. Williasm bever proved anyhting, but Hall was legit. Houston and Jackson now as the corners. Hopefully they can do what all the corners in Indy are doing and step right into the Cover 2 and handle it nicely. Houston was a one of the top 15 players in the draft last year. I think Coleman and Milloy compliment eachother perfectly. Milloy is as good as anyone vs the run, but on 2nd and longs and 3rd downs he needs to come out for Hutchins. Darren Stone and David Irons are 2 guys I like as backups, and both have amazing athletic ability and are versitile. Hopefully WIlrey Fontenot makes the team. His speed is a weapon, and is only slightly lower than former teammate, Antoine Cason.
Now that I look back, heres a couple of my reactions from the recent draft.
So heres how I wished our first 6 picks went...
3- Dorsey
34- Lofton
37- Tyrell Johnson
48- Brohm
68- Andre Caldwell
98- Justin King
QB-Redman looked solid last year in his games, and even good in one which I believe was vs the Seahawks. Hopefully Ryan becomes the Peyton type QB that Smith has been advertising him as, I honestly don't see it, but please prove me wrong. Ryan should see Harrington and say to himself "Damn, the last QB taken 3rd has come to this? Thats not going to be me....."
RB-Pound the ball, pound the ball, pound the ball. Turner WILL become a legit starting RB. He dominated in his few appearances recently, and I dont think it'll change here. Norwood is better than Reggie Bush. Ill fight anyone who disagrees... Norwood dominated the whole league last year, Reggie couldnt of even touched Norwoods ass. BUsh is most overrated player in this legaue. Mughelli is the best blocking FB. Hes a throwback that will knock anybody over. Dont forget we drafted Thomas Brown who isnt impressive in weight and on the track, but he knows how to play. Reminds me of Ryan Grant.
RC-Look at Erik's. I agree 99% BUT Jenkins is more thna just a red zone target IMO.
OL-Foster impresses me. Sort of reminds me of Jason Peters when he 1st started as a T. Would be a sign from god if he ever got to be at peter's level. I love Blalock, dont need to worry there. At C I like STepanovich over McClure. McClure is just too old and not as quick or strong as he used to bem, and thats not good since hes never been strong. RG needs to be addressed in the draft next year. Forney is garbage I think and Clabo is better suited at backup RT than at RG. I want Weiner at the RT spot, for at least half the year and then let Baker get his chance. Baker will be nice for a long time. He fell, but he shouldnt of, like Dan Connor. I like Wilkerson, Datish and Clabo as backups. OL is almost there Dmitroff, keep it up.
DL-Erik- your not the only one who wnted Dorsey. I was willing to become a slave to get Dorsey. Think about it, Dorsey and Brohm or Ryan and Baker? Hmmm... He would be a dominant force and I think Babs would compliment him perfectly. I like Lewis when he returns ans Stanley as solid backups. We do not have enough solid players, just bodies. At DE, the JA's are a nice combo. Anyone praying for Anderson to have a sophmore season like SUper Mario did in Houston? I sure am. Davis has always been a good backup, and Biermann is underrated.
LB-BLB. Boley-Lofton-Brooking. One of the top LB combos in the NFC I believe. Nicholas isnt ready right now, but if he develops like the coaches think he will, the position will be set for many years. Brooking still has great leadership, and will always give 100%. My favorite current Falcon. Lofton is a straight playmaker and I love him. Boley is, well damn good. Taylor, Rob James and Nicholas are all solid backups. James surprised me when we took him, but he has the chance to be a good player. His teammates aid he always wa going 110% which is good. I believe we still have Earl Everett from FLA and if he could make the team, thats another solid player right there. I remember he was a 2-3 round prospect 2 years back.
DB-Its a shame to see Hall and Williams go. Both wasted talents, but I see why they left. Williasm bever proved anyhting, but Hall was legit. Houston and Jackson now as the corners. Hopefully they can do what all the corners in Indy are doing and step right into the Cover 2 and handle it nicely. Houston was a one of the top 15 players in the draft last year. I think Coleman and Milloy compliment eachother perfectly. Milloy is as good as anyone vs the run, but on 2nd and longs and 3rd downs he needs to come out for Hutchins. Darren Stone and David Irons are 2 guys I like as backups, and both have amazing athletic ability and are versitile. Hopefully WIlrey Fontenot makes the team. His speed is a weapon, and is only slightly lower than former teammate, Antoine Cason.
Now that I look back, heres a couple of my reactions from the recent draft.
QUOTE
Im going to cry myself to sleep everynight when Dorsey becomes a perrenial pro bowler and HOFer, while Matty Ice struggles to stand up straight.
QUOTE
Yes, only if Dorsey goes to ATL, if not, I'm going to be quite depressed
QUOTE
ATL takes lOFTON!!!!
FUVCK YES **** YES **** YES!!!
TO THE FALCONS SITE FOR A LOFTON JERSEY I GO!
FUVCK YES **** YES **** YES!!!
TO THE FALCONS SITE FOR A LOFTON JERSEY I GO!
So heres how I wished our first 6 picks went...
3- Dorsey
34- Lofton
37- Tyrell Johnson
48- Brohm
68- Andre Caldwell
98- Justin King
Check out my review of the Falcons' draft here:
http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/Dainan/150639/#comments
In the last comment, I reveal how I would've liked to have seen the Falcons' draft go.
http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/Dainan/150639/#comments
In the last comment, I reveal how I would've liked to have seen the Falcons' draft go.
QUOTE (NHFalcon @ Jul 13 2008, 8:43:59 PM) 
Check out my review of the Falcons' draft here:
http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/Dainan/150639/#comments
In the last comment, I reveal how I would've liked to have seen the Falcons' draft go.
http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/Dainan/150639/#comments
In the last comment, I reveal how I would've liked to have seen the Falcons' draft go.
Very interesting!
I think Turner will do just fine, and I agree with RedRaider that Norwood is a much better player than Bush, the most overrated player in football. The key will be to sit Ryan this season so he doesn't get killed, and pound the rock over and over on the way to three victories -- five would spoil the chance at an elite pick in what should be the deepest draft in memory. Think I heard a couple of weeks ago that Datish was cut.
QUOTE (Bendo @ Jul 15 2008, 7:34:04 PM)
I think Turner will do just fine, and I agree with RedRaider that Norwood is a much better player than Bush, the most overrated player in football. The key will be to sit Ryan this season so he doesn't get killed, and pound the rock over and over on the way to three victories -- five would spoil the chance at an elite pick in what should be the deepest draft in memory. Think I heard a couple of weeks ago that Datish was cut.
I dont like the Datish decision...Why couldnt we of done what the Pats did and trade our 3rd this year for a 2nd next year? wouldve done us some good. Im thinking we need to go Oher or whoever the top OL prospect is. Well, depending on how Foster does, if he looks anywhere above solid, we should get a Mike Crabtree. This guy looks like TO on the field, but anyone else off the field...
QUOTE (RedRaider80 @ Jul 15 2008, 7:46:47 PM)
I dont like the Datish decision...Why couldnt we of done what the Pats did and trade our 3rd this year for a 2nd next year? wouldve done us some good. Im thinking we need to go Oher or whoever the top OL prospect is. Well, depending on how Foster does, if he looks anywhere above solid, we should get a Mike Crabtree. This guy looks like TO on the field, but anyone else off the field...
AND, we need to give Ryan some weapons so he can develop. Ryan, The Burner, Norwood, Roddy and Crabtree is a very exciting offense,. Chances are, either Douglas/Laurent will develop into a solid slot man, and if were lucky enough both do and give us a nice 4. We wouldnt need another TE for a while. Milner would be perfect for that O...A good blocker and can catch it when needed. Like Daniel Graham
ESPN has released a pos by pos team rankings. Ill copy and paste each of the writeups so far...
QUOTE
26. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have a new face for their franchise in first-round selection Matt Ryan. He was tremendous in his senior season at Boston College and made all of the ordinary talent around him much better. The Falcons are praying for the same out of him, sooner rather than later. Ryan has good size and decent arm strength, but his intangibles and toughness are his best attributes. He also is accurate and throws with good touch. He is mature and will not embarrass the organization off the field, which obviously is important in Atlanta right now while Michael Vick sits in a jail cell. Ryan is an excellent prospect.
While he was playing in New England, many wanted to compare Ryan to Tom Brady, but let's not get carried away here. Ryan will find himself with an adequate group of pass-catchers to distribute the ball to, but his pass protection will ensure he will take plenty of crushing hits. At this point, it looks like Ryan should have the mental toughness to handle this rocky transition, but many said the same thing about David Carr when he entered the league.
Atlanta will lean on Michael Turner and its running game, but Ryan's adjustment to this level will not be an easy one. Chris Redman is an immobile place-holder at the position until Ryan gets up to speed. Redman had some decent outings last year, can manage an offense and values the football, but he is a No. 2 at best. Remember that he was out of the league for three seasons before being resurrected by Bobby Petrino. Joey Harrington played well early on but imploded as he tends to do. He is, at best, a short-term fix in any circumstance. Making matters worse, the Falcons face a brutal group of pass defenses this upcoming season, making the rookie's task that much more difficult.
The Falcons have a new face for their franchise in first-round selection Matt Ryan. He was tremendous in his senior season at Boston College and made all of the ordinary talent around him much better. The Falcons are praying for the same out of him, sooner rather than later. Ryan has good size and decent arm strength, but his intangibles and toughness are his best attributes. He also is accurate and throws with good touch. He is mature and will not embarrass the organization off the field, which obviously is important in Atlanta right now while Michael Vick sits in a jail cell. Ryan is an excellent prospect.
While he was playing in New England, many wanted to compare Ryan to Tom Brady, but let's not get carried away here. Ryan will find himself with an adequate group of pass-catchers to distribute the ball to, but his pass protection will ensure he will take plenty of crushing hits. At this point, it looks like Ryan should have the mental toughness to handle this rocky transition, but many said the same thing about David Carr when he entered the league.
Atlanta will lean on Michael Turner and its running game, but Ryan's adjustment to this level will not be an easy one. Chris Redman is an immobile place-holder at the position until Ryan gets up to speed. Redman had some decent outings last year, can manage an offense and values the football, but he is a No. 2 at best. Remember that he was out of the league for three seasons before being resurrected by Bobby Petrino. Joey Harrington played well early on but imploded as he tends to do. He is, at best, a short-term fix in any circumstance. Making matters worse, the Falcons face a brutal group of pass defenses this upcoming season, making the rookie's task that much more difficult.
QUOTE
26. Atlanta Falcons
It is hard to rank this running back situation. Jerious Norwood is back and though he has primarily been the backup to veteran Warrick Dunn, he has been productive. The wild card is Michael Turner. Like Norwood, he has been a backup and while in San Diego looked like one of the best backups in the NFL. We like the one-two punch of Turner and Norwood, but we're not sure how effective they can be on a team that will play from behind often.
It is hard to rank this running back situation. Jerious Norwood is back and though he has primarily been the backup to veteran Warrick Dunn, he has been productive. The wild card is Michael Turner. Like Norwood, he has been a backup and while in San Diego looked like one of the best backups in the NFL. We like the one-two punch of Turner and Norwood, but we're not sure how effective they can be on a team that will play from behind often.
QUOTE
16. Atlanta Falcons
Roddy White established himself as a frontline starting receiver in the NFL last season and is a big receiver with natural route running skills and downfield setup. White displayed natural hands, receiving skills and strong run-after-catch ability. Laurent Robinson is a young, developing player with a vertical presence and solid receiving skills, while Michael Jenkins is a solid young receiver and a big target in the red zone. Jenkins has long arms and an extended radius outside his frame. Experienced veteran Joe Horn is a consummate pro who can make this group stronger should he stay healthy throughout the season. Rookie third-round pick Harry Douglas is an undersized receiver but can be electric with the ball in his hands.
Roddy White established himself as a frontline starting receiver in the NFL last season and is a big receiver with natural route running skills and downfield setup. White displayed natural hands, receiving skills and strong run-after-catch ability. Laurent Robinson is a young, developing player with a vertical presence and solid receiving skills, while Michael Jenkins is a solid young receiver and a big target in the red zone. Jenkins has long arms and an extended radius outside his frame. Experienced veteran Joe Horn is a consummate pro who can make this group stronger should he stay healthy throughout the season. Rookie third-round pick Harry Douglas is an undersized receiver but can be electric with the ball in his hands.
QUOTE
31. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have selected an offensive lineman high in the draft two years in a row. Last year, it was Justin Blalock, who had an up-and-down rookie campaign at left guard and simply didn't move bodies in the run game like the Falcons expected. He is very intelligent and could play right tackle as well, but he should stick to guard. This year Atlanta traded back into Round 1 to select Sam Baker to grow up with QB Matt Ryan and be Ryan's blind side protector. Baker played very well at USC, but he lacks ideal size and power and was a bit of reach at No. 21 overall. But after Atlanta's offensive tackles were decimated by injuries last season, he obviously was needed. RT Todd Weiner, RG Kynan Forney and C Todd McClure will round out the rest of the starting line. This isn't an exceptional threesome by any means, and Baker and Blalock surely will experience growing pains as they continue to adapt to the speed and power of the NFL. Weiner is coming off a serious knee injury, and Forney played below his standards in 2007. McClure is tough and rugged, but he isn't a difference-maker in the middle. He clearly needs better play around him. Much like everything for the Falcons, it is going to take time before their offensive line realistically can compete at a high level. And now, the line has to adjust to yet another scheme change. The Falcons want to utilize big back Michael Turner to pound defenses with a power rushing attack, and that isn't going to be easy with the present group of players in charge of paving the way. Ryan also is going to get hit often. Hopefully it won't leave David Carr-like mental scars on the third overall selection.
The Falcons have selected an offensive lineman high in the draft two years in a row. Last year, it was Justin Blalock, who had an up-and-down rookie campaign at left guard and simply didn't move bodies in the run game like the Falcons expected. He is very intelligent and could play right tackle as well, but he should stick to guard. This year Atlanta traded back into Round 1 to select Sam Baker to grow up with QB Matt Ryan and be Ryan's blind side protector. Baker played very well at USC, but he lacks ideal size and power and was a bit of reach at No. 21 overall. But after Atlanta's offensive tackles were decimated by injuries last season, he obviously was needed. RT Todd Weiner, RG Kynan Forney and C Todd McClure will round out the rest of the starting line. This isn't an exceptional threesome by any means, and Baker and Blalock surely will experience growing pains as they continue to adapt to the speed and power of the NFL. Weiner is coming off a serious knee injury, and Forney played below his standards in 2007. McClure is tough and rugged, but he isn't a difference-maker in the middle. He clearly needs better play around him. Much like everything for the Falcons, it is going to take time before their offensive line realistically can compete at a high level. And now, the line has to adjust to yet another scheme change. The Falcons want to utilize big back Michael Turner to pound defenses with a power rushing attack, and that isn't going to be easy with the present group of players in charge of paving the way. Ryan also is going to get hit often. Hopefully it won't leave David Carr-like mental scars on the third overall selection.
note- (only worse is KC)
QUOTE
30. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons hope to rebound defensively by staying healthy and developing some of their younger defensive linemen. Montavious Stanley and Jonathan Babineaux started just six and nine games, respectively, but they give the Falcons an athletic presence in the middle. Stanley and Babineaux lack the strength to play a powerful two-gap defense, however. Defensive ends Jamaal Anderson and John Abraham give the Falcons speed off the edge and are excellent when it comes to pressuring the pocket. Anderson showed a lot of promise last season as a rookie and should be even better this season, while Abraham remains one of the most explosive pass-rushers in the NFL.
The Falcons hope to rebound defensively by staying healthy and developing some of their younger defensive linemen. Montavious Stanley and Jonathan Babineaux started just six and nine games, respectively, but they give the Falcons an athletic presence in the middle. Stanley and Babineaux lack the strength to play a powerful two-gap defense, however. Defensive ends Jamaal Anderson and John Abraham give the Falcons speed off the edge and are excellent when it comes to pressuring the pocket. Anderson showed a lot of promise last season as a rookie and should be even better this season, while Abraham remains one of the most explosive pass-rushers in the NFL.
note- (SF and DEN are worse)
QUOTE
11. Atlanta Falcons
SLB Michael Boley might be the best linebacker whom you are not real familiar with. He is extremely athletic with a long build and has the ability to rush the quarterback off the edge, stack the run, or turn and run with athletic tight ends in coverage. As a rookie, Stephen Nicholas battled a high ankle sprain, but he is an explosive run-and-hit weakside linebacker who made Demorrio Williams expendable. In fact, the move might end up being considered an upgrade. Second-round pick MLB Curtis Lofton is going to be very difficult to keep off the field, even though Keith Brooking currently holds the job in the middle. Brooking is established and productive, but is probably better suited for the weak side. He is also an important leader on a team desperate for leadership. Lofton is a hammer who is very instinctive and should fortify the middle for many years. If given the chance, Lofton could have a productive season on a suspect defense. Overall, the Falcons have an impressive foursome of linebackers, and they should be set at this position for the long term, even without Brooking.
SLB Michael Boley might be the best linebacker whom you are not real familiar with. He is extremely athletic with a long build and has the ability to rush the quarterback off the edge, stack the run, or turn and run with athletic tight ends in coverage. As a rookie, Stephen Nicholas battled a high ankle sprain, but he is an explosive run-and-hit weakside linebacker who made Demorrio Williams expendable. In fact, the move might end up being considered an upgrade. Second-round pick MLB Curtis Lofton is going to be very difficult to keep off the field, even though Keith Brooking currently holds the job in the middle. Brooking is established and productive, but is probably better suited for the weak side. He is also an important leader on a team desperate for leadership. Lofton is a hammer who is very instinctive and should fortify the middle for many years. If given the chance, Lofton could have a productive season on a suspect defense. Overall, the Falcons have an impressive foursome of linebackers, and they should be set at this position for the long term, even without Brooking.
DBs are tomorrow and ST on thursday, theyll be here in there respective days.
QUOTE (RedRaider80 @ Jul 15 2008, 11:57:12 PM)
note- (SF and DEN are worse)
"Abraham remains one of the most explosive pass-rushers in the NFL."
And...one of the most injury prone.
Very good against the pass when he's healthy...but, that's been a real problem for him throughout his career. It's not likely to change now either, especially as he gets older.
32. Atlanta Falcons
There are several big changes in Atlanta after the losses of DeAngelo Hall, Chris Crocker and Jimmy Williams. Experience is lacking heading into the season and the Falcons will rely heavily on the communication skills of veteran SS Lawyer Milloy and newcomer Erik Coleman on the back end. Milloy is still a physical, aggressive player who can be a big help near the line of scrimmage and Coleman is an experienced starter whose instincts help compensate for a lack of speed. It will be interesting to see how well Chris Houston, Von Hutchins and David Irons respond to the opportunities created by the changes.
There are several big changes in Atlanta after the losses of DeAngelo Hall, Chris Crocker and Jimmy Williams. Experience is lacking heading into the season and the Falcons will rely heavily on the communication skills of veteran SS Lawyer Milloy and newcomer Erik Coleman on the back end. Milloy is still a physical, aggressive player who can be a big help near the line of scrimmage and Coleman is an experienced starter whose instincts help compensate for a lack of speed. It will be interesting to see how well Chris Houston, Von Hutchins and David Irons respond to the opportunities created by the changes.
QUOTE (cjs206 @ Jul 12 2008, 7:15:29 AM)
Falcon Watch
A pre-Training Camp breakdown of likely position battles.
QB – Chris Redman looks set to be the starter in week one, but Matt Ryan will undoubtedly be itching to get into the side and make his mark and will push Redman in training camp.
OT – Two from Renardo Foster, Todd Weiner and Sam Baker will end up as the starters but the big question would be who and where. Right now I expect Baker to be the odd man out.
C – Todd McClure will be the favorite to start but young Alex Stepanovich could compete with him during camp and may be a better fit for Mike Mularkey’s offense.
DT – Trey Lewis and Jonathan Babineaux will be favorites to start but with nothing set in stone guys like Stanley and Moorehead could work their way into the lineup.
LB – Michael Boley’s position on the strong side is safe, but the other 2 spots will be settled between Keith Brooking, Stephen Nicholas and rookie Curtis Lofton.
CB – Chris Houston takes over as the #1 cornerback from DeAngelo Hall, while Chevis Jackson and Von Hutchins will compete for the opposite spot, though Hutchins would seem a better fit as the nickel back.
A pre-Training Camp breakdown of likely position battles.
QB – Chris Redman looks set to be the starter in week one, but Matt Ryan will undoubtedly be itching to get into the side and make his mark and will push Redman in training camp.
OT – Two from Renardo Foster, Todd Weiner and Sam Baker will end up as the starters but the big question would be who and where. Right now I expect Baker to be the odd man out.
C – Todd McClure will be the favorite to start but young Alex Stepanovich could compete with him during camp and may be a better fit for Mike Mularkey’s offense.
DT – Trey Lewis and Jonathan Babineaux will be favorites to start but with nothing set in stone guys like Stanley and Moorehead could work their way into the lineup.
LB – Michael Boley’s position on the strong side is safe, but the other 2 spots will be settled between Keith Brooking, Stephen Nicholas and rookie Curtis Lofton.
CB – Chris Houston takes over as the #1 cornerback from DeAngelo Hall, while Chevis Jackson and Von Hutchins will compete for the opposite spot, though Hutchins would seem a better fit as the nickel back.
um, at OT it's goign to be Baker and Clabo.
LB it's going to be MLB Lofton and WLB Brooking.
Has anyone picked up Jimmy Williams yet? I know the light socket is equipped with a dim bulb, but guys with that set of tools don't usually stay on the market very long.
QUOTE (Bendo @ Jul 21 2008, 11:53:55 PM)
Has anyone picked up Jimmy Williams yet? I know the light socket is equipped with a dim bulb, but guys with that set of tools don't usually stay on the market very long.
I haven't heard of him signing on anywhere yet. He didn't show any signs of picking up the defense while he was in ATL and he didn't show any special teams ability either, though I agree with you in that I would expect to see him somewhere given a chance.
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