The Recycle Bin

There is a lot more to be said about this year’s Falcons draft; more than I can get on “paper” in this article. Let’s get started with some interesting news and notes from various outlets.

Leading things off is Falcons’ General Manager Thomas Dimitroff who seemed very confident and happy with the outcome of the draft in his press conference. Mr. Dimitroff has a plan and I believe he is hell-bent on following it to its conclusion. I certainly hope his approach turns Atlanta into a perennial playoff contender!

3rd Round Recap
With their two 3rd round picks, the Falcons sought the safety of the SEC, turning to Alabama for o-line help, and somewhat surprisingly Kentucky for d-line support.

3rd round 19 (83) – Corey Peters, DT, Kentucky
Peters likely won’t be a superstar, but he can be disruptive and effective. [Sporting New Today Apr-24-10]

Peters (6-3, 300) was a three-year starter at Kentucky. He had 49 tackles, including 11 for losses, and four sacks as a senior. He also had four sacks as a junior. [SportingNews]

——————–

3rd round 34 (98) – Mike Johnson, G, Alabama
compensatory pick
Johnson is your typical, steady NFL guard. There’s really nothing flashy about his game, but he just goes about his business in a powerful, workman-like fashion. [Sporting New Today Apr-24-10]

Johnson (6-5, 312) completed his career at Alabama by making 41 consecutive starts. He also played offensive tackle and center.

The Falcons chose Johnson, the No. 98 overall selection, with their first of two compensatory picks for losing free agents Michael Boley, Keith Brooking, Domonique Foxworth and Grady Jackson after the 2008 season. The Falcons also have a compensatory pick at the end of the fifth round.

“We are fired up he was there,” said Dimitroff of Johnson. “The fact he’s versatile, he’s a smart football player who was definitely a part of a winning program.” [SportingNews]

Of course every outlet, blog, and person commenting on the draft has an opinion, and many times the opinions vary drastically. I think Johnson will make an immediate impact as a key backup in the o-line rotation, and maybe challenge for a starting spot in a couple of years.

I am not as sure about Jackson, however the more I read about him the more I think Jackson can be coached up enough to make an impact. It’s the “coaching up” part that concerns me; I expect a 3rd round pick to play right away, and start within two years. I am not sure that I see either scenario in Jackson’s future. Obviously the Falcons do, or they would not have selected him with a 3rd round pick.

4rd Round Recap
Is Hawley really the anointed replacement for McClure? It seems kind of odd to me that the Falcons would go after a center outside of a big-boy conference.

The Falcons had a need in the middle of their line with Todd McClure aging, and they may have found a suitable replacement in UNLV C Joe Hawley. He may not look the part, but he is tough, scrappy and competitive and has the type of football temperament to play in the NFL a long time. He could also provide depth at guard, where he played as a senior. [Pro Football Weekly]

I have read a couple of articles that Matt Ryan’s BC center was available, which makes you wonder about a guy out of the Mountain West Conference. Then again, it is not like the ACC is a big-boy conference, but I digress.

5th Round Recap
In the 5th round the Falcons took two very unconventional, and dare I say unpopular (at least with the Falcons fan base) picks.

Oklahoma CB Dominique Franks could bring the most value to the Falcons as a return man. He looks the part and has an intriguing physical skill set, but too many inconsistencies showed up on tape in college. He could compete for a job as a No. 4 or No. 5 corner.

Kansas WR Kerry Meier, a converted quarterback, has the dependable hands to stick as a No. 4 or No. 5 possession receiver with the Falcons, and could bring added value in the locker room with strong intangibles. He should earn a roster spot and has a chance to contribute. [Pro Football Weekly]

I think we have to take a wait and see approach with Franks and Meier. It is obvious that Franks is going to be given every opportunity to win the starting kickoff return slot, but hopefully he can earn some time in the secondary rotation.

Meier is an athlete – he may not contribute much out of the gate, but if he develops into a possession slot receiver, Meier will be a steal in the 5th round.

6th Round Recap
Once you reach this deep into the draft, you are really looking at project players, or maybe guys with some sort of issue (injury, character, etc). In other words you are making a bet that you are smarter than the other GMs.

More chances on small-school and small-conference talent tends to come out of the late rounds. Montana S Shann Schillinger quickly came off the board to the Falcons and has the temperament to make the roster as a special-teams kamikaze. [Pro Football Weekly]

The Falcoholic had the most interesting analysis on Schillinger:

The team that has thumbed its nose at draft pundits for the last three days finished off the draft with its masterpiece, drafting Montana safety Shann Schillinger. You know how when people talk about a player being “scrappy” and “a real player,” they’re always talking about white guys? Yeah….Schillinger’s pretty much the epitome of that type of player.

We have a real need at backup safety, so clearly the team drafted Schillinger to fill that need. At 6 feet even and just about 200 pounds, he’s got average size, speed and tackling ability. Like college teammate Kroy Biermann, what he does have is an incredibly strong desire to destroy opposing players, great football instincts and excellent lateral agility. He projects as a long-term backup to William Moore at strong safety, as he’s a bit better against the run than he is against the pass.

I love it. Scrappy = white guy. LOL

Additional Thoughts
I started to call this section “Final Thoughts” however I just know that I am going to write some more on the topic, so let’s just wrap this article up some thoughts from Jeff Schultz (ajc.com).

Last month, they signed a legitimate cornerback (Dunta Robinson). This allowed the Falcons to cut back on its janitorial stuff because now somebody won’t have to run onto the field to sweep up the ashes after every opponent’s pass play.

Then came the draft. They needed an outside linebacker who could drop into coverage, help create some mayhem on the pass rush and, if at all possible, hit somebody. They found Sean Weatherspoon. They needed linemen on both sides of the ball. They took a defensive tackle and two guards with their next three picks. Think of a draft as you would an exam. Nobody is guaranteeing an A. But at least we know the Falcons studied the right chapters for the test.

At the very least, they will make the playoffs. If body parts don’t spontaneously combust as a year ago, they are capable of doing something special.

The Falcons’ 2010 draft was anything but sexy. The Falcons went after need, depth, versatility, and character guys. I am not sure how they will get a pass rush out of this group, but that may not matter if the secondary can contain and cover the opposition’s receivers, which in turn will allow the d-line to eventually get to the QB. Maybe that is all part of the “process” we are watch unfold? In fact, after a night to sleep and reflect on this year’s draft, I am convinced this is Mr. Dimitroff’s and Coach Mike Smith’s plan.

Entering the third and final day of the draft the Atlanta Falcons had a total of five picks; however they left with only four players.

Joe Hawley OL (UNLV)
The Falcons selected Joe Hawley – OL UNLV – in the 4th round (No. 117 overall).

A talented blocker who is a leader along the line entering his senior season … A versatile player who has started at two interior positions but begins his senior season as the starter at one guard spot … A preseason Second Team All-MWC selection by Phil Steele’s, which ranked him the nation’s No. 51 guard … A member of the 2009 Rebel Leadership Committee.

The trend continues – the Falcons are building for depth, versatility, and character … not necessarily in that order. CBSSports.com has Hawley as the 6th best center in the 2010 draft, so maybe the Falcons brass expects Hawley to eventually replace longtime center Todd McClure.

Dominique Franks CB (Oklahoma)
The Falcons selected Dominique Franks – CB Oklahoma – in the 5th round (No. 135 overall).

As the Falcons continue to rebuild their secondary, one would expect that a 6’0” CB that can also return punts and kickoffs will earn a roster spot. Not to say that Franks will get on the field right away in the secondary, but I can see him contribute at the start of the season on special teams and at some point he may be able to earn his way into the CB mix as a reserve.

The Falcons must be high on Franks because they traded up with the Rams to get Franks, which cost a 6th round pick. Franks looks like a coverage only CB; he is not going to get after the QB and force sacks, however Franks did have 2 INTs in 2009 and 4 INTs in 2008. It is hard for me to say those are solid numbers in the pass happy Big-12, but seeing that Franks managed 5 pass breakups in 2009, and 10 in 2008 gives some encouragement that the Falcons must expect Franks to be more than an eventual reserve.

Kerry Meier WR (Kansas)
The Falcons selected Kerry Meier – WR Kansas – in the 5th round (No. 165 overall).

Meier looks like a very versatile (read athletic) player out of Kansas. Meier was a QB and punter in high school, and eventually converted to a WR, where he excelled. Last year Meier racked up just under 1000 yards and 8 TDs on 102 receptions.

At 6’2” and 220, Meier will challenge for some playing time.

Shann Schillinger S (Montana)
The Falcons selected Shann Schillinger – S Montana – in the 6th round (No. 171 overall).

I could not find a lot on Schillinger, other than he is probably another high character type, however unlike the Falcons’ other 2010 picks, I don’t think Schillinger provides much versatility. He looks to be the definition of a gamer, and was probably drafted for special team coverage, and depth at safety, although 8 career INTs does not look all that bad.

Atlanta focused on line depth with their two 3rd round picks. These picks are far from exciting, however if they pan out, Atlanta should have a couple of new guys for their offensive and defensive rotations.

19(83) Corey Peters DT Kentucky
What he brings: Peters is a one-gap defensive tackle with adequate quickness and ability to find the ball. He also shows pass-rushing capabilities, but he needs to add more moves to his repertoire. He has an inconsistent motor, which is a concern, and he will probably be a rotational guy.

How he fits: Peters fits the mold of the Falcons? attacking style defensive front. Atlanta needed a player like this with the ability to make plays on the move and rush the passer, especially given the fact that last year?s first-rounder, Peria Jerry, missed his rookie season due to a knee injury.

34(98) Mike Johnson OG Alabama – Compensatory Pick
What he brings: Johnson is a very intelligent, instinctive and nimble athlete for the position. He does a good job taking proper initial angles and has great lateral movement to reach or cut off defenders down the line of scrimmage. He could develop a more aggressive and tougher mentality and needs t obe more of a finisher at this point.

How he fits: The Falcons’ offensive line has an abundance of toughness, but the depth is lacking. Johnson can compete for a backup role with Jose Valdez and Quinn Ojinnaka.  [ESPN.com]

OG Mike Johnson looks like he will contribute regularly, and at the start of the season. He played both guard and tackle positions, and was graded a decent 6.1 by the NFL.com crew. Not so much for DT Corey Peters, who was graded a rough 2.5 by NFL.com; makes you wonder what the Falcons saw that no one else noticed. To be it is also scary going after someone that takes plays off; has lazy written all over him, and could be a quick ticket out of the NFL.

“Football intelligence is a big part of what we are trying to develop here. Both of our picks today fall in the line with what we are needing on this football team, as far as football intelligent guys, players that are going to handle themselves properly off the field.” — Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff [SportingNews.com]

So there you have it; Mr. Dimitroff went after depth, football intelligence, and character guys. Let’s hope Day Three produces a WR, a future starting TE, and some sort of pass rush. Please.

The 19th pick was rather anticlimactic; it was a safe choice, allowing the Falcons to have a linebacking tandem of Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri) and Curtis Loften for (hopefully) years to come.

“We really felt that a cover-type linebacker, who has speed and flies around the football, was in our best interest,” Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said. “We got the guy we were targeting all along.”

Weatherspoon, who led the Tigers in tackles over the past three seasons, is considered an outside linebacker.

The Falcons believe that Weatherspoon can help them in pass coverage. Weatherspoon played in the Big 12 and faced a lot of pass-happy spread offenses. His coverage skills are solid. [ajc.com]

So much for surprises out of the ATL; in fact the 2010 draft outside of the Falcons was anything other than predictable. I would have to say it was one of the most interesting drafts in recent memory.

I don’t have a lot of time to go into an in-depth analysis, but WTF was Denver thinking? In the last couple of years they have traded away a young proven QB and a star WR; both needed an attitude adjustment. So they march into this year’s draft and in the 1st round take a project QB and a WR that while talented, played in a wishbone offense. I just don’t get the strategy.

I really like what the Lions did – they made it out of the 1st round with potential impact players on both sides of the ball. I think Seattle, Cleveland, and of course the Raiders all reached. As long as Buffalo’s Spiller does not become New Orleans’ Bush, that may turn out to be a great pick, however I do not understand why the Bills did not go QB.

Speaking of QBs, last night’s draft spoke volumes about the perceived quality of this year’s crop. Really a damning indictment. There may be some interesting maneuvering in the 2nd round later today as Buffalo or Oakland attempts to jump in front of Cleveland or Minnesota. All four need QBs of the future, right?

Closing out with the Falcons, I assume Atlanta will stand down in the 2nd round; they traded this year’s pick to Kansas City for Gonzalez and there really is not a compelling need for Atlanta to try to jump back into tonight’s opening round. The Falcons are sitting on two 3rd round picks – 19 (83 overall) and 34 (98 overall). Those picks should be enough to find d-line and o-line help, assuming they go in that direction, or perhaps find another WR or even HB for Ryan to utilize.

So where will the Falcons turn? They need serious help along the d-line, linebacker is also a need. The popular mock drafts so far have the Falcons taking LB Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri) or DE Everson Griffen (USC). Some drafts even have the Falcons taking WR Demaryius Thomas (Georgia Tech); however I do not see the Falcons going offense in the 1st Round.

Remember that the Falcons got Curtis Loften in the 2nd round, so it is possible to get a Mike Peterson replacement in the 2nd round, however Atlanta traded their 2nd round pick to Kansas City for Tony G.

The Falcons draft depends on which direction some of the team immediately in front of them go – Seattle, New York Giants, and Tennessee all need help along the d-line. If there is a rush of the guys the Falcons rate highly, I can see Weatherspoon being the Falcons’ pick. I could also see a case where ATL tires to trade down in order to pick up a 2nd round pick, but I doubt they can find a dancing partner because the 19th hole is just too middle of the pack.

Cannot wait for tonight to see how it all unfolds!

Not making the 2009 playoffs helps some when it comes to setting the Falcons’ 2010 schedule, however only landing the 19th pick in the 2010 draft does not seem like a fair consolation prize for having the 20th overall most difficult schedule.

20. Falcons 127-129 (Combined W-L) .496 (Pct.)

This year the Falcons get to take on 6 2009 Playoff teams; really 7 if you consider that ATL has to play New Orleans twice.

• Arizona (ATL Sep 19)
• Baltimore (ATL Thurs Night Nov 11)
• Cincinnati (ATL Oct 24)
• Green Bay (ATL Nov 28)
• New Orleans (away Sep 26)
• New Orleans (ATL Mon Night Dec 27)
• Philadelphia (away Oct 17)

Pat Yasinskas of the NFC South Blog at ESPN has the following to say about a make-up schedule after last year’s Bye-Week fiasco scheduling, which really made the Falcon’s schedule tougher than necessary.

Looks like the schedule-makers might have been trying to make things up to the Falcons after handing them such a brutal schedule last year and put them against four teams coming off byes. The bye week comes almost in the middle of the season, the final two games are at home and the Falcons got two prime-time games.

AJC’s D. Orlando Ledbetter provides a break-down of the 2010 Falcons’ schedule.

On the road again: They will have to prove their mettle on the road or risk getting off to a bad start. They will play four of their first six games on the road. Later they play three consecutive games on the road, Dec. 5-19. Under coach Mike Smith, the Falcons are 7-10 on the road, including the wild-card loss at Arizona in the 2008 playoffs.

Wrapping things up, are some comments from the “official” Falcons site.

Favorable Bye Week Schedule
The suspension of Ben Roethlisberger just made the start of the season that much better – from the point of view of Atlanta getting off to a good start. Atlanta should be able to win on the road vs. Pittsburgh, and the following week is a home date with Arizona, which is also winnable. New Orleans on the road will be tough, following by up and coming San Fran at home; you know the 49’ers will be out for revenge after last year’s utter ungluing at home. A road date to Cleveland is very winnable, followed by a tough road game at Philadelphia and a home date with Cincinnati before heading into a favorable bye week (in week eight).

Unlike last year, the Falcons are not going to get hosed playing teams coming off a bye week; compared to last year’s 4 tough bye week games, Atlanta only has one against Cincinnati.  At least this game is a home date for the Falcons.

The Falcons have a very real chance of going 5-2 before the bye, but it could go south in a hurry if Pittsburgh and Cincinnati are playing well.  A 3-4 start would totally suck and make the second half Thursday night and Monday night match-ups basically worthless games.

The second half is going to be difficult; more analysis to come at a future date.