Atlanta Falcons Draft Day Guide 2014

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2014 Atlanta Falcons Schedule

By Stephen Black

AUG 8 7:00 EDT PM

DOLPHINS Georgia Dome

Miami and Atlanta have met in the preseason 12 times with each team taking six games. It will be the fourth time in the past five seasons the franchises have played during the preseason. The Dolphins scored 17 of the game’s final 20 points including the game-winning pass from Ryan Tannehill to Dion Sims to edge Atlanta in the 2013 regular season.

AUG 16 8:00 EDT PM

TEXANS

Reliant Stadium

This preseason meeting will be the first between the two franchises.

Atlanta has met the Texans just three times in the regular season with Houston winning both games that were played in Reliant Stadium.

The Texans triumphed in 2011 17-10 after Marietta native T.J. Yates led Houston to the game-winning score with just over six minutes left.

AUG 23 7:00 EDT PM

TITANS Georgia Dome

Atlanta has played the Titans franchise a total of eight times, a number that includes two games when the club was known as the Houston Oilers. The Falcons have met Tennessee six times in preseason action since it relocated to Nashville. The franchises split those six games.

Atlanta is 1-3 in four regular-season meetings with the Titans.

AUG 28 6:00 EDT PM

JAGUARS EverBank Field

Regular combatants in the preseason, the Falcons have faced the Jags 10 times. This marks the fifth straight season the teams have played in the preseason. In 10 preseason meetings, the Jags hold a 7-3 edge.

In regular-season action, the Falcons have won two of five meetings, including a 41-14 demolition of Jacksonville late in the 2011 campaign.

SEP 7 1:00 EDT PM

SAINTS Georgia Dome

The Falcons will open the season at home against New Orleans for the first time since 1981, when Atlanta triumphed 27-0. It is also the first time Atlanta has opened the season at home since 2009. The Falcons lead the all-time series with their arch-rivals 46-43. The franchises have played each other more than any other opponent.

SEP 14 1:00 EDT PM

BENGALS

Paul Brown Stadium

The Falcons have won three straight games and four of six in this series. The Birds will play in Cincinnati for the first time since 2006, a 29-27 victory. Atlanta has faced the Bengals in the Buckeye State six times in its history and has won twice. The Falcons trail in the alltime series 7-5, but have not lost to the Bengals since 1996.

SEP 18 8:25 EDT PM

BUCCANEERS Georgia Dome

NFC South rivals since 2002, the Falcons and Bucs have had a back-andforth relationship throughout their rivalry. While Tampa took six straight from 1997 to 2003, Atlanta has won eight of the last 11. The series is knotted at 12 since 2002. The teams split two meetings in each of the past three seasons while Atlanta swept the series in 2009 and 2010.

SEP 28 4:25 EDT PM

VIKINGS

TCF Bank Stadium

One of the most memorable and important wins in Falcons history came in the 1998 season when the Birds beat Minnesota in the NFC Championship game 30-27 in overtime on a Morten Andersen field goal. Atlanta trails the series 15-10, but has won five of the last eight meetings. The last game between the two came in 2011, a 24-14 win by the Falcons.

OCT 5 1:00 EDT PM

GIANTS

MetLife Stadium

The Falcons skunked the G-Men 34-0 in 2012, the teams’ last meeting. The teams are tied 11-11 all time although Atlanta has won five of the last seven on the road and seven of 10 all time on the Giants’ home fields. In the last game between these two, Atlanta’s defense held Eli Manning to just 161 passing yards and nabbed two interceptions.

OCT 12 1:00 EDT PM

BEARS

Georgia Dome

The Falcons will play Chicago for the first time since 2011 and the first time in Atlanta since 2009. Despite trailing the series 13-12, Atlanta has won two of the past three including the past two at home. The Falcons are 7-5 all time against the Bears in Atlanta. A 5-yard run by Michael Turner was the difference in the 2009 game, a 21-14 affair.

OCT 19 1:00 EDT PM

RAVENS

M&T Bank Stadium

Despite being in existence since 1996, the Ravens have played Atlanta just four times with each team taking two. The Falcons won the last meeting 26-21 in 2010 as Roddy White hauled in a 33-yard pass from Matt Ryan with just 20 seconds left. This will be the first time Atlanta’s faced the Ravens without legendary linebacker Ray Lewis.

OCT 26 9:30 EDT AM

LIONS

Georgia Dome

A regular non-division opponent for many years, the Falcons have played Detroit more times (35) than any other foe that has never shared the same division. Atlanta has won six of nine games, including a 31-18 victory in 2012 in the Motor City. This year’s game will be the first meeting in Atlanta since the 2008 season-opener, a 34-21 Falcons win.

NOV 9 1:00 EST PM

BUCCANEERS Raymond James Stadium

The Falcons have won three of the past five in Tampa Bay, including a memorable 20-10 victory in the regular-season finale of the 2009 season. The victory clinched a winning record for the Falcons and back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in franchise history.

Running back Jason Snelling was key that day, with 147 rushing yards.

NOV 16 1:00 EST PM

PANTHERS

Bank of America Stadium

Atlanta will not play Carolina until the Falcons have already faced other division rivals Tampa Bay twice and New Orleans once. Despite losing three straight in this series, the Falcons have won seven of 11 and lead the all-time series 23-15. The Birds and Panthers have split the past eight meetings in Charlotte with Carolina taking the past two.

NOV 23 1:00 EST PM

BROWNS Georgia Dome

Like the rest of the AFC North, the Falcons have not played the Browns since 2010. Atlanta won the last meeting 20-10 as the Falcons outscored their hosts 14-3 in the second half. Kroy Biermann took an interception 31 yards to seal the victory. Cleveland took the last game played in Atlanta 17-13 in 2006 after gaining an early 14-0 lead.

NOV 30 4:05 EST PM

CARDINALS Georgia Dome

For the third year in a row, the Falcons will take on Arizona. The Cardinals took last year’s Battle of the Birds 27-13 in Glendale but Atlanta has taken two of three and six of nine. Arizona leads the series 9-8 since moving from St. Louis and carries a 16-12 edge in the all-time series. The Falcons have won the past two played in Atlanta.

DEC 8 8:30 EST PM

PACKERS Lambeau Field

Atlanta will travel to the Frozen Tundra late in the season for the second year in a row after dropping a 22-21 decision last year on Dec. 8. The Packers are one of the Falcons’ most-played non-divisional opponents in recent years, as this is the teams’ sixth meeting since 2008. Atlanta lost its first five meetings to Green Bay, but has won 13 of the past 24.

DEC 14 1:00 EST PM

STEELERS Georgia Dome

After losing nine straight to Pittsburgh from 1974 to 1999, the Falcons have lost just once in the past three meetings. Atlanta beat Pittsburgh in 2006 in the Georgia Dome, a 41-38 shootout. The teams fought to a draw in the 2002 classic in the Steel City and Pittsburgh took the 2010 season-opener 15-9 at Heinz Field in the teams’ last meeting.

DEC 21 1:00 EST PM

SAINTS

Mercedes-Benz Superdome

The Falcons travel to New Orleans almost four months after playing the Saints to open the season. Nine of the past 11 games between these two ancient rivals have been decided by eight points or less, including both of last year’s games. Four of the past five and six of the last 10 NFC South champions have been either the Falcons or Saints.

DEC 28 1:00 EST PM

PANTHERS Georgia Dome

The Falcons have beaten Carolina in six of the last seven games in Atlanta, although the past two meetings (each team won one) have been decided by a total of three points. In the 2012 game in the Georgia Dome, Ryan led the Falcons on a 77-yard drive from the one-yard line to set up a Matt Bryant game-winning field goal with five seconds left.

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AT L A N TA FA L C O N S D R A F T DAY 2 014 DIMITROFF ON THE DRAFT

FALCONS GM DISCUSSES TEAM’S OPTIONS

BY DAN MATHEWS | DMATHEWS@SCOREATL.COM

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hen Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff met with the media on April 30, numerous scenarios were brought up in terms of what the team would do with its first pick. The draft was still about one week away and fans are still wondering where they could go.

So the question now becomes, what are the Falcons going to do? We do know that this team needs to do two things better in 2014, protect Matt Ryan and get to the other team’s quarterback. The Falcons sit currently in the No. 6 spot in Thursday’s first round. Dimitroff likes what he sees in the first few picks.

“We’re excited to be in that top 10,” Dimitroff said. “There are pass rushers, pass protectors, receivers and there are linebackers. It’s a very accomplished top 10.”

Many have speculated that the Falcons could try and trade up to get a player like South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney. Dimitroff says he’s been on the phone with numerous teams, talking many different scenarios.

“You’re getting an idea of what compensation would be if in fact something did come to fruition during the draft,” Dimitroff said. “That’s how we did it back in ’11. I think that’s an important thing whether you travel down that road or not.”

HAGGLING FOR JULIO …

In that trade back in 2011, the Falcons picked up the sixth overall pick from the Cleveland Browns. In turn, they went on to select Julio Jones. Going back to Cleveland, the Falcons sent their first-, second- and fourth-round picks from

that draft. Plus, Cleveland got Atlanta’s firstand fourth-round picks in the 2012 draft.

Needless to say, that pick-up worked well for the Falcons and now could make people wonder if they might try to do the same thing in this year’s draft. Dimitroff was asked about whether this team would be in position to take a gamble like that again this year.

“There are a number of really good football players that we would consider,” Dimitroff said.

“We always go through that scenario and discuss what truly is worth moving up for to give up picks.”

Dimtroff did mention during his press conference that relationships built with different organizations could play into the chances that a draft-night deal could be pulled off. In that regard, the Falcons do have a great relationship with St. Louis Rams general manager Les Snead and Jacksonville Jaguars GM David Caldwell.

The Rams sit at No. 2 overall and the Jaguars are at No. 3. Both teams’ GM’s were members of the Falcons’ personnel department prior taking over these teams.

That being the case, the Falcons’ GM does admit the sixth pick in the draft doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll only consider moving up on Thursday night.

“It allows us to think about the ability to move back as well,” Dimitroff said. “There are some really potentially good opportunities to move back and pick up some picks as well.”

One other scenario to look at during this year’s draft is what the team will do to address its overall toughness.

“Bigger and stronger is always better,” Dimitroff said. “I feel we have a tough football team here and we’ll continue to stress the adding and ramping up of our ruggedness here.

That’s something I’m excited about as well.”

The Falcons have already added defensive line help in end Tyson Jackson and tackle Paul Soliai through free agency. They have also added offensive line help in the forms of tackle Gabe Carimi and guard Jon Asamoah. Not to be forgotten are the secondary additions of safety Dwight Lowery and cornerbacks Javier Arenas and Josh Wilson and return specialist Devin Hester.

These moves have given the Falcons the ability to play around with depth a little bit before draft night. That could mean another draft night trade could be on the horizon, but moving up three or four spots remains in play.

Photo courtesy of the Associated Press.

If the Falcons want to wait and get an offensive lineman in the second or third round, Virginia’s Morgan Moses could be a good fit. He has been described as a “dancing bear” with his large frame and nimble feet.

With Tony Gonzalez retired, the Falcons may look to draft a tight end in the later rounds.

Iowa’s C.J. Fiedorowicz, a 6-foot-7, 265-pound beast, could be available in the fourth round.

He’s great as a blocker and is a solid receiver.

The Falcons could go local for Georgia’s Arthur Lynch, who should be available in the later rounds. Lynch is not an elite receiver, but he’s good at running routes and should be able to fit right in Dirk Koetter’s vertical passing attack.

the Falcons want to do on defense. Mack is a durable player that can play either linebacker or defensive end.

If the Falcons decide to go defense with their No. 1 pick, Auburn’s Dee Ford would be a good pick in the second round. The defensive end has great burst and underrated strength. He could be the best pass-rushing defensive end in the draft.

Atlanta may want to use a selection for help at free safety. If the Falcons want to take a safety in the earlier rounds of the draft, Jimmie Ward from Northern Illinois and Ed Reynolds from Stanford should be available. Or if the Falcons want to wait and get a safety with one of their two fourth-round picks, Ahmad Dixon from Baylor and Terrence Brooks from Florida State would be good choices as well.

The Falcons drafted two stout cornerbacks last year in Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford.

But they could draft another cornerback just to add depth. With a fifth- or sixth-round pick, the Falcons could select a player such as Chris Davis from Auburn or Nevin Dawson from Utah State.

Photo courtesy of Glen Johnson/Texas A&M.

DIMON CLUB

GETTING STRONGER

LINEMEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF FALCONS’ DRAFT PROJECTIONS

BY BRIAN JONES | BJONES@SCOREATL.COM

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he Falcons’ re-emergence after the anomaly that was the 2013 season starts with the NFL Draft when the Falcons and the rest of the NFL teams get together to rebuild for the upcoming season.

The Falcons are in prime position at No. 6 to make a splash in the first round. That means the Falcons have a chance to get an impact player that can make a difference right away.

Based on the Falcons’ needs, they can go a number of different directions when it comes to what player/position they want to draft. But whatever they do with their picks, they have to make sure they select the right players that can help them get back to the top of the NFC standings.

PROTECTION NEEDED …

Offensive line is one of the Falcons’ biggest

needs heading into the offseason and there will be a number of good ones to choose from with the No. 6 pick.

Texas A&M’s Jake Matthews might be the best of the bunch. Matthews could be the next great left tackle and would give the offensive line a much-needed boost.

Auburn’s Greg Robinson would not be a bad choice, either. Robinson is a big, strong left tackle that still has some growing to do. Like Matthews, Robinson has what it takes to be a dominant left tackle in the NFL according to many draft experts and talent evaluators.

Michigan’s Taylor Lewan is another offensive tackle that could be on the Falcons’ radar.

Lewan has a lot of experience and has the length and agility to be a left tackle in the NFL for several years.

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FEEL THE RUSH …

The Falcons can improve on the defensive side of the ball with help on the defensive line as well as in the secondary. The one player that could change the whole complexity of the defense is South Carolina’s Jadeveon Clowney. He has the size, speed and explosiveness to be an elite pass rusher in the NFL, which is something the Falcons need.

However, Buffalo’s Khalil Mack is an outside linebacker that most likely fits into what

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FREE AGENTS

FALCONS USE OFFSEASON TO ADD TOUGHNESS AND A LITTLE FLAIR

BY RICKY DIMON | RDIMON@SCOREATL.COM

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he first day of free agency was a positively epic one in Atlanta. How impressive it was in terms of quality obviously remains to be seen, but the quantity of work done by general manager Thomas Dimitroff was second to none. The trio of newcomers he inked right away on March 11 featured guard Jon Asamoah, defensive end Tyson Jackson and defensive tackle Paul Soliai.

Those signings have to be attributed at least in part to assistant general manager Scott Pioli, former general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who was hired by the Falcons in November. Pioli and Dimitroff wasted no time raiding his former team, as both Asamoah and Jackson came from Kansas City. The Chiefs selected Asamoah in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. In four seasons, the University of Illinois product made 41 starts at right guard and last year he helped the Chiefs average 337.3 yards per game (128.5 on the ground). Jackson’s stock was at its peak in 2009, when the former LSU Tiger went off the board third overall to Kansas City. Although he never entirely lived up to expectations there, Jackson started 55 of his 74 games during five seasons with the Chiefs.

Soliai also came from the AFC, having spent the first seven seasons of his career in Miami—including two years and one Pro Bowl appearance with current Atlanta defensive coordinator Mike Nolan at the helm of the Dolphins’ defense. A hulking presence at 6-foot-4 and 345 pounds, the Samoan attended the University of Utah before being selected by the

Dolphins in the fourth round of the 2007 draft.

Soliai has made 62 starts in his 99-game professional career.

“We were focused on adding pieces along our offensive and defensive lines and I feel we were able to accomplish that,” Dimitroff said.

“We believe that Paul and Tyson will add stoutness and grittiness to our defensive front and will help in the run game. Jon is a solid offensive lineman that will bring some ruggedness to our offensive front.”

He could on occasion be featured in any number of formations to give the Falcons’ offensive attack an extra dimension.

“Atlanta, at the end of the day, was the team that showed the most interest,” Hester said in a Q&A with the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s D. Orlando Ledbetter. “It’s a winning program. I looked at them as a team that I know is going to have a good season. Last year was a little downfall for these guys because injuries occurred. This is a playoff team without any injuries.”

Hester added that 2014 is “a big chance for us” and he plans on “making the playoffs and hopefully competing for the Super Bowl.”

A big step would be taken in that direction if the Falcons can get improved play in the secondary. In that effort, Dimitroff’s two April transactions saw him add safety Dwight Lowery and cornerback Josh Wilson. Lowery, a sixthyear pro after being selected by the New York Jets in the fourth round of the 2008 draft, started three games last season with Jacksonville before being placed on injured reserve due to a concussion. Wilson, a second-round pick by Seattle in 2006, has a knack for the game-changing play. At just 5-foot-9, he has 14 interceptions, 11 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and five sacks during a career that includes 102 games and 81 starts. Last year in Washington, he started all 16 games and posted a careerhigh 93 tackles to go along with two sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception.

HANGING AROUND …

Perhaps just as important as the new additions, a trio of Falcons re-upped with the or-

ganization before testing the open market. Defensive tackle Corey Peters signed a one-year contract extension earlier in the month before the Falcons’ March 11 frenzy began. Only a few hours before they would have become unrestricted free agents at a 4:00 p.m. deadline, defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux and center Joe Hawley re-signed with Atlanta.

Retaining Babineaux was especially critical for the Falcons, who still need address their defensive line in the draft even after bringing back Babineaux. Selected in the second round of the 2005 draft, the former University of Iowa standout has made 108 starts—including all 32 in each of the last two regular seasons. He made 37 solo tackles in 2013 in addition to a sack and two fumble recoveries.

“I started my NFL career nine years ago as an Atlanta Falcon and I am happy to announce that I am continuing as a proud member of the Atlanta Falcons family,” read a statement released by Babineaux. “Remaining an Atlanta Falcon and in Atlanta as my home were the best decisions for me and my family. Thanks to my family, friends, fans, the press for your support.

See you at camp and the games soon!”

Given what the Falcons have done in free agency, their favorable position in the upcoming NFL Draft (No. 6 overall) and their expectations to have dynamic receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White back at 100 percent next season, Babineaux cannot be the only one looking forward to training camp and the start of the 2014 campaign. It could be filled with a whole lot of excitement and, more importantly, a whole lot of winning.

Photos courtesy of the Associated Press.

FLASHY PLAYER …

Ruggedness may be one of the top priorities for the Falcons this offseason, but it has not stopped them from pursuing other avenues.

One week into free agency, they made their most high-profile splash with a player of a much different ilk. Atlanta signed special-teams legend Devin Hester, without a doubt one of the most electrifying kick returners in the history of the NFL. Drafted by Chicago in the second round in 2006, Hester now finds himself as the recordholder for most punt return touchdowns in NFL history with 13. Last year, he tied the record for most return touchdowns (punt and kickoff combined) with his 19th such score. The University of Miami alum is the only player in NFL history to return the opening kickoff of a Super Bowl for a touchdown (XLI vs. Indianapolis). Hester also lined up on offense for the Bears, recording 217 receptions for 2,807 yards and 14 touchdowns.

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10 DRAFT PICK

WILLIAM

ANDREWS

BEST

THE

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STEVE

BARTKOWSKI

CLAUDE

HUMPHREY

JEFF

VAN NOTE

RODDY

WHITE

he Falcons selected William Anith the No. 1 pick of the 1975 laude Humphrey was selected he Falcons grabbed Jeff Van ith the No. 27 pick in the 2005 drews in the third round (79th WDraft, the Falcons selected Cwith the No. 3 pick of the 1968 TNote in the 11th round of the WDraft, Atlanta drafted wide reT pick) of the 1979 NFL Draft. Andrews California quarterback Steve Bart- NFL Draft out of Tennessee State. 1969 NFL Draft. The University of ceiver Roddy White, who continues earned four Pro Bowl selections during his career with Atlanta. He led the Falcons in rushing from 197983 and is in second place all-time in Falcons history with 5,986 rushing yards and 30 rushing touchdowns.

Over a four-year span (1979-83), Andrews led all NFL running backs with 8,382 total rushing yards.

In 1981, Williams joined Jim Brown, Walter Payton, Wilbert Montgomery and O.J. Simpson in the record books as he eclipsed 2,000 yards from scrimmage in a single season with 2,036. Two years later, Williams tallied 2,176 yards and joined Simpson as the second player in NFL history to have two 2,000-yard (total yards from scrimmage) seasons in a career.

Williams earned an induction into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1996 and was among the inaugural members of the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor in 2004. The thirdround pick’s career was cut short by injury, but he proved to be an alltime great in just five seasons.

kowski. The 6-foot-4 passer earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors during the 1975 season and went on to lead the Falcons for 11 seasons. The Iowa native made two Pro Bowls with Atlanta and led the League in passing touchdowns in 1980 with 31.

Bartkowski is currently on the Falcons’ Board of Directors and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012. Bartkowski was the Falcons’ record-holder for most passing yards in a career with 23,470 and most passes completed in a career with 1,871 until Matt Ryan surpassed those marks this past season. Bartkowski started in 127 games during his career and helped lead Atlanta to its firstever 12-win season in 1980 with a career-high 31 touchdowns. In 1983, Bartkowski threw an efficient 22 touchdowns and only five interceptions and finished the season with a 97.6 QBR. Bartkowski joined the Ring of Honor in the inaugural 2004 class.

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The 6-foot-4, 252-pound defensive end earned Rookie of the Year honors and set multiple franchise records during his career in Atlanta.

Humphrey retired with five firstteam All-Pro selections and tied the Falcons’ record for the most Pro Bowl appearances with six. Humphrey owns Atlanta’s franchise sack record with 94.5.

In 1976, Humphrey came back strong after missing all of 1975 with a knee injury to record 15.5 sacks.

He ended his career with the Eagles (1979-1981) and retired with 126.5 career sacks in 171 career games.

After being a finalist in the 2009 Hall of Fame, Humphrey will finally join the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame this summer. He will join Deion Sanders as the second Falcons’ draft pick to reach the Hall.

Humphrey is a member of the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

Kentucky product was drafted as a linebacker by the Falcons, but was eventually moved to center

by Falcons head coach Norm Van Brocklin. Despite Van Note’s lack of experience, he quickly grasped the position and transformed into one of the NFL’s best centers. The 6-foot-2, 250-pounder played his way to five Pro Bowls (1974, 1975, 1980, 1981, 1982) and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 1979 and 1982.

Van Note played in 246 games over his 18-year career, including 226 starts. Van Note’s 18-year career is one of the 25 longest in NFL history and is the second longest in League history with the same team.

Falcons fans voted Van Note into the Ring of Honor and he was inducted on Oct. 1, 2006. Van Note joined the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1999 and he was voted by the fans as their favorite player during the 1991 season.

to be one of the most productive and consistent wide receivers in the NFL. White has accumulated 9,436 receiving yards on 685 receptions and has 55 touchdowns in his nine seasons in Atlanta. He led the NFL in receptions in 2010 with 115 and set the pace in the NFC with 1,389 receiving yards. His 5,158 receiving yards are more than any other wideout in the League since 2007.

White’s career marks are matched with his ability to produce big numbers and prolific performances in games. He set the Falcons’ record for receiving yards in a half with 185 and most receiving yards in a game with 210. White’s six 1,000-yard seasons are the most in franchise history. White played in 133 consecutive games before getting injured last season. He finished 2013 strong with 20 receptions for 232 yards and two touchdowns in Atlanta’s final two games last season. White is two receiving touchdowns away from Terance Mathis’ franchise record of 57.

KSHISTORY IN FALCONS

TOMMY

NOBIS

MATT

RYAN

S

ince their inaugural season in 1966, the Falcons have selected players in the NFL Draft to build tradition and take the franchise to new heights. Tommy Nobis set the standard as Atlanta’s first-ever draft pick in 1966 and Hall of Famers, Pro-Bowlers and fan favorites have been selected since. Each season when the Atlanta Falcons bring in a new class of draftees, they stand in the same shoes as the Falcons’ all-time greats that did it before them. There are draft picks that have a lasting and, in some cases, living legacy with the Falcons and they set the bar high for every incoming rookie to strive for. Here are the Falcons’ top 10 draft picks of all time. * In order to qualify for this list, a player has to have played five NFL seasons or more.

DEION

SANDERS

GERALD

BY CRAIG SAGER II

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TODD

RIGGS

MCCLURE

he Falcons’ first-ever draft pick fter a difficult 2007 season, the he Falcons selected athleticallyhen the Gerald Riggs was takenter Todd McClure was the was a great one. With the top AFalcons looked for stability and Tgifted cornerback and return spe- Wen with the No. 9 pick in the C237th pick (Round 7) in the T pick of the 1966 NFL Draft, the leadership in the 2008 Draft. With cialist Deion Sanders with the No. 5 1982 NFL Draft, he began a career in 1999 NFL Draft and held down the newly-formed Falcons selected linebacker Tommy Nobis out of Texas. The 1965 Outland Trophy and Maxwell Award winner earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in 1966 and followed it up with a first-team All-Pro selection in his second season.

Nobis was selected to five Pro Bowls during his career (1966, 1967, 1968, 1970, 1972) and is a member of the NFL’s 1960’s All-Decade Team. Nobis recorded 294 combined tackles his rookie season, which still stands today as a seemingly impossible-to-reach Falcons single-season record. He is a member of the Falcons’ Ring of Honor and his jersey number was the first to be retired by the team. He is the only Falcons player to have ever worn that number. Nobis has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, Texas Sports Hall of Fame and his number is also retired at the University of Texas. “Mr. Falcon” played a total of 11 seasons with the franchise.

the No. 3 pick, they selected Matt Ryan out of Boston College. Ryan’s first pass went for a 62-yard touchdown in the 2008 season-opener, and he has been the face of the franchise since. He earned AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and has continued to set franchise records and put the team on his shoulders in pressure situations. His 23 gamewinning drives in his first five seasons is a franchise record.

In 2012, Ryan led Atlanta to a franchise-best 8-0 start and its first-ever home NFC Championship game. He posted a career high by completing 422 of 615 passes (68.6 percent) and 4,719 yards. His 422 completions in 2012 is a franchise record and he enters his seventh NFL season with a career completion percentage of 63.7 and a franchise record with 23,472 yards passing. Ryan has started 94 of 96 games since coming into the League and his toughness in the pocket and perseverance has inspired some of the most thrilling comebacks and finishes in franchise history.

pick of the 1989 Draft. The former Florida State Seminole played his first five NFL seasons with the Falcons and became the first Atlanta Falcons draft pick to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

“Prime Time” played 16 NFL seasons and also played professional baseball for the Braves, Yankess, Reds and Giants. In his rookie season with the Falcons, he became the first player in history to score a touchdown and hit a Major League home run in the same week. Sanders sits alone as the only athlete to play in a World Series and a Super Bowl.

He returned his first career punt return for a touchdown and intercepted 24 passes during his five seasons with Atlanta. In 1993, the electrifying cornerback intercepted seven passes and returned three of them for touchdowns. During five seasons with the Falcons, Sanders scored 10 touchdowns (three defensive, three kick returns, two punt returns and two receptions). The 8-time All-Pro is one of nine members in the Falcons Ring of Honor and is a member of the NFL 1990’s All-Decade Team.

Atlanta that would earn him a spot as the ninth member of the prestigious Falcons Ring of Honor. In seven seasons in Atlanta, Riggs rushed for a franchise-record 6,631 yards and posted four consecutive 1000-yard seasons, including a 1,986-yard effort in 1985. Riggs’ ended his career with the Redskins and rushed for a pair of touchdowns in a 37-24 Super Bowl XXVI victory over the Buffalo Bills, Riggs’ final NFL game.

Riggs’ induction to the Falcons Ring of Honor came during Week 5 of the 2013 season when Atlanta hosted the Jets on Monday Night Football. Riggs had an ability to make decisions in a small area that was uncommon for a big, physical runner. The combination of skills and the toughness needed to excel in short yardage and goal-line plays was tailor-made for Riggs’ style and he still stands as the only player in NFL history to rush for 11 touchdowns in fewer than 80 attempts in a single season. He also holds the Falcons’ franchise mark for 397 carries in a single season.

Falcons’ starting center position for 13 seasons. McClure played under a series of coaching staffs and the line around him constantly changed, but he was the heart and soul that kept it together.

McClure retired after the 2012 season and missed just four games in his entire career. He served as center for Matt Ryan in each of Ryan’s first five seasons and led an offensive line with the fewest penalties in the NFL over that five-year span.

McClure broke Keith Brooking’s franchise record with 148 consecutive starts. The former LSU Tiger’s first season with Atlanta resulted in a torn ACL in training camp, but he grabbed the starting role the next season and never let it go.

One of the best late-round picks in NFL history, he helped lead an offensive line that set the fourth-highest single-game rushing total in postseason history against St. Louis in 2004.

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NFC TEAM DRAFT NEEDS

SOUTH

NORTH

ATLANTA FALCONS

CHICAGO BEARS

ARIZONA CARDINALS

DALLAS COWBOYS

NEEDS: OL, DL, DB

NEEDS: DB, DT, LB

NEEDS: DL, LB, QB

NEEDS: DB, DL, WR

Draft experts have said the Falcons will likely pick an offensive tackle and a defensive end early on in this year’s draft. Taylor Lewan and Jake Matthews have been projected by some to be drafted by Atlanta at No. 6. The Falcons will also look to draft a defensive back.

Chicago’s secondary must be addressed as it needs immediate help at safety and long-term solutions at cornerback. In a division with at least two pass-happy offenses, the Bears simply have to get better at those positions. At No. 14, they should be in perfect position to snag one of the two best safeties in the class.

WEST Arizona missed out on the playoffs despite an outstanding 10-win season in 2013. Defensive ends Darnell Dockett and John Abraham are veterans heading towards the end of their careers and, with the 20th pick of the draft, the Cardinals could find a young pass rusher to make an impact on their aggressive defense.

EAST Was the Cowboys’ secondary as bad as it looked last season or was it the victim of an inept pass rush that allowed opposing quarterbacks too much time in the pocket? More than likely it was both, in which case Jerry Jones would add a safety and either a defensive end or an outside linebacker to his roster.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

DETROIT LIONS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

NEW YORK GIANTS

NEEDS: OL, WR/TE, DB

NEEDS: DB, OL, DL

NEEDS: WR, DL, OL

NEEDS: WR/TE, OL, DL

With Jordan Gross retired, the Panthers are in need of an offensive tackle and they should be able to find a good one with the 28th overall pick in the draft. The loss of Steve Smith hurts and the Panthers are also in desperate need of a playmaker at wide receiver for Cam Newton to throw to.

The Lions are famous for their epic collapse in 2013 and also for drafting receivers, but the latter will not be the case this time around. Other than maybe an extra offensive lineman, Detroit covets defense. While the interior defensive line is strong, defensive end and cornerback are significant needs.

The 49ers have made three straight NFC Championship games, but will need to take advantage of their 11 draft picks to help take that final step to a Lombardi Trophy. Defensive back Carlos Rogers joined Oakland this offseason and San Francisco also needs a third option at receiver.

Ideally, the Giants would snag a pass-catching tight end who can also block. Eli Manning did not have enough weapons in 2013 and he also spent way too much time on the ground.

On that note, New York also needs an offensive lineman or two after some disastrous play at the tackle position last season.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

GREEN BAY PACKERS

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

NEEDS: DB, OL, LB

NEEDS: WR/TE, DB, OL

NEEDS: WR, OL, TE

NEEDS: WR, DL, DB

The defense made some strides last season, but still has work to do in order to hang with the offense. With Jabari Greer gone and Patrick Robinson recovering from seasonending surgery, the Saints are in need of a cornerback. The Saints also need an offensive tackle to help protect Drew Brees.

Aaron Rodgers can never have too many weapons at his disposal and right now he may not have enough. Green Bay can upgrade at tight end or draft one to team up with Andrew Quarless in a two-tight end set. The Packers could also use a slot receiver following the departure of James Jones to Oakland.

It is time for the Super Bowl-champion Seahawks to build their offense around third-year star quarterback Russell Wilson. The team lost wide receiver Golden Tate this offseason and will need another go-to receiver to step in. Protecting Wilson is another priority and Seattle will likely shop for offensive linemen this year.

DeSean Jackson is gone (Washington) and Jason Avant has departed (Carolina).

Nick Foles now needs some immediate help to replace those weapons. The Eagles also have to upgrade their pass rush, which could come either in the form of a defensive lineman or an outside linebacker in Philadelphia’s 3-4 scheme.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

ST. LOUIS RAMS

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

NEEDS: DL, OL, WR/TE

NEEDS: QB, LB, DB

NEEDS: OL, DB, WR

NEEDS: DB, OL, LB

With new head coach Lovie Smith, the Bucs will have a defensive focus in the draft. It starts with the defensive line and they will look to draft linemen to complement Gerald McCoy. Tampa also needs to add depth to the offensive line as well as a receiver that can stretch the field.

Once again, the Vikings are in need of a quarterback. As expected, Christian Ponder’s fifth-year option was not exercised by the team. As dire as that is, Minnesota will not overlook a glaring hole on defense. Jared Allen’s departure to division-rival Chicago means adding a pass-rusher at either defensive end or outside linebacker is necessary.

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The Rams can build for the future with their 12 picks, including the No. 2 and No. 13 overall selections. They’ll be looking for capable starters at offensive tackle and guard. Also, playmaker Tavon Austin was a spark in 2013 and the Rams can add more speed to complement his game.

Washington has a decent defense, but safety is a considerable need both in the present and especially in the future. The Redskins have no first-round picks due to their massive 2012 trade for Robert Griffin III, but plenty of solid safeties should be available in the second. The ‘Skins also must upgrade their offensive line.

AFC TEAM DRAFT NEEDS

SOUTH

NORTH

HOUSTON TEXANS

BALTIMORE RAVENS

DENVER BRONCOS

BUFFALO BILLS

NEEDS: QB, OL RB

NEEDS: OL, DB, WR/TE

NEEDS: RB, OL, LB

NEEDS: OL, WR, LB

The Texans had major issues scoring in 2013 and the offense will be addressed in a major way. Look for Houston to draft a quarterback with one of its picks this week. From there, they will look to get stronger on the offensive line. Adding a running back to complement Arian Foster would be beneficial.

Baltimore needs to replace offensive tackle Michael Oher, who is now with the Titans.

The Ravens also need a safety to start alongside Matt Elam, last year’s first-round pick. As it stands the Ravens have just one tight end on the roster, so they are a threat to add players at that position.

WEST Adding Aqib Talib and DeMarcus Ware to the defense will boost the unit, but Denver needs to find a capable inside linebacker in the draft. On offense, running back Knowshon Moreno signed with Miami this offseason and the Broncos need to find an allpurpose back to team up with Montee Ball.

EAST The Bills need a tackle opposite budding star Cordy Glenn, a former Georgia Bulldog. However, Buffalo may jump at the chance to select play-making wide receiver Sammy Watkins with the ninth pick. A stud linebacker is missing from the Bills’ depth chart and remains a position of need.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

CINCINNATI BENGALS

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

MIAMI DOLPHINS

NEEDS: WR, DB, DL

NEEDS: CB, DL, OL

NEEDS: DB, WR, DL

NEEDS: RB, OL, WR/TE

Andrew Luck has progressed each year, and for him to continue to get better, he will need another playmaker on the outside to make the offense more dangerous.

But the Colts need to get better on the defensive line and also need to find a safety to replace Antoine Bethea.

The Bengals lost defensive end Michael Johnson and offensive tackle Anthony Collins off last year’s squad and need help at strongside linebacker as well. Multiple experts have projected that the Bengals will take a cornerback in the first round. A darkhorse first-round pick may be a quarterback, as Andy Dalton has been inconsistent.

Alex Smith had a great first year with new Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, but he needs help at wideout. On defense, Kansas City allowed just 19 points per game but was torched in the first round of the playoffs by Andrew Luck. This year’s draft could provide help for safety Eric Berry.

The Dolphins don’t really have a star at running back, and that remains a distinct need for coach Joe Philbin’s team. Miami could also stand to upgrade at offensive tackle and add depth at the guard position. Some draft projections also have the Fins taking an inside linebacker with their No. 19 pick.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

CLEVELAND BROWNS

OAKLAND RAIDERS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

NEEDS: QB, OL, DL

NEEDS: QB, OL, RB

NEEDS: WR, QB, DL

NEEDS: DL, WR, OL

The Jaguars need a quarterback because Chad Henne is not the long-term answer and Blaine Gabbert has not lived up to expectations. Many experts think the Jags will choose a quarterback with their first pick.

Jacksonville is also in need of a defensive end as they have not drafted one since 2010.

With Brian Hoyer currently slated as the Browns’ starting quarterback, this position is definitely a top priority. Cleveland could also stand to grab some young talent at running back after shockingly trading 2012 No. 3 overall pick Trent Richardson to the Colts. The Browns will also look to bolster their offensive line.

Oakland is missing a No. 1 wide receiver and, with the No. 5 pick in the draft, Clemson’s Sammy Watkins and Texas A&M’s Mike Evans are worthy options. Oakland could find its quarterback of the future after the first round with LSU’s Zach Mettenberger, a prototypical pocket passer.

Vince Wilfork has been a rock in the middle of the defensive line for the Patriots, but recovery from his Achilles’ heel injury remains a concern. While Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola are solid possession wide receivers, the Pats could use a deep threat at that position.

TENNESSEE TITANS

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

NEW YORK JETS

NEEDS: DL, OL, QB

NEEDS: DB, WR, OL

NEEDS: DB, DT, WR

NEEDS: DB, WR, OL

Tennessee got off to a 3-1 start last season, but after quarterback Jake Locker went down with a knee injury, the Titans finished 4-8 and missed the playoffs for the third straight season. Look for the Titans to add a pass rusher and a quarterback to back up and potentially replace Locker.

The Steelers have gone 8-8 the past two seasons and need something to revitalize them. A playmaker at wide receiver would be nice, as Pittsburgh has struggled to replace Hines Ward, Mike Wallace and Santonio Holmes in recent years. Some projections also have the Steelers taking an offensive tackle in the first round.

Mike McCoy had a great first year as the Chargers’ head coach and the team should look for a wideout to add to Phillip Rivers’ arsenal. Vanderbilt’s Jordan Matthews would be a great fit. Peyton Manning exposed the Chargers’ secondary this season and finding some young talent at the position is a priority.

The Jets need a cover cornerback badly and many draft experts have them taking someone at that position with their No. 18 pick.

New York added Eric Decker at wide receiver, but need another productive option at that position. Like many teams, the Jets could stand to add depth on the offensive line.

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AT L A N TA FA L C O N S D R A F T DAY 2 014

DRAFT DAY

BLANK, FALCONS DISCUSS NFL DRAFT MOVIE

BY STEPHEN BLACK | SBLACK@SCOREATL.COM

F

antasy can sometimes resemble reality. And some of the Atlanta Falcons players, administrators, their majority owner and some very lucky fans found that out on March 31 in Atlantic Station. The movie “Draft Day,” a parody on life behind the scenes in an NFL front office, opened April 11 nationwide. As one of the chosen few able to see an advance showing, I was able to take in the film with some of the Falcons. Most, if not all, saw similarities to the real thing.

“It’s very realistic,” head Falcon Arthur Blank told me after the screening. “I’ve seen (Falcons general manager) Thomas (Dimitroff) go through days like that or some version of days like that.”

When Blank says “days like that,” well, you’ll have to see the movie to understand exactly what he means. In simple terms and without spoiling the film, I can tell you that one draft day can mean a lifetime to those involved in the process. The relationships between owner and GM, GM and coach, GM and potential draftee and GM to rival GM could each be a movie, or novel, within itself.

SILVER SCREEN REALISM …

While fans can be fooled about how accurate a sports movie is, players, administrators and the top brass cannot. They live it day-today. However, the gaggle of Falcons personnel at the showing was quite complimentary of the latest Ivan Reitman-directed movie.

“NFL fans want to get an insight into the game,” Blank said. “As far as what happens on draft day and some of the nuances and the pressures that the organizations, franchises, general managers and coaches are under, it’s pretty realistic.”

Falcons defensive lineman Corey Peters was entertained by the film, which received a ton of cooperation not only by the NFL, but also by multiple franchises.

“I thought it was pretty good,” said Peters.

“Very entertaining. It’s good to see the other side of things and have some good interaction between front office and some of the players and that sort of thing. I think that’s a great viewpoint that not a lot of people get to see.”

Without spoiling any of the storylines, I can tell you that character comes to play in how Kevin Costner’s character (the Browns’ GM) makes decisions on draft day. Not many people know what actually is said in behind-the-scenes draft day phone calls, but no movie prior to “Draft Day” has been quite as accurate in displaying just how crucial character is in draft analysis. “(Character) is always very important,” said Blank. “The culture is what underlines the franchise, and that’s true with our front office, it’s true with our coaches, it’s true with our players, it’s true in every part of our locker room.

It’s true throughout. We pay a lot of attention to character off the field, character on the field and, obviously, ability.”

Another part of the movie centered around

10 | WWW.ATLAN TAFALCON S .COM

a potential draftee sitting at home with family, waiting for the call that would change his life.

Falcons linebacker Sean Weatherspoon saw similarities in that portion of the film.

“That brought back memories just being with your family and everybody is excited,” said Spoon. “It kind of took me back to when I got the call from the Falcons. It was pretty cool.”

The Missouri product was the Falcons’ first-round selection in 2010 and, ironically, had a few things in common with one of the main characters in “Draft Day”. Vontae Mack, played

by Chadwick Boseman, is one of the players the Browns are considering taking in the first round.

Mack, however, would not be in New York for the draft. Spoon wasn’t on his draft day either.

“It’s pretty busy,” said Spoon of his draft day. “I was actually back home in Jasper (Texas) and I wanted to go to New York, but it didn’t work out… We just stayed at home. We had cameras there and stuff. My family was there.”

“I got a call and it was Les Snead (former Falcons director of player personnel). Les was like, ‘We’re going to call you right back. If nothing changes we’re going to (draft you).’

Sure enough, the Falcons took the 6-foot2, 244-pound tackling machine. Chaos ensued at the Weatherspoon household, as it did at the Mack’s in Draft Day.

“That part, when Mack got the call and he was on his couch, and he was just in shock that he got drafted,” Spoon said of the scene, which reminded him of his own draft day. “It was surreal and something I’d always dreamed of.”

THE NEW HOLLYWOOD …

Atlanta has seen its share of movies and

shows filmed here in recent years to the point that businesses whose only function is to provide extras for filming have sprung up in the area. The city certainly has its share of major celebs in its midst, and the Falcons are no exception.

“I wouldn’t say it’s up-and-coming with movies, they’re doing everything here,” said Weatherspoon after the sneak peak. “There are a lot of opportunities. Hopefully, some day I’ll get a call to be in one of those movies.”

The city has hosted filming of movies like Hall Pass, the Hunger Games, Anchorman, Borat and Drumline among many others in recent years. Movie stars such as Woody Harrelson, Tyler Perry, Owen Wilson, Jennifer Lawrence and Donald Sutherland have been spotted in metro Atlanta. In the near future, sequels to the sci-fi thriller Divergent will be filmed in the area.

As one of the more magnetic and charismatic personalities on the team, going into the movie industry seems like a natural path for Weatherspoon in the future.

“I don’t know, man, I think I could do it,” he said. “I could remember my lines and act it out.

That’d be pretty cool.”

Peters, who said he likes to live more in the behind-the-scenes world, will probably skip a career on the silver screen. “I’ve been invited to some things, but I’ve always turned it down,” said the former Kentucky Wildcat. “(Hollywood) is not really my style.”

While Falcons players differ on their futures on the silver screen, fans, players and owners alike can agree that “Draft Day” is a winner.

Photos courtesy of Jimmy Cribb/Atlanta Falcons.

AT L A N TA FA L C O N S D R A F T DAY 2 014

FALCONS FIRST OVERALL DRAFT PICKS 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981

Tommy Nobis Leo Carroll Claude Humphrey George Kunz John Small Joe Profit Clarence Ellis Greg Marx Gerald Tinker Steve Bartkowski Bubba Bean Warren Bryant Mike Kenn Don Smith Junior Miller Bobby Butler

No. 1, Round 1 No. 31, Round 2 No. 3, Round 1 No. 2, Round 1 No. 12, Round 1 No. 7, Round 1 No. 15, Round 1 No. 39, Round 2 No. 44, Round 2 No. 1, Round 1 No. 9, Round 1 No. 6, Round 1 No. 13, Round 1 No. 17, Round 1 No. 7, Round 1 No. 25, Round 1

1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997

Gerald Riggs Mike Pitts Rick Bryan Bill Fralic Tony Casillas Chris Miller Aundray Bruce Deion Sanders Steve Broussard Bruce Pickens Bob Whitfield Lincoln Kennedy Bert Emanuel Devin Bush Shannon Brown Michael Booker

No. 9, Round 1 No. 16, Round 1 No. 9, Round 1 No. 2, Round 1 No. 2, Round 1 No. 13, Round 1 No. 1, Round 1 No. 5, Round 1 No. 20, Round 1 No. 3, Round 1 No. 8, Round 1 No. 9, Round 1 No. 45, Round 2 No. 26, Round 1 No. 84, Round 3 No. 11, Round 1

1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Keith Brooking Patrick Kerney Travis Claridge Michael Vick T.J. Duckett Bryan Scott DeAngelo Hall Roddy White Jimmy Williams Jamaal Anderson Matt Ryan Peria Jerry Sean Weatherspoon Julio Jones Peter Konz Desmond Trufant

No. 12, Round 1 No. 30, Round 1 No. 37, Round 2 No. 1, Round 1 No. 18, Round 1 No. 55, Round 2 No. 8, Round 1 No. 27, Round 1 No. 37, Round 2 No. 8, Round 1 No. 3, Round 1 No. 24, Round 1 No. 19, Round 1 No. 6, Round 1 No. 55, Round 2 No. 22, Round 1

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ATLANTA FALCONS 2014 DRAFT ROUND

ROUND

ROUND

ROUND

ROUND ROUND

ROUND

ROUND ROUND

ROUND

PICK 6 (6)

PICK 5 (37)

PICK 4 (68)

PICK 3 (103)

PICK 39 (139)

PICK 6 (182)

PICK 5 (220)

PICK 37 (253)

PICK 39 (255)

COMPENSATORY SELECTION

COMPENSATORY SELECTION

1 2 3 4 4 5 6 7 7 7 PICK 7 (147)

COMPENSATORY SELECTION

AUTOGRAPHS