J.Mike's Missives

Head Coach Mike Smith said he received a letter from the NFL office in New York Thursday morning informing him of a disciplinary fine for his role in a sideline altercation in Sunday’s game against the Redskins.

Smith said he accepts the fine and, along with his team, wants to move on to this week’s game against the Carolina Panthers.

“I want everyone to know I’ve moved on from it,” Smith said. “I moved on from it back on Sunday night when that play was over. I’m ready to get prepared for the Carolina Panthers.”

http://video.atlantafalcons.com/video/191019/191019_2009-11-12-141447.flv

A skirmish broke out on the Atlanta sideline when former Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall got into a scuffle with coaches and players. The scuffle started after Redskins safety LaRon Landry was flagged for a late hit on quarterback Matt Ryan.

After the game Hall said he was accosted by coaches and he would file a formal complaint with the NFL.

According to published reports, Smith received a $15,000 fine for his interaction with Hall. Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth was fined $7,500. Landry was fined $5,000. Hall was reportedly not fined.

Smith did not comment on the fine amounts Thursday.

The coach did, however, make it clear he will always “have the backs” of his players. On Monday, Smith said he was trying to restore order on the sideline after the late hit to Ryan.

The second-year coach said he learned from the experience.

“Every day is a learning experience,” he said Thursday. “I think you’re a lifelong learner. You have to handle situations differently when you learn from them.”

Thursday, wide receiver Roddy White said the team will always come to the defense of its franchise quarterback, who he called “the future.” White was not on the sideline for the incident but added that, if he were, he may have done something “out of character.”

Fans on the FalconsLIFE Message Boards started taking a collection to help pay any possible fines early in the week. As of 2:15 p.m. Thursday the amount had climbed above $1,100. Smith said the action is “very nice to hear” but he’s ready to move on to a new opponent and continue the season.

“It’s been the last thing on my mind since Sunday afternoon,” he said. “My focus is getting prepared and getting this team ready to play the Carolina Panthers.”

J. Michael Moore News Albert Haynesworth, Carolina Panthers, DeAngelo Hall, Head Coach Mike Smith, LaRon Landry, Matt Ryan, NFL, Roddy White, Washington Redskins

This just in  from the “Did that Just Happen?” department…

The Falcons took a 24-3 lead into the locker room at halftime of Sunday’s matchup against the Redskins but not before fisticuffs nearly erupted on the home sideline.

With 1:37 left in the opening half, quarterback Matt Ryan scrambled for a first down and stepped out of bounds in front of his bench. Redskins safety LaRon Landry made the stop and pushed Ryan down out of bounds. A flag was thrown for a late hit and, quicker than a slant pattern, Falcons players found themselves in the midst of a pushing and yelling match with former Atlanta cornerback DeAngelo Hall.

Head Coach Mike Smith was in the midst of the scuffle, which took about two minutes to break up. His facial expression and passion was reminiscent of a similar play in 2008, when he and Tampa Bay wideout Antonio Bryant exchanged words.

During the chaos, defensive tackle defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth was also flagged for unnecessary roughness.

Atlanta went on to finish the drive with a field goal.

The event was a physical manifestation of emotion that built throughout the first half. The Falcons sacked Washington quarterback Jason Campbell five times, tying a team record. The Redskins defense also kept pressure on Ryan, sacking him three times and forcing an interception.

Other Atlanta scores came off an interception return by Tye Hill, a touchdown pass to Tony Gonzalez and a 30-yard Michael Turner run.

J. Michael Moore Gameday Albert Haynesworth, DeAngelo Hall, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jason Campbell, LaRon Landry, Matt Ryan, Tony Gonzalez, Tye Hill, Washington Redskins

One of the biggest problems the Falcons faced in back-to-back losses over the last two weeks was a lack of intensity past the opening drive.

Through the opening quarter of Sunday’s game against the Redskins, the Falcons kept the foot on the accelerator and held a 14-0 lead. That included an offensive and defensive score.

Atlanta took the ball to open the game and marched 74 yards over 10 plays before Matt Ryan found Tony Gonzalez in the front corner of the end zone with a 2-yard touchdown pass. The drive was kept alive on a fourth-and-1 play inside the red zone where Ryan successfully drew Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth offside with a hard count.

The Redskins went three-and-out on the next drive but on their next possession, Atlanta cornerback Tye Hill — a player acquired via trade in the last week of the preseason — intercepted Jason Campbell and returned the ball 62 yards for a score.

A single blemish hit the Falcons offensive stat sheet — a Ryan interception. But the team recovered from the detour and stayed on the highway of success.

Campbell completed just two passes for 9 yards in the opening quarter. Washington rushed for 25 yards (4 by All-Pro Clinton Portis, who left the game with a head injury not to return). Campbell was sacked once by Kroy Biermann, pushing his team-high total to four on the season.

J. Michael Moore Gameday Albert Haynesworth, Clinton Portis, Jason Campbell, Kroy Biermann, Matt Ryan, Tony Gonzalez, Tye Hill, Washington Redskins

After more than two NFL seasons of full-time blogging I’m running out of things to say. Shocking, huh?

So, for today’s edition of the Friday Pep Talk, I’m going with a clip so short and easy a caveman can understand it.

If this is, as Dwight Schrute says, “the most inspiring thing” he’s ever heard we can rest assured nothing will ever go wrong on The Office. Luckily for the Falcons, sitcom television has no bearings on football (episodes get moved for the Super Bowl, remember)?

As the Falcons prepare to face the 2-5 Washington Redskins, we’re reminded that no team can be overlooked on an NFL schedule. Of course, “not being an idiot” is sometimes easier said than done.

But with the right amount of focus mixed with a dash of frustration from back-to-back losses the Falcons can do the same thing they did when faced with a 4-3 record in 2008 — win.

Atlanta won seven of it’s last nine games last season to secure a playoff spot.

A victory Sunday won’t be easy. The Redskins have a top-10 defense and, at least when it comes to sound byes, a chippy personality the Falcons tend to answer on the field.

I look for the Falcons to come out with the necessary motivation because, for 24 games, Head Coach Mike Smith’s team didn’t lose back-to-back contests.

Three in a row seems unlikely.

Just don’t Schrute it.

Redskins defense an area of Falcons focus, AF.com
With a defense as good as the Redskins’, where would the team be with an offense that scored more than 13 points per game?

Falcons version of “Saving Private Ryan,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I forgot Terry Robiskie was once a Redskins interim head coach. Blast from the past.

Turner taps into his old mind-set, The Augusta Chronicle
Watching film doesn’t have to be about the opponent.

What to Watch for in Week 9, AF.com
Last year the Falcons won ball games by dominating in the first quarter. Could struggles in the second quarter be a sign of a struggle in 2009?

Falcons-Redskins sold out, no blackout, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Blackouts aren’t a thing of the past in the NFL. But Falcons fans take note. This isn’t 2007 or the start of 2008. The Falcons have announced their presence on the national scene.

I Think I Remember This Guy, J. Mike’s Missives
A little self-promotion never hurt anyone.

Falcons CB Tye Hill hopes to contribute more, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
For more on Hill, who got his first start as a Falcon last week, watch…

http://video.atlantafalcons.com/video/187065/187065_2009-11-05-123628.flv

Redskins’ tackle job may be left to Jones, The Washington Times
On a team built around an All-Pro running back and ball-control passing game (not to mention a good defense), injuries at offensive line aren’t an option.

‘Misunderstood’ Hall in midst of an overhaul, The Washington Post
This is a story line that changes by the day. Good thing kickoff isn’t far away.

Blache passionately defends Redskins owner Snyder from criticism, NFL.com
Speaking of story lines… I think Michael Jenkins said it best this week when he told reporters the Falcons can’t concern themselves about what goes on in an opponents’ front office. Words to live by.

Matty Ice mired in a bit of a slump, Yahoo Sports
Plenty of football left. Interceptions get added to the stat sheet at some point or another. Maybe Matt Ryan’s come in clumps.

Haynesworth calls out Clabo, Dahl on radio show, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Again with the talk! We got comments from Tyson Clabo, too, if you’re interested…

http://video.atlantafalcons.com/video/187717/187717_2009-11-06-140459.flv

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Albert Haynesworth, DeAngelo Hall, Dwight Schrute, Friday Pep Talk, Harvey Dahl, Head Coach Mike Smith, Matt Ryan, Michael Jenkins, Michael Turner, NFL.com, Terry Robiskie, The Augusta Chronicle, The Office, The Washington Post, The Washington Times, Tye Hill, Tyson Clabo, Washington Redskins, Yahoo Sports

The NFL Draft is just more than two days away and speculation is in high gear.

When I first had the idea to do a series of mock drafts leading up to this epic offseason event I was ignorant to the various opinions held by the Falcons fan base.

You all opened my eyes to more possibilities and I hate I couldn’t get to them all.

I was also a little naive to the amount of research it takes to create a successful mock draft. This was surely easier when the NFL had less than 32 teams and media jabbering and team-by-team smoke screening weren’t part of the draft mystique.

At times I just wanted someone else to do it but I must say the act of research and figuring out scenarios for the first round gave me a better understanding for what may go down Saturday.

It also gives me a new appreciation for the amount of work Falcons personnel men — including Head Coach Mike Smith, General Manager Thomas Dimitroff and their staffs — put in on a daily basis.

Here’s the final mock.

No. 1 — Detroit Lions
QB Matthew Stafford, Georgia (no change)

Apparently, Stafford is telling former teammates he’s going to be a Lion. The Lions say the draft board wasn’t finalized until just a few days ago. We won’t know for sure until contract talks get underway but it seems to me Detroit is going to wait until Saturday to make the official announcement. A lot of analysts think Mark Sanchez is the safe pick at quarterback and Detroit will be better off selecting an offensive tackle at No. 1. It’s hard to argue with that. But it’s also hard to say the Lions don’t need to make a splash in the draft to go along with their new head coach and uniforms.

No. 2 — St. Louis Rams
T Eugene Monroe, Virginia (Previous Pick: Jason Smith)

The top five picks in the NFL Draft are supposed to be easy. Not the case this year. I’ve pushed three players through the No. 2 spot and I’ve decided on the player that’s been here the least. Jason Smith may have more upside. He may even be more athletic. But Monroe is the safe pick among tackles.

No. 3 — Kansas City Chiefs
LB Aaron Curry, Wake Forest (no change)

Kansas City must make a choice. Every position of need can be addressed with the No. 3 pick or later in the first round. Trade? I’m thinking it’s a possibility considering the amount of rumored talks involving the Chiefs in recent weeks. Predicting details of trades is an art all it’s own, so I won’t get into it. Assume the Chiefs stay at No. 3. They take the most athletic player available.

No. 4 — Seattle Seahawks
T Jason Smith, Baylor (Previous Pick: B.J. Raji)

Scoring is the key in the NFC West, especially with the Cardinals coming off a division championship and Super Bowl appearance. Raji — or any defensive pick — can help the Seahawks win games but getting the offense on sure footing takes priority here.

No. 5 — Cleveland Browns
DE/LB Brian Orakpo, Texas (no change)

It all starts with a pass rush. Ohio State cornerback/safety Malcom Jenkins meets a need but the desire to get sacks and force opposing quarterbacks into bad decisions drives this pick. Orakpo, like all the hybrid defensive ends, will need to learn a thing or two about playing linebacker in a 3-4 but NFL coaches are spry enough to develop packages to put a good pass rusher to work.

No. 6 — Cincinnati Bengals
DT B.J. Raji, Boston College (Previous Pick: Eugene Monroe)

The Bengals have a lot of picks. Four in the first three rounds. They can address more needs with a pair of third-round selections and Raji is too good a player to pass up at this spot in the draft

No. 7 — Oakland Raiders
WR Michael Crabtree (no change)

The Raiders only have five picks in the draft. That’s what trades will do for you. I was in Oakland when I watched Crabtree and Texas Tech play Texas. I’ll be in Oakland again the next time I watch Crabtree play. It’s time for the Raiders to take a shot at the three-headed monster on offense (Darren McFadden, JaMarcus Russell and Crabtree). I would say the Jaguars would be looking to trade into the spot, but the signing of Torry Holt stops some of the bleeding at that position.

No. 8 — Jacksonville Jaguars
QB Mark Sanchez, USC (no change)

Go ahead and question this pick. David Garrard has put up solid numbers in recent years. But some draft analysts say Sanchez is actually better than Stafford. This situation is too good to pass up if you’re Jacksonville. Consider most successful quarterbacks in the league aren’t asked to start from Day One. Matt Ryan, of course, is the wonderful exception.

No. 9 — Green Bay Packers
DE Aaron Maybin (no change)

Green Bay has four picks in the top 100 and two big holes on a defense that’s going to a pure 3-4. The key to a successful 3-4 defense is along the line, but this is too high for Tyson Jackson and play makers at linebacker will go quickly in this draft. Maybin may not be the best cover linebacker but he’s got skills as a pass rusher.

No. 10 — San Francisco 49ers
T Andre Smith, Alabama (no change)

If Sanchez falls, the dynamic of the 49ers draft changes. If not, the team has a decision to make. Is it a linebacker or is it a guy who can come in and start at right tackle opposite Joe Staley? Smith is an interesting prospect as a left tackle (who wouldn’t be interested in a 332-pound guy protecting a quarterback’s back)? But he may be better suited as a run blocker on the right side.

No. 11 — Buffalo Bills
T Michael Oher, Ole Miss (Previous Pick: Malcom Jenkins)

The Bills now have two picks in the first round and thus have flexibility to move up for a player or get two starters. Trading Jason Peters opens up a hole at left tackle but the team can address it here. I like Oher and he’s got good upside at the position. Buffalo can’t wait for an offensive linemen in the first round, so this is the pick.

No. 12 — Denver Broncos
LB James Laurinaitus, Ohio State (no change)

A lot of things need to go right for the Broncos in this draft. They have the picks to move up and get just about anyone they want, but stockpiling selections helps a team with a lot of needs. The team held a workout for Sanchez, but I’m thinking the experience at quarterback on the roster (Kyle Orton and Chris Simms) makes the decision makers feel better about passing on a signal caller in the first round. Laurinaitus is as solid as they come and 49ers head coach turned Broncos defensive coordinator Mike Nolan knows a thing or two about having good linebackers in his system (see Willis-comma-Patrick).

No. 13 — Washington Redskins
LB Rey Maualuga, USC (Previous Pick: Michael Johnson)

Michael Johnson is falling out of favor again with some draft gurus and, if you’re the Redskins, maybe you think you’re OK with the acquisition of Albert Haynesworth on the defensive line. He’ll free up the linebackers and that’s another area of need in Washington. Maualuga is a tackling machine and can be an anchor on an aging defense.

No. 14 — New Orleans Saints
DB Malcom Jenkins, Ohio State (Previous Pick: Vontae Davis)

I’m not changing my mind on the position, just the player. If Jenkins tumbles the first team that’s looking at cornerback will take him. He still may evolve into a safety in the NFL. Either way, the Saints get an upgrade in the secondary. They’re going to need it long term with Ryan in the division.

No. 15 — Houston Texans
CB Vontae Davis, Illinois (Previous Pick: Darius Butler)

It’s nice to have a big pass rush and the Texans still need someone opposite Mario Williams but in a division that has the high-powered Colts a solid secondary is key. Davis is also athletic enough to mix it up with the Titans power run game. He provides some insurance — and a possible replacement — for Dunta Robinson who has said he’s unhappy about getting the franchise tag.

No. 16 — San Diego Chargers
DE Tyson Jackson, LSU (Previous Pick: Rey Maualuga)

This is where it gets interesting. The Broncos need a defensive end for a 3-4 scheme. So do the Chargers. Jackson fits the mold and Denver and San Diego pick close to each other. Possible fireworks with division rivals? Or, I’m totally wrong on this pick and nothing happens. I’ll figure the odds in my head sometime before Saturday.

No. 17 — New York Jets
QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State (no change)

I don’t want to call any pick a “gimme” but this one just makes too much sense.

No. 18 — Denver Broncos (from Chicago)
DE/LB Larry English, Northern Illinois (Previous Pick: Tyson Jackson)

If you think of English as a linebacker you’ll get confused. With this pick the Broncos get a pass rusher with a little experience in a 3-4 and keep Laurinaitus and D.J. Williams on the inside. Maybe Elvis Dumervil moves to linebacker. A lot of questions, but if that group pans out the Broncos could be in good shape.

No. 19 — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DT Peria Jerry, Ole Miss (Previous Pick: Brian Cushing)

The next two flips could flip-flop. Lions head coach Jim Schwartz spent years coaching Haynesworth in Tennessee so he knows what a big lineman can do for a defense. Jerry is a high-motor player that can disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage. But we’re talking about the Bucs. They also need an interior pass rush to make the defense click.

No. 20 — Detroit Lions (from Dallas)
LB Brian Cushing, USC (Previous Pick: Michael Oher)

The Lions could also use a linebacker. Compare Cushing to Keith Bulluck. Also, think about a defense with Ernie Sims playing linebacker opposite this USC standout?

No. 21 — Philadelphia Eagles
RB Knowshon Moreno, Georgia (no change)

I almost pulled out the surprise pick and sent Moreno to Denver. That would certainly make some Eagles fans upset.

No. 22 — Minnesota Vikings
WR Jeremy Maclin, Missouri (no change)

I’ve seen Maclin go higher in the first round but the run on wide receiver is coming in the bottom 10 picks this season. Maclin was an All-American receiver and return man at Missouri. Maybe he stops the search for a star wideout in Minnesota.

No. 23 — New England Patriots
LB Clay Matthews, USC (no change)

A lot of Falcons fans would love to see Matthews on the board at No. 24. It would be a good story. His father played in Atlanta and he went from walk-on to star at USC. He fits in with the Patriots needs, though, and he gets scooped up just before the Falcons go on the clock.

No. 24 — Atlanta Falcons
CB Darius Butler, Connecticut (Previous Pick: Larry English)

He’s consistent. He’s versatile. He’s a pick that makes sense for the Falcons (at least in this humble blogger’s opinion).

Butler had 10 interceptions over his college career. He was a four-year starter at UCONN and a two-time team captain. His skill set translates to zone or man coverages and he even played a little offense.

You may say the team should look at linebacker, but the re-signing of Coy Wire and addition of Mike Peterson gives the Falcons starting experience at the position. Stephen Nicholas has also patiently waited for his chance and he’ll be given a shot to compete once offseason practices begin.

Defensive tackle? Trey Lewis was a rookie starter and, were it not for an injury, could have played a big role as a run stopper last season. He’s healthy and ready to go.

Safety is a spot that remains up in the air. Thomas DeCoud is a second-year player but has all the skills to come in and play next to Erik Coleman. Jamal Fudge, who started a game for an injured Lawyer Milloy last season, remains on the roster. There are going to be good safeties available in the second round, so it’s OK to be patient.

Tight end is at the status quo and there’s value later in the draft should the Falcons look to add a pass catcher.

As for cornerback… Well, I explained a little more in this YouTube video how you can never have too much competition at the position and how Butler could fit in.

Again, this is all hypothetical.

No. 25 — Miami Dolphins
WR Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina (no change)

Tedd Ginn Jr. is a solid wide receiver and the Dolphins expect him to step up this season. But adding another, all-around pass catcher won’t hurt.

No. 26 — Baltimore Ravens
WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland (no change)

I think this is the only pick I’ve had for the Ravens since this started. The defense in Baltimore will be fine. Joe Flacco needs a weapon to strike down field.

No. 27 — Indianapolis Colts
DT Evander Hood, Missouri (no change)

Nicks or Heyward-Bey would be the pick if available. The Colts have no problem drafting for an already stocked offense, especially when there’s a need to replace Marvin Harrsion. But getting a defensive tackle may be the most pressing need.

No. 28 Buffalo Bills (from Carolina via Philadelphia)
TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State

Pettigrew would go to the Eagles and I figure he’ll stay in the same spot now that the Bills own the pick. This is about rounding out the offense.

No. 29 — New York Giants
WR Percy Harvin, Florida (no change)

I’m not ruling out the Titans making a run at Harvin but writing in trades to a mock draft is just too confusing. The Giants address a position of need with Harvin and, as an added bonus, get a player that can make some noise on end-arounds and other running plays. I almost put Beanie Wells in this spot but that would be a reach for the Giants who still have a pretty good running game despite free agent departures.

No. 30 — Tennessee Titans
DT Ron Brace, Boston College (no change)

This may be the year the Titans decide to take a wide receiver in the first round. Harvin is the best fit because he can help in the team’s running game. Cornerback is an option but if you’re looking at the team’s defense you have to figure out a way to replace Haynesworth.

No. 31 –Arizona Cardinals
RB Beanie Wells (no change)

The Cardinals have to improve the running game to help Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner. If Wells isn’t a surprise pick by the Broncos or Eagles, he’ll fall into a good situation in Arizona

No. 32 — Pittsburgh Steelers
CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest (Previous Pick Eben Britton)

The Steelers lost Bryant McFadden in free agency and have a way of filling spots on the roster before they become too big a need. Smith is an aggressive cornerback that can benefit from the Steelers pass rush.

J. Michael Moore Mock Draft, NFL Draft Aaron Curry, Aaron Maybin, Albert Haynesworth, Alphonso Smith, Andre Smith, Arizona Cardinals, B.J. Raji, Baltimore Ravens, Beanie Wells, Brandon Pettigrew, Brian Cushing, Brian Orakpo, Bryant McFadden, Buffalo Bills, Chris Simms, Cincinnati Bengals, Clay Matthews, Cleveland Browns, Coy Wire, D.J. Williams, Darius Butler, Darren McFadden, Darrius Heyward-Bay, David Garrard, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Dunta Robinson, Eben Britton, Elvis Dumervil, Erik Coleman, Ernie Simms, Eugene Monroe, Evander Hood, Green Bay Packers, Hakeem Nicks, Head Coach Mike Smith, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jamal Fudge, JaMarcus Russell, James Laurinaitus, Jason Peters, Jason Smith, Jeremy Maclin, Joe Staley, Josh Freeman, Kansas City Chiefs, Keith Bulluck, Knowshon Moreno, Kurt Warner, Kyle Orton, Larry English, Larry Fitzgerald, Lawyer Milloy, Malcom Jenkins, Mario Williams, Mark Sanchez, Matt Ryan, Matthew Stafford, Miami Dolphins, Michael Crabtree, Michael Johnson, Michael Oher, Mike Nolan, Mike Peterson, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, NFL Draft, Oakland Raiders, Patrick Willis, Percy Harvin, Peria Jerry, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Rey Maualuga, Ron Brace, San Diego Chargers, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams, Stephen Nicholas, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tedd Ginn Jr., Tennessee Titans, Thomas DeCoud, Thomas Dimitroff, Torry Holt, Trey Lewis, Tyson Jackson, Vontae Davis, Washington Redskins

Somewhere between reading the comments on Mock Draft 1.0 and researching updates on my draft predictions I realized something I should have taken into account before I came up with this crazy idea.

Be careful on the expectations you set.

Like Homer Simpson running for sanitation commissioner, I wonder if I’m making outlandish claims impossible to backup.



Then again, I’ve never been one to shy away from a challenge.

And I always finish what I start.

No. 1 — Detroit Lions
QB Matthew Stafford, Georgia (no change)

The Miami Dolphins chose an offensive tackle with the No. 1 pick last season when a quarterback was on the board and that may act as a guide for the rebuilding Lions. But the Dolphins had the luxury of a deep quarterback draft class and made a move to get a veteran in Chad Pennington. The QB market isn’t as impressive in 2009 so the Lions stick with Stafford and hope he develops into a strong-armed leader.

No. 2 — St. Louis Rams
T Eugene Monroe, Virginia (no change)

Jason Smith and Monroe are the co-leaders among offensive tackles in this draft. But Smith didn’t start his college career as an offensive lineman and it’s hard to find anyone more “prototypical” for the position than Monroe. He’s still the Rams pick at this spot as a replacement for Orlando Pace.

No. 3 — Kansas City Chiefs
LB Aaron Curry, Wake Forest (no change)

No change here. Curry will contribute right away on a team that, though coached by an offensive mind, has the tools to chase the Chargers in the AFC West contest for best defense.

No. 4 — Seattle Seahawks
DT B.J. Raji, Boston College (Previous Pick: Jason Smith)

Maybe he doesn’t have the buzz of a Glenn Dorsey but Raji will be a long-term fixture on any defensive line. The Seahawks need help on offense but Raji is one of the best players on the board at this point and the new coaching staff can’t resist a lineman that can take pressure off the linebackers.

No. 5 — Cleveland Browns
DE/LB Brian Orakpo, Texas (Previous Pick: Malcom Jenkins)

The Browns have needs in the secondary but shortcomings there can be made up for with an aggressive, consistent pass rush. Did I mention Orakpo’s nickname is “Osackpo?”

No. 6 — Cincinnati Bengals

T Jason Smith, Baylor (Previous Pick: Andre Smith)

The Bengals benefit from some changes at the top of the draft and land the player that could turn out to be the best left tackle in the class. Smith entered college as a tight end so he still has homework when it comes some to technical aspects of left tackle but he has the athleticism and attitude to be great.

No. 7 — Oakland Raiders

WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech (no change)

The Raiders need a lot more than players to turn the franchise around but Crabtree is a good start. Put concerns about his workouts — or lack thereof — aside and realize that with an injury he was the best receiver in college football in 2008.

No. 8 — Jacksonville Jaguars
WR Jeremy Maclin, Missouri (Previous Pick: B.J. Raji)

This is a big jump for Maclin from my previous post but since then the Jaguars acquired Tra Thomas to fill a hole at tackle and Matt Jones found himself in trouble with the law. Receiver is a safe pick.

No. 9 — Green Bay Packers
DE/LB Everette Brown, Florida State (Previous Pick: Brian Orakpo)

With Orakpo off the board the Packers and new defensive coordinator Dom Capers, a 3-4 guru, need a player to fit the scheme.

No. 10 — San Francisco 49ers
QB Mark Sanchez, USC (no change)

I’m still not sold on the 49ers taking a quarterback, especially after signing veteran Damon Huard and renegotiating Alex Smith’s contract. But let’s just say the team takes a page out of the Falcons playbook: New head coach, new era, new quarterback.

No. 11 — Buffalo Bills
TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State (no change)

Congrats Buffalo, you landed T.O. Now complete the array of offensive weaponry by selecting the best tight end in the draft. Speed is not Pettigrew’s best attribute (he’s pushing 4.8 seconds in the ‘40′) but comparisons to Pro Bowler Jason Witten make him a good choice.

No. 12 — Denver Broncos
DB Malcom Jenkins, Ohio State (Previous Pick: Everette Brown)

The Broncos are scheduled to hold a private workout with Jenkins, who takes a little tumble in this version of the draft. The team likes some of the young players opposite Champ Bailey but Jenkins may have a future at safety. And the Broncos need safety.

No. 13 — Washington Redskins
DE Tyson Jackson, LSU (no change)

The spending spree in Washington has me a little frustrated of late so I haven’t done much research on the Redskins and draft needs (I figure they may sign a few more free agents). Albert Haynesworth is a force in the middle and Jackson is an all-around threat that can get the job done.

No. 14 — New Orleans Saints
LB Brian Cushing, USC (Previous Pick: Knowshon Moreno)

It took a week but I think I’m over that brief bit of insanity that led to putting Knowshon Moreno in this position. While I still believe the Saints will look for another running back as insurance for Reggie Bush, Cushing makes too much sense in this slot. Sorry NFC South, this hard-hitting linebacker is in the division.

No. 15 — Houston Texans
DE Aaron Maybin, Penn State (no change)

Maybin may also fit with 3-4 teams looking for a pass-rushing linebacker but he’ll stay at defensive end and give the Texans a player opposite Mario Williams. A few tweaks and Houston could give the Titans a run for their money as the best defense in the AFC South.

No. 16 — San Diego Chargers
LB Rey Maualuga, USC (no change)

Any ground the Chiefs pick up by adding Curry the Chargers wipe away with the acquisition of Maualuga. He can become a tackling machine behind the Chargers defensive line.

No. 17 — New York Jets
CB Vonte Davis, Illinois (no change)

Many draft experts, including NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, have Davis moving ahead of Jenkins as the best cornerback in the draft. In that sense, this is a steal for the Jets who don’t have a lot of holes on either side of the ball.

No. 18 — Chicago Bears
DE Larry English, Northern Illinois (no change)

English posted 31.5 sacks in his college career and the Bears defense could use a talent infusion on the line. Wide receiver is an option here if there’s not a run on the position earlier in the round. English would be a good fit with the Falcons since he’s another linebacker/defensive end “tweener,” but he hasn’t fallen into the 20s just yet.

No. 19 — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DT Peria Jerry, Ole Miss (Previous Pick: Brian Cushing)

Another guy that would look good in a Falcons uniform goes to a division foe. The Buccaneers are looking to go younger. Jerry meets that criteria and can also get to the quarterback from the defensive tackle spot. That’s something the Buccaneers did really well when Javon Haye was with the team and healthy.

No. 20 — Detroit Lions (from Dallas)
T Andre Smith, Alabama (Previous Pick: Peria Jerry)

Wondering where this guy would end up? Look no more. I’ve read varying reports about Smith’s pro day workout at Alabama and, to be honest, I think many in the media just want to pile on after Smith left the Combine early. That said, concerns about maintaining weight could push him toward the bottom of the round. The Lions need defense, but it’s a chance (like the Falcons) to get a quarterback and a left tackle in the same draft.

No. 21 — Philadelphia Eagles
RB Knowshon Moreno, Georgia (Previous Pick: Beanie Wells)

The Eagles aren’t taking Brian Westbrook out of the offense. On the contrary, he’ll remain a key to the team’s success. But now’s a good a time as any to bring in a change-of-pace back and a face for the future.

No. 22 — Minnesota Vikings
CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest (Previous Pick: Josh Freeman)

Smith went to the Falcons in last week’s mock but this week the Vikings decide to pass on a quarterback in the first round and improve on the best part of the team: defense. Smith will provide immediate depth and could compete for a starting job inside an aging secondary.

No. 23 — New England Patriots
LB James Laurinaitus, Ohio State (Previous Pick: Clay Matthews)

The Patriots add a three-time All-American to the defense with Laurinaitus. His instincts in pass coverage make him a good fit for a 3-4 or 4-3 defense.

No. 24 — Atlanta Falcons
LB Clay Matthews, USC (Previous Pick: Alphonso Smith)

Flexibility. It’s a buzzword that’s close to the heart of many a Falcons coach. Matthews can play a little defensive end but will likely take most of his NFL snaps as a true, outside linebacker. Adding Mike Peterson continued the reshaping of Atlanta’s linebacker corps. Drafting Matthews would give the team a pass-rusher and a player that can round out the group.

No. 25 — Miami Dolphins
CB Darius Butler, UCONN (Previous Pick: Clay Matthews)

A two-time team captain and a gifted athlete, Butler has what it takes to play in the NFL in multiple schemes.

No. 26 — Baltimore Ravens
WR Darrius Heyward-Bay, Maryland (Previous Pick: Jeremy Macklin)

The Ravens will have quarterback Joe Flacco throw to Heyward-Bay at a private workout. Don’t read too much into that other than to confirm Baltimore is taking a hard look at receivers this offseason. Besides, Flacco deserves a speedy receiver to go with his strong arm.

No. 27 — Indianapolis Colts
DT Evander Hood, Missouri (Previous Pick: Darrius Heyward-Bay)

You can never have enough quality defensive tackles in the NFL. Hood is a player who could move higher on the board but, in Version 2.0, Indy picks him up to play next to proven starter Raheem Brock.

No. 28 Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina)
T Michael Oher, Ole Miss (Previous Pick: Louis Delmas)

It’s all about need at this point in the draft so the Eagles stay in the SEC to nab an offensive tackle. The team signed Stacy Andrews in free agency but Thomas is gone and they may need some assistance on the opposite side of the line.

No. 29 — New York Giants
WR Percy Harvin, Florida (no change)

Harvin gives versatility to the Giants receiving group and, with so much action in free agency, I don’t see New York adding defense this early in the draft.

No. 30 — Tennessee Titans
DT Ron Brace, Boston College (no change)

The Titans probably haven’t ruled out going after a veteran receiver. Besides, it’s not in their DNA to pick a wideout in the first round. So, let’s go with the next logical step: a replacement for Albert Haynesworth.

No. 31 –Arizona Cardinals
RB Beanie Wells, Ohio State (Previous Pick LeSean McCoy)

Not sure how Wells fell this far and it may be a big mistake on my part. But, if you’re the Cardinals and he’s here you have to take him. He’s a lot like Tim Hightower, but the Cards need something to get the running game going… quick.

No. 32 — Pittsburgh Steelers
T Eben Britton, Arizona (no change)

Cornerback D.J. Moore is a possibility here since the Steelers lost Bryant McFadden in free agency. But for now I’ll stay with the pick from last week.

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This could go well or, like Homer Simpson conducting a monorail, I could be horribly unfit for this job and the mock draft spiral out of control.

Either way we’re in for a wild ride and a little fun, right!?

Keep in mind this is one man’s opinion.

No. 1 — Detroit Lions
QB Matthew Stafford, Georgia

In a perfect world the Lions should trade out of this spot and try to stock pile some picks in the second and third round. But, the NFL is not a perfect world and the Lions already have the luxury of two first-round picks. Stafford has the arm of a franchise quarterback but he may not be ready to play as quickly as Matt Ryan.

No. 2 — St. Louis Rams
T Eugene Monroe, Virginia

Brandon Albert was projected as a tackle in the NFL and he was left as a guard in college because of Monroe’s skill. The 6-foot-5, 309-pound lineman will clear the way for the Rams running game and start a small run on linemen in this draft.

No. 3 — Kansas City Chiefs
LB Aaron Curry, Wake Forest

Plans changed in Kansas City after the Chiefs traded for quarterback Matt Cassel. Matt Sanchez was an option here, but now the Chiefs can add the best defensive play maker on the board. Trading out of the spot is not out of the question, but fans in KC should be happy no matter what.

No. 4 — Seattle Seahawks
T Jason Smith, Baylor

Andre Smith didn’t do himself any favors when he left the Combine early. Though he and Jason may be 1 and 1-a in terms of offensive tackles, the Baylor star gets the nod in Seattle to help beef up the offensive line.

No. 5 — Cleveland Browns
DB Malcom Jenkins, Ohio State

Is he a cornerback? Is he a safety? Does it matter? The Browns need some help on defense and, while he may not be the most athletic “cornerback,” Jenkins’ versatility makes him a safe pick.

No. 6 — Cincinnati Bengals
T Andre Smith, Alabama

Smith fell but he didn’t fall far. The massive left tackle may have issues when it comes to maintaining weight but that shouldn’t matter much for a team looking to sure up an offensive line that will be protecting a golden-arm quarterback coming off an injury.

No. 7 — Oakland Raiders
WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech

Crabtree revealed at the Combine that he played the 2008 season with a stress fracture. Injured or not, he was the best wide receiver in college football. There’s a risk with Crabtree, but that’s never stopped the Raiders in the past.

No. 8 — Jacksonville Jaguars
DT B.J. Raji, Boston College

The Jaguars need an offensive tackle, but the moves at the top of this mock draft puts the team in a tough spot. The other top tackles, though good, may not warrant a top-10 pick. Jacksonville may look to trade out of the spot or pick up Raji, to bring back some of the defensive tackle magic with John Henderson.

No. 9 — Green Bay Packers
DE/LB Brian Orakpo, Texas

I tossed around the idea of Beanie Wells and Knowshon Moreno here but the Packers are switching to a 3-4 defense. That requires some attention toward specialized personnel. Orakpo is a pass-rush specialists in a linebacker’s body.

No. 10 — San Francisco 49ers
QB Mark Sanchez, USC

The flirtation with Kurt Warner tells me the 49ers may not be overly-thrilled with the 2009 quarterback class. Then again, the acquisition of a veteran quarterback like Damon Huard could be a move to set the stage for another rookie signal-caller.

No. 11 — Buffalo Bills
TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State

It’s a high pick for a tight end but I have a suspission Pettigrew will up his stock at his pro day and will gain more traction as the best all-around tight end in a draft of pass catchers/weak blockers.

No. 12 — Denver Broncos
DE/LB Everette Brown, Florida State

If the Broncos don’t sign all the remaining free agents on the market they’ll be looking to draft for a new, 3-4 defense. Brown fits the description of a pass rusher that can also drop into coverage. Denver had trouble getting a pass rush last season. Maybe Brown’s 21.5 tackles for loss (13.5 sacks) as a junior can translate to the NFL.

No. 13 — Washington Redskins
DE Tyson Jackson, LSU

You paid all that money to get Albert Haynesworth and hold on to cornerback DeAngelo Hall. Now, get someone to replace Jason Taylor.

No. 14 — New Orleans Saints
RB Knowshon Moreno, Georgia

We wait until No. 14 for the first real surprise. Running back may not be the most pressing need for the Saints, but New Orleans got a look at what two first-round running backs can do (Carolina) and Moreno’s pass-catching ability makes for a good fit with Drew Brees. There’s also some insurance for Reggie Bush.

No. 15 — Houston Texans
DE Aaron Maybin, Penn State

Mario Williams. Good pick. But, the Texans still need someone on the other side of the defensive line to build the defense needed to top the Titans and Colts in the AFC South. Maybin has linebacker size right now but could bulk up to play defensive end. Either way, the Texans get the versatile player they thought they had back in 2004 with Jason Babin.

No. 16 — San Diego Chargers
LB Rey Maualuga, USC

The Chargers may be hoping Moreno is on the board for this pick, but a big-time linebacker isn’t a bad backup plan. San Diego’s defense took a step back in 2008 after the loss of Shawn Merriman. If they keep a big defensive line in front of him, Maualuga could be a Ray Lewis-type player in a 3-4 defense.

No. 17 — New York Jets
CB Vonte Davis, Illinois

After being big spenders in free agency the last few years the Jets don’t have a lot of holes to address (except for quarterback). But, don’t look for new head coach Rex Ryan to support a gamble on a mid-round signal caller. Davis is raw but athletic. He’ll fit in nicely with the Baltimore-style defense Ryan is looking to install.

No. 18 — Chicago Bears
DE Larry English, Northern Illinois

Remember when the Bears defense was close to unstoppable? Those days disappeared somehow and Chicago enters 2009 with a need to upgrade the pass rush. The Monsters of the Midway don’t look far to get their newest member.

No. 19 — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LB Brian Cushing, USC

Cushing looks like the hard-nosed, high-motor linebacker that just walked off the set of “Friday Night Lights.” That’s why he’s so easy to like. The Bucs made an effort to get younger this offseason and Cushing — along with his All-American status — fits that mold.

No. 20 — Detroit Lions (from Dallas)
DT Peria Jerry, Ole Miss

He’s no Haynesworth… Yet. New Lions coach Jim Schwartz knows all-to-well the importance of having a dominant defensive tackle. Jerry has to prove himself at the pro level but he’s already done a nice job getting to the quarterback in the SEC, just like Haynesworth.

No. 21 — Philadelphia Eagles
RB Beanie Wells, Ohio State

Brian Westbrook is still the key to the Eagles offense but his game doesn’t lend itself to a straight-ahead style. The Eagles also haven’t been a team to really work the running game along the goal line. Wells gives the team a big running back and plenty of options.

No. 22 — Minnesota Vikings
QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State

Another tough pick. The Vikings could go for a cornerback here (which may lead to a trade with some secondary-hungry teams) or take another shot at a quarterback of the future. If they don’t trade the pick or decide to take an Alphonso Smith/D.J. Moore type, the Vikes could pull the trigger on another young gunslinger.

No. 23 — New England Patriots
LB Clay Matthews, USC

He would fit in with the Falcons, but the Patriots need to do something to beef up the linebacker/defensive end group after trading away Mike Vrabel. Matthews is a hard-worker and may spawn some creative blitz packages.

No. 24 — Atlanta Falcons
CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest

He’s a smart, athletic and aggressive cornerback that leaves Wake Forest as the ACC’s all-time interception leader. Of course, cornerback is just one position of need in Atlanta and the No. 24 pick allows the Birds to take the best defensive player on the board, whoever that may be.

No. 25 — Miami Dolphins
LB James Laurinaitus, Ohio State

Laurinaitus is a steady middle linebacker that, like former Buckeye A.J. Hawk, can anchor a defense for many years. And, am I the only one that just feels like he’s “Bill Parcells Guy?”

No. 26 — Baltimore Ravens
WR Jeremy Maclin, Missouri

The signing of Domonique Foxworth makes Baltimore’s plan a little more flexable. Derrick Mason is getting older and Joe Flacco needs another weapon. Enter Maclin, who some have projected as a top-15 pick.

No. 27 — Indianapolis Colts
WR Dariius Heward-Bay, Maryland

Marvin Harrison is gone in Indy and the Colts have never been a team not to reload at a position (think Anthony Gonzalez after the departure of Brandon Stokley). Heward-Bay ran a 4.3-40-yard dash at the Combine. Wonder what Peyton Manning can do with that kind of speed?

No. 28 Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina)
S Louis Delmas, Western Michigan

The Eagles could have been thinking offensive line here but the signing of Stacy Andrews addressed some problems at that position. Needing to replace Brian Dawkins, the Eagles go after a safety.

No. 29 — New York Giants
WR Percy Harvin, Florida

New York doesn’t want Terrell Owens but there’s still a need at wide receiver. Harvin may also be on Tennessee’s radar, so don’t be surprised if there’s a pick swap scenario.

No. 30 — Tennessee Titans
DT Ron Brace, Boston College

Though his backup played well in 2008, the Titans still need a replacement for Haynesworth. Brace may have stuck around into the second round but the draft is no time to take chances.

No. 31 –Arizona Cardinals
RB LeSean McCoy, Pittsburgh

The Cardinals would love to see one of the top running backs drop but plenty of scouts love McCoy. If Arizona had a true running game in 2008 they could have done much better than a 9-7 record.

No. 32 — Pittsburgh Steelers
T Eben Britton, Arizona

The moment the Eagles signed Andrews the bottom of the draft opened up for tackles. Here’s another example of the Steelers planning for the future and reloading instead of rebuilding.

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The first weekend of free agency came and went without any new additions to the Falcons roster.

The Birds did make moves to lock up some of their own free agents — key players who started games and will compete for starting positions in the coming season — but the lack of movement left some concerns on the FalconsLIFE message boards over the weekend.

As a veteran of several free agent proceedings, I can say patience is one of the best traits to have. Though it may be hard to stomach, some of the best value can be found after the opening weekend and silence from Flowery Branch does not indicate a lack of work or attention to what’s going on around the league.

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So, General Manager Thomas Dimitroff says the Falcons won’t be major players in free agency (at least not major players in the deep-pocket book style of the Redskins).

Instead, Dimitroff said at last week’s Scouting Combine the Falcons would continue the focus of building a young team through the draft and adding select free agent talent.

The Falcons have already made moves to keep key role players, agreeing to terms with tight end Justin Peelle, linebacker Coy Wire, defensive tackle Jason Jefferson and center Ben Wilkerson Thursday evening according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Many believed the Falcons would be a contender in the Albert Haynesworth sweepstakes, but it’s a light class for defensive linemen and, as we learned from Haynesworth’s reported seven-year, $100-million deal with the Redskins, the former Titans lineman was in a different price universe.

That said, here are a few free agents the Falcons can look at to fill needs and stay within a budget.

CB Ron Bartell (Rams)
Bartell recorded 57 tackles, a sack, two forced fumbles and three interceptions last season for the St. Louis Rams. He’s started 28 games over the last two years. NFL Network’s Steve Wyche mentioned Bartell as an option for the Falcons in a one-on-one with AtlantaFalcons.com and his free agency primer on NFL.com.

LB Cato June (Tampa Bay)
June, a late salary cap casualty of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, hit the market Wednesday. The 29-year-old signed a free agent deal before the 2007 season and started 28 games over the last two years. His production slipped in Tampa, but he had three-straight 100-plus tackle years as an outside linebacker in Indianapolis’ Cover Two defense.

LB Angelo Crowell (Buffalo)
Teams have shown interest in Crowell, who missed all of last year after preseason knee surgery. He started every game in 2007, totaling 126 tackles, two sacks, four passes defensed and an interception. He had another 100-plus tackle season in 2005 but has missed games due to injury in his career.

CB Dre’ Bly (Denver)
The Broncos traded for Bly hoping he would be the perfect compliment to All-World cornerback Champ Bailey. Of course, both defensive backs struggled over the last two seasons due to lack of a pass rush. Bly’s time in Denver ended when a new coach and GM opted to recoup some salary cap space. He’s an aggressive, ballhawk corner who has 40 career interceptions.

DE Paul Spicer (Jacksonville)
A recent addition to the list, Spicer was released by the Jaguars just before the start of free agency. He’s 33 but has familiarity with Head Coach Mike Smith’s defensive system, 115 games of experience (63 starts) and 28.5 career sacks.

Others to mention…
CB Reyaldo Hill (Tennessee), S Vincent Fuller (Tennessee), LB Monty Beisel (Arizona), S Jim Leonhard (Baltimore), S Mike Brown (Chicago), NT Tank Johnson (Dallas), DB Marlon McCree (Denver), CB Karl Paymah (Denver), NT Shaun Cody (Detroit), S C.C. Brown (Houston), CB Demarcus “Petey” Faggins (Houston), S Gerald Sensabaugh (Jacksonville), DE Jason Babin (Kansas City), FS Josh Bullocks (New Orleans)

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