2006 Atlanta Falcons Preview

I don’t know what else to say about the Atlanta Falcons except that this is a team that could literally go either, 10-6 or 6-10.
The Falcons got off to a 6-2 start last season before losing six of their final eight games to finish at 8-8 and on the outside looking in come playoff time, continuing their unbelievable streak of never making the playoffs in consecutive seasons.
Championship.

I know quarterback Michael Vick is an all-world athlete, but I’m not sure at this point if he has the intangibles it takes to win a Super Bowl. Not only that, but it should be interesting to see how much, if any, Atlanta has improved their struggling defense of 2005.

Here is my 2006 preview on the Atlanta Falcons.

Quarterback
I know Michael Vick had a lot of nagging injuries that he quietly played through last season, but I am seriously beginning to have my doubts about whether or not he can lead the Falcons – or any team – to a Super Bowl championship.

Vick can make the most astounding play you’ve ever seen one minute and follow that up with one that leaves you scratching your head in wonder the next. If Vick doesn’t learn how to operate an NFL offense from the pocket on a consistent basis, he could end up in the same boat as another supremely talented African-American quarterback who let his God-given talents go to waste (Randall Cunningham).

Atlanta wisely held on to backup Matt Schaub although they were inundated with offers for the talented second-stringer. If Vick goes down with another injury, which his style of play almost assuredly guarantees, Schaub can step in and be effective.

Running Backs
I love the elusive Warrick Dunn, who at 31-years-old, had the best season of his career last season by rushing for over 1,400 yards.

However, I’m not sure if Atlanta made a wise choice by trading Dunn’s stable mate, T.J. Duckett, who provided the power to go along with Dunn’s speed.

Fullback Justin Griffith is an excellent lead blocker for Dunn and decent receiver out of the backfield. The Falcons are hoping that youngster, Jerious Norwood can replace Duckett without missing a beat, but until I see it, I’m going to remain skeptical.

Wide Receiver/Tight End
Unproven youngsters Roddy White and Michael Jenkins will start for Atlanta, which has been looking for competent wide receivers forever. Both players are young, fast and talented, but until I see that talent translate into on-field performance, I’m going to reserve judgment.

Atlanta also brought in another talented, – but enigmatic – player, in former Denver Bronco, Ashley Lelie, who could either end up starting or as the Falcons third receiver.

Vick’s most sure handed target however, is tight end Alge Crumpler, who led the Falcons in receiving last season with 65 receptions.

Offensive Line
Atlanta’s offensive line is a definite strength. Four starters return from last season – center Todd McClure, left guard Matt Lehr, right guard Kynan Forney and right tackle Todd Weiner. Atlanta lost left tackle Kevin Shaffer to the Cleveland Browns in free agency, but acquired veteran Wayne Gandy to replace him.

Defensive Line
Atlanta traded their No. 1 pick for former New York Jets defensive end John Abraham, who will combine with fellow defensive linemen Rod Coleman, Grady Jackson and Patrick Kerney to form a very good group of down linemen.

Abraham’s presence alone should pay immediate dividends, not only for his defensive line mates, but the entire Falcons defense as well.

Linebackers
Outside of linebacker, Keith Brooking, Atlanta has an average linebacking unit as a group. Ed Hartwell is returning from a torn Achilles tendon and youngster, Michael Boley, who is an amazing athlete, needs to become more consistent. Atlanta has a solid veteran backup in Ike Reese and another promising young player in Demorrio Williams.

Defensive Backs
Atlanta upgraded their mediocre secondary by signing free agent veteran, Lawyer Milloy and trading for safety Chris Crocker. This pair will combine with Pro Bowl cornerback DeAngelo Hall and Jason Webster to form a group that should be much improved since last season ended.

Special Teams
Atlanta’s place kicking situation is so messed up, even they don’t know who’s going to be their opening night kicker.
However, punter Michael Koenen did an outstanding job last season – especially when you consider the fact that he also serves as the team’s kickoff and long-range field goal artist. Return man, Allen Rossum is one of the most dangerous kickoff and punt returners in the entire league.

Coaching
I really like Jim Mora and think he has done a more than respectable job in his two seasons as the head coach of the Falcons. Mora has compiled a record of 20-14 despite facing several daunting obstacles along the way. Mora took an overachieving Falcons squad to the NFC Championship Game in his first season and nearly guided them into the playoffs last season. Mora will be given every chance to succeed in Atlanta over the next few seasons – and rightfully so.