Marshall signs with Falcons

Michael Murphy of the Houston Chronicle reports that Houston wide receiver Vincent Marshall has signed as a free agent with the Falcons.

Marshall (5'7" 165) has excellent speed, timing a 4.36 40-yard dash at his pro day. He was a productive receiver at Houston, catching 272 passes for 3770 yards (13.8 avg) and 26 touchdowns over his career. He also rushed for 299 yards on 37 carries (8.1 avg) and 1 touchdown. He was a solid return specialist the past two seasons, returning 32 punts for 323 yards (10.1 avg) and a score, and 16 kickoffs for 370 yards (23.1 avg).

He adds speed to the receiving corps, but will likely be limited to special teams duties in his bid to make the Falcons roster this summer.

Two more free agents join Falcons

The AP reports that LSU running Justin Vincent has signed with the Falcons as an undrafted rookie free agent. Also the Salt Lake Tribune reports that Utah defensive tackle Kelly Talavou also signed a free agent contract with the Falcons.

Vincent had a promising start to his collegiate career, rushing for 1001 yards and 10 touchdowns as a freshman during LSU's National Championship season in 2003. But his production tailed off considerably the past three seasons, partially due to injuries. He combined for 1020 yards and 4 touchdowns in that span. At 5'10" 219, he adds some size to the Falcons running back position and can potentially help on special teams.

Talavou visited the Falcons in early April. He is a big (6'2" 329) defensive tackle that will compete for a reserve role at nose tackle.

Burchette first to sign with Falcons

Ed Thompson of Scout.com reports that Virginia Tech defensive end Noland Burchette is among the first of the undrafted free agents to sign with the Atlanta Falcons.

Burchette (6'2" 259) was a productive player at Virginia Tech, tallying 137 tackles and 10.5 sacks during his career as a three-year starter.

Vick meets with Goodell

Michael Vick had an informal 20-minute meeting with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Saturday in New York per a Steve Wyche report. Vick met with Goodell at Radio City Music Hall, the site of the 2007 NFL Draft, where Vick was attending as part of a pre-draft ceremony honoring Virginia Tech.

Vick indicated that he and the commissioner discussed the recent off-field incidents involving himself. In an interview with ESPN, Vick vowed that things would change in relationship with his behavior and those who he associated with.

Williams out several months

AJC's Steve Wyche reports that Falcons linebacker Demorrio Williams is expected to miss several months after receiving surgery for a torn pectoral muscle suffered last week while lifting weights. Williams could miss training camp and the preseason per Wyche's report.

Williams just re-signed with the Falcons after being a restricted free agent on April 23. He is slated to be the starting weakside linebacker for the Falcons this year. Over the weekend, the Falcons drafted linebacker Stephen Nicholas in the fourth round. Originally slated to line up behind Michael Boley on the strongside, Nicholas will now begin his Falcon career on the weakside as a replacement for Williams.

The Falcons have some versatility, since Keith Brooking can also play weakside linebacker. Which would leave third-year linebacker Jordan Beck as the likely alternative as the starter at middle linebacker.

Snelling is picked in seventh

With their final pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, the Falcons selected Virginia running back Jason Snelling with the 244th overall pick in the seventh round.

Snelling (5'11" 232) has good speed (4.56) and is considered a combo fullback and tailback. He played mostly the former at Virginia, but starred as the team's tailback and lead rusher as a senior. He had 772 yards on 183 carries (4.2 avg) and 7 scores that season, as well as 29 catches for 282 yards (9.7 avg). In his two previous years as the starting fullback, he combined for 514 yards on 84 carries (6.1 avg) and 24 receptions. As a freshman, he also rushed 9 times for 38 yards (4.2 avg) and caught 31 passes for 4 touchdowns. For his career, he also recorded 16 tackles on special teams and recovered 4 fumbles. Snelling suffers from epilepsy and missed most of the 2003 season due to dizziness.

Snelling will likely get a chance to work as the Falcons short-yardage runner, and also may receive reps as a backup fullback behind Ovie Mughelli.

Falcons get Stone

With their final pick in the sixth round, the Falcons chose Maine safety Daren Stone.

Stone (6'3" 218) has good speed, having run a 4.47 40 at his pro day and has impressive athleticism with a 41-inch vertical. Stone played multiple positions while at Maine, including free safety and cornerback. But most of his playing time came at strong safety, where he was most productive. As a two-year starter at that position, he combined for 127 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 8 pass breakups. He also had 4 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and two touchdowns in those season.

Stone is known for his hitting ability, and should help add another understudy for Lawyer Milloy at strong safety.

Falcons pick Datish

With the third of their four sixth round picks, the Falcons took Ohio State center Doug Datish.

Datish (6'4" 302) at one point in time this off-season was considered one of the premier centers in the draft. He was a versatile blocker at Ohio State, starting at least one game at every offensive line position except right tackle while with the Buckeyes. This past season, he was a center, taking over for 2006 first round pick Nick Mangold. He allowed no sacks and quarterback pressures and earn All-Big Ten honors. As a junior, he was the starting left tackle, after having played both left and right guard the previous two seasons.

Datish has the potential to play multiple positions with the Falcons, but most likely will be considered a reserve at both guard and center.

Falcons get Irons

The Falcons acquired three additional sixth round picks from the Jacksonville Jaguars by trading them their lone fifth round selection. With the first of these three acquired picks, they chose Auburn cornerback David Irons.

Irons (5'10" 190) has good speed (4.44) and was a productive two-year starter for the Auburn Tigers. He tallied 90 tackles, 23 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions over that span after transferring from Butler County JC.

He'll have a chance to compete on special teams and bolster the nickel cornerback position on the Falcons.

Falcons bulk up with Lewis

The Falcons drafted Division II standout defensive tackle Trey Lewis out of Washburn with the first of four sixth round draft choices.

Lewis (6'3" 318) ran a 5.14 40 at his pro day and benched 225 pounds 21 times. He earned Division II All-American honors as a senior, with 62 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks. For his career, he started 34 games, tallying 156 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, and 2 blocked kicks.

Lewis hopefully will add bulk and size to the middle of the Falcons defensive line, as they are potentially searching for replacements for Grady Jackson at nose tackle.

Falcons pick TE Milner in fourth

With their second selection in the fourth round, the Falcons drafted Georgia tight end Martrez Milner. Milner is a local product out of Gainesville, Georgia.

Milner (6'4" 252) is a developmental tight end, noted for his athleticism. He ran a 4.79 40, had a vertical leap of 34 inches, and benched 225 pounds 19 times.

He emerged from the shadow of Leonard Pope this past year, catching 30 passes for 425 yards (14.2 avg) and 3 touchdowns. He continues a steady tradition of Georgia Bulldog tight ends, starting with Randy McMichael and continuing with Ben Watson and Pope.

Milner has a chance to supplant either Eric Beverly or Dwayne Blakley as the primary backup to Alge Crumpler this summer.

Nicholas drafted in Round 4

The Falcons used the 109th overall pick in the fourth round on South Florida outside linebacker Stephen Nicholas.

Nicholas (6'1" 232) is noted for his pass rushing skills, having tallied a total of 20 sacks during his time at South Florida. This past season he had 102 tackles and 7.5 sacks. He showed good speed, running a 4.64 40-yard dash at his pro day. He also possesses good strength, lifting 225 pounds 29 times at the Combine. Against, Falcons head coach Bobby Petrino's former team Louisville, Nicholas had 10 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, and 1 pass breakup in that game.

Nicholas is likely to be considered a backup outside linebacker, pushing free agent newcomer Marcus Wilkins at either spot. He played mostly on strong side at South Florida, which likely will translate to the pros.

Robinson nabbed in Round 3

The Falcons drafted Illinois State wide receiver Laurent Robinson in the third round of the draft with the 75th overall pick. Robinson is the last scheduled selection of the Falcons on the first day of the draft.

Robinson (6'2" 199) was a productive wideout at Illinois State, catching 192 passes for 3007 yards (15.7 avg) and 29 touchdowns during his career. He is played considered to be a good vertical threat that can stretch the field, displayed with his 4.38 40-time at the Combine.

Robinson will likely help improve depth at this position, and gives the Falcons an option to replace veterans Joe Horn and Brian Finneran in the near future.

Falcons move up for Houston

The Falcons moved up three spots in the second round, from the 44th overall to the 41st overall to take Arkansas cornerback Chris Houston. It is the second former Razorback the Falcons have taken in this draft after No. 1 pick Jamaal Anderson.

Houston is considered one of the top cornerbacks in this league. Houston (5'11" 185) impressed at the Combine with his speed, running a 4.32 40-yard dash, and benching 225 pounds 27 times showing impressive strength for his size.

Houston went up against some of college football's top wideouts last season including Dwayne Jarrett and Robert Meachem, and came away the victor.

Houston could challenge last year's second round pick Jimmy Williams for a starting job, but more than likely solidifies the nickel spot for the short-term, and gives the team another potential starter at cornerback.

The Falcons traded the second of their three 4th round picks (121st overall) to the Minnesota Vikings in order to draft Houston.

Blalock added to offensive line

With their second selection in the draft, and the first of their two second round picks, the Falcons chose Texas offensive lineman Justin Blalock.

Blalock (6'4" 329) is a versatile blocker, having started at right tackle and right during his career with the Longhorns. He was a three-year starter at tackle and played this past year at right guard. He was a three-time All-Big 12 selection. Blalock is considered one of the premier interior blockers in the draft, possessing good strength.

Blalock will get a chance to challenge on the Falcons roster at multiple position, most likely at left guard where the team has an open competition for that starting position.

Falcons choose Anderson

The top choice for the Atlanta Falcons in the 2007 NFL Draft is Arkansas defensive end Jamaal Anderson.

Anderson (6'6" 279) was one of the premier athletes in the draft. Evidenced when he ran a 4.76 40 at his pro day, benched 225 pounds 22 times, and had a 34-inch vertical leap. He was considered the second-rated defensive end by most draft experts. He started only 19 games at Arkansas, but tallied 99 tackles, 28 for loss, and 16.5 sacks during those games. Anderson entered the draft as an underclassman after a strong junior season in which he recorded 65 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 13.5 sacks. Anderson is noted for his pass rush ability, along with his ability to play the run, making him considered by many the most complete defensive end at the top of the draft.

Anderson is likely to compete for the open left defensive end spot vacated by Patrick Kerney. Currently, third-year pro Chauncey Davis is slated to start at that position.

Strong interest in Gattis from Falcons

In an interview with Wake Forest safety Josh Gattis, Ed Thompson of Scout.com reports that the Falcons along with the Seattle Seahawks have shown "strong interest" in Gattis. In that interview, Gattis confirmed that he conducted an interview with the Falcons and GM Rich McKay during the Combine in February.

It was previously reported that the Falcons showed interest in Gattis during Senior Bowl week.

Vick in legal hot water

An Associated Press report indicates that a drug probe led authorities to properties owned by Falcons quarterback Michael Vick in Smithfield, Virginia.

Vick owns the property, but does not live there. His cousin, Davon Boddie, is the house's resident and was the subject of the drug-related investigation. Boddie was arrested last week outside a nightclub in Hampton, Virginia on charges of marijuana possession and distribution. This led authorities to further investigations at the home in Smithfield.

While on the property, they found 70 dogs, mostly pitbulls, and some of them appeared malnourished, scarred, and injured, leading animal control specialists and authorities to believe they were involved with illegal dog-fighting. Roughly half the dogs were found chained to buried car axles, and also equipment used to train fighting dogs including treadmills, chains, whips, and drugs were found on the premises.

The Human Society issued a statement in which they indicated hearing previous reports of Vick's involvement in dog fighting.

In other legal matters, Vick also faces trespassing charges in the city of Suffolk, Virginia. There, Vick was charged with trespassing while fishing in a local lake in February. A hearing will not occur if Vick pays a $500 fine, and as of Wednesday, that fine is unpaid.

Falcons not trading up?

Pro Football Talk reports that the Falcons have yet to initiate trade talks with the Detroit Lions about trading up to the No. 2 pick. The possibility of this trade has been speculated throughout the off-season, but has increased this past week with other reports. However, this latest report from Pro Football Talk certainly conflicts with a report from last week indicating the were already in discussions with the Lions about a trade.

Falcons GM Rich McKay has publicly aknowledged the connection between Johnson and the Falcons, but also stressed trading up is an unlikelihood, mainly due to the cost in draft picks.

However, it certainly should be noted that the comments and information McKay is willing to divulge to the media cannot be considered reliable. NFL teams try to create as much misinformation as possible to disguise their draft intentions at this time of year.

Blank wants Johnson

SI.com's Don Banks reports that Falcons owner Arthur Blank has commanded GM Rich McKay to go after highly coveted receiver Calvin Johnson.

Johnson is considered the premier talent in this year's draft, but is expected to be taken within the first two picks either by the Oakland Raiders or Detroit Lions. Johnson, a local product out of Georgia Tech, makes sense for the Falcons due to their issues in the passing game the past few years and that he would be an instant hit with the fan base according to Banks.

Banks speculates that the Falcons could send their top three selections to the Lions in exchange for their No. 2 overall selection if Johnson is available.

Banks also reports that the Falcons could be interested in trading up to the No. 6 selection with the Washington Redskins, in order to acquire Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson, if trade plans to acquire Johnson fall through.

Banks lists the Falcons targets as Johnson first, then Peterson, followed by LSU safety LaRon Landry, Penn State offensive tackle Levi Brown, and Arkansas defensive end Jamaal Anderson.

Falcons work out Landry one last time

NFL.com's Adam Schefter reports that a contingent of Falcons team officials flew to Baton Rouge, LA in order to do one last work out for LSU safety LaRon Landry on Tuesday.

Landry has been the most widely speculated choice for the Falcons among several mock drafts and is considered the top safety in this draft.

However, the weeks leading up to the draft rarely involve teams changing their draft boards, but rather doing the most to send out misinformation about what they will do with their draft picks. So whether the Falcons really wanted a further look at Landry because they are preparing to draft him or that they want other teams to think that, remains to be seen.

Falcons re-up with Williams

Demorrio Williams signed his one-year tender with the Falcons on Monday. His one-year restricted free agent tender was worth $1.3 million.

Last season Williams started a total of 9 games and tallied 86 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 interception. He played on the weakside, replacing starter Keith Brooking there when Brooking was asked to move inside to replace injured starter Ed Hartwell. Williams is expected to start again at that position this year.

Williams, a fourth round pick in 2004, has started 26 games the past three seasons, totalling 256 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 3 interceptions.

Falcons worked out two Buckeyes

Todd Porter of the Canton Repository writes that the Falcons flew to Columbus to work out two Ohio State prospects a few weeks ago. One was wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez and the other being quarterback Justin Zwick.

Gonzalez (6' 193) is considered one of the premier receivers in this draft, but was overshadowed throughout much of his career with the Buckeyes by Ted Ginn. He did not become a starter until this past season, but was very productive catching 51 passes for 734 yards (14.4 avg) and 8 touchdowns. Prior to this past year, he had started 5 of 20 games, catching a total of 36 passes for 552 yards () and 5 scores.

He impressed the Combine with a 4.44 40-yard dash, 38-inch vertical leap, also with his interviews with teams, many believe that he is moving up draft boards, and perhaps has transformed himself from a second round pick into a first rounder.

Zwick is another prospect that was overshadowed during his career at Ohio State, but it was by Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith. He actually began the 2004 as the team's starter, but was sidelined with an injury that allowed Smith an opportunity, one in which he never relinquished. For his career, he completed 158 of 276 passes (57.2%) for 1779 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. He started a total of 9 games, going 5-4 in those games.

At his pro day, Zwick measured 6'3" 230 pounds and ran a 4.77 40. He's considered an undrafted prospect due to his lack of experience at the collegiate level, although Porter doesn't rule out the possibility of him being drafted. It wouldn't be the first time a collegiate backup was drafted. The New England Patriots drafted Matt Cassel in the seventh round of the 2005 Draft, after having been a backup to Heisman Trophy winners Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart for his entire career at USC. Also current Philadelphia Eagles backup A.J. Feeley only received a total of 8 starts during his career at Oregon, as he spent most of his time backing up two first round picks in Akili Smith and Joey Harrington, but was a fifth round draft choice in 2001.

Falcons looking to move up in the draft?

Pro Football Talk indicates from an unnamed source that the Falcons are among a few teams actively in talks with the Detroit Lions above potentially swapping picks at the top of the draft. The Lions hold the No. 2 overall pick, while the Falcons hold the No. 8 pick.

The report says that the Lions are interested in moving down in the draft, and would like to get a deal done before draft day on April 28. Also reported is that the Lions could potentially select a player and then subsequently trade him away. The report indicated the most likely player would be Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson.

Based on the widely distributed generic trade value chart, in order to properly compensate the Lions for the No. 2 overall pick the Falcons would need to include their first, both seconds, and their third round picks.

Rumored interest between the Falcons and Johnson has been speculated on and reported on throughout the off-season. But the sincerity of that interest is unknown at this time.

Vick donates $10K to VA Tech families

The Associated Press reports that Michael Vick will donate $10,000 to assist and support the families affected by the massacre at Virginia Tech. Vick is an alumnus of Virginia Tech. His charity organization, the Vick Foundation, is collecting donations from local communities in Atlanta and Virginia for the United in Caring Fund for Victims of the Virginia Tech Tragedy and also a special fund of the United Way in counties surrounding the Blacksburg, VA area. The money will be used to aid in the costs of funeral expenses, transportation, and other support services.

Brown visited Falcons this week

NFL.com reports that Penn State offensive tackle Levi Brown began a series of visits that included the Falcons on April 16. Brown is widely considered one of the premier players in this draft, and most draft experts rank him as the second best offensive tackle prospect in the draft.

Brown (6'5" 323) was a four-year starter at left tackle while at Penn State, although he did start one game as a sophomore at right tackle. He is noted for his size and strength after doing 31 bench reps of 225 pounds at the Combine and finished his career with 236 knockdowns and 38 touchdown-resulting blocks. He received All-Big 10 honors and All-American honors as a junior and senior.

Many mock drafts feel that Brown is a probable choice for the Falcons at the No. 8 spot. NFL.com's Mike Mayock ranks him as the 21st on his list of the top prospects in this draft, while NFL Draft Countdown ranks him 15th.

Falcons visited with Peterson

Adam Schefter reports that Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson visited the Falcons on April 16. Peterson is considered one of the elite prospects in this year's draft, and the top running back prospect.

At 6'2" 217 pounds with 4.40 40-speed he possesses an excellent blend of size and speed. As a true freshman, he emerged quickly on the college scene rushing for 1925 yards and 15 touchdowns, and finished second in the Heisman voting for that year. He hasn't matched those totals the past two years, combining for 2120 yards and 26 touchdowns his sophomore and recent junior seasons, partly due to injuries. He missed 7 games this past season due to a broken collarbone, and has battle with shoulder and ankle injuries in the past.

Many draft experts believe Peterson could go in the top three picks this season, or his injury concerns could drop him out of the top ten.

Falcons eyeing Hairston

Scout.com reports that the Falcons along with several other teams attended the private workout of late round running back prospect Justise Hairston in March. Hairston is a powerful running back out of Central Connecticut State. NFL.com reports that representatives from 8 teams were in attendance to his workout on March 29.

Hairston (6' 222) has 4.59 40-speed and finished second in the nation in rushing in Division I-AA with 1847 yards and 20 touchdowns last season. He spent three years as a reserve at Rutgers before transferring where he was overshadowed by fellow 2007 draft prospect Brian Leonard and Ray Rice. During his career at Rutgers, he appeared in 17 games, rushing 190 times for 696 yards (3.7 avg), 9 touchdowns, and catching 18 passes.

NFL Draft Countdown considers him a late round prospect and ranks him as the 26th best running back in this year's class.

Bender visits Falcons

Scout.com's Adam Caplan and Tony Pauline report that Nicholls State offensive tackle Jacob Bender has already visited the Falcons.

Bender was a three-year starter at Nicholls State. He measures 6'6" 316, and ran a 5.18 40-yard dash at his pro day and did 27 bench reps of 225 pounds. He is considered somewhat a project and sleeper by most accounts that is viewed as a middle round pick potentially.

Pauline and Caplan make note of Bender's versatility to potentially play every position along the line except center.

Bozeman to start for Fire in Europe

NFL Europa released each of its six team's starting lineups for its opening weekend this weekend. The Falcons allocated a total of five players to that league this spring, and one of whom will be an opening day starter. Defensive tackle Michael Bozeman will start for the Rhein Fire. The NFL Europa 2007 season kicks off today, Saturday, April 14.

Two more Falcon players with join him on the Rhein team, cornerback Brent Grimes and running back Taurean Henderson. Henderson is listed as the top backup at the running back, while Grimes is listed as a third stringer due to his status as a practice squad player.

Punter Adam Anderson, technically is not a starter, but won the Hamburg Sea Devils' punter position. While wide receiver Dan Sheldon will be a backup for the Cologne Centurions as a slot receiver.

Two more prospects already visited Falcons

Football.com reports that USC wide receiver Steve Smith and Wake Forest guard Steve Vallos have already visited the Falcons.

Smith was a very productive receiver at USC as a starter for three seasons that was overshadowed for much of his career by Dwayne Jarrett and Mike Williams. He was a three-year starter, filling the role as the No. 2 receiver opposite those two players. He started a total of 22 games while at USC, and caught 161 passes for 2634 yards (16.4 avg) and 20 touchdowns. He measured 6' 197 pounds at the Combine, where he ran an impressive 4.44 40-yard dash, and his 38-inch vertical leap was among the top at his position.

He is considered a second round pick by most draft experts. NFL.com's Mike Mayock ranks him as the 42nd best player in the draft.

Vallos (6'3" 305) started 48 games for the Demon Deacons at multiple positions for four seasons. The past two seasons he has played at right tackle. As a sophomore, he split time at left tackle and right guard, and also played the latter as a freshman. He tallied a total of 494 knockdown blocks. Due to his lack of height however, most draft experts believe he will play guard at the NFL level. Most experts feel that he is a late round pick with the potential to move into the middle rounds.

The dates of their visits were unspecified.

Another prospect to visit Falcons

Adam Caplan and Tony Pauline of Scout.com report that the Falcons have a visit scheduled with linebacker Antwan Barnes of Florida International.

Barnes (6'1" 240) ran an impressive 4.43 40-yard dash at the Combine, as well as lifted 31 times on the 225-pound bench press, and had a vertical leap of 35 inches. He's been a very productive player at Florida International. He began his career at strongside linebacker, but moved to defensive end during his junior season. Although most draft experts believe due to his lacking size, he'll move back to his original position in the NFL.

In two seasons at linebacker, he started 15 of 22 games, combining for 110 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 2 blocked kicks, and 3 forced fumbles. The past two years at end, he combined for 21 starts in 23 total appearances, 114 tackles, 38 for loss, 17 sacks, 1 interception for a touchdown, 2 blocked kicks, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 recoveries.

He is graded as a mid-rounder by NFLDraftCountdown.com, but it is believed he may be a potential selection on Day 1 of the draft.

Falcons eye two more draft prospects

Ed Thompson of Scout.com reports that Georgia Tech guard Mansfield Wrotto will be visiting the Falcons today on April 12.

Wrotto at 6'3" 317 is a former defensive tackle, who played his first season on offense this past year as a senior. He is noted for his strength, having done 27 bench reps of 225 pounds at the combine. This past year, he started 14 games at right tackle, registering 65 knockdown blocks and 9 touchdown-resulting blocks. In three years as a starter at defensive tackle, he tallied a total of 45 tackles, 12 resulting for a loss, 5 sacks, and 2 fumble recoveries. Despite playing tackle for his single year on the offensive line at Georgia Tech, most scouts project him inside to guard due to his lacking height. He is graded as a mid round prospect by NFLDraftCountdown.com.

Thompson also reports the Falcons have shown increased interest in Hawaii defensive end Ikaika Alama-Francis. A previous report indicated that the Falcons interviewed him while in Indianapolis at the Combine. There is no indication of a scheduled pre-draft visit however.

Alama-Francis, son of former Green Bay Packer quarterback Joe Francis (1958-59), is a big, athletic defensive end standing at 6'5" 280. He ran a 4.85 40 at his pro day and had a vertical leap of 35 inches.

He was a two-year starter and 2-time All-WAC selection at defensive end, combining for 88 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 23 quarterback pressues, 4 forced fumbles, 5 fumble recoveries, and 4 passes broken up during that span.

He is considered a Day 1 prospect by NFLDraftCountdown.com, and many draft websites list him as going as early as the second round.

Falcons schedule released

The league announced the regular season and preseason schedules for 2007. The Falcons will feature 3 primetime games, including two Monday Night home games. The first of which will be against the New York Giants on October 15, and the latter being against the New Orleans Saints on December 10. It will be a rematch of last season's Monday Night matchup. The third game was previously announced game against the defending champion Indianapolis Colts on Thursday night on Thanksgiving.

The Falcons open the season with two road games against the Minnesota Vikings, followed by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Their home opener will be against the Carolina Panthers, followed by another home game against the Houston Texans. That game should offer an interesting matchup between former Falcons passer and potential Texans starter Matt Schaub against his former team.

The Falcons will receive a bye week during Week 8, and will close the season at home against the Seattle Seahawks on December 30.

The dates for the preseason games have now been set. The Falcons will open the preseason on August 10 at the New York Jets, following by a road game against the Buffalo Bills on August 17. Their home preseason games will be against the Cincinnati Bengals on August 27 (on Monday Night) and Baltimore Ravens on August 31.

Click here to view the rest of the schedule.

Falcons interested in Bradshaw

Tony Pauline and Adam Caplan of Scout.com report that the Falcons have expressed interest in Marshall running back Ahmad Bradshaw. Although there is no visit known to be scheduled, at his pro day on he reportedly spent a "significant amount of time" interviewing on the phone with the Falcons.

Bradshaw measures 5'10" 198 pounds, and ran a 4.55 40-yard dash at the Combine in February. He had a very productive junior 2006 season, finishing the year with 1523 yards, ranking sixth in the nation. He also added 21 total touchdowns, averaging 6.1 yards per carry and had 17 receptions. Due to an outstanding season, he declared early for this year's draft. As a sophomore, Bradshaw rushed for 997 yards, averaged 4.7 yards per carry, scored 10 times, and caught 56 passes.

He's had some off-field issues in the past. He originally signed on to play at University of Virginia, but was arrest for underage alcohol possession and obstruction of justice, and never enrolled. This past year, he was arrested for burglary and petty larceny. Due to his off-field issues and potential character concerns, he is receiving late round grades from most draft sites.

Crumpler to miss time

Falcons tight end Alge Crumpler underwent surgery last Friday to clean out debris in his left knee. Recovery from the surgery is expected to make Crumpler miss most of the team's off-season workouts.

He is expected to be healthy in time for training camp. Crumpler had surgery on his shoulder last off-season, which caused him to miss all off-season workouts, and he was limited for most of the preseason as well.

More draft prospects to visit this week

Football.com reports that the Falcons have several visits planned for this week of draft prospects. Utah defensive tackle Kelly Talavou will visit on April 10 and 11, while North Carolina defensive tackle Shelton Bynum and Minnesota linebacker Mario Reese will visit on April 12.

Also the site reports that the team has visits scheduled with cornerback David Heard (Mississippi State), wide receiver Roy Hall (Ohio State), linebacker Ramon Guzman (Buffalo), safety Reggie Grigsby (San Diego State), and cornerback Ramzee Robinson (Alabama).

The team also met with Oregon State quarterback Matt Moore in March. And the team has been in attendance of the pro days at Kansas State, Louisiana-Monroe, Missouri, California, and Syracuse.

All these players are considered potential late round or undrafted prospects.

Talavou at 6'2" 329 pounds was a 2-year starter at Utah, after transferring from Idaho after his sophomore year. At Idaho, he combined for 53 tackles, 6 for loss, and 2 sacks. At Utah, he combined for 78 tackles, 10 for loss, and 4.5 sacks.

Bynum is listed at 6'4" 300 and was a two-year starter for the Tar Heels. As a senior, he totaled 26 tackles and 3 sacks, with 22 tackles and 1 sack as a junior. The Falcons are Bynum's favorite team, as he is a native of Ellenwood, GA, a suburb of Atlanta.

Reese (6'3" 231) played defensive end and linebacker during his time at Minnesota. For his career, he combined for 163 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 1 interception, and 5 pass breakups.

Heard at 5'11" 187 ran a 4.52 40 at his pro day, along with a 34-inch vertical leap. He was a three-year starter at Mississippi State, having his finest season as a senior with 45 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 8 pass breakups. For his career, he totaled 123 tackles, 8 for loss, 3 interceptions, and 14 pass breakups.

Hall is listed at 6'2" 229 and is considered a late round prospect. He ran a 4.41 40-yard dash at his pro day, and also had a 37.5-inch vertical leap and did 19 bench reps of 225 pounds. Due to his size, some are considering him as a potential H-back or tight end on the next level. During his career at Ohio State mostly as a reserve, he caught 52 passes for 580 yards (11.2 avg) and 3 touchdowns.

Guzman is 6'2" 232 and ran a 4.60 40 at his pro day. He began his career as a fullback at Buffalo, starting 3 games and catching 5 passes for 19 yards as a true freshman. He moved to linebacker the following season. Over three seasons, including 2 as a starter, he totaled 155 tackles, 18 for loss, 5.5 sacks, 1 interception, 2 pass breakups, 1 forced fumble, and 3 blocked kicks.

Grigsby is listed at 6' 205 and ran a 4.59 40 at his pro day, along with jumping 37.5 inches in the vertical leap. He started two seasons at strong safety, combining for 130 tackles, 1 interception, 7 pass breakups, and 2 forced fumbles during that span.

Robinson (5'9" 188) is a three-year starter at Alabama, totaling 137 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 20 pass breakups over his career.

Moore (6'3" 192) was MVP of the Brut Sun Bowl after passing for 356 yards and 4 touchdowns, along with a 1-yard rushing touchdown in that game. He was a two-year starter for the Beavers, passing for 5733 yards and 29 touchdowns. He began his collegiate career at UCLA, before transferring after his sophomore season.

Falcons release Mathis

The Falcons released cornerback Kevin Mathis after he failed his physical on Monday. Mathis was sidelined last season with a broken neck suffered during Week 9 against the Detroit Lions. It was the second major injury for Mathis in the past two seasons, after suffering a knee injury prior to Week 2 in 2005. He is expected to retire.

Last season Mathis appeared in 8 games, recording 20 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble, as a reserve at both safety and cornerback. Mathis has spent the past five seasons with the Falcons. Over that span, he has started 14 games, and appeared in 48, with 6 interceptions, 3 of which he returned for touchdowns.

Mathis was ejected prior to the start of the Falcons 2005 season opener, after getting into a fight with Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jeremiah Trotter at midfield during warm-ups. He suffered a knee injury the following week in practice. Mathis's neck injury from 2006 marks the second one of his career. He suffered a neck stinger in 2001, his final year with the New Orleans Saints.

Mathis began his career as an undrafted free agent with the Dallas Cowboys in 1997. Over his career, he has appeared in 115 games, starting 54 of them, and has 11 interceptions, 345 tackles, and 4 sacks.

Falcons add Harrington

Chris Mortensen of ESPN.com reports that the Falcons have signed free agent quarterback Joey Harrington to a two-year contract. Terms of the contract were undisclosed. The Falcons brought in Harrington for a visit this past Friday.

Harrington started 11 games last year for the Miami Dolphins, going 5-6 as a replacement for injured starter Daunte Culpepper. For his career, he has started 66 games over 5 seasons. In that span, he's passed for 12,478 yards, 72 touchdowns, and has a career passer rating of 68.1. Harrington is an experienced NFL starter, something the Falcons were looking for with the backup position.

The team traded backup Matt Schaub to the Houston Texans last month, and had been looking for a veteran to replace him. They signed Chris Redman, who played under Bobby Petrino at Louisville, but he had not thrown a pass in the NFL since 2003. Also on the roster was D.J. Shockley, a seventh round pick last season, but he was inactive for every game last season. Harrington will likely secure the No. 2 position behind Michael Vick, while Redman, Shockley, and newcomer James Kilian compete for the No. 3 position. Most teams only carry four quarterbacks in training camp, which means that one of those players may not last until July or August.

Ross has worked out for Falcons

Aaron Wilson of the Carroll County Times reports that the Falcons have already worked out Texas cornerback Aaron Ross. The 6' 193-pound corner is considered one of the premier players at his position in this year's draft, and is expected to be a first round pick according to most draft analysts.

Ross ran a 4.44 40-yard dash at the Combine. He only started one year at Texas, this past season, but recorded 80 tackles, 6 interceptions, 19 pass breakups, 1 sack, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. In his three other seasons, he combined for 125 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 14 pass breakups. During his career, he also returned 76 punts for 893 yards (11.8 avg) and 3 touchdowns. For much of his career he was overshadowed by current NFL cornerbacks Nathan Vasher and Cedric Griffin, and up until this season Tarell Brown, who is also a prospect in this year's draft. But a suspension by Brown early this season gave Ross the opportunity to come out of the shadows.

NFL Draft Scout.com rates Ross as the third best available corner in this year's draft. Ross is one of the several defensive backs the Falcons have scheduled for private workouts. Each NFL team is allowed to bring up to 32 players for private workouts prior to the draft. Thus far the Falcons Wire has reported on 14 of these.

Falcons could trade down for Staley

TFY Draft Preview of Scout.com reports that there are rumors circulating that the Falcons are very interested in offensive tackle Joe Staley of Central Michigan, a player that has been rising on draft boards over the past month or so. According to the report and rumors, the Falcons would look to trade down from the top of the first round with a team looking for a defensive lineman, and then try to select Staley in the middle of the first round.

Although the report is somewhat iffy since they attribute the Falcons with having the tenth pick in the draft. They have not possessed that pick since making a March 21 trade with Houston to move up from tenth to the eight position in the first round.

Staley is listed at 6'6" 306 pounds and really showed his impressive athleticism by running a 4.79 40-yard dash at his pro day and jumping 32 inches in the vertical leap, athleticism that is on par with many defensive linemen and linebackers in this draft. Staley began his career at Central Michigan at tight end, a n