Falcons sign Hawaii WR

The Honolulu Advertister reports that the Falcons have signed wide receiver C.J. Hawthorne, formerly of the University of Hawaii.

Hawthorne finished fourth on the team last season with 61 catches for 859 yards and 6 touchdowns. The 5'11" 167 wideout played cornerback as a junior. He had 16 tackles and 1 interception, starting 5 of 14 games that year. He was a transfer from Southwest Gulf Coast Community College.

Falcons add another undrafted safety

According to the Anniston Star, the Falcons haven't finished adding undrafted free agents. The Star reports that Auburn safety Eric Brock has been signed by the team. The 6' 208-pounder was a three-year starter at Auburn at strong safety. He finished his career with 149 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 13 pass breakups.

TheFalcons have really attempted to beef up their secondary the past few days. They drafted three defensive backs on the second day of the draft on Sunday, claimed another safety off waivers on Tuesday, and Brock is the fourth defensive back to sign as an undrafted free agent.

2008 Free Agent Tracker

Just like a year ago, this is where you can stay up to date as we monitor which free agents go in and out of Atlanta.

Coming

Apr. 29 - S Nick Turnbull, Bengals
Apr. 29 - WR Chandler Williams, Dolphins
Mar. 21 - K Jason Elam, Broncos (4 yrs.)
Mar. 14 - TE Jason Rader, Patriots
Mar. 10 - C Alex Stepanovich, Bengals (2 yrs.)
Mar. 7 - DT Rashad Moore, Patriots (1 yr.)
Mar. 7 - DE Simon Fraser, Browns (2 yrs.)
Mar. 6 - DT Kindal Moorehead, Panthers (2 yrs.)
Mar. 2 - TE Ben Hartsock, Titans (4 yrs.)
Mar. 2 - RB Michael Turner, Chargers (6 yrs.)
Mar. 1 - S Erik Coleman, Jets (4 yrs.)
Mar. 1 - CB Von Hutchins, Texans (4 yrs.)

Going

Apr. 7 - S Omare Lowe (UFA/signed with Seahawks)
Mar. 29 - S Chris Crocker (UFA/signed with Dolphins)
Mar. 20 - CB DeAngelo Hall (traded to Raiders)
Mar. 18 - TE Dwayne Blakley (UFA/signed with Titans)
Mar. 10 - TE Courtney Anderson (UFA/signed with Bills)
Mar. 3 - RB Warrick Dunn (released/signed with Bucs)
Mar. 1 - LB Demorrio Williams (UFA/signed with Chiefs)
Feb. 19 - DT Rod Coleman (released)
Feb. 19 - TE Alge Crumpler (released/signed with Titans)
Feb. 19 - WR Jamin Elliott (released)
Feb. 19 - OT Wayne Gandy (released)
Feb. 19 - QB Byron Leftwich (released)
Feb. 19 - CB Lewis Sanders (released/signed with Patriots)
Feb. 19 - LB Marcus Wilkins (released)

Staying

Apr. 18 - FB Corey McIntyre (1 yr.)
Apr. 14 - P Michael Koenen (1 yr.)
Apr. 14 - DE Chauncey Davis (1 yr.)
Apr. 9 - LB Michael Boley (1 yr.)
Mar. 24 - DT Montavious Stanley (1 yr.)
Mar. 19 - OT Tyson Clabo (1 yr.)
Mar. 11 - QB Joey Harrington (1 yr., released on Mar. 5 then re-signed)
Mar. 10 - DT Tim Anderson (1 yr.)
Feb. 29 - QB Chris Redman (2 yrs.)

Scheduled Visits

Mar. 19 - K Jason Elam, Broncos
Mar. 7 - C Alex Stepanovich, Bengals
Mar. 6 - DT Kindal Moorehead, Panthers
Feb. 29 - RB Michael Turner, Chargers
Feb. 29 - TE Ben Hartsock, Titans
Feb. 29 - CB Von Hutchins, Texans
Feb. 29 - S Erik Coleman, Jets

Rumored Interest

QB J.P. Losman, Bills (source: Draft Daddy)
*QB Billy Volek, Chargers (source: Draft Daddy/re-signed with Chargers)
RB Mike Bell, Broncos (source: Denver Post)
TE Jermaine Wiggins, ex-Jaguars (source: Star Tribune)
*OT Flozell Adams, Cowboys (source: Draft Daddy/re-signed with Cowboys)
*OT Stacy Andrews, Bengals (source: FOX Sports)
*OT Maurice Williams, Jaguars (source: Times-Union/re-signed with Jaguars)
*DE Corey Smith, Lions (source: JS Online/re-signed with Lions)
*DT Marcus Stroud, Jaguars (source: FOX Sports/traded to Bills)
*LB Kevin Bentley, Seahawks (source: Scout.com/signed with Texans)
*LB Derrick Pope, Dolphins (source: Scout.com/signed with Vikings)
*CB Randall Gay, Patriots (source: Yahoo!/signed with Saints)
*CB William James, Eagles (source: ESPN/signed with Bills)
*S Madieu Williams, Bengals (source: AJC/signed with Vikings)
*S Gibril Wilson, Giants (source: SF Chronicle/signed with Raiders)
*K Josh Brown, Seahawks (source: ESPN/signed with Rams)

* indicates player signed a contract with another team

Falcons sign seven undrafted free agents

This is a compilation of several entries...

The Falcons announced the signing of seven undrafted free agents today, including the five players previously mentioned as being added along with two more. Those two additional free agents were offensive tackle Mike Butterworth (Slippery Rock) and safety D.J. Wolfe (Oklahoma).

The Falcons showed interest in Butterworth before by attending Slippery Rock's pro day in March.

Wolfe earned second team all Big12 honors this past year, finishing the year with 87 tackles and 4 interceptions. This past season was his first at the safety position after spending two previous years at cornerback.

Bloomsburg University reports that running back Jamar Brittingham has signed a free agent contract with the Falcons. Brittingham is Bloomsburg's all-time leading rusher and scorer with 5,689 yards and 516 points scored. He was a finalist for the Harlon Hill Award, given to Division II's top player. This past season he had 1,435 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns.

The Miami Herald reports that Miami cornerback Glenn Sharpe has signed as an undrafted free agent with the Falcons. The 6' 185-pound cornerback had issues with injuries during his college career, suffering knee injuries that caused him to miss the 2004 and 2005 seasons. His best season came in 2006 as a junior, where he had 44 tackles and 2 interceptions, and led the Hurricanes with 14 pass deflections.

KFFL.com cites Josh Buchanan of NFL Draft Bible.com that the Falcons have signed Georgia defensive end/linebacker Brandon Miller. At 6'2" 252, Miller finished this past season with 35 tackles.

KFFL.com also cites agent Paul Sheehy of ProStar Sports Agency that they have added punter Jimmie Kaylor of Colorado State. The 6'3" 198-pound punter was on the Ray Guy Award watch list his senior year, averaging 43.2 yards on 52 punts, with 19 placed inside the 20-yard line.

MLive.com reports that Central Michigan linebacker Ike Brown has signed with the Falcons. Brown is listed at 5'11" 203 pounds, played running back, safety, and linebacker during his career with the Chippewas. He had 106 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks this past season.

Elam comes aboard

NFL.com's Adam Schefter reports that the Falcons have signed Denver Broncos kicker Jason Elam to a four-year deal worth $9 million. Included in the deal is $3.3 million in guaranteed signing bonus, and Elam will make $5.11 million in the first two years of the deal.

According to the Denver Post, the Broncos had offered Elam a three-year deal worth $7 million with guaranteed money of $2.3 million. Previous reports indicated that Elam was given the Broncos a chance to match the Falcons offer, but they did not revise their offer.

Last season, Elam made four walkoff game-winning field goals, the most since the league merger in 1970. He has scored 100 or more points in fifteen straight years, ever since entering the league as a third round pick in 1993 with the Broncos. The three-time Pro Bowler is fifth all-time with 395 field goals made and sixth with 1,786 points. He has made 80.6% of his career field goal attempts. He had a career high in 2006, connecting on 93.1% of his 29 field goal attempts. He is tied for the league record with a 63-yard field goal.

Elam attended Brookwood High in nearby Snellville, GA, so his signing with the Falcons is a homecoming of sorts. Elam will replace 47-year old Morten Andersen, who has kicked for the Falcons the past two seasons. Elam is ten years younger than Andersen.

Elam negotiating with Falcons

The Denver Post reports that Denver Broncos kicker Jason Elam is negotiating a contract with the Falcons. Elam came to Atlanta on Wednesday for a free agent visit, but stayed over Thursday where he began negotiating a contract. The AJC also confirms that the Falcons are actively trying to sign Elam.

UPDATE: The Denver Post cites two NFL sources that say that the Falcons have offered Elam a more lucrative contract than the Broncos, but that Elam will give the Broncos a chance to "sweeten" their offer in order to retain him.

Elam will visit on 19th

Eric Goodman of Denver's FOX affiliate KDVR reports that Broncos kicker Jason Elam will meet with the Atlanta Falcons on March 19 and 20 for a free agent visit. It's been reported previously that Elam would likely show interest in the Falcons if he did not re-sign with the Broncos.

Falcons might bring back Harrington

The AJC is reporting that the Falcons may bring back recently released quarterback Joey Harrington if he agrees to restructure his contract. Harrington was released this past Wednesday. The Falcons currently only have two quarterbacks on the roster: Chris Redman and D.J. Shockley.

Harrington signed a two-year contract last April with the Falcons. He was slated to earn $2.5 million in base salary in 2008 and $3.875 million against the team's salary cap. If the Falcons re-sign him with a much lower base salary, it could save them money. Redman, who is currently the starter, only has a base salary of $1 million.

Elam could visit next week

The Rocky Mountain News reports that Denver Broncos kicker Jason Elam has scheduled free agent visits for next week. It has yet to be confirmed if the Falcons are one of those teams, but it seems likely considering they do not have a kicker currently on the roster and have previously been linked to Elam. The Falcons were in pursuit of free agent kicker Josh Brown before he decided to sign with the St. Louis Rams.

Elam despite becoming a free agent on February 29, has yet to visit any teams, having spent much of the past week on vacation in Israel.

Falcons add 3 defensive linemen

The Falcons announced they have signed three free agent defensive linemen, including Kindal Moorehead, who was previously reported to have agreed to a deal with the team. The team also signed defensive tackle Rashad Moore and defensive end Simon Fraser.

Moore, was a reserve nose tackle for the New England Patriots this past season. He only appeared in 1 game and recorded 1 tackle. His most extensive playing time came in 2004, where he started 12 games for the Seattle Seahawks, and recorded 46 tackles and 2 sacks. At 6'3" 325 pounds, Moore gives the Falcons much needed size in the middle due to the health concerns surrounding incumbent nose tackle Trey Lewis.

Fraser played defensive end in Cleveland's 3-4 scheme and adds depth both inside and outside for the Falcons along their defensive front. In 2006, he started 6 games, recording 36 tackles and 4.5 sacks. This past season, he had 14 tackles in 16 games. He was originally an undrafted free agent out of Ohio State in 2005.

Flacco will workout; Moorehead will visit

Adam Caplan of Scout.com reports that the Falcons are expected to schedule a private workout with Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco. The Falcons already plan to workout Kentucky quarterback Andre Woodson next week. No word on exactly when Flacco's workout is supposed to be. The Falcons showed particular interest in Flacco during the Senior Bowl week.

Flacco passed for 4,263 yards last season with 23 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. He completed 63.5% of his 521 attempts. Flacco was a two-year starter at Delaware, after transferring from Pittsburgh. He is widely considered to be among the top quarterbacks in this year's upcoming class, ranking as the third-best quarterback on Mike Mayock of NFL.com's rankings.

Also included in the report is that the Falcons have scheduled an upcoming visit with Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kindal Moorehead. No date was mentioned. Moorehead has spent the past five seasons as a reserve with the Panthers. With the Falcons, Moorehead would likely get the chance to compete for a starting position. He recorded a career-high 5 sacks in 2005. His most extensive playing time came in 2004, where he filled in for an injured Kris Jenkins, starting 12 games, and finishing the year with 38 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception, and 1 fumble recovery. For his career, Moorehead has appeared in 75 games, starting 13 of them, and recorded 104 tackles, 9.5 sacks, forced 1 fumble, recovered 3, 1 interception, and 1 touchdown. He was originally a 5th round pick by the Panthers in 2003.

UPDATE: The Rock Hill Herald reports that Moorehead has agreed to a two-year contract with the Falcons. He will travel to Atlanta on Thursday to take a physical, and if he passes the deal will be finalized on Friday or Saturday.

Falcons pick up Turner

The Falcons announced the signings of two free agents today, running back Michael Turner and tight end Ben Hartsock. Turner comes from the San Diego Chargers where he spent the past four seasons as a backup to Pro Bowler LaDainian Tomlinson. Hartsock is a reserve tight end for the Tennessee Titans this past year.

NFL.com reports that Turner signed a six-year contract worth $34.5 million, including $15 million in guaranteed money. Turner made a name for himself making the most of sparse opportunities behind Tomlinson. In his career, he's carried the ball 228 times for 1257 yards (5.5 avg) and 6 touchdowns. He's had three 100-yard games, all coming in the reserve role. Most recently, he had a 10-carry 147-yard performance against the Denver Broncos in Week 5 of this past season. The Falcons expect Turner to be the lead back in their offense, taking over the role of Warrick Dunn. It's now expected with Turner's addition, Dunn will be released. Dunn has been the team's leading rusher for 5 of the past 6 seasons, and currently ranks third all-time on the Falcons rushing list with 5,981 yards.

Hartsock was originally a third round pick in 2004 for the Indianapolis Colts. He played two seasons for the Colts until he was released in 2006. He was picked up by the Titans, and has served a valuable role as a blocker. For his career, he has started 15 game of 45 games, catching 24 passes for 247 yards (10.3 avg). His best season was this most recent one, where he started 9 games, caught 12 passes for 138 yards (11.5 avg). While not expected to replace Alge Crumpler's production in the passing game, he gives the Falcons an established blocker from which they can build in the future. The terms of Hartsock's deal have not been announced.

UPDATE: The AJC reports that Hartsock signed a four-year deal worth $9 million, including $2.25 million guaranteed.

Falcons add Hutchins

The AJC reports that the Falcons have signed Houston Texans cornerback Von Hutchins. ESPN reports that the contract signed is a four-year deal worth $9 million, including $2.35 million in guarantees.

Hutchins split time at cornerback and safety last year, starting 15 games. He could compete for a starting cornerback spot here in Atlanta if disgruntled corner DeAngelo Hall is traded at some point. He finished last season with 94 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 1 interception, and 6 passes defended. He joined the Texans in 2006 after two season as a reserve corner in Indianapolis. He was originally a sixth round pick by the Colts out of Ole Miss in 2004.

Hutchins joins safety Erik Coleman as the Falcons first two free agent signings, and a clear sign of changes and hopefully improvements to their secondary.

Falcons ink Coleman to 4-year deal

NFL.com's Adam Schefter reports that the Falcons have signed New York Jets safety Erik Coleman to a four-year contract worth $10 million, including a $3 million signing bonus. Coleman is expected to replace Chris Crocker, who is also a free agent, at free safety.

Coleman entered the league as a fifth round pick by the Jets in 2004, and had a strong rookie season with 100 tackles, 2 sacks, and 4 interceptions. But over the ensuing years has had a bit more struggles, and was finally benched after the first four games this past season for the Jets. He finished the year with 51 stops but no interceptions.

Falcons pursue Mo Williams

Michael C. Wright of the Florida Times-Union reports that Jaguars offensive tackle Maurice Williams is in discussions with the Falcons, but other teams are also in the mix in pursuing his services.

Williams started 2 games at left tackle last season, as well as eight at right guard. Prior to that, he served as the Jaguars starting right tackle for six seasons. He played under current Falcons offensive line coach Paul Boudreau for three seasons (2003-05) as well as head coach Mike Smith. It's likely that he'll be a candidate to replace Wayne Gandy at left tackle.

Bills show interest in two Falcons

Alex Marvez of FOX Sports reports that the Buffalo Bills have expressed interest in Falcons restricted free agent fullback Corey McIntyre. The Falcons own the right of first refusal with McIntyre, meaning they can match any potential offer sheet the Bills sign him to. But since McIntyre was an undrafted free agent and extended the lowest restricted free agent tender of $927,000, the Falcons will receive no compensation if the Bills' offer exceeds what the Falcons are willing to pay. McIntyre was a special teams captain for the Falcons last year, and ended the season with 8 stops there.

The Bills are also showing interest in another Falcons free agent, this time tight end Dwayne Blakley, who is an unrestricted free agent. Blakley joined the Falcons at the start of the 2004 season, and has served as the primary backup to Alge Crumpler since then. With Crumpler's release earlier this month, he is atop the Falcons depth chart at the position. In his four-year career with the Falcons, Blakley has started 9 of 59 games, caught 21 passes for 189 yards (9.0 avg) and 1 touchdown. He had a career high 7 catches last year, despite missing 4 games due to injury.

Falcons re-sign Redman

Steve Wyche of the AJC reports that the Falcons have re-signed free agent passer Chris Redman. Wyche cites Redman's agent Joby Branion, as the source of this news. Redman signed a two-year contract.

Redman started the final 4 games of the season for the Falcons. In 7 total appearances, he completed 59.7% of his 149 pass attempts for 1079 yards, 10 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 90.4. Redman joined the Falcons last spring after a three-year absence from the NFL.

UPDATE: NFL.com's Adam Schefter reports that the deal with Redman is worth $5 million, including $3 million in potential escalators.

Gay may visit Falcons

Yahoo! Sports is reporting that New England Patriots cornerback Randall Gay is drawing interest from several teams and may visit many of them. The Falcons are among a list that includes the Saints, Seahawks, Bucs, Lions, and Chiefs. According to the report, Gay may visit three of those teams, and is scheduled to meet with the Saints tomorrow.

Gay was originally an undrafted free agent for the Patriots in 2004 out of LSU, but has emerged as a top nickel back. He's started 14 games in his four-year career, tallying 86 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 12 passes defended in that span. Gay may also return to the Patriots as he may be in line to succeed free agent Asante Samuel in the starting lineup. If signed by the Falcons, he could be insurance in case the team trades DeAngelo Hall.

Falcons extend tenders to Boley and Davis

The AJC reports that the Falcons are expected to extend tender offers to linebacker Michael Boley and defensive end Chauncey Davis. Both players are restricted free agents. According to the report, Boley will receive a first round tender, which will give him a one-year salary of $2.017 million. Davis will receive a fourth round tender, with a one-year deal worth $927,000.

Restricted free agents are allowed to negotiate contracts with other teams, but the Falcons will retain the right of first refusal, which means they can match any offer submitted by another team. If the Falcons match the offer, the free agent is retained. If not, then they have the right to compensation which is determined by the level of the tender. If another team signs Boley, the Falcons will receive a first round pick, and for Davis, a fourth round pick. Davis's compensation is based on the fact that he was originally a fourth round draft pick for the Falcons in 2005.

There is no official word on what level of tenders (if extended at all) to the Falcons two other restricted free agents: punter Michael Koenen and fullback Corey McIntyre. If the Falcons opt to not extend a restricted tender to either player, they will become unrestricted free agents and are free to sign with any team.

UPDATE: Atlanta Falcons.com indicates that the Falcons have placed a second round tender on Michael Koenen worth ($1.47 million) and the right of first refusal with Corey McIntyre ($927,000). Both Koenen and McIntyre were undrafted free agents. If a team signs McIntyre to an offer sheet, the Falcons will receive no compensation.

Falcons contact 2 free agents

John Clayton of ESPN.com reports that the Falcons have contacted two free agents in kicker Josh Brown (Seattle Seahawks) and running back Michael Turner (San Diego Chargers). According to Clayton, the Falcons hoped to lure Turner into Atlanta for a Friday visit. No word on if or when Brown could visit.

In five years in the NFL, Brown has made exactly 80% of his 145 carer field goals. He's considered one of the premier kickers available on the market.

Turner has served as a backup in San Diego behind Pro Bowler LaDainian Tomlinson the past four seasons, with only 1 NFL start under his belt. For his career, he has carried the ball 228 times for 1257 yards (5.5 avg) and 6 touchdowns along with 11 receptions. He is expected to be one of the more coveted players in all of free agency.

Williams to visit 3 teams

Scout.com's Adam Caplan reports that Falcons free agent linebacker Demorrio Williams has set up visits with three prospective new teams in the Kansas City Chiefs, Chicago Bears, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Previous reports have indicated that the Falcons have little or no intention of retaining Williams.

Originally a fourth round pick in 2004 for the Falcons, has started a total of 42 games over the past four seasons with the team. He recorded career highs of 125 tackles, 3 sacks, and 2 interceptions in 2005. Last year, he had only 77 tackles and 2 interceptions in 16 starts.

Falcons could look to Denver for RB and K options

Bill Williamson of the Denver Post writes that the Falcons could show interest in Jason Elam if or when he becomes available for free agency next week. Williamson also reports on rumors that the Falcons could be curious about a potential late round swap for current Broncos backup running back Mike Bell.

Williamson cites that Elam has familial ties to the state of Georgia as potential reasons why joining the Falcons could interest him. He will turn 38 in March, and has played the last 15 years with the Broncos. He tied the league record for longest field goal of 63 yards in 1998 and currently ranks 6th all-time on the all-time scoring list with 1,786 points. The Falcons are potentially interested in replacing 47-year old Morten Andersen, who is the current all-time leading scorer in NFL history with 2,544 points.

Bell fell on the depth chart this past year after a fairly strong showing as a rookie in 2006. That year he had 157 carries for 677 yards (4.3 avg) and 8 touchdowns along with 20 receptions. This past year, he appeared in only 5 games, rushing for 3 yards on 6 carries with 1 catch. He'll turn 25 in April, and was an undrafted free agent in 2006 out of Arizona.

Falcons show interest in free agents

Draft Daddy.com reports that the Falcons could be pursuing free agents such as quarterback Billy Volek and offensive tackle Flozell Adams. They also have reported that six additonal teams are reportedly interested in cornerback DeAngelo Hall, not just the New York Giants, as reported beforehand. According to their source, the Dallas Cowboys, Tennessee Titans, Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, and Kansas City Chiefs are interested in Hall.

Volek is a free agent for the San Diego Chargers. The Falcons attempted to sign Volek back in 2004, but he opted to return to the Tennessee Titans. In 2006, he was traded to the San Diego Chargers. This past season, he only appeared in 5 regular season games, completing 3 of 10 passes for only 6 yards and an interception. But had a notable performance during the playoffs when he came in against the Indianapolis Colts, and completed 3 of 4 passes for 48 yards, as he helped the Chargers secure that victory.

Adams was voted to the Pro Bowl this past season, marking the fourth time in the past five years he has achieved that. He was originally a 2nd round draft pick with the Dallas Cowboys in 1998, and has started 146 games for the Cowboys, most of which came at left tackle.

Hall and Redman's futures up in the air

Steve Wyche of the AJC reports on several developing stories for the Falcons after holding discussions this past week with GM Thomas Dimitroff, including the potential futures of DeAngelo Hall, Chris Redman, and what areas the Falcons may address in free agency.

Wyche reports that the Falcons are currently weighing their trade options with cornerback DeAngelo Hall. According to Wyche, Dimitroff indicated that the team believes Hall makes them a better team, but they have yet to commit whether they will extend his contract. Hall's contract is set to void following the 2008 season, which could potentially make him an unrestricted free agent. A previous report from Wyche indicated that Hall is prepared to sit out this season without a contract extension.

Also the team has yet to make a commitment on whether they will re-sign quarterback Chris Redman. Wyche indicates that the team likes Redman, but will be keying in on many of the quarterback prospects this weekend at the Combine.

Wyche speculates that the Falcons could pursue defensive tackle Grady Jackson once free agency kicks off on February 29. Jackson was released by the Falcons this past October and finished the season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 7 starts with the Falcons, Jackson recorded 20 tackles and 1 sack. The team is interested in him perhaps due to looming injury concerns over Trey Lewis, who replaced him at nose tackle during the season. Lewis injured his knee in November and ended the season on injured reserve. There are concerns whether he will be ready for the start of next season.

Roster could see lots of turnover

The AJC's Steve Wyche reports that several Falcons veterans may not be back in 2008. Among players named by Wyche, who cites NFL officials and player agents, are safeties Lawyer Milloy and Chris Crocker, along with offensive linemen Wayne Gandy, Kynan Forney, and Todd Weiner, wide receivers Brian Finneran and Joe Horn, running back Warrick Dunn, quarterbacks Joey Harrington and Byron Leftwich, and linebacker Keith Brooking. Wyche reports that many of these players could be released as soon as Friday, February 15.

Wyche indicates that one player that could be potentially safe is tight end Alge Crumpler, who is coming off a down year. But Crumpler may be retained since it's doubtful the Falcons could add someone in the draft or free agency that could adequately replace him.

Crocker is an unrestricted free agent, and is not expected to be re-signed. The remaining players represent 10 of the team's top 15 highest-paid players based on 2008 base salary. The Falcons currently have around $6 million in cap space for the 2008 season. Dunn, Gandy, Milloy, Forney, Harrington, and Leftwich are all entering the final years on their contracts. Brooking and Finneran have two years left on their deals, while Horn and Weiner have three and four, respectively. Among them, Brooking ($4.9 million), Dunn ($4 million), Gandy ($3.5 million), and Forney ($2.95 million) have the highest 2008 base salaries.

Falcons working on extending Boley

The AJC's Steve Wyche reports in his blog that the Falcons are currently begun talks to extend the contract of linebacker Michael Boley. Boley's contract expires at the end of the season and he is slated to become a restricted free agent in March. If a deal cannot be done by then, the Falcons are expected to tender him at a high level in order to gain compensation in case another team signs him. They will also be given the right of first refusal, which means that if another team attempts to sign him the Falcons will be given the chance to match their offer.

Wyche reports that the Falcons have not engaged in contract talks with two more impending free agents: safety Chris Crocker and linebacker Demorrio Williams. Both Crocker and Williams will be unrestricted free agents after this season.

Wyche also reports that the Falcons are not talking to cornerback DeAngelo Hall about an extension, likely due to the incidents between Hall and the current coaching staff. Hall will not become a free agent until after the 2008 season, so there is still time for the team. Hall has indicated in the past his desire to get the best possible deal.

You can find an updated list of the Falcons upcoming free agents for next year and future years at FalcFans.com.

Falcons make roster moves

One Falcon rookie will have his season begin, while another one will have his season end. The Falcons promoted running back Jason Snelling from the practice squad, and also placed tight end Martrez Milner on injured reserve. Snelling was the team's seventh round pick this past April, while Milner was selected in the fourth round. Snelling had spent the first ten weeks of the season on the team's practice squad after leading the team in rushing during the preseason. Milner had played primarily as a reserve, but had seen substantial playing time throughout the season due to injuries to Dwayne Blakley and Alge Crumpler. He finishes the season with 9 catches for 50 yards. To make room for Snelling, the team released linebacker Travis Williams. Replacing Milner will be tight end Courtney Anderson.

In four preseason games, Snelling had 41 carries for 174 yards (4.2 avg) and also caught 7 passes for 35 yards (5.0 avg). His preseason performance however was not enough to earn him a roster spot, as the team decided to go with a more experienced running back in Artose Pinner. Due to the recent injury to Jerious Norwood, and the struggles of Pinner as a situational runner, the team is expected to give Snelling a long look in short yardage situations.

Williams was promoted to the active roster from the practice squad a month ago. In three games he appeared in, he recorded 3 stops on special teams.

Anderson appeared in 2 games this season with the Detroit Lions. He was waived by the Miami Dolphins at the end of training camp, after being released by the Oakland Raiders at the end of July. He started 28 games for the Raiders over the past three seasons, catching 62 passes for 763 yards (12.3 avg) and 6 touchdowns. He was originally a 7th round pick out of San Jose State in 2004.

Falcons add DT Anderson

Due to the recent knee injury to backup nose tackle Montavious Stanley, the Falcons signed free agent defensive tackle Tim Anderson. To make room for Anderson, the Falcons released cornerback Brent Grimes, who was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster on Monday. Stanley's injury is ironic considering the Falcons released starting defensive tackle Grady Jackson last week. The team reasoned that Jackson's release was necessary due to the improved health of defensive tackles Rod Coleman and Jonathan Babineaux in recent weeks. Jackson signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars this week.

Anderson appeared in 4 games with the Buffalo Bills this year before being released on October 20. He recorded 3 tackles in his time in Buffalo. He was originally a third round pick out of Ohio State in 2004. In 2005, he was the Bills' regular starter, making 12 starts and finishing the season with 42 tackles and 1 sack. Last season, he lost his starting job to Kyle Williams, but still managed 5 starts and 32 tackles on the year. Reports this spring had the Bills putting Anderson, who was a restricted free agent, on the trading block.

Grimes spot on the practice squad was taken by defensive end Kevin Huntley. Huntley was re-signed after spending 4 weeks on the practice squad earlier in the regular season. It is unknown if the Falcons will release Huntley for a second time to make room for Grimes. The Falcons have yet to specify how long they expect Stanley to be out of commission.

Falcons sign Huff

The Falcons signed free agent linebacker Orlando Huff, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals. Huff started 25 games the past two seasons for the Cardinals on the weakside. He likely will get a chance to resume those duties in Atlanta due to the injury of Demorrio Williams, who is expected to miss at least a significant part of the summer due to a torn pectoral muscle.

Huff has experience playing both the weakside and middle linebacker spots. He played the latter for much of his four-year stint with the Seattle Seahawks. The 6'3" 236-pound linebacker was originally a fourth round pick in 2001 out of Fresno State. In 2006, Huff totaled 70 tackles and 1 forced fumble in 13 starts with the Cardinals. For his career, he has started a total of 48 games, with 261 tackles, 3 sacks, and 2 interceptions in that span.

Free Agent Tracker

This is where we will monitor the comings and goings of free agents.

Comings
Mar. 2 - FB Ovie Mughelli, Ravens
Mar. 2 - LB Marcus Wilkins, Bengals
Mar. 7 - CB Lewis Sanders, Texans
Mar. 7 - WR Joe Horn, Saints
Mar. 14 - G Toniu Fonoti, Dolphins
Mar. 14 - WR Derrick Hamilton
Mar. 22 - QB Chris Redman
Mar. 23 - K Aaron Elling
Mar. 27 - DT Anthony Bryant, Lions
Apr. 9 - QB Joey Harrington, Dolphins
May 4 - K Billy Cundiff, Saints
May 8 - OT Leander Jordan, Chargers
May 9 - S Nick Turnbull, Bears

Goings
Mar. 2 - LB Ed Hartwell (released/Bengals)
Mar. 2 - LB Ike Reese (released)
Mar. 3 - WR Ashley Lelie (FA/49ers)
Mar. 5 - G Matt Lehr (released/Buccaneers)
Mar. 5 - LS Gavin Tarquinio (released)
Mar. 6 - DE Patrick Kerney (FA/Seahawks)
Mar. 9 - FB Justin Griffith (FA/Raiders)
Mar. 21 - QB Matt Schaub (trade/Texans)
Apr. 9 - CB Kevin Mathis (released/retired)
Apr. 20 - C Austin King (FA/Seahawks)
Apr. 24 - S J.R. Reed (released)
Apr. 24 - LB Ryan Riddle (released)
May 2 - G Ben Claxton (released/Raiders)
May 2 - CB Kevin Hobbs (released/Seahawks)
May 2 - RB Butchie Wallace (released)
May 7 - TE Eric Beverly (released/Lions)
May 10 - CB Jason Webster (released/Bills)
May 14 - DT Anthony Bryant (released)
May 14 - CB Derrick Johnson (released/Dolphins)
May 14 - C Brian Ferentz (released)
May 14 - C Jason Palermo (released)

Staying
Mar. 19 - G Ben Claxton (EFA)
Mar. 19 - K Michael Koenen (EFA)
Mar. 19 - FB Corey McIntyre (EFA)
Apr. 4 - TE Dwayne Blakley (RFA)
Apr. 23 - LB Demorrio Williams (RFA)

Scheduled Visits
Mar. 2 - TE Reggie Kelly, Bengals*
Mar. 2 - LB Marcus Wilkins, Bengals
Mar. 3 - G Floyd Womack, Seahawks*
Mar. 5 - S Deon Grant, Jaguars*
Mar. 5 - WR Joe Horn, Saints
Mar. 5 - CB Roderick Hood, Eagles*
Mar. 7 - CB William James, Eagles*
Mar. ? - WR Alex Bannister, Seahawks (according to Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, had already visited Falcons as of March 8)
Mar. 14 - OT Leander Jordan, Chargers
Mar. 22 - DT Ian Scott, Bears*
Apr. 4 - QB Jay Fiedler, FA
Apr. 6 - QB Joey Harrington, Dolphins
Apr. 18 - DT Kenderick Allen, Packers*

Rumored Interest
QB Tim Rattay, Buccaneers*
QB Anthony Wright, Bengals*
WR Kelley Washington, Bengals*
G Edwin Mulitalo, Ravens*
G Eric Steinbach, Bengals*
G Ross Tucker, FA*
DE Jimmy Wilkerson, Chiefs*
DT Seth Payne, Texans
LB Chris Draft, Panthers*
LB Napoleon Harris, Vikings*
CB Dre' Bly, Lions*
CB Jamar Fletcher, Lions*
CB Deltha O'Neal, Bengals
S Cameron Worrell, Bears*
K Jay Feely, Giants*
K Olindo Mare, Dolphins*


* indicates player that has already signed a contract with another team

Falcons add Jordan

The Falcons added more help to their offensive line today by signing free agent Leander Jordan. Jordan missed the entire 2006 season with a neck stinger suffered during the preseason last year with the San Diego Chargers. He will add depth for the Falcons up front and potentially compete for a starting job.

In 2005, Jordan started 9 games for the Chargers, including 8 at left tackle as a replacement for injured Roman Oben. His other start came as a replacement for right tackle Shane Olivea in Week 6. Jordan has played several positions, and has experience at both guard and tackle positions, making him an ideal utility player up front. He has appeared in 37 games over his 7-year career and has started a total of 14 of them. He was originally a 3rd round pick of the Carolina Panthers in 2000 out of Indiana (PA).

Jordan adds depth to the Falcons offensive line, and could potentially compete for the vacant left guard position. Currently rookie Justin Blalock and fellow free agent signing Toniu Fonoti are slated to compete for that position.

Falcons add 2 more free agents

The Falcons signed two additional undrafted free agents today in Villanova safety Allyn Bacchus and North Carolina tight end Jon Hamlett.

Bacchus (6' 210) was a four-year starter at Villanova. The past two years he had his most productive seasons combining for 221 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 9 pass brekaups, 3 fumble recoveries, 3 forced fumbles, and a sack.

Hamlett (6'4" 262) was a two-year starter, catching a total of 51 passes for 562 yards (11.0 avg) and 4 touchdowns during his Tar Heel career.

To make room for the two undrafted free agents, the Falcons released center Ben Claxton, cornerback Kevin Hobbs, and running back Butchie Wallace.

Falcons sign 9 more undrafted free agents

The Falcons released the names of nine additional undrafted free agents they signed following this past weekend's draft. They are: P Gordon Ely-Kelso (Georgia), OT Renardo Foster (Louisville), S Jeramie Johnson (Mississippi State), WR Eric Newman (Louisiana Tech), DE David Patterson (Ohio State), OG Kurt Quarterman (Louisville), OLB Tony Taylor (Georgia), WR Eric Weems (Bethune-Cookman), and LS Ryan West (Tennessee).

Ely-Kelso (6' 238) is the career record holder at Georgia with 220 punts for 8876 yards (40.3 avg). Dropped 69 career kicks inside the 20-yard line, displaying his accuracy.

Foster (6'6' 331) missed most of his sophomore and junior seasons with torn ACL and back injury, respectively. He started 13 games as a freshman, and was also the Cardinals right tackle this past season.

Johnson (5'10" 209) was the starting free safety the past two seasons, combining for 136 tackles, 4 interceptions, 12 pass breakups, and 7 forced fumbles in that span. He was the starting strong safety as a sophomore, after splitting time at both safety spots during his freshman season. In those years, he tallied a combined 86 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 1 pass breakup.

Newman (6' 195) was a two-year starter that finished his career with 104 receptions for 1608 yards (15.5 avg) and 14 touchdowns. He also was a good kickoff returner, returning 66 kicks for 1418 yards (21.5 avg).

Patterson (6'2" 285) received most of his playing time at Ohio State as a left defensive end, but did started 11 games at defensive tackle during his sophomore year. For his career, he finished with 72 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 8 sacks. Marla Ridenour of the Akron Beacon Journal reports that Patterson was the highest paid undrafted free agent this year.

Quarterman (6'4" 328) earned 1st team All-Big East honors as a enior, and was a three year starter at right guard for the Cardinals.

Taylor (6'1" 236) tore his ACL in 2004 and missed nearly half the following season with other knee injuries. This past season he bounced back and had his finest, tallying 96 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 7 interceptions, and 2 pass breakups.

Weems (5'8" 182) led the team with 69 catches, 918 yards, and 9 touchdowns as a senior. Also had 19 punt returns for 331 yards (17.4 avg) and 1 touchdown. Weems split time at running back and receiver during his career. For his career, he caught 185 passes for 2587 yards (14.0 avg) and 20 scores with 205 carries for 1504 yards (7.3 avg) and 23 more touchdowns on the ground.

West (6'3" 260) served as Tennessee's long snapper since his sophomore season.

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.