November 15
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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An extended lost of running back Michael Turner could handicap the Falcons in their bid for a second consecutive playoff trip. Turner was turning in another stellar effort before suffering a sprained right ankle. The injury was severe enough for him not to return to the game. He had nine rushes for 111 yards with just over nine minutes left in the second quarter before going down. He left the game after two runs to move the ball down to Carolina's 15 with 9:08 left in the second quarter. On a 10-yard run up the middle, he was tackled by Carolina's Jon Beason and left the game. He was seen trying to walk for the trainers on the sidelines before leaving the field to go to the locker room. ..."
November 7
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Falcons wide receiver Roddy White and offensive tackle Sam Baker returned to practice Friday. White (knee) and Baker (ankle) did not practice Thursday, but were limited in their participation on Friday. "I anticipate them being ready to go on Sunday afternoon," Falcons coach Mike Smith said."
October 6
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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The Falcons are set to give tryouts to three defensive linemen on Tuesday, the team confirmed. Antwan Lake, Orpheus Roye and Paul Spicer set to visit and workout. Lake, 30, is a former Falcon. He has played 79 games in the league including 12 starts. He played 29 games for the Falcons, with four starts in 2004 and 2005. Oprheus Roye, 36, has played for Pittsburgh and Cleveland since 1996. He's played defensive end and tackle. He has 180 games and 128 starts in the league."
September 24
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Falcons running back Jerious Norwood did not practice Wednesday and might not be available for the game against New England on Sunday. Norwood suffered a head injury Sunday against Carolina, and coach Mike Smith said Norwood was "day by day." Norwood initially suffered a head injury in the preseason when he took a crushing hit from San Diego's Antonio Cromartie. He missed the final exhibition game. Norwood caught a career-high six passes in the season opener against Miami but did not return kicks. Last week, he took back his kickoff-return duties before leaving the game with a head injury. Against the Panthers, Jason Snelling took over the backup running back role for Norwood. He had 37 ..."
August 9
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Falcons Pro Bowl wide receiver Roddy White signed a contract extension Saturday night, ending his holdout that began July 31. "We're always going to be an organization that rewards players for being productive on the field and good citzens off of it," said Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff. "We are glad to get this contract situation resolved and look forward to a long association with Roddy." Terms were not available. Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald is the NFL's top-paid receiver with a four-year, $40 million contract. The deal ends White's eight-day holdout. He was fined $15,888 per day during the holdout. White is expected to attend practice Monday. "Roddy is extremely happy that ..."
August 6
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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The tone of Roddy White's negotiations with the Falcons has taken a turn for the worse. "I'm a little bit disappointed with the direction that the negotiations are going at this point," Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said Wednesday. "It's one of those situations where both parties are digging in and feel strongly about their case." There were discussions Tuesday that went well into the evening. White, who is under contract for the 2009 season, wants a contract in the financial neighborhood of Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald, who recently signed a four-year $40 million deal. The Falcons apparently are not willing to go that high. Before Tuesday's talks, Dimitroff thought things were ..."
August 6
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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The tone of Roddy White's negotiations with the Falcons has taken a turn for the worse. "I'm a little bit disappointed with the direction that the negotiations are going at this point," Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said Wednesday. "It's one of those situations where both parties are digging in and feel strongly about their case." There were discussions Tuesday that went well into the evening. White, who is under contract for the 2009 season, wants a contract in the financial neighborhood of Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald, who recently signed a four-year $40 million deal. The Falcons apparently are not willing to go that high. Before Tuesday's talks, Dimitroff thought things were ..."
July 24
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Michael Vick could be on his way back to the NFL if a team signs him before, during or following a four-game suspension levied by Commissioner Roger Goodell. ESPN.com reported Thursday that Goodell issued a conditional reinstatement for the suspended former Falcons quarterback that will allow Vick to attend training camp if he signs with a team, but will still suspend Vick for the first four games of the 2009 season. NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, however, told The Associated Press on Thursday no decisions on Vick's future have been made. "This is a serious matter," Aiello said in an e-mail. "We are engaging in a careful and thoughtful process." Vick, fresh from serving 23-months in federal ..."
July 14
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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When the Falcons take the field to start training camp on Aug. 1, defensive end John Abraham will be right there. Rich Rosa, Abraham's agent, disputed a report that Abraham was unhappy with his contract and was considering a holdout. A report surfaced on NFL Network last week that there were "rumblings" of an Abraham holdout. The Falcons, who don't comment about player contracts, acknowledged that they had not been approached by Abraham's agent about re-doing his six-year, $45 million contact. "It's a long offseason and they have to stir the pot," Rosa said. "We don't know where that is coming from. There won't be a holdout. He'll be there when camp opens." Abraham was traded to the ..."
June 9
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
columnist Mark Bradley
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It has been speculated for some time that Michael Vick, of whom you've heard, is apt to play in the UFL before he returns to the NFL. The UFL, as you might not know, stands for the United Football League, a start-up that includes all of four teams. On ESPN.com, Pat Yasinskas speculates that Vick would most likely land in Orlando. (The other three franchises are based in New York/Hartford, Los Angeles/Las Vegas and Sacramento/San Francisco. If this sounds confusing, here's a fine explanation of the UFL from Ted Fleming on the Tampa Bay Sports Examiner.) Yasinskas' reasoning: The UFL operates on a regional basis, and Orlando would get dibs on anyone who has played in the NFC South. Also: ..."
May 20
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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As Michael Vick left federal prison in Kansas for home confinement in Virginia Wednesday, Falcons owner Arthur Blank reiterated that the former face of the franchise won't play for the team again. "As Michael nears the completion of his sentence, I wish the best for him and his family," Blank said in a statement. "It is my sincere hope that he has learned from his mistakes and will move forward in a productive and positive manner. "The Falcons maintain Michael's contractual rights for now, but he will not be playing for us in the future. In the event NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell decides to reinstate Michael to the NFL, we feel his best opportunity to re-engage his football career would ..."
May 19
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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With the time near for Falcons quarterback Michael Vick's release from federal prison, here are five things to know about Vick's future: Home confinement For two months Michael Vick will be confined to his home in Hampton, Va., with his fiancée and two of his children. He will be allowed to leave for work and church. He is set to be released from federal custody on July 20, 2009. He also has to serve three years of supervised probation. Also, he cannot own any dogs. Return to the NFL? Vick is currently suspended by the NFL and remains on the Falcons roster. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell does not have a meeting set with Vick or his representatives to discuss reinstatement. He wants to see ..."
May 18
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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It's get-out-of-jail week for Michael Vick. And from all indications, he plans to hit the ground running in his quest to return to the NFL. NFL.com, citing a source close to the situation, reported that Vick will work with a trainer and start football-related workouts shortly after his scheduled release Wednesday from the federal penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kan. Vick must complete the final two months of his 23-month dogfighting sentence in home confinement in Hampton, Va. Whether the embattled Falcons quarterback will be allowed back in the NFL is up to commissioner Roger Goodell, who suspended him indefinitely. Goodell has said Vick must show genuine remorse. At least one training ..."
May 11
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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After two spectacular seasons, wide receiver Roddy White and the Atlanta Falcons are in discussions for a contract extension. White, who made the Pro Bowl for the first time last season, is entering the final year of a five-year contract. "We haven't come to an agreement," said White, who is set to make $2.28 million next season under his current contract. Preferably, White said he would like to enter the season with his contract situations resolved. "Whenever it happens, it happens," White said. "We'll just wait around for it." White participated fully in the Falcons minicamp, which ended on Sunday. He has also been taking part in the offseason workouts. After being selected with the 27th ..."
April 26
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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The Falcons will keep their focus on improving their defense Sunday, he second day of the NFL Draft. They are set to address the cornerback position and like that some talented players remain undrafted. Domonique Foxworth, the team's top cornerback last season, signed with Baltimore during free agency. Georgia's Asher Allen and New Mexico's Glover Quin, two cornerbacks the Falcons scouted who are still available. "I'm looking forward to tomorrow to continue to add players," Falcons coach Mike Smith said. "It can't get here, quick enough." Jerry can rush the passer, too The Falcons drafted defensive tackle Peria Jerry in the first round primarily for his ability to stop the run, but they ..."
April 25
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff is comfortable picking late in the first round of the NFL Draft. During his days in New England, the Patriots rarely had a top-10 pick but always seemed to find good players late. This year the Falcons will wait, watch and attack when USC linebacker Brian Cushing falls to them. The theme of the day will be defense. After five starters left in free agency, all levels need an infusion of talent. "We need to go into the draft with an arrangement of our needs across the board," Dimitroff said. "Every position is ranked. I think that's important. It's not like we just have three needs, and we are throwing darts at the best players. We'll continue to be ..."
April 24
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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First-round prospect Evander "Ziggy" Hood, Missouri Position: Defensive tackle Height, weight: 6-2 7/8, 300 Skinny: Gets good pressure on the quarterback. Had 15.5 career quarterback sacks. "I learned different moves, different steps from the coaches and those who played ahead of me," Hood said. "Some, I knew from high school, but I never had to put my hand down in high school. I was a standup defensive end in high school." Middle-round prospect Sen' Derrick Marks, Auburn Position: Defensive tackle Height, weight: 6-1 3/4, 306 Skinny: Big, agile attacking tackle with two blocked field-goal attempts against Florida and LSU. Played defensive end in 2007. An offseason hernia surgery kept him ..."
April 23
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
columnist Mark Bradley
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Late-breaking update: The Falcons have a tight end!And, according to Jay Glazer of FoxSports.com, he isn't Brandon Pettigrew. He's Tony Gonzalez, the 10-time Pro Bowler. The Falcons have acquired him from Kansas City for a second-round draft pick in 2010. This does two things: First, it enables the Falcons to go hog-wild in the pursuit of defense over the weekend, and second, it pretty well cements the bond between Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff and his Kansas City counterpart Scott Pioli, who used to be Dimitroff's boss in New England. Me, I'd call it a win-win for everybody. But maybe that's just me. "In Round 4, the Atlanta Falcons…"I said I wasn't going to do it, but I did it ..."
April 22
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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With the NFL draft set for Saturday and Sunday, the Falcons are prepared to take calls about trading the rights to quarterback Michael Vick. "Possibly, but we are focusing on the whole franchise as far as the roster," Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said on Tuesday. "As you know we are always open to entertaining offers and have discussions about players on this roster." The Falcons have the 24th pick overall in the first round. Last season, after selecting quarterback Matt Ryan with the No. 3 pick, Dimitroff traded back into the first round toleft tackle Sam Baker with the 21st overall pick. Dimitroff said he's prepared to move up or down and is ready if someone wants to acquire ..."
March 31
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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ESPN is reporting that the Atlanta Falcons and Michael Vick have reached a settlement in their breach of contract claim against the embattled quarterback. The report says that, under the settlement, Vick has agreed to pay the Falcons $7.5 million if the team wins its appeal before the Eighth Circuit Court. The settlement is dependent on the court's decision, the report states. An arbitrator in November 2007 stated the Falcons could recoup close to $20 million because Vick breached his contract. However, Judge U.S. District Judge David Doty overturned the ruling, saying that Vick was only responsible for a pro-rated portion of his signing bonus - $3.75 million. In its report, ESPN cites ..."
March 30
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Michael Vick's plan to climb out of bankruptcy partly depends on the suspended star suiting up again for the NFL after he gets out of prison. The embattled Atlanta Falcons quarterback is hoping to earn as much as $10 million a year or more, according to court filings in his bankruptcy case. Under the plan he submitted to the court, Vick would keep the first $750,000 of his annual income over the next five years. After that, a percentage would go to his creditors based on a sliding scale. Vick, who is nearing the end of a 23-month federal prison sentence for his role in a dogfighting conspiracy, could learn the fate of his bankruptcy plan this week. Bankruptcy Judge Frank J. Santoro is set ..."
March 16
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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While I was off getting my basketball fix, the Falcons and tight end L.J. Smith were still square dancing at the Free Agency Ball. But the waltz appears over, according to a source close to the negotiations. Smith's lack of blocking ability isn't a scheme fit for the run happy Falcons. The dancing is finally over and in the words of Beyonce Knowles they are not going to be putting a ring on this once blooming marriage. Smith's options were down to Detroit and Atlanta. It seemed like the Falcons would easily be the winner. But Smith dragged his feet and the Falcons had a change of heart. In the end, they are a running team and Smith doesn't block. That's what football teams call "a bad ..."
March 10
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Free agent linebacker Mike Peterson, a 10-year veteran, visited the Falcons on Monday. Peterson started his career as an outside linebacker with Indianapolis, but played middle linebacker for Jacksonville the last six seasons. He played under Falcons head coach Mike Smith during his stint with Jacksonville. The Falcons are in the process of re-vamping their linebacker unit after starters Michael Boley and Keith Brooking left via free agency. Peterson, 32, led the Jaguars in tackles in three of his six seasons. He played his first four years in the league with the Colts. The Falcons are looking for more impact plays from the linebackers. Peterson has 19.5 sacks and 15 interceptions over his ..."
March 6
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Daniel Loper, a reserve guard/tackle who played last season with the Tennessee Titans, is scheduled to visit the Falcons on Friday, according to the Tennessean newspaper in Nashville. Loper, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound unrestricted free agent, was a fifth-round pick out of Texas Tech in 2005. He has played in 40 regular-season games with no starts. Last season, he played in all 16 regular-season games and the Titans' playoff game. His only start was in a 2007 playoff game against San Diego. According to the Tennessean, Loper visited the Detroit Lions earlier this week. Tight end L.J. Smith and center Brett Romberg, both unrestricted free agents, visited Thursday. "It went great," said agent ..."
February 28
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Former Falcons linebacker Keith Brooking has signed a three-year deal with the Cowboys, according to his agent Pat Dye Jr. Dye did not disclose terms of the contract. Brooking, the last member of the 1998 Falcons Super Bowl team, will be reunited with Cowboys coach Wade Phillips, who was the Falcons’ defensive coordinator in 2002-03 and the team’s interim coach for the final three games of the ‘03 season. “That played a big part in the decision,” Dye said of the chance for Brooking to be reunited with Phillips. Brooking became a free agent at 12:01 a.m. Friday, but Dye said he had discussions with the Falcons through Saturday before Brooking chose the Cowboys’ offer. Falcons owner Arthur ..."