After a woeful 2005-2006 NFL season, it was evidently clear that the Atlanta Falcons could not rely solely on the legs of Michael Vick to carry them into the playoffs. Without a defense to stop teams from scoring, the Falcons lost 4 close games by 3 points (Seattle, New England, and twice to Tampa Bay). Those 4 games were the difference between them going to the playoffs (with a division winning record of 12-4) and staying home (with a record of 8-8) in January.
Enter John Abraham, formerly of the New York Jets, is a three-time Pro Bowl selection in six seasons, has 53.5 sacks, fourth on the Jet's all-time list. He will bring a presence on stopping the run and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Abraham becomes a Falcon after a three way trade of draft picks with Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, and New York Jets.
Last week, the trade seemed in jeopardy, because the Jets wanted Falcons backup quarterback Matt Schaub as part of the deal. Since he has been a decent insurance policy (because Michael Vick's style of play lends itself to injury), the Falcons were reticent to release the competent Schaub. Falcons fans near and far are applauding the addition of a crucial piece to the struggling defensive line.
My Falcons Wish List:
* An experienced wide receiver for Michael Vick to throw to; last year, our best wide receiver was second string Brian Fenneran and the best receiver was tight end Alge Crumpler
* An experienced defensive back to help out in the secondary
* A punishing tailback (a la Ricky Williams or Shawn Alexander) to help Warwick Dunn carry the load - he's really good, but how much longer can he take the punishment of the NFL?
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