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The Atlanta Falcons will open the 2009regular season schedule with a homecontest against the Miami Dolphins.
Atlanta will look to put together anoth-er winning campaign after finishing 11-5 last year, which included the teamsfirst playoff berth since 2004. TheFalcons hold an impressive 11-6record in season home openers andhave won six of their last seven datingback to 1990.
Miami owns a 7-3 overall series record
against Atlanta, however the Falconshave won two of the last three meetings (1998 and 2005). Atlantaslast victory in 2005 improved its regular season record to 6-2.Collectively, the Falcons hold a 4-2 mark against AFC EastDivision opponents since 2001.
Although the Falcons closed the 2009 preseason with a loss to theBaltimore Ravens, the team finished with a 2-2 record, marking thesixth consecutive year Atlanta finished the preseason with a non-losing record. Among the preseason highlights, quarterback MattRyan completed 27 of 36 passes for 267 yards, two touchdownsand zero interceptions for a 114.0 passer rating in four preseasoncontests.
Slated next for the Falcons is a Week 2 home contest against the
Carolina Panthers on Sunday, September 20.
REGULAR SEASON WEEK 1
ATLANTA FALCONS (0-0)vs.
Miami Dolphins (0-0)1:00 p.m. (EST), Sunday, September 13, 2009, Georgia Dome
THIS WEEKS MEDIA AVAILABILITY
Quarterback Matt Ryan
Monday, September 7
- Practice1:10 p.m.
- Players available on thefield after practice
- Coach Smith available onthe field after practice
Tuesday, September 8
- No availabilityplayers day off
Wednesday, September 9
- Open locker room11:35 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.(Matt Ryan and TonyGonzalez available)
- Practice1:10 p.m.
- Coach Smith available onthe field after practice
Thursday, September 10
- Open locker room11:35 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.
- Practice1:10 p.m.
- Coach Smith available onthe field after practice
This preseason, tight end Tony Gonzalez caught six passes for 54 yards and thistouchdown reception against the St. Louis Rams.
http : //pr .atlantafalcons .com Username : falconspr Password : afmed ia
Friday, September 11
- Practice10:50 a.m.
- Open locker room12:45 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
- Coach Smith available onthe field after practice
Saturday, September 12
- No mediaavailability
Team W L T Pct. PF PA Div. Conf.
Atlanta 0 0 0 .000 0 0 0-0 0-0
Carolina 0 0 0 .000 0 0 0-0 0-0
New Orleans 0 0 0 .000 0 0 0-0 0-0
Tampa Bay 0 0 0 .000 0 0 0-0 0-0
RADIOCoverage Provided ByDAVE-FM (92.9)
Play-by-Play: Wes Durham
Color Analyst: Dave Archer
REGGIE ROBERTS - Vice President of Football Communications MATT CONTI - Manager of Football [email protected], (770) 965-2761 [email protected], (770) 965-4350
FRANK KLEHA - Senior Director of Media Relations BRIAN CEARNS - Football Communications [email protected], (770) 965-2763 [email protected], (770) 965-4318
falcons open 2009 campaign
with home contest vs. miami
BROADCAST INFORMATION
2009 nfc south standings
ATLANTA FALCONS WEEKLY PRESS RELEASEWWW.ATLANTAFALCONS.COM 4400 FALCON PARKWAY fLOWERY bRANCH, ga 3054
TELEVISION
Coverage Provided By CBS
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Color Analyst: Dan Dierdorf
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THIS WEEKS OPPONENT: THE MIAMI DOLPHINS
gameday storyline
The Atlanta Falcons open the 2009 regular season schedule at the
Georgia Dome with a matchup against the Miami Dolphins. The
Falcons will look to improve their franchise record in home open-
ers to 12-6 while Head Coach Mike Smith will work off of a 7-1
Georgia Dome record which he set last season. Quarterback Matt
Ryan will have a new target downfield this season with the addition
of tight end Tony Gonzalez. First round draft pick, Peria Jerry, willalso see his first official NFL action on Sunday.
ALL-TIME RESULTS
All-time regular season results: Dolphins lead series, 7-3
All-time postseason results: No meetings
Falcons regular season home record vs. Dolphins: 1-2
Falcons regular season road record vs. Dolphins: 2-5
Falcons regular season record at Georgia Dome: 1-0
Current regular season streak: Falcons - one game
Last regular season meeting: 2005 - Falcons 17 Dolphins 10 (Mia
Regular Season
Dolphins lead series, 7-3
Year Result Location
1970 Dolphins 20 Falcons 7 Atlanta
1974 Dolphins 42 Falcons 7 Miami
1980 Dolphins 20 Falcons 17 Atlanta
1983 Dolphins 31 Falcons 24 Miami
1986 Falcons 20 Dolphins 14 Miami
1992 Dolphins 21 Falcons 17 Miami
1995 Dolphins 21 Falcons 20 Miami
1998 Falcons 38 Dolphins 16 Atlanta
2001 Dolphins 21 Falcons 14 Miami
2005 Falcons 17 Dolphins 10 Miami
TALE OF THE TAPE
2008 Final Regular Season StatisticsFalcons (rank) Dolphins (rank)
24.2 (10) Points Per Game 21.6 (21)361.2 (6) Total Offense Per Game 345.6 (12)152.7 (2) Net Rushing Yards Per Game 118.6 (11)208.5 (14) Net Passing Yards Per Game 227.0 (10)
30:49 Possession Average 31:0320.3 (11) Opponent Points Per Game 19.8 (9)
347.9 (24) Opponent Total Offense Per Game 329.0 (15)127.5 (25) Opponent Net Rushing Yards Per Game 101.3 (10)
220.4 (21) Opponent Net Passing Yards Per Game 227.8 (25)-3 (21) Turnover Differential +17 (1)
Leading Passers: Comp. Att. Yards TDs INTs RatingMatt Ryan 265 434 3,440 16 11 87.7Chad Pennington 321 476 3,653 19 7 97.4
Leading Rushers: Att. Yards Avg. Long TDsMichael Turner 376 1,699 4.5 70 17Ronnie Brown 214 916 4.3 62t 10
Leading Receivers: Rec. Yards Avg. Long TDsRoddy White 88 1,382 15.7 70t 7Ted Ginn, Jr. 56 790 14.1 64 2
2008 regular season leaders
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan on the completion of the pre
season and moving on to a Week 1 contest against the Miam
Dolphins.
We were able to score some points and move the ball consistent
ly over the course of the preseason. But right now, its all about th
regular season in front us. The preseason is now behind us and
doesnt matter what we did in the past four games. Were focused
on moving forward and we have to prepare for the Miami Dolphins
We will try to score as many points as it takes to win the game.
think everybody is excited for the game on Sunday.
quoting matt ryan
PRESEASON (2-2)Date Opponent Time Result/Network
Aug. 15 at Detroit 4 p.m. L, 27-26 Aug. 21 at St. Louis 8 p.m. W, 20-13Aug. 29 SAN DIEGO 8 p.m. W, 27-24
Sept. 3 BALTIMORE 7:30 p.m. L, 20-3REGULAR SEASON (0-0)Date Opponent Time NetworkSept. 13 MIAMI 1:00 p.m. CBSSept. 20 CAROLINA 1:00 p.m. FOXSept. 27 at New England 1:00 p.m. FOXOct. 4 BYE WEEKOct. 11 at San Francisco 4:05 p.m. FOXOct. 18 CHICAGO 8:20 p.m. NBCOct. 25 at Dallas 4:15 p.m. FOXNov. 2 at New Orleans 8:30 p.m. ESPNNov. 8 WASHINGTON 1:00 p.m. FOXNov. 15 at Carolina 1:00 p.m. FOXNov. 22 at New York Giants 1:00 p.m. FOX*Nov. 29 TAMPA BAY 1:00 p.m. FOX*Dec. 6 PHILADELPHIA 1:00 p.m. FOX*Dec. 13 NEW ORLEANS 1:00 p.m. FOX*Dec. 20 at New York Jets 1:00 p.m. FOX*Dec. 27 BUFFALO 1:00 p.m. CBS*Jan. 3 at Tampa Bay 1:00 p.m. FOX** Denotes Flexible Scheduling
2009 regular season schedule
Wide receiver Brian Finneran recorded his
second-highest receiving total of the 2005
season finishing with 92 yards on eight
receptions with one touchdown.
Wide receiver Roddy White contributed
with three receptions for 50 yards in
Atlantas last regular season meeting
against Miami in 2005.
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MIKE SMITH
Coaching Years in NFL: 11th Year
Falcons Head Coach: 2nd Year
Regular Season: 11-5 (.688)
Postseason: 0-1 (.000)
In his first season as
Head Coach of the
Falcons, Mike Smith led
Atlanta to one of the
biggest turnarounds in
NFL history (+7 wins from
2007) while finishing sec-
ond in the NFC South
Division and guiding the
team to their first playoff
appearance since 2004.
For his efforts, he earned NFL Coach of the Year honors from the
Associated Press and Sporting News. Smiths 11 victories tied him
for the best record for rookie head coaches in the NFL taking over
a team that finished below .500 the previous season. Atlanta wit-
nessed several improvements from the 2007 season, which includ-
ed points per game average, rushing yards per game average,
passing touchdown to interception ratio and sacks allowed. Atlanta
also ranked first in the NFL in first quarter points scored and sixth
in first quarter points allowed.
Former Falcons:
Dolphins Offensive CoordinatorDan Henning was the Head Coach for the AtlantaFalcons from 1983 to 1986.
Miami Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Evan Marcus and Assistant Strengthand Conditioning Coach Dave Puloka served in the same role for the Falcons in
2007.
Former Dolphins:
Atlanta wide receiverMarty Bookerplayed with Miami from 2004-07. Falcons Offensive Coordinator Mike Mularkey (2006-07), Special TeamsCoordinatorKeith Armstrong (2007), Linebackers Coach Glenn Pires (2003-06)
and Wide Receivers Coach Terry Robiskie all coached for the Miami Dolphins.
Atlanta TE Justin Peelle competed with the Dolphins from 2006-07.
Georgia/Florida Connections:
Seven Falcons players were born/lived in the state of Florida including: LBSpencerAdkins (Naples), DE Chauncey Davis (Bartow), K Jason Elam (Ft. Walton Beach),
WR Michael Jenkins (Tampa), LB Stephen Nicholas (Jacksonville), LB Mike
Peterson (Gainesville) and WR Eric Weems (Ormond Beach).
Six Dolphins players were raised in Georgia including: RB Ronnie Brown(Cartersville), LB Quinton Moses (Athens), OG Justin Smiley (Ellabell), OT Andrew
Gardner(Chamblee), LB Channing Crowder(Atlanta), LB Erik Walden (Dublin).
NFL Connections:
Dolphins QB Chad Pennington played for the Jets with Falcons DEJohn Abrahamand S Erik Coleman. Falcons LB Tony Gilbert, LB Mike Peterson, and C Brett Romberg were team-mates with Dolphins LB Akin Ayodele in Jacksonville.
Dolphins LB Joey Porterplayed for the Steelers with Falcons FB Verron Haynesand LS Mike Schneck.
Coaching Connections:
Dolphins Assistant Head Coach/Secondary Todd Bowles was an assistant with theCleveland Browns with Falcons Defensive Line Coach Ray Hamilton and Wide
Receivers Coach Terry Robiskie.
Falcons Offensive Line Coach Paul Boudreau coached with Dolphins OffensiveCoordinatorDan Henning on the Carolina Panthers.
College Connections:
Falcons OT Sam Bakerwas teammates with WR Patrick Turnerat the Universityof Southern California.
Falcons DE Kroy Biermann was teammates at the University of Montana withDolphins RB Lex Hilliard and K Dan Carpenter.
notable connections
Falcons 17 - Dolphins 10November 6, 2005
Dolphins Stadium - Miami, FL
1 2 3 4 Final
Falcons 7 7 3 0 17Dolphins 0 10 0 0 10
Recap:The Falcons wasted no time jumping out to a 7-0 lead in the first quartefollowing a nine-play opening drive, which ended with a Warrick Dunn oneyard touchdown run. The score initiated what would be a back and forthstruggle between the two teams in the first three quarters. The Dolphinretaliated with a 21-yard touchdown run by Ricky Williams in the secondquarter, however Atlanta responded with an 11-yard rushing touchdown treclaim a 14-7 lead. Miami added a field goal with 1:56 remaining in the firshalf and entered the locker room trailing 14-10. Falcons kicker ToddPeterson logged the only points in the second half with a 21-yard field goain the third quarter. As the Dolphins attempted to mount a comeback
Atlanta safety Keion Carpenter intercepted a Gus Frerotte pass at theight-yard line to seal the victory.
Highlights:
Wide receiver Brian Finneran led the team with eight receptions for 92yards (11.5 average) and one touchdown.
Wide receiver Roddy White recorded career-highs with three receptions
for 50 yards, which included a career-long catch of 20 yards. He also tal-
lied his first career rush of 16 yards.
The Falcons recorded two of their longest scoring drives of the season
in terms of yardage.
2nd quarter- 12-play, 92-yard drive (6:10). 11-yard reception by
Brian Finneran
3rd quarter- 14-play, 91-yard drive (7:15). 21-yard Peterson FG
The contest marked the 17th occassion out of the last 18 that the
Falcons rushed for 100-plus yards.
The Falcons converted a season-high 11 third down conversions (11 of
16 for 69 percent).
For the second consecutive game, the Falcons did not allow any third
down conversions.
THE LAST TIME OUT...
COACHING
BACKGROUND
1982 San Diego State Asst. Coach
1983-85 San Diego State Linebackers
1986 Morehead State Def. Line
1987 Tennessee Tech Def. Line
1988-95 Tennessee Tech ST. Coord.1996-98 Tennessee Tech Def. Coord.
1999-2001 Baltimore Ravens Def. Line
2002 Baltimore Ravens Linebackers
2003-07 Jacksonville Jaguars Def. Coord.
2008-09 Atlanta Falcons Head Coach
TONY SPARANO
Coaching Years in NFL: 11th Year
Dolphins Head Coach: 2nd Year
Regular Season: 11-5 (.688)
Postseason: 0-1 (.000)
Tony Sparano enters his
second year with the
Miami Dolphins after lead-
ing the team to one of the
biggest turnarounds in
League history. Sparano
inherited the Dolphins with
a 1-15 record (2007), and
guided the team to a 11-5
record the following sea-
son. Under Sparanos
guidance, the Dolphins
secured an AFC East Division title, giving Miami their first post
season berth in eight years. Prior to his stint with the Dolphins
Sparano spent five years with the Dallas Cowboys, helping the
team to the playoffs in three of those seasons. Throughou
Sparanos 10 years of coaching in the NFL, he spent time with the
Jacksonville Jaguars (2002), Washington Redskins (2001), and
the Cleveland Browns (1999). He also carries 14 years of colle
giate-level coaching experience.
COACHING
BACKGROUND
1984-87 University of New Haven Off. Lin1988-89 Boston University Off. Line1990-93 Boston University Off. Coord1994-98 University of New Haven Head Coach1999 Cleveland Browns Off. Quality Cont2000 Cleveland Browns Off. Line2001 Washington Redskins Tight Ends2002 Jacksonville Jaguars Tight Ends2003-04 Dallas Cowboys Tight Ends2005 Dallas Cowboys Off. Line2006-07 Dallas Cowboys Asst. HC/Off. Lin2008-09 Miami Dolphins Head Coach
THIS WEEKS OPPONENT: THE MIAMI DOLPHINS
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OFFENSE
WR Roddy White - After setting a franchise record for receivingyards in a season (1,382) and earning his first Pro Bowl berth in2008, White is looking to post his third consecutive 1,200-yard cam-
paign this year.
LT Sam Baker - Enters his second NFL season as the starter at lefttackle. Last season, he logged five starts.
LG Justin Blalock Will look to start every game of the season forthe second consecutive year.
C Todd McClure In his 11th season with the Falcons, will enter theseason looking to improve his consecutive games starting streak to113.
RG Harvey Dahl - Started every game in 2008, and will look to blockfor a successful rushing attack which finished second in the NFL lastseason.
RT Tyson Clabo - Listed as the starter at right tackle following an
impressive season last year where he started every game for thefirst time in his career.
TE Tony Gonzalez - Holds NFL records for the most receptions(916), receiving yards (10,940) and touchdown catches (76) by atight end. His 10 Pro Bowl selections are more than any other tightend in NFL history.
WR Michael Jenkins - Posted a career-high 777 receving yards in2008 while adding three touchdowns. He has finished second on theteam in receiving in each of the last four seasons.
QB Matt Ryan - In 2008 was votedAssociated Press NFL OffensiveRookie of the Year and Sporting News Rookie of the Year after com-pleting 265 of 434 passes for 3,440 yards and 16 touchdowns for a87.7 passer rating. He became the first player in franchise history toearn NFC Rookie of the Month accolades (October).
RB Michael Turner - Earned his first career Pro Bowl berth last sea-son after finishing second in the NFL with 1,699 rushing yards. Lastyear also marked the first time he topped the 1,000-yard plateau inhis career.
FB Ovie Mughelli - In 2008, opened holes for a Falcons rushingattack which averaged 152.7 yards per game. He also added eightreceptions for 57 yards.
DEFENSE
RE John Abraham - Will look to top his career and franchise recordof 16.5 sacks which he set last season. He also posted three-sacperformances in Weeks 1, 9 and 15 of 2008.
DT Peria Jerry - Atlantas first-round selection will look to make aninstant impact on the defensive line after earning Associated Presfirst-team honors in his senior season at Ole Miss.
DT Jonathan Babineaux - Enters his fifth season as an AtlantaFalcon this year. In 2008, posted 3.5 sacks and 38 tackles. He wasalso selected to the USA TodayAll-Joe team.
LE Jamaal Anderson - In his first two seasons with the Falcons, hehas totaled 81 tackles and two sacks. His sacks came in back-toback games against Chicago and Philadelphia in 2008.
OLB Mike Peterson -A veteran and vocal leader, Peterson entershis first year with the Falcons starting at linebacker. In 135 careegames, he has totaled 1,365 tackles (792 solo) and 19.5 sacks.
MLB Curtis Lofton - Will look to build off of his impressive rookie
campaign where he totaled 108 tackles (second in the NFL amongrookie players). Lofton also garnered 2008 All-Rookie honors by theSporting News and Pro Football Weekly.
OLB Stephen Nicholas - Entering his third year with the FalconsNicholas has collected 46 tackles, two sacks and one fumble recovery over the past two years. He also ranked third on the team in special teams tackles with 12 last season.
RCB Chris Houston - Last season, Houston started every contesat cornerback and finished the season with 59 tackles and two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
LCB Brent Grimes -After entering the NFL as a rookie free agent i2006, Grimes has made his mark after seeing action in 14 games ovethe last two seasons. In 2008, he contributed with 36 tackles andadded his first career interception.
SS Erik Coleman - The leader in the secondary unit, Colemanenters his second season with the Falcons after piecing together asteller campaign in 2008. He set a career-high with 127 tackles andadded three interceptions.
FS Thomas DeCoud - One season after contributing heavily onspecial teams, fans will look for DeCoud to ramp up his game andcompete with the same athleticism which earned him All-Pac 10honors following his senior season at the University of California.
Probable starters this week Probable starters this week
LAST GAME AT A GLANCEPreseason Game #4 (9/3/09)
The Falcons concluded the 2009 preseason with a 2-2 record after
Baltimore defeated Atlanta by a 20-3 margin at the Georgia Dome.
Following a Ravens touchdown on their first offensive possession
of the game, the Falcons defense held Baltimore to four total yards
in the next three combined offensive series. The Ravens posted 13
fourth quarter points, however to keep Atlanta out of reach for a
comeback. The Falcons starters competed in the first offensive
series before quarterback John Parker Wilson filled in behind cen-
ter and finished the game having completed 13 of 19 passes for 80
yards. Running back Thomas Brown led the team in rushing with
39 yards and also contributed with two kickoff returns for 47 yards.
The Falcons defense recorded four sacks against the Ravens and
totaled eight quarterback takedowns in four preseason contests.
Ravens - 20 Falcons - 3DE John Abraham2005 - Finished with five tackles, one sack, one forced fumble and one pass defense2004 - Collared four tackles, two sacks for a loss of seven yards, one forced fumblone fumble recovery and one pass defensed.2002 - Notched four tackles, two sacks and one forced fumble.
LB Mike Peterson2001 - Totaled four tackles, one sack, one interception and one pass defensed.
S Erik Coleman2007 - Posted 15 tackles (eight solo)
TE Tony Gonzalez2008 - Finished with seven receptions for 64 yards and one touchdown.2002 - Caught seven passes for 140 yards (20.0 avg.), a long reception of 42 yardand three touchdowns.
WR Brian Finneran2005 - Grabbed eight passes for 92 yards (11.5 avg.) and one touchdown.
WR Michael Jenkins2005 - Caught five passes for 69 yards (13.8 avg.) and one touchdown.
FALCONS BEST GAMES
VERSUS MIAMI
THIS WEEKS OPPONENT: THE MIAMI DOLPHINS
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head coach mike smith
In his first year at the helm, Head Coach
Mike Smith realized the importance of
winning at home and did not dissapoint
the team or Falcons fans alike. In 2008,
Atlantas 7-1 record at the Georgia
Dome was the best home mark for aFalcons team since 2004. Smith will look
to improve this record in 2009 with a dif-
ficult schedule ahead. Atlanta will battle
NFC South Division rivals, Carolina,
Tampa Bay and New Orleans as well as
AFC East Division foes, Miami and Buffalo. The Falcons will also
host the Chicago Bears in a Sunday Night Football matchup and
the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins who battle in a
very competitive NFC East Division.
Smiths 2008 record of 7-1 is tied for the best home mark by a
Falcons first year head coach since Jim Mora accomplished the
feat in 2004. Currently, Smiths home winning percentage stands
at .875 while his overall winning percentage is .688. Below is alook at where Smith ranks among other Falcons head coaches in
both categories.
Coach Seasons Home Record (%) Overall Record (%)
Mike Smith 2008 7-1 (.875) 11-5 (.688)
Jerry Glanville 1990-93 20-12 (.625) 27-37 (.424)
Jim Mora 2004-06 14-10 (.583) 26-22 (.542)
June Jones 1994-96 14-10 (.583) 19-29 (.396)
Leeman Bennett 1977-82 25-18 (.581) 46-41 (.516)
holding down the dome
coach smiths record when...
(Regular season totals only)
Overall Record: 11-5
vs. the NFC: 8-4
vs. the AFC: 3-1
vs. the NFC South Division: 3-3
The Falcons play at home: 7-1
The Falcons play on the road: 4-4
The Falcons play during the day (1 p.m. EST games): 9-4
The Falcons play during the afternoon (4 p.m. EST games): 2-1
The Falcons play a night game (8 p.m. EST games): 0-0
The Falcons play indoors: 8-2
The Falcons play outdoors: 3-3
The Falcons score first: 11-1
The Falcons lead at halftime: 11-1
The Falcons lead at the start of the fourth quarter: 11-1
The Falcons lead in time of possession: 6-2
The Falcons offense gains more than 300 total yards: 9-3
The defense holds the opponent to under 300 total yards: 2-0
The Falcons have a 300-yard passer: 1-1
The Falcons have a 100-yard rusher: 8-0
The Falcons have a 100-yard receiver: 4-3
The Falcons win the turnover battle: 5-0
The Falcons are penalized five times or less: 8-3
Head Coach Mike Smith was named the prestigious
2008 Associated Press and Sporting News NFL
Coach of the Year after leading the Falcons to an11-5 regular season record and the clubs first play-
off appearance since 2004. Under Smiths guid-
ance, the Falcons posted one of the biggest turnarounds in NFL
history (+7 wins from 2007) while finishing second in the NFC
South Division. Since 1978, Smiths 11 victories tied him for the
best record for rookie head coaches in the NFL taking over a team
that finished below .500 the previous season. He joined other 2008
rookie head coaches, John
Harbaugh (Baltimore) and Tony
Sparano (Miami) in that category.
COACH OF THE YEAR
Coach (Team - Year) Record Previous Season
Mike Smith (Atlanta, 2008) 11-5 4-12
John Harbaugh (Baltimore, 2008) 11-5 5-11
Tony Sparano (Miami, 2008) 11-5 1-15Jim Mora (Atlanta, 2004) 11-5 5-11
Bill Cowher (Pittsburgh, 1992) 11-5 7-9
Bobby Ross (San Diego, 1992) 11-5 4-12
Jim Fassel (NY Giants, 1997) 10-5-1 6-10
Eric Mangini (NY Jets, 2006) 10-6 4-12
Sean Payton (New Orleans, 2006) 10-6 3-13
Jim Haslett (New Orleans, 2000) 10-6 3-13
Chan Gailey (Dallas, 1998) 10-6 6-10
Ray Rhodes (Philadelphia, 1995) 10-6 7-9
best records for rookie head
coaches taking over teams that
finished below .500 the previ-
ous season (since 1978)
Coach Team Win Improvement
Tony Sparano 2008 Dolphins +10 (11-5 from 1-15)
Al Davis 1963 Raiders +9 (10-4 from 1-13)
Bill Parcells 1997 Jets +8 (9-7 from 1-15)
Ted Marchibroda 1992 Colts +8 (9-7 from 1-15)
Ted Marchibroda 1975 Colts +8 (10-4 from 2-12)
Mike Smith 2008 Falcons +7 (11-5 from 4-12)
Sean Payton 2006 Saints +7 (10-6 from 3-13)
Jim Haslett 2000 Saints +7 (10-6 from 3-13
Bobby Ross 1992 Chargers +7 (11-5 from 4-12)
Don Shula 1970 Dolphins +7 (10-4 from 3-10-1)
GREATEST IMPROVEMENT IN
WINS BETWEEN SEASONS BY A
FIRST-YEAR HEAD COACH
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WING TIPS
The Falcons finished the 2009 preseason campaign with a 2-2
record earning wins against St. Louis and San Diego. The record
marked the sixth consecutive year the team finished preseason
play with a non-losing record.
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan complet-
ed 27 of 36 passes for 267 yards, two
touchdowns and zero interceptions for a
114.0 passer rating in four preseason con-
tests. Atlanta also received impressive
performances from running back Michael
Turner who led the team in rushing with 27
carries for 187 yards and wide receiver
Roddy White who logged 10 receptions
for 125 yards.
Defensively, the Falcons totaled eight sacks throughout the pre-
season, which included a four-sack performance last Thursday
against the Baltimore Ravens. Rookie defensive end Lawrence
Sidbury paced the team with two quarterback takedowns while first
round draft pick, Peria Jerry, posted his first sack as well.
Other notes from the preseason:
Falcons linebacker Tony Gilbert intercepted Lions quarterback
Matthew Stafford and returned the pick 42 yards for a touchdown.
The score gave Atlanta a 16-3 lead.
Running back Jason Snelling logged his only touchdown of the
preseason on a one-yard run in the third quarter against Detroit
to give Atlanta a 23-10 advantage.
The Falcons engineered a nine-play, 77-yard scoring drive on
their opening offensive possession against the Rams. Running
back Michael Turner capped the drive with a one-yard touchdownand contributed with 65 yards on the drive. On the second offen-
sive play, Turner rushed for a 43-yard gain, which was the
longest for Turner in a preseason game since a 63-yard scamper
against Indianapolis last year (August 16, 2008) at the Georgia
Dome and a long of 40t yards at Detroit in the preseason opener.
Tight end Tony Gonzalez caught his first touchdown pass in a
Falcons uniform on a 14-yard strike from quarterback Matt Ryan
on the teams second drive of the game against St. Louis, giving
Atlanta a 14-0 lead. On the drive Gonzalez caught two passes for
25 yards, which included one first down.
Atlantas rush defense held the St. Louis Rams to 79 yards on
30 carries for a 2.6 yards per carry average.
With 14 seconds remaining on the clock against San Diego in
the third preseason contest, quarterback Chris Redman found
wide receiver Eric Weems for a game-winning five-yard touch-
down. Redman finished the game having completed 15 of 19
passes for 134 yards and one TD. He also added a 10-yard rush-
ing touchdown on his first offensive drive after entering the con-
test in the third quarter.
Wide receiver Marty Booker led the team in receiving with six
catches for 62 yards against San Diego. Booker was acquired by
the Falcons as a free agent on August 6, 2009.
PRESEASON RECAP credential deadline notice
All requests for Falcons single-game regular season credentials
should be made by visiting http://pr.atlantafalcons.com (user-
name: falconspr, password: afmedia). All requests are due the
Tuesday of each game week at noon. Below is a schedule of
upcoming credential request deadlines.
Game 1, Sunday, September 13 vs. MiamiCredential requests are due: Tuesday, September 8 - Noon
Game 2, Sunday, September 20 vs. Carolina
Credential requests are due: Tuesday, September 15 - Noon
Game 3, Sunday, September 27 at New England
Credential requests are due: Tuesday, September 22 - Noon
Game 4, Sunday, October 11 at San Francisco
Credential requests are due: Tuesday, October 6 - Noon
Game 5, Sunday, October 18 vs. Chicago
Credential requests are due: Tuesday, October 13 - Noon
Quarterback Matt Ryan
2009 sTRENGTH OF SCHEDULE
The Falcons will face the NFC East and AFC East in cross-division
play while continuing to battle NFC South opponents, Tampa Bay
New Orleans and Carolina twice a year. Atlanta will also match-up
with the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football in a home game
at the Georgia Dome and will travel to San Francisco to battle the
49ers. Collectively, the Falcons hold a 74-64 record against thei
NFC South foes while totaling 90 all-time victories against thei
remaining opponents on the 2009 schedule. The Falcons ran
fourth in strength of schedule this season with their opponents
combining for a .588 winning percentage in 2008 (150 wins, 105losses and one tie). The Carolina Panthers are the only NFC team
ranked higher in strength of schedule entering the season (sec
ond).
HOME 2008 Record Last Time Played Result
Miami 11-5 November 6, 2005 W, 17-10
Carolina 12-4 November 23, 2008 W, 45-28
Chicago 9-7 October 12, 2008 W, 22-20
Washington 8-8 December 3, 2006 W, 24-14
Tampa Bay 9-7 December 14, 2008 W, 13-10 OT
Philadelphia 9-6-1 October 26, 2008 L, 27-14
New Orleans 8-8 December 7, 2008 L, 29-25
Buffalo 7-9 September 25, 2005 W, 24-16
AWAY 2008 Record Last Time Played Result
New England 11-5 October 9, 2005 L, 31-28
San Francisco 7-9 November 4, 2007 W, 20-16
Dallas 9-7 December 16, 2006 L, 38-28
New Orleans 8-8 December 7, 2008 L, 29-25
Carolina 12-4 November 23, 2008 W, 45-28
New York Giants 12-4 October 15, 2007 L, 31-10
New York Jets 9-7 October 24, 2005 W, 27-14
Tampa Bay 9-7 December 14, 2008 W,13-10 OT
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WING TIPS
what to look for onatlantafalcons.com
AtlantaFalcons.com is an award-winning website, which features exclusive team
content for fans and the media alike. This weeks schedule includes:
Monday, September 7 - Coverage of the Falcons as the team prepares for
the season opener against the Miami Dolphins.
Tuesday, September 8 - Catching up with Roddy White on a community
appearance and a look at Falcons history in Time
Machine.
Wednesday, September 9 - Video interviews of Falcons players and coaches as
they get ready for the Dolphins.
Thursday, September 10 - A look at linebacker Stephen Nicholas as he
prepares for Week 1 of the regular season.
Friday, September 11 - Thoughts on the season opener, pitting two success-
ful second-year head coaches
Saturday, September 12 - GamedayLIVE, pregame content and behind-the-
scenes information.
The Atlanta Falcons enter the 2009 season with essentially the
same coaching staff as the previous year, complete with 17 coach
es who hold more than 200 years of NFL experience. Last season
Offensive Coordinator Mike Mularkey guided a Falcons offense
which ranked second in the League in rushing (152.7 ypg.) and
sixth in total offense (361.2 ypg.). In his first season as DefensiveCoordinator, Brian VanGorder coached a defensive unit that held
opponents to 20.3 points per game as defensive end John
Abraham logged a franchise record 16.5 sacks. Special Team
Coordinator Keith Armstrong and the Falcons punt coverage uni
set a NFL record allowing only 49 punt return yards in 2008.
Below is a breakdown of the Falcons 2009 coaching staff and thei
NFL experience including this season.
Assistant Head Coach/Secondary Emmitt Thomas - 29th year
Wide Receivers Coach Terry Robiskie - 28th year
Offensive Line Coach Paul Boudreau - 23rd year
Defensive Line Coach Ray Hamilton - 22nd year
Defensive Backs Coach Alvin Reynolds - 17th year
Offensive Coordinator Mike Mularkey - 16th year
Special Teams Coordinator Keith Armstrong - 16th year
Linebackers Coach Glenn Pires - 14th year
Head Coach Mike Smith - 11th year
Quarterbacks Coach Bill Musgrave - 11th year
Assistant Special Teams Coach - Eric Sutulovich - 6th yearDefensive Coordinator Brian VanGorder - 4th year
Running Backs Coach Gerald Brown - 2nd year
Defensive Assistant Joe Danna - 2nd year
Assistant Offensive Line Coach Paul Dunn - 2nd year
Tight Ends Coach Chris Scelfo - 2nd year
Offensive Assistant Glenn Thomas - 2nd year
Total Years of NFL experience - 207
Offensive Coordinator
Mike Mularkey
Defensive Coordinator
Brian VanGorder
Special Teams Coordinator
Keith Armstrong
support staff
The Falcons hired Eric Sutulovich as the clubs new Assistant
Special Teams Coach this offseason. Prior to joining the Falcons,
he served as an Offensive Assistant for the Detroit Lions in 2008.
He logged a one-year stint as a Football Assistant for the
University of Kansas, before spending four seasons (2002-05) asthe Assistant Special Teams Coach for the Houston Texans.
Sutulovich also spent time in the collegiate ranks with Fort Scott
Community College as the Offensive Coordinator (2001), the
University of Pittsburgh as the Offensive Graduate Assistant
(2000-01) and Louisiana Tech as the Offensive Graduate Assistant
from 1997-99. Sutulovichs coaching experience also spans to the
Indoor Football League as he spent one season as the Offensive
Coordinator for the Casper Calvary in 2000.
sutulovich new to staff
Atlanta released 20 players to reach the NFL mandated 53-man
roster by September 5. Those released included: wide receiver
Troy Bergeron, safety Eric Brock, running back Thomas Brown,
offensive lineman Michael Butterworth, wide receiver Robert
Ferguson, linebacker Robert James, wide receiver Aaron Kelly,
defensive end Maurice Lucas, cornerback William Middleton, tightend Jason Rader, cornerback Glenn Sharpe, quarterback D.J.
Shockley, offensive tackle Adam Speer, offensive guard Ryan
Stanchek, cornerback Tony Tiller, offensive guard Jose Valdez,
defensive tackle Vance Walker, center Ben Wilkerson, wide receiv-
er Chandler Williams and linebacker Jamie Winborn.
The Falcons also established an eight-player practice squad, con-
sisting of wide receiver Troy Bergeron, offensive lineman Michael
Butterworth, linebacker Robert James, defensive end Maurice
Lucas, cornerback Glenn Sharpe, quarterback D.J. Shockley,
offensive guard Jose Valdez and defensive tackle Vance Walker.
Finally, the Falcons signed defensive back Brian Williams and
released safety Jamaal Fudge. Williams is entering his eighth NFL
season and in 107 career games (93 starts), has totaled 484 tack-
les (387 solo) 18 interceptions, four sacks, nine forced fumbles,
one fumble recovery and 71 passes defensed. Last season, he
started all 16 games and compiled 89 tackles and two intercep-
tions while adding 10 passes defensed for Jacksonville.
falcons make roster moves
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WING TIPS
Matt Ryan impresses in first year
Last year was a special season for Matt Ryan who revitalized the Falcons organ
ization as a rookie, leading the team to an 11-5 regular season record and
Atlantas first playoff berth since 2004. For his efforts, he was named th
Associated Press and Sporting News NFL Rookie of the Year. Having started in
all 16 contests in 2008, Ryan completed 265 of 434 passes for 3,440 yards, 16
touchdowns and 11 interceptions for an 87.7 passer rating. His passing totaranked sixth in a single season in Falcons annals as he became only the second
rookie quarterback ever in the NFL to amass over 3,000 passing yards. Along
with Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, Ryan became the first rookie quarterback
to start all 16 regular season games and lead his team to the playoffs.
Matt Ryans Record when
(Regular season totals only)
Playing at home: 7-1
Playing on the road: 4-4
Playing indoors: 8-2
Playing outdoors: 3-3
Playing against the NFC South Division: 3-3
Playing against the NFC Conference: 8-4
Playing against the AFC Conference: 3-1Playing on an artificial surface: 8-2
Playing on a grass surface: 3-3
The offense generates 300-plus total yards: 10-3
Finishing with 300 or more passing yards: 1-1
Finishing with 200-299 passing yards: 5-2
Throwing at least one touchdown pass: 9-2
Throwing two or more touchdown passes: 4-1
Completing 60% or more pass attempts: 9-2
Finishing with zero interceptions: 8-1
Finishing with a 100.0-plus passer rating: 6-0
Being sacked no more than one time: 9-2
DOME SWEET DOME
Matt Ryan will look to build upon a 7-1 career home record heading into the 2009
season. Ryan and the Falcons won the first four contests at the Georgia Dome in
08, before falling to the Denver Broncos by a 24-20 margin in Week 11. Two o
the last three victories at home
came against division opponents
(Carolina and Tampa Bay) Atlanta defeated visiting opp
nents by an average of nearly 10
points as the Falcons record a
the Georgia Dome was the bes
since the 2004 NFC
Championship Game season. A
home, Ryan completed 121 o
188 passes (64.4 percent) fo
1,777 yards and six touchdowns
playoff first
In Atlantas NFC Wild Card playoff meeting against Arizona last season, quarter
back Matt Ryan and Head Coach Mike Smith became the first rookie head coach
and quarterback to compete in a playoff game since the Cleveland Rams accom
plished the feat in 1945. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco and Head Coach John
Harbaugh followed with the same acheivement last season as well. Against the
Cardinals, Ryan set a franchise record for completion percentage in a postsea
son contest with a 65.0 mark. He completed 26 of 40 passes, which included a
streak of nine consecutive completions in the first half.
As rookies last season, Matt Ryan and Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco eac
started all 16 games for their respective teams for the first time in a season since
the Super Bowl era (1966). Both quarterbacks led their teams to 11-5 regular sea
son records while Ryan earned Associated Press NFL Offensive Rookie of the
Year and Flacco guided the Ravens to the AFC Championship game. They both
became the first rookie quarterbacks to lead their clubs to the playoffs since the
16-game schedule was put in place in 1978. Ryan and Flacco combined for a 22
10 record last season, which was the best winning percentage by two rookie
quarterbacks in the same year since 1983.
Year Quarterbacks Record Percentage
2008 Matt Ryan/Joe Flacco 22-10 .688
1983 John Elway/Dan Marino 11-8 .579
1979 Steve Fuller/Phil Simms 12-11 .522
2006 Matt Leinart/Vince Young 12-12 .5002006 Bruce Gradkowski/Vince Young 11-13 .458
not like a rook
MATT RYAN
6-4, 213 pounds, Boston College
2009Associated Press and Sporting News
Rookie of the Year
2008 NFC Rookie of the Month (October)
2008 NFC Offensive Player of the Week (8)
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WING TIPS
Take a pass
At the conclusion of his rookie season,
quarterback Matt Ryan logged 3,440 pass-
ing yards, the highest total for a Falcons
quarterback in a season since Jeff George
threw for a franchise season-record 4,143
yards in a pass-first offense in 1995. Ryanstotal was the highest for a Falcons rookie
and it also ranks sixth in a season in team
annals. Along with Indianapolis Colts quar-
terback Peyton Manning, Ryan became
only the second rookie quarterback in NFL
history to reach the 3,000-yard passing
plateau. Part of his success in reaching the
milestone last season were the nine con-
secutive 200-yard passing outings from
Weeks 6-15. He tallied his highest game
total with a 315-yard performance at New
Orleans in Week 14. This year, Ryan will
look to become only the third quarterback in
team history behind Jeff George and SteveBartkowski to finish with back-to-back
3,000-yard passing seasons.
Player Years Total Passing Yardage
Matt Ryan 2008, ? 3,440 (2008), ? (2009)
Jeff George 1994, 1995 3,734 (1994), 4,143 (1995)
Steve Bartkowski 1980, 1981 3,544 (1980), 3,830 (1981)
Steve Bartkowski
Jeff George
In 2008, Matt Ryan completed 265 of 434 passes for 3,440 yards,
16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions for an 87.7 passer rating in his
rookie season. His 3,440 passing yards ranked sixth for a Falcons
single-season as he became only the second rookie quarterbackever in the NFL to amass over 3,000 passing yards. Ryan became
one of two rookie quarterbacks in franchise history to win 11
games and along with Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, became
the first rookie quarterback to start all 16 regular season games
and lead his team to the playoffs. Among other accomplishments,
Ryan became the first player in club history to earn NFC Rookie of
the Month accolades (October) and tallied a streak of nine consec-
utive 200-yard passing games from Weeks 6-15. Below is a list of
where Matt Ryan ranked among the NFC last season.
3,440 Passing Yards - Ranked 6th in the NFC.
265 Completions - Ranked 9th in the NFC.
61.1 Completion Percentage - Ranked 8th in the NFC.
16 Touchdowns - Ranked 8th in the NFC.87.7 Passer Rating - Ranked 6th in the NFC.
ENCORE, encore
FRANCHISE FIND
Following a stellar 2008 season which featured Sporting News and
Associated Press Rookie of the Year honors, Matt Ryan earned
other accolades throughout the media, which included a top hono
from FoxSports.com. Ryan was voted the NFLs top franchise play
er under 30 years old. Adrian Hasenmayer ofFoxSports.comwrote
the following:
It's a quarterback's league, so our top building
block is Ryan (24 years old), who completely
changed the mindset for folks intending on starting
a rookie quarterback with a historic 2008 season
Now a year later with a full season and NFL Offensive Rookie o
the Year under his belt, Ryan proved how much Atlanta's fron
office thinks of him by building its offseason around him name
ly trading for veteran tight end Tony Gonzalez. You only deal away
a second-round draft pick for a 33-year-old tight end if you are
planning to win ... NOW. Adrian Hasenmayer
Other players that Ryan topped on the list include:
5. Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware4. Vikings running back Adrian Peterson
3. Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas
2. Texans defensive end Mario Williams
In his rookie season, quarterback Matt Ryans numbers topped
numerous passing categories compared to Falcons totals over the
past five years. In 2008, Ryan pieced together a passing attack
which ranked 14th in the NFL and took the top spot in completion
percentage, yards per attempt, interceptions and passer rating
among all Falcons quarterbacks dating back to 2004. Against the
Oakland Raiders in a Week 9 meeting last season, Ryan compileda 138.4 passer rating, which was the ninth-highest total for a sin
gle game among any NFL quarterback. For his efforts, he was
named NFC Offensive Player of the Week. Listed below are
Ryans 2008 final statistics compared to collective Falcons quarter
backs over the past five seasons.
Category (stat and rank over the last five seasons)
2008 2007 2006 2005 2004
NFL Passing Rank 14th (1) 18th (2) 32nd (5) 27th (3) 30th (4)
Passing Yards 3,440 (2) 3,573 (1) 2,682 (5) 2,907 (3) 2,692 (4
Completion % 61.1 (1) 60.5 (2) 53.4 (5) 54.8 (4) 54.9 (3)
Yards Per Attempt 7.93 (1) 6.44 (5) 6.50 (3) 6.45 (4) 6.82 (2)
Touchdowns 16 (3) 18 (2) 15 (4t) 19 (1) 15 (4t)
Interceptions 11 (1) 15 (3t) 15 (3t) 13 (2) 16 (5)
Passer Rating 87.7 (1) 78.9 (2) 75.2 (4) 76.6 (3) 72.0 (5)
WHATS THE DIFFERENCE
After leading the Falcons to an 11-5 regular season record and the teams first playoff berth since 2004 last season,
quarterback Matt Ryan not only captivated Falcons fans, but fans around the world. This point was proven this off-
season as Ryans jersey ranked No. 15 in jersey sales among all NFL players and first among all 2008 rookies from
April 1 - June 30, 2009. Below is a list of the top 15 players.
1. Jay Cut ler, Chicago Bears 5. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys 9. Terrell Owens, Buffalo 13. Peyton Manning, Indianapolis
2. Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh Steelers 6. Brett Favre, Green Bay/N.Y. Jets 10. Hines Ward, Pittsburgh 14. LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego
3. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers 7. Tom Brady, New England 11. Eli Manning, N.Y. Giants 15. Matt Ryan, Atlanta
4. Mark Sanchez, New York Jets 8. Michael Crabtree, San Francisco 12. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota
MR. POPULARITY
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WING TIPS
for the record...
Below is a list of records achieved by
Tony Gonzalez over the course of his
12 NFL seasons.
NFL RECORD & FACT BOOK MOST RECEPTIONS
TIGHT END, CAREER
Rank Receptions Player Years1. 916 Tony Gonzalez 1997-08
2. 815 Shannon Sharpe 1990-03
3. 662 Ozzie Newsome 1978-90
4. 541 Kellen Winslow 1979-87
5. 505 Frank Wycheck 1993-03
NFL RECORD & FACT BOOK MOST RECEIVING
YARDS, TIGHT END CAREER
Rank Yards Player Years
1. 10,940 Tony Gonzalez 1997-08
2. 10,060 Shannon Sharpe 1990-03
3. 7,980 Ozzie Newsome 1978-90
4. 7,918 Jackie Smith 1963-78
5. 6,741 Kellen Winslow 1979-87
NFL RECORD & FACT BOOK MOST TD
RECEPTIONS TIGHT END, CAREER
Rank Yards Player Years
1. 76 Tony Gonzalez 1997-08
2. 62 Shannon Sharpe 1990-033. 60 Jerry Smith 1965-77
4. 54 Wesley Walls 1989-03
5. 52 Dave Casper 1974-84
NFL RECORD & FACT BOOK MOST
100-YARD REC. GAMES, TIGHT END, CAREER
Rank Games Player Years
1. 26 Tony Gonzalez 1997-08
2. 24 Kellen Winslow 1979-87
3. 22 Jackie Smith 1963-78
4. 19 Shannon Sharpe 1979-88
5. 14 Todd Christensen 1979-88Mike Ditka 1961-72
MOST CONSECUTIVE GAMES WITH A RECEPTION,
ACTIVE PLAYERS
Games Player Streak Began
183 Terrell Owens vs. Cincinnati (10/20/96)
162 Hines Ward vs. Green Bay (11/9/98)
153 Torry Holt vs. Cleveland (10/24/99)
131 Tony Gonzalez at New England (12/4/00)
NFL RECORD & FACT BOOK MOST1,000-YARD REC SEASONS, TIGHT END
Rank # Seasons Player Years
1. 4 Tony Gonzalez 00, 04, 07-08
2. 3 Kellen Winslow 1980-81, 83
Todd Christensen 1983-84, 86
Shannon Sharpe 1994, 96-97
2 Ozzie Newsome 1981, 84
going gonzo
Tony Gonzalez is arguably the best player to compete at his position in NFL his-
tory and he is a future Hall of Famer. This past offseason, the Falcons aquired
the 10-time Pro Bowl tight end in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs on April 23,
2009. In exchange, the Falcons gave the Chiefs their second round selection in
the 2010 NFL Draft.
Gonzalez, 6-5, 251 pounds, has estab-
lished himself as one of the premier
tight ends in NFL history following 12
seasons, all with Kansas City. A native
of Torrance, California, Gonzalez holds
League records for the most recep-
tions (916), receiving yards (10,940)
and touchdown catches (76) by a tight
end. His 10 Pro Bowl selections are
more than any other tight end in the
game and he has also earned eight first or second-teamAssociated PressAll-Pro
selections, his latest coming last season.
keep it tight
Tonys arrival will make an
instant impact not only on the
offensive side of the ball, but on
the overall team in general. I feel
privileged to be throwing the
ball to a future Hall of Famer.
- Quarterback Matt Ryan
Tony Gonzalez enters the 2009 campaign
already holding NFL records for the most
receptions (916), receiving yards (10,940) and
touchdown receptions (76) among all tight
ends. This season, Gonzalez is looking for
more. With 84 more receptions, the 12-year
veteran will become the first tight end in
League history with 1,000 career catches.
Additionally, Gonzalez needs just 50 receptions
in 2009 to become the first tight end in NFL his-
tory with 12 consecutive 50-catch seasons. Right now, he stands as the only tight
end in NFL history with 11 consecutive seasons. He also enters the 2009 season
looking to extend his streak of catching at least one pass in a game, which cur-rently stands at 131 contests. Gonzalez trails Ozzie Newsome (150 games) for
the longest streak by a tight end in NFL history.
catch of the century
Now into the 2009 season, tight end Tony Gonzalez remains the only tight end in
NFL history to record six 100-yard receiving games in a single year (2000 and
2004). Reaching the century mark on six occassions led to Gonzalezs highest
receiving yardage totals for a season in his career. In 2000, he finished with 1,203
yards while setting his career-high of 1,258 yards in 2004.
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WING TIPS
In his first season in an Atlanta Falcons uniform,
Michael Turner ran for 1,699 yards which ranked
second the NFL in the category. Along with pro-
ducing eight 100-yard games last season,
Turner set a franchise single-game rushing
record with a 220-yard performance againstthe Detroit Lions in the opening week of the
season. He also tied a club record with four
rushing touchdowns in one game against the
Carolina Panthers in Week 12 and in the same
contest, topped the 1,000-yard rushing
plateau for the first time in his career. Turner
scored 17 touchdowns last year, which set a
team record for rushing touchdowns in a
campaign. On three occasions, he was
named NFC Offensive Player of the Week. The first was for his
performance against the Lions in Week 1. Turner earned the award
again following Week 3 against Kansas City and the season finale
against the St. Louis Rams. Turner along with teammate Roddy
White, was named to his first Pro Bowl.
TURNERs 2008 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Set a Falcons single-game rushing record with 220yards against the Detroit Lions in the first week of
the season.
Set a franchise record with his 17th rushing touch-down in a game against St. Louis (Week 17).
Topped the 1,000-yard rushing plateau for the firsttime in his career after posting 117 yards on 24 car-
ries against Carolina in Week 12.
Tied a team record with a four-touchdown game
against the Panthers in Week 12.
Recorded eight 100-yard games last season (thirdmost ever for the Falcons in a season).
Ranked second in the NFL in rushing yards (1,699)
behind Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings. Was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week on three occasions and Fed ExGround Player of the Week twice.
The Falcons posted an 8-0 record when Turner rushed for 50 yards or more in thefirst half of a game.
Totaled four multiple-TD games in 2008.
RUSHING REVAMPED
The Falcons organization knew one of the steps to improving the
teams offense following the 2007 season would be the acquisition
of a running back. Just days into free agency, General Manager
Thomas Dimitroff signed Michael Turner who was ready to break
into a starting role following four seasons playing behind perennial
Pro Bowler LaDainian Tomlinson in San Diego. Atlanta led the NFLin rushing for three consecutive seasons from 2004-06. After the
07 campaign, Offensive Coordinator Mike Mularkey was hired to
rejuvenate the rushing attack that opposing defenses have known
to fear. Turners solo performance last season was among the best
in franchise history (1,699 rushing yards ranking third for a single
season). Even with the Falcons leading the League in rushing for
three straight seasons, Turners numbers in 2008 trumped any run-
ning back since 1998 when Jamal Anderson set the club record
with 1,846 yards. To the right is a look at Turners rushing presence
directly affecting the Falcons win/loss total last season.
With Turner in 2008...
Note Falcons Record
When Turner rushed for 8-0
over 100 yards in a game
When Turner recorded 20 10-1
or more carries per game
When Turner averaged 4.5 7-0
yards per carry or more in a game
When Turner scored one 8-2
or more touchdowns in a game
When Turner posted a long 7-3
rush of 20 yards or more in a game
taking it to the next level
In 2008, Michael Turner led the NFL in carries with 376, which also
set his personal career-high. The sixth-year NFL veteran also
established a franchise record with 17 rushing touchdowns, which
included four multiple-touchdown games. Last season, Turne
averaged one touchdown per every 22.1 carries leading all running
backs in the NFL with 300-plus rushes. Below is a look at the topfive running backs on this list.
Players Carries Touchdowns TDs per carry
Michael Turner, Atl. 376 17 22.1
Adrian Peterson, Min. 363 10 36.3
Clinton Portis, Was. 342 9 38.0
Matt Forte, Chi. 316 8 39.5
Ryan Grant, G.B. 312 4 78.0
carrying the load
IT ONLY TOOK ONE
In just his first season with the Falcons, running back Michae
Turner rushed for 1,699 yards, the third-highest total in franchisehistory. If Turner can record another 1,000-yard campaign in 2009
he will already surpass Haskel Stanback for seventh place on the
clubs all-time rushing yards list (needs 964 yards to jump
Stanback).
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WING TIPS
Last season, Falcons wide
receiver Roddy White became
the first player in club history to
post back-to-back 1,000-yard
seasons through the air since
1998-99 and the first player inteam history to register back-to-
back 1,200-yard campaigns.
His 1,382 receiving yardage
total ranked fourth in the NFL
and set a new franchise record
for receiving yards for a sea-
son. White also broke career
highs in receptions (88) and
touchdowns (seven). He
recorded seven 100-yard games in 2008, which included a Week
14 performance at New Orleans where he set a career-high in
receiving yards (164) on 10 receptions. White ranked second in the
NFL in third down receptions (29) and led the League in third down
receiving yards (516). For his efforts last season, the fifth-year
receiver earned his first Pro Bowl nod.
This season, White is looking to become the second player in team
history to record three consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns. Only
Andre Rison has accomplished the feat in a string of 1,000-yard
seasons from 1992 (1,119), 93 (1,242) and 94 (1,088). Below is a
look at where White compares to Risons streak.
Player Yards Season
Roddy White ? 2009
Roddy White 1,382 2008
Roddy White 1,202 2007
Andre Rison 1,088 1994
Andre Rison 1,242 1993Andre Rison 1,119 1992
Wide Receiver Roddy White
Wide Receiver Andre Rison
WHITE ON PACE
Roddy White has logged four seasons in an Atlanta Falcons uni
form and in the past two years alone, he has established himsel
as a deep threat. With a 1,200-receiving yard campaign in 2007
White followed his performance with a career-high and franchise
record 1,382 yards en route to his first Pro Bowl berth last season
In his career, White has now posted 36 big plays or receptions o25-plus yards. He ranks tied for second in franchise history behind
club leader Terance Mathis who caught 49 receptions of 25-plu
yards in his eight-year career with the Falcons. Below is a look a
Atlantas career big play receivers in franchise history.
Falcons Leaders in Career Big Plays
Player Seasons Plays of 25-plus yards
Terance Mathis 1994-2001 (8) 49
Roddy White 2005-2008 (4) 36
Bert Emanuel 1994-1997 (4) 36
Fourteen of Whites 36 receptions of 25-plus yards came last sea
son, which also includes his career long catch of 70 yards for a
touchdown against Kansas City in Week 3. He also posted seven
contests where he notched a long reception of 35-plus yards
Below is a look at the Falcons franchise leaders for plays of 25
plus yards in a season.
Falcons Big Plays For a Season
Player Season Plays of 25-plus yards
Michael Haynes 1991 16
Roddy White 2008 14
Andre Rison 1994 14
BIG PLAY RODDY
The Falcons organization has wit-
nessed a strong contribution from wide
receiver Michael Jenkins in his five NFL
seasons with Atlanta, which led to a
contract extension in the middle of the
2008 campaign. In each of the last fouryears, Jenkins has finished second on
the team in receiving after earning the
starting role in 2005. Last season,
Jenkins posted a career-high with 777
receiving yards and a 15.5 average (30 or more catches). In the
08 season opener against Detroit, he caught Matt Ryans first
career pass and sprinted 62-yards for a touchdown. Jenkins also
added two contests where he tied his season-high of 72 receiving
yards in Week 10 against New Orleans and the season finale
against the St. Louis Rams. He also tied his career-high with a two-
touchdown game at Oakland in a Week 9 meeting.
second contribution BET YOU DIDNT KNOW...
The oldest player - K Jason Elam, 39 years old (3/8/70)
The youngest player - OT Garrett Reynolds, 22 years old (7/1/87)
The tallest player - OT Garrett Reynolds, 6-7
The shortest player - RB Verron Haynes, CB Christopher Owens and
WR Eric Weems, 5-8
The heaviest player - OT Tyson Clabo, 331 pounds
The lightest player - CB Chris Houston, 178 pounds Most seasons with the Falcons - C Todd McClure, 11 seasons
Most seasons in the NFL - K Jason Elam, 17 seasons
The farthest distance a player has to travel from their hometown to
Flowery Branch, Ga. - OT Will Svitek is 4,800 miles from his birthplace
of Prague, Czech Republic.
The shortest distance a player has to travel from their hometown to
Flowery Branch, Ga. - LB Tony Gilbert is 123.4 miles away from his
hometown of Macon, Ga.
The college that is represented the most on the roster - LSU with three
players.
The state that is represented the most on the roster - The state of
Florida with seven players.
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WING TIPS
Last season, Falcons defensive end John Abraham registered 16.5 sacks setting a new season-high for the 10-year veteran, topping his
previous mark of 13.0, which he set with the New York Jets in 2001. His 16.5 sacks also rank first in a season in Falcons annals
Throughout 2008, Abraham made several impacts on the field. While contributing with 42 tackles (35 solo), one pass defensed and fou
forced fumbles, Abraham also posted three contests in which he tallied three sacks each. At the conclusion of the season, he has now
totaled 18.5 sacks in his last 17 games, 26.5 in his last 31 contests and has notched 84.0 for his career, which ranks second in the NFL
among active players from 2000-08.
the predator earns his keep
Atlanta Falcons Highest Sack Totals in a Season
Player Year Sacks
John Abraham 2008 16.5
Joel Williams 1980 16.0
Claude Humphrey 1976 15.0
NFL Sack Leaders 2000-2008 (Active Players)
Rank Player Sacks Yards
1 Jason Taylor, Mia 104.0 680.0
2 John Abraham, Atl 84.0 534.0
3 Joey Porter, Mia 81.0 510.0
NFL Sack Leaders 2008
Rank Player Sacks Yards
1 DeMarcus Ware, Dal 20.0 113.0
2 Joey Porter, Mia 17.5 96.0
3 John Abraham, Atl 16.5 109.5
4 James Harrison, Pit 16.0 114.5Abrahams 16.5 sacks in 2008 came from both sides
of the defensive line in Atlantas 4-3 defense.
QB
RT RG C LG LT
DE NT NT DE
(five sacks, one FF) (11.5 sacks, three FF)
sack attack
After nine seasons in the NFL, its no surprise
to opposing offenses that John Abraham
makes a difference on every snap. His 84.0
career sacks currently rank second in the
League among active players (2000-08)
and last season, he posted a career-best
and franchise record 16.5 quarterback
takedowns. To take it a step further,
Abrahams 19 multiple-sack games
over his career have made an even
bigger difference as he has contributed
to a collective 14-5 record. Last year, the
Falcons posted 4-0 mark when Abraham
logged a multiple-sack performance. Those games included: three
sacks against Detroit (Week 1), two sacks against Kansas City
(Week 3), three sacks against Oakland (Week 9) and three sacks
against Tampa Bay (Week 15).
Year Multiple-Sack Games Team Record
2008 Four Games Falcons 4-0
2007 Two Games Falcons 1-1
2006 One Game Falcons 1-0
2005 Two Games New York Jets 1-1
2004 Two Games New York Jets 2-0
2003 Two Games New York Jets 0-22002 Three Games New York Jets 2-1
2001 Two Games New York Jets 2-0
2000 One Game New York Jets 1-0
Total 19 Games 14-5
KEEPING PACE
Now entering his fourth sea
son in an Atlanta Falcons
uniform, defensive end John
Abraham has already bro
ken into the top 10 sack
leaders list in franchise his
tory, holding down the 10th
spot with 30.5 sacks. His
total with the Falcons has
contributed to his caree
mark of 84.0, which rank
second in the NFL among a
active players (2000-08)
The Predator is looking to
piece together anothe
impressive campaign, which
would have major implications in the stat books. If he matches his
career-high and franchise record of 16.5 quarterback takedowns
from last season, he will finish the year with 47.0 career sacks as
a member of the Falcons, which would rank tied for fourth in club
annals with John Zook who logged seven seasons with the team
Atlanta Falcons Career Sack Leaders
Player Years Sacks
Claude Humphrey 1968-78 (11) 94.5Chuck Smith 1992-98 (7) 58.5
Patrick Kerney 1999-2006 (8) 58.0
John Zook 1969-75 (7) 47.0
Travis Hall 1995-2004 (10) 41.5
Don Smith 1979-84 (6) 38.5
Jeff Merrow 1975-83 (9) 36.0
Brady Smith 2000-05 (6) 32.0
Lester Archambeau 1993-99 (7) 31.0
John Abraham 2006-08 (3) 30.5
John Abraham (left) is shown here with former
Falcons linebacker Joel Williams who played on the
famed Gritz Blitz defenses of the 1980s. Last sea-
son, Abraham topped Williams franchise record for
sacks in a single-season with 16.5. The two connect-
ed on Alumni Day at Russell Falcons training camp.
If Falcons defensive end John Abraham can duplicate the season
he put together last year, he has the possibility of joining a very
exclusive club. Abraham is 16.0 sacks shy of reaching 100 for his
career. Its a mark that only 24 other players in the NFL have
achieved in their careers (since the stat became official in 1982).
(VERY) EXCLUSIVE CLUB
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WING TIPS
leaders of the pack
Following the 2008 season, it was clearly evident that two members of the Falcons
would return the following year to take more of a leadership role. Sixth-year safety
Erik Coleman and second-year linebacker Curtis Lofton fit the trend as both com-
piled impressive 2008 campaigns, leading the Falcons to an 11-5 regular season
record and their first playoff berth since 2004. Coleman, one of the more tenured
players in the secondary, will continue to help the development of young corner-backs Chris Houston, Brent Grimes, Chevis Jackson and 2009 third round draft pick
Christopher Owens while doing the same for safeties Thomas DeCoud and William
Moore. In 2008, Coleman pieced together one of his best statistical seasons, finish-
ing with a career-high 127 tackles (82 solo), three interceptions, two forced fumbles
and six passes defensed.
In his rookie season, Lofton ranked second in the League in tackles among rookies
behind Jerod Mayo (according to STATS, Inc.) and garnered 2008 All-Rookie acco-
lades by Sporting News and Pro Football Weekly. Competing in all 16 games (15
starts), he contributed with 108 tackles (67 solo), one sack, three passes defensed and one forced fumble.
Safety Erik ColemaLinebacker Curtis Lofton
LOOKING FOR 17
In 2008, Falcons kicker Jason Elam
logged 129 points, three shy of a
career-high and nine shy of a Falcons
franchise record. Last season was also
Elams 16th 100-point campaign, which
made him the first player in NFL history
to record at least 100 points in each of
his first 16 seasons. Elam also ranks
second in the League in consecutive
games scoring at least one point (252)
and sits behind former Falcons kicker
Morten Andersen who totaled one point in 360-straight contests.
Jason Elams Top Three Seasons (Points)Year PAT FG Total Points
1995 39/39 31/38 132
2008 42/42 29/31 129
2004 42/42 29/34 129
2009 NFL RANKINGS
Offensive Rankings - 2009 Week by Week
Total Rush Pass NFC NFL
Week 1 (after Mia.)
Week 2 (after Car.)
Week 3 (after N.E.)
Week 4 (BYE)
Week 5 (after S.F.)
Week 6 (after Chi.)
Week 7 (after Dal.)
Week 8 (after N.O.)
Week 9 (after Was.)
Week 10 (after Car.)
Week 11 (after NYG)
Week 12 (after T.B.)
Week 13 (after Phi.)
Week 14 (after N.O.)
Week 15 (after NYJ)
Week 16 (after Buf.)
Week 17 (after T.B.)
Defensive Rankings - 2009 Week by Week
Total Rush Pass NFC NFL
Week 1 (after Mia.)
Week 2 (after Car.)
Week 3 (after N.E.)
Week 4 (BYE)
Week 5 (after S.F.)
Week 6 (after Chi.)
Week 7 (after Dal.)
Week 8 (after N.O.)
Week 9 (after Was.)
Week 10 (after Car.)
Week 11 (after NYG)
Week 12 (after T.B.)
Week 13 (after Phi.)
Week 14 (after N.O.)
Week 15 (after NYJ)
Week 16 (after Buf.)
Week 17 (after T.B.)
For the last two seasons, running back
Jerious Norwood has expanded his role
from the backfield. Along with posting signif-
cant rushing and receiving numbers,
Norwood has also been impressive return-
ing kickoffs for the Falcons. In 2007 heranked eighth in the NFL with 1,317 yards
while finishing fifth in the League with 1,311
yards last year. In the past two seasons,
Norwood, along with New York Jets running back Leon
Washington, are the only two players in the NFL who finished with
back-to-back 2,000-yard all purpose campaigns. Below is a look at
the totals from both players.
Jerious Norwood Rush Rec KR PR Total2008 489 338 1,311 0 2,1382007 613 277 1,317 0 2,207
Leon Washington Rush Rec KR PR Total2008 448 355 1,231 303 2,337
2007 353 213 1,291 183 2.040
playing with a purpose
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WING TIPS
The Atlanta Falcons selected eight play-
ers in the 2009 NFL Draft, which included
seven players on the defensive side of
the ball. The Falcons also made a trade
with Dallas, giving the Cowboys their fifth
round (143rd overall) pick in exchange forDallas fifth (156th overall) and seventh
round (210th overall) selections.
With the 24th overall selection in the first
round of the 2009 NFL Draft, the Falcons
selected defensive tackle Peria (pur-ray)
Jerry from the University of Mississippi.
Jerry became the Falcons first defensive
tackle selected in the first round since Tony Casillas (Oklahoma)
was drafted in 1986. Jerry is also the first player from Mississippi
to be selected by Atlanta in the first round and only the third play-
er from the university to be selected in franchise history.
Jerry was a first-team All-America selection by the Associated
Press and ESPN following the 2008 season. He finished the yearranked first in the SEC in tackles for loss (18.0), fifth in quarterback
sacks (7.0) and tied for sixth in forced fumbles (two). A consensus
first-team All-SEC selection, Jerry also helped the Rebel defense
rank second in the conference and fourth in the nation in rush
defense (85.5 ypg.) last year. In his Ole Miss career, Jerry totaled
132 tackles (79 solo), 11.5 sacks, 33.0 tackles for loss, three pass-
es defensed, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one
interception. He also recorded his first career touchdown on a 13-
yard fumble recovery against Vanderbilt in 2008.
Below is a look at the Falcons 2009 draft class.
Rd. Overall Player Pos Ht Wt College
1 24 Peria Jerry DT 6-2 290 Mississippi
2 55 William Moore S 6-0 218 Missouri3 90 Christopher Owens CB 5-9 181 San Jose St.
4 125 Lawrence Sidbury DE 6-2 266 Richmond
*5 138 William Middleton CB 5-11 186 Furman
5 156 Garrett Reynolds OT 6-7 310 North Carolina
6 176 Spencer Adkins LB 5-11 246 Miami (Fla.)
7 210 Vance Walker DT 6-2 293 Georgia Tech
*Not on active roster or practice squad
Defensive tackle Peria Jerry
draft breakdown
A sure sign of functionality in an organizatio
comes with the amount of draft picks a team
holds on its active roster and the contribution i
receives from those players. Currently, almos
half of the Falcons roster consists of draft selec
tions, while 13 players specifically have comefrom the two drafts under General Manager Thomas Dimitrof
(2007 and 08). Of the 26 total draft picks on the roster, 12 are
starters on game day. Below is a list of Falcons draft picks current
ly on the 53-man roster by year.
2009: DT Peria Jerry, S William Moore, CB Christopher Owens
DE Lawrence Sidbury, OT Garrett Reynolds, LB Spencer Adkins
2008: QB Matt Ryan, OT Sam Baker, LB Curtis Lofton, CB Chevis
Jackson, S Thomas DeCoud, DE Kroy Biermann, TE Keith Zinge
2007: DE Jamaal Anderson, OG Justin Blalock, CB Chris Houston
LB Stephen Nicholas, DT Trey Lewis, RB Jason Snelling
2006: RB Jerious Norwood, OT Quinn Ojinnaka
2005: WR Roddy White, DT Jonathan Babineaux, DE Chauncey
Davis
2004: WR Michael Jenkins
1999: C Todd McClure
first draft
In July, the Atlanta Falcons annouced a multi
year partnership with Piedmont Healthcare
which will now be recognized as the Preferred
Healthcare Provider of the team.
Along with a goal to motivate fans to be proactive about health and
wellness, Piedmont Healthcare and Falcons will develop a hear
disease awareness campaign during the month of September
Falcons players will sport a heart symbol (shown above) on thei
practice jerseys and will make appearances at select Piedmon
Healthcare facilities with team cheerleaders.
Piedmont Healthcare will be the title sponsor of the Atlanta Falcon
Football Academy event benefitting breast cancer-related organi
zations including the Doris Shaheen Breast Health Center a
Piedmont Hospital. Piedmont Heart Institute will also be actively
involved in the community and will provided heart health screen
ings on Falcons game days.
PRACTICE WITH HEART
Brotherly love
Falcons defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux and linebacke
Mike Peterson are two members of the roster that have brothers
who play for different NFL teams. Babineauxs brother, Jordan, is
a defensive back for the Seattle Seahawks. Peterson, a Falcons
2009 free agent acquisition, will face his brother, Adrian, who is a
running back for the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Footbal
(October 18, 2009).
current falcons streakS
251 Consecutive regular season games K Jason Elam has
scored at least one point.
131 Consecutive regular season games TE Tony Gonzalez has
caught at least one pass.
112 Consecutive regular season games C Todd McClure has
started, dating back to 2001.
36 Consecutive regular season games in which WR Roddy
White has caught at least one pass.
32 Consecutive field goals K Jason Elam has converted from
20-29 yards dating back to 2006.
26.5 The number of sacks John Abraham has totaled in his last
31 games on the defensive line.
15 Consecutive field goals K Jason Elam has converted from
40-49 yards dating back to 2007.
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WING TIPS
ATLANTA FALCONS TO DON THROWBACK
UNIFORMS FOR TWO GAMES IN 2009
The Atlanta Falcons unveiled throwback uniforms that the team
will wear twice this season to honor the inaugural 1966 team.
As part of Falcons Alumni Weekend, Atlanta will wear their first
throwback uniforms in franchise history during Week 2 when
they host NFC South Division rival Carolina on Sunday,September 20. The Falcons team will again don the retro uni-
forms during NFL Week 11 when they host the Tampa Bay
Buccaneers at the Georgia Dome on Sunday, November 29.
Fans attending the game on September 20 will receive a com-
memorative rally flag with the teams original logo courtesy of
TicketMaster.
NFL Throwback Weekend is an opportunity for our club and
our fans to honor and celebrate our inaugural team, the 1966
Falcons, said Falcons President Rich McKay. Honoring past
teams and former players is a time-honored tradition in the
NFL, and we plan to make sure our fans have every opportuni-
ty to celebrate the 1966 Falcons with us in a big way.
The uniforms include black jerseys with white numbers, red
trim and a white Falcon crest on the sleeves. The white pants feature a red strip bordered by two black stripes. Red helmets will be worn
with a black Falcon crest logo trimmed in white and a black strip down the middle of the helmet trimmed in white and gold. The colors in
the helmet were meant to represent rival schools Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia. The gold trim was later removed, but the
white portion of the stripe remained a part of the helmet.
Falcons players Matt Ryan, Michael Turner and John Abraham recently
modeled the uniforms for a photo shoot at the teams Flowery Branch
headquarters. Members of the media may access those photos by visit-
ing the football communications intranet site at:
http://pr.atlantafalcons.com (user name: falconspr, password: afmedia).
For more information on throwback uniform games, ticket information,
throwback merchandise and exclusive photos and video please visit:
www.atlantafalcons.com/throwback.
Members of the 1966 Atlanta Falcons breakdown the team huddle following prac-tice on Alumni Day at Russell Training Camp in 2009.
Falcons defensive end John Abraham, quarterback Matt Ryan and running back MichTurner feature Atlantas throwback uniforms, which will be worn in Week 2 against
Carolina Panthers and Week 12 versus the Tampa Bay Buccanee
The 1966 Atlanta Falcons
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WING TIPS
2009 DRAFT PICKS(On the active roster or practice squad)
DT Peria Jerry6-2, 294 poundsD1 - 09 (Mississippi)
In 38 career games at Ole Miss, totaled 132 tackles, 11.5sacks, 33 tackles for loss, three passes defensed, two forcedfumbles, two fumble recoveries and one interception. Named to the All-SEC team twice in his collegiate career (firstteam in 2008 and second team in 2007). Jerry became the first defensive tackle selected by the Falconsin the first round of the NFL Draft since Tony Casillas (Oklahomain 1986.
S William Moore6-0, 218 poundsD2 - 09 (Missouri)
Started 32 of 48 games at Missouri and finished his career hav-ing totaled 284 tackles (182 solo), which was the fourth-highesttotal among Tigers defensive backs. Totaled 11 interceptions for 162 yards, breaking Erik McMillansschool career record (three) by returning four of those for touch-
downs.
CB Christopher Owens5-9, 179 poundsD3 - 09 (San Jose State)
Started 38 of 48 games at San Jose State, including his final 37contests at right cornerback. Recorded 228 tackles (132 solo), one sack, seven tackles forloss, 20 passes defensed and 13 interceptions. His 13 INTs rank fourth on the school career-record list.
DE Lawrence Sidbury6-3, 265 poundsD4 - 09 (Richmond)
Started 31 of 52 games at Richmond, recording 145 tackles (71solo), 20.5 sacks, 38 tackles for loss four forced fumbles, twofumble recoveries and four passes defensed. His 20.5 sacks rank fourth in school history. Set the NCAA record for the most sacks in a playoff gameagainst Montana in a 2008 FCS title game victory with four. Was voted the Virginia Defensive Player of the Year his seniorseason.
OT Garrett Reynolds6-7, 317 poundsD5b - 09 (North Carolina)
A second-team All-ACC selection by theAssociated Press andfirst-team All-ACC pick by The ACC Sports Journal. Named to the 2008 Lombardi Award Watch List.
LB Spencer Adkins5-11, 242 poundsD6 - 09 (Miami)
Saw action in 31 games in four seasons and totaled 72 tackles(42 solo), 10 tackles for loss, five sacks and one interception.
DT Vance Walker6-2, 307 poundsD7 - 09 (Georgia Tech)
Finished his Georgia Tech career with 110 tackles, 26.5 tacklesfor loss, 13.0 sacks, four forced fumbles and three fumble recov-eries.
KEY ACQUISITIONS
TE Tony Gonzalez6-5, 243 poundsCaliforniaTrade - 09 (Kansas City)
In 12 NFL seasons, has earned 10 Pro Bowl
appearances and eight first or second-teamAssociated PressAll-Pro selections.
Holds NFL records for career receptions (916), receiving yards
(10,940), touchdown catches (76), 100-yard receiving games
(26), Pro Bowl appearances (10) and 1,000-yard seasons (four)
among all tight ends.
Is the only tight end in League history to record 900 or more
receiving yards in seven seasons and currently stands as only
the third tight end in NFL history to lead their respective franchis-
es in all-time receiving.
LB Mike Peterson6-1, 233 poundsFlorida
Unrestricted Free Agent - 09 (Jax) In 135 career games (127 starts), Peterson has
totaled 1,365 tackles (792 solo), 19.5 sacks, 15
interceptions, 40 passes defensed, six forced fumbles and seven
fumbles recoveries.
Collected 837 tackles in his Jaguars career, which ranks second
in team history behind safety Donovin Darius (858).
Has tallied double-digit tackles in 73 career games and 15-plus
tackles in 23 games.
WR Marty Booker6-0, 205 poundsLouisiana-MonroeFree Agent - 09
In 141 career games (116 starts) has totaled 523
receptions for 6,522 yards and 36 touchdowns.
Currently ranks tied for third in Bears history in receptions (329)
and sixth in receiving yardage (3,895).
Posted two 1,000-yard receiving campaigns in 2001 and 02
while combining for 14 touchdowns in those seasons.
CB Tye Hill5-10, 185 poundsClemsonTrade - 09 (St. Louis)
Started 21 of 28 career games and has totaled 94
tackles (79 solo), four interceptions, 15 passes
defensed one fumble recovery and one forced fumble. Earned All-Rookie honors from Pro Football Weeklyand PFWA.
CB/S Brian Williams5-11, 202 poundsNorth Carolina StateFree Agent - 09
Has compiled 484 tackles (387 solo), 18 intercep-
tions, four sacks, nine forced fumbles, one fumble
recovery and 71 passes defensed in 107 career games (93
starts).
Returned an interception 42 yards for a touchdown in 2003.
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POSITION BY POSITION BREAKDOWN
quarterbacks (3)
RUNNING BACKS (3)
No Name
2 Matt Ryan - Started 16 games in 2008 and completed 265 of 434 passes for 3,440 yards, 16 touch-
downs and 11 interceptions for an 87.7 passer rating. Was named NFC Rookie of the Month (October
and NFC Offensive Player of the Week (Week 9). Guided the Falcons to a 7-1 home record. Totaled a
career-high with 315 passing yards against the Saints in Week 14.
8 Chris Redman: 6-3, 229 pounds, seventh year, Louisville
4 John Parker Wilson: 6-2, 218 pounds, first year, Alabama
No Name
33 Michael Turner- In his first game in an Atlanta uniform last year, set the Falcons single-game rushing
record with 220 yards on 22 carries (10.0 avg.) vs. Detroit. Totaled his 11th-career 100-yard game
against St. Louis in Week 17. Ranked second in the NFL with 376 carries for 1,699 yards while con-
tributing with 17 touchdowns (set a franchise-high for a single season). Turner also topped the 1,000-
yard mark in Week 12 of 08 while tying a club record with four touchdowns. Was named NFC
Offensive Player of the Week on two occasions (Week 1 vs. Detroit and Week 3 vs. Kansas City).
32 Jerious Norwood: 5-11, 209 pounds, fourth year, Mississippi State
44 Jason Snelling: 5-11, 233 pounds, third year, Virginia
No Name
34 Ovie Mughelli - In 2008 blocked for a Falcons running game which totaled 2,443 rushing yards
(ranked second in the NFL). Also caught a season-high 18-yard reception against the Oakland
Raiders in Week 9 and contributed with 57 receiving yards and 16 rushing yards.
36 Verron Haynes: 5-9, 233 pounds, sixth year, Georgia
No Name
84 Roddy White - Tallied seven 100-yard receiving games last season and set a career-high with 164yards on 10 receptions against New Orleans in Week 14. Topped the 1,000-yard plateau after catch
ing six passes for 112 yards against San Diego in Week 13. Led the team and ranked fourth in the
NFL in receiving with 88 receptions for 1,382 yards and six touchdowns. His 1,382 yards made him
the first Falcons receiver to record back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons in franchise history. His
yardage total also set a new franchise record for receiving yards in a season.
12 Michael Jenkins - Caught Matt Ryans first-career NFL pass and ran 62 yards for a touchdown
against Detroit in Week 1. Added his second-career multiple-touchdown game after grabbing two
touchdown passes against the Oakland Raiders in Week 9 while leading the team in receiving
yardage. In 2008, Jenkins compiled 50 catches for 777 yards and three TDs.
80 Marty Booker: 6-0, 205 pounds, 11th year, Louisiana-Monroe
86 Brian Finneran: 6-5, 210 pounds, ninth year, Villanova
14 Eric Weems: 5-9, 194 pounds, second year, Bethune-Cookman
No Name
88 Tony Gonzalez - Has established himself as one of the premier tight ends in NFL history following
12 seasons, all with Kansas City. A native of Torrance, California, Gonzalez holds League records f
the most receptions (916), receiving yards (10,940) and touchdown catches (76) by a tight end. His
10 Pro Bowl selections are more than any other tight end in the game and he has also earned eigh
first or second-teamAssociated PressAll-Pro selections, his latest coming last season.
87 Justin Peelle: 6-4, 251 pounds, eighth year, Oregon
82 Keith Zinger: 6-4, 258 pounds, second year, LSU
FULLBACKS (2)
tight ends (3)
WIDE RECEIVERS (5)
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POSITION BY POSITION BREAKDOWN
No Name
62 Todd McClure - Has started in 112 consecutive games on the offensive line which ties Jeff Van
Note for third place in Falcons annals in that category.
66 Brett Romberg: 6-2, 293 pounds, sixth year, Miami (Fla.)
No Name
72 Sam Baker - Started in five contests as a rookie and helped open holes for Atlantas 2,443 total
rushing yards.
74 Will Svitek: 6-6, 309 pounds, fourth year, Stanford
No Name
77 Tyson Clabo - Has started in 37 career contests and helped the Falcons rush for a team record of
318 yards in the season opener against Detroit last season.
75 Garrett Reynolds: 6-7, 317 pounds, first year, North Carolina
No Name
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