Atlanta Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff made reinforcing offensive line top priority in drafts - NFL News
The Atlanta Falcons once again failed last season to move beyond the first game of the playoffs after an embarrassing 24-2 defeat to the New York Giants in the wildcard round.
The Falcons offence was stopped right in its tracks by New York and quarterback, Matt Ryan remained quiet for most of the game as the Giants comfortably ran out the victors.
This year though the franchise is looking to finally end their playoff chocking problems and general manager, Thomas Dimitroff used the 2012 drafts to bring some reinforcements for the offensive line.
The Falcons who did not have a first round pick brought in three offensive players in the drafts starting with Wisconsin University centre, Peter Konz in the second round with the 55th overall pick.
They followed it up by bringing in Southern Mississippi offensive tackle Lamar Holmes with the 91st overall pick and full back Bradie Ewing with the 157th overall pick.
All these picks will greatly improve on the Falcons offence which regressed considerably last season and once again failed to deliver in the big games.
General manager, Thomas Dimitroff talking to the Atlanta Journal Constitution
said that shoring up the offensive line was one of his top priorities in the offseason.
"We waited a whole round to jump into our offensive-linemen sweepstakes, and it was something that we were focused on through the offseason,"
Adding further he said.
"Both (coach Mike Smith) and I spent a lot of time focusing on the offensive line and how we could acquire some more size, strength and stoutness to help bolster our roster."
Coach Mike Smith talking to the newspaper said that this season’s training camp will be interesting as competition for positions on the offensive lines will be greater with the arrival of the new players.
“I think competition brings out the best in everyone. These two [linemen] that we added, we’re going to put them right in the mix.”
The Falcons ended last season with a 10-6 record. This year they are preparing to perform even better in the new season and the newest draft picks will greatly help the team in the new season.
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