National Football League Blogcast, NFL Blogcast
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was named the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year yesterday by the Associated Press. I think Falcons owner Arthur Blank had hoped for Matt to have a shot at the starting quarterback position this season when the team drafted him third overall back in April. But I’m sure he didn’t expect this kind of success this soon — not for Matt and not for the Falcons as a team as the prepare to play the NFC West champion Arizona Cardinals Saturday in a Wild Card Playoff game. As one would …read more

National Football League Blogcast, NFL Blogcast
The Atlanta Falcons gave wide receiver Joe Horn his unconditional release from the team today, something he had been seeking since OTAs this past offseason. The Falcons couldn’t trade Joe, so they let him go. They will have to eat his guaranteed $2.5 million salary for 2008. Naturally, Joe couldn’t have been happier, but he also expressed sorrow:
“It’s a sense of sadness because after every game last year and after the first two preseason games, I had to look at Mr. Blank and know that he deserves a winning team and he deserves a championship. …read more

Blogcasting the National Football League, Blogcasting the NFL
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Joe Horn said today that he will ask to be traded from the team rather than serve a reserve role this season. He might just be blowing off some steam after what was apparently a pretty disappointing weekend minicamp, but I can’t blame him for his displeasure.
“I’m not rocking the boat. The main reason I came here last year was for (owner) Arthur Blank. His character, his passion and the way he takes care of his people. I relish the opportunity to play here. I haven’t talked to …read more

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Blogcasting the National Football League, Blogcasting the NFL
In an interview with the New York Daily News, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank said Michael Vick is playing football in prison to keep himself in shape.
“Apparently, there was a prison football team and he played quarterback for both sides ….. He’s written me a couple of times. I’ve written him back, he’s stayed in touch ….. I just try to be supportive and as understanding as I can be. He talks about the process he is going through and what he has learned, the lessons of life, how he’s going to …read more

Blogging the National Football League, Blogging the NFL
Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison today. That’s longer than two co-defendants because he lied about his involvement when he was supposed to be coming clean to the judge who would decide his fate. He received a harsher sentence than the others in the federal conspiracy case because of “less than truthful” statements about killing pit bulls. Michael said he accepted responsibility for his actions, but U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson said he wasn’t so sure. I’m not so sure, either. Despite his early surrender, a public apology and …read more

Blogging the National Football League, Blogging the NFL
Just hours after Michael Vick filed a plea agreement, admitting to conspiracy in a dogfighting ring and helping to kill pit bulls, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell suspended him indefinitely without pay. The Commissioner said he would review the suspension after all the legal proceedings had run their course.
Michael acknowledged bankrolling gambling on the dogfights, but denied placing bets himself or taking any of the winnings. He also admitted that dogs who were not worthy of the pit were killed “as a result of the collective efforts” of himself and two co-defendants. But Michael …read more

Blogging the National Football League, Blogging the NFL
Atlanta Falcons owner and CEO Arthur M. Blank composed this letter to Atlanta Falcons fans today:
“We know you’re anxious to hear more from us regarding the indictment of Michael Vick and its implications to the Falcons. Please be assured that we are working diligently on exploring our options and getting the right people involved in this situation. This an emotionally charged and complicated matter. There are a wide range of interests and legal issues that need to be carefully considered as we move ahead, including our need to respect the due process that …read more