(L to R: Mike Nolan, Mike Smith, Dirk Koetter)

The Atlanta Falcons overhauled their coaching staff, after being thumped 24-2 by the New York Giants in the first round of the playoffs. Mike Nolan, who previously ran the defense for the Miami Dolphins, is the new defensive coordinator. New offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter previously oversaw the Jacksonville Jaguars offense. Former Fresno State football coach Pat Hill was also hired as the new offensive line coach. As far as players are concerned, very few new faces have been added to the roster during free agency. Kick returner Eric Weems was signed by the Chicago Bears, and the likely candidates to fill his void are wide receiver Harry Douglas or 2^nd-year corner-back Dominique Franks. The organization obviously believes that retaining current players is crucial to their success. The franchise tag was placed on corner-back Brent Grimes, which will pay him 10.6 million dollars this year until the two sides can reach a long-term contract agreement. Defensive end John Abraham was also brought back, signing a three year deal. Center Todd McClure, running backs Jason Snelling and Antone Smith, quarterback Chris Redman, wide receiver Harry Douglas, long snapper Joe Zelenka, defensive  tackle Vance Walker, defensive end Kroy Biermann, safety Thomas DeCoud, and tight end Michael Palmer were also re-signed. Guard Vince Manuwai and linebacker Lofa Tatupu have been the only additions to the team. Tatupu will replace Curtis Lofton, who was signed to a five year deal on Saturday by the New Orleans Saints. Good luck with that Curtis. I don’t know who in their right mind would want to join that team after their “bounty” debacle.

I am hopeful that the new coaches will infuse creativity into our current roster, and aid all players in reaching their full potential. Dirk Koetter has said that he will bring the screen pass into the offense, which should allow players like Jacquizz Rodgers to flourish. Mike Nolan is known throughout the league for his versatile defensive schemes, and he has transformed several statistically sub-par defenses into top-10 caliber ones. Kroy Biermann comes to mind as a player who could stand out under Mike’s tutelage. Kroy has shown outstanding athletic ability to drop back into coverage as a linebacker when given the chance. I believe that one playoff game, if not many, will be won this season.