ATL All Day
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Revisiting the Atlanta Falcons 2008 NFL Draft

By Justin Winters

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 14: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks at the Georgia Dome on January 14, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 14: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks at the Georgia Dome on January 14, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Falcons
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The Falcons didn’t have a fourth-round pick but returned in the 5th round with two defensive selections.

The pick: Robert James, Linebacker, 138th overall

Their impact: James appeared in 18th games for the Falcons, but only recorded 11 tackles. He spent most of his time on the practice squad.

Who else was available that round?: Several notable names went after James, including two Pro Bowlers.

Two corners, Orlando Scandrick and Brandon Carr, were drafted shortly after James.

Both players have played significant roles in the NFL, and are both starters in the league.

Carr has more interceptions than James had tackles, which shows you the type of role he had on the team.

The 5th round also saw Gary Barnidge and Matthew Slater get chosen.

Barnidge is best known for his 1,000-yard season with the Browns, which earned him a trip to the Pro Bowl.

Slater has been a solid contributor on special teams and has been named to the Pro Bowl seven times.

Would they switch the pick?: 100%. I have a feeling they would choose Carr if they could go back in time, but I could also see them choosing Scandrick.

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