Revisiting the Atlanta Falcons 2009 NFL Draft Picks

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OAKLAND, CA – NOVEMBER 27: Johnny Knox #13 of the Chicago Bears highsteps into the endzone scoring on a twenty nine yard touchdown pass against the Oakland Raiders at O.co Coliseum on November 27, 2011 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

The Falcons picked second in the 5th round. How did their pick turn out?

The pick: William Middleton, Cornerback, 138th overall

Their impact: Middleton never appeared in a game for the Falcons and was cut during his rookie year.

Who else was available that round?: Johnny Knox is another player who shined for a very short period of time.

During three seasons with Chicago, Knox racked up 2,214 receiving yards, 12 touchdowns, and 133 receptions.

He was also named to the Pro Bowl in 2009 as a kick returner.

Jasper Brinkley played in 94 games and racked up over 300 tackles.

He was never an all-star, but he made solid contributions on the defensive side.

Kevin Huber is an All-Pro and Pro Bowler and has been with the Bengals since they drafted him.

Appearing in 142 games since being taken 142nd overall, Huber was a great choice for Cincinnati.

Would they switch the pick?: Who wouldn’t?

Knox would have provided a spark on special teams and been another dynamic option on offense.

But, I feel like Huber would have been the better option.

Michael Koenen really struggled for the Falcons in 2009, and Huber could have made a major difference.

So now we’ve snagged a ton of defensive help, a special teams stud, and a short-term spark at wide receiver.

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