News & Sports

ProFootballTalk: The Atlanta Falcons appear to be just a couple of pieces away from being a championship contender. With the 30th pick in this year's draft, Mike Florio believes they should target a defensive end, who can immediately boost their pass rush. (NBC Sports)

The Crossover: The signing of Brian Banks is a smart move by the Atlanta Falcons. It's a tremendous PR move, but could also turn into a feel good story if he actually makes the 53 man roster. (NBC Sports)

PFT Live: LB Brian Banks' amazing story has written another chapter, now that he's signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. Banks was arrested and served five years in jail for a crime he did not commit. Mike Florio believes the Falcons will give Banks a fair shot to make the roster, even though he hasn't played football in a decade. Also, Florio discusses the 49ers decision to sign CB Nnamdi Asomugha. (NBC Sports)

PFT Live: Mike Florio discusses Osi Umenyiora's comments from his introductory press conference stating that the Falcons are the most talented team he's seen in his life. (NBC Sports)

PFT Live: After another postseason let down, the Falcons are gearing for another run in 2013, and Mike Florio runs down their off-season needs. If Tony Gonzalez retires, the Falcons can move on, but Florio says Atlanta needs to press Gonzalez for a decision sooner rather than later. After releasing veteran Michael Turner, where does Atlanta go from here with their backfield? (NBC Sports)

ProFootballTalk: After the Falcons made a trio of head-turning cuts, Mike Florio justifies the moves by saying "it's always better to get rid of a veteran player one year too early, instead of one year too late." (NBC Sports)

PFT Live: Mike Florio runs down the latest news in the NFL including the Falcons shedding salary to operate under the cap, how the franchise tag works now that the window is open, and where teams' cap problems originate from. (NBC Sports)

The Atlanta Falcons have released RB Michael Turner, DE John Abraham, and DB Dunta Robinson. Mike Florio is not at all surprised by the moves because the Falcons have a plan set in place to become younger and plug in key spots from within or through free agency. (NBC Sports)

ProFootballTalk: Coach Mike Smith says the Falcons will focus on finding a defensive player that can consistently put pressure on the QB. Is Atlanta a pass rusher away from a Super Bowl berth? (NBC Sports)

In consecutive weeks, the Falcons blew big leads, which leads Mike Florio to believe their defense is missing the necessary killer instinct to be successful. The Falcons need to dedicate themselves to improving the pass rush and finding guys who will make the tackles needed to hold a lead. (NBC Sports)