While many fans thought Atlanta’s unexpected 9-7 record in 2008 was the precursor of greater things ahead, Mike Smith’s Big Red Machine hit some potholes in his second year as head coach. Although the team rallied late in the year with three straight victories to once again reach nine wins, the Falcons’ talent level suggests that they are capable of much more.

Those nine W’s weren’t enough to qualify Smith’s contingent for postseason play, and a primary reason for that was the team’s defense.  In addition to a weakened pass rush, Atlanta’s secondary was downright atrocious, allowing opponents to score 28 points or more in nine of 16 regular season contests.

To add insult to injury, the Dirty Birds ranked 28th versus the pass and their defensive backfield surrendered eight more touchdowns to opposing quarterbacks than they did the year prior (23 versus 15).

Key

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Denver Broncos QB Tim Tebow worked with the third-team offense during the team’s offseason workout Thursday, May 27, reports Mike Klis, of The Denver Post.

Carolina Panthers QB Jimmy Clausen started taking reps with the second-team offense ahead of QB Hunter Cantwell Thursday, May 27.

Arizona Cardinals QB John Skelton has shown a powerful arm, but he needs to work on touch throws, timing and anticipation, reports The Arizona Republic’s Jim Gintonio. Quarterbacks coach Chris Miller also said another challenge for Skelton will be how he can absorb the complexities of an NFL playbook. Miller said a potential path for Skelton would be to adapt to the NFL environment for a year and be in the mix to compete in the 2011 season.

Philadelphia Eagles QB Mike Kafka has been impressing during the team’s minicamp, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jonathan Tamari. Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said Kafka

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The countdown continues and our number eighteen prospect in college football is…

Defensive Tackle Marvin Austin, North Carolina (Senior):

The Skinny: Despite his first-round talent, Austin made a very wise decision to return for his senior season in Chapel Hill. While he was a potential first-round pick in 2010 and surely wouldn’t have slipped further than the second round, we concur with his choice. If Austin builds on his junior numbers and develops into a more consistent performer, not only will he be a first-round pick, he could find himself in the top 10. No one doubts the North Carolina man has the talent to be the top interior lineman in the 2011 draft. With Bruce Carter and Quan Sturdivant also returning for their senior

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Here’s a look at the top senior cornerback prospects entering the 2011 season:

Ras-I Dowling, Virginia – At 6’2, 200 pounds, Dowling has a phenomenal blend of size, speed and coverage capability. He stated that the reasons for returning to Virginia for his senior year was to hone his craft, which includes improving his tackling, reaction time and leadership skills. If he achieves those goals look for Dowling to earn sure-fire first round status.

Prince Amukamara, Nebraska – The 6’1, 205-pound Amukamara had a coming out party in 2009 and was selected as First Team All-Big 12, while earning the reputation around the conference as a lockdown corner. His combination of size, speed and ball instincts are rare. He will need to work on becoming more consistent and overcoming some of the

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