The Falcons brass has a plan. The Plan: Trim the old guys, making big money and go young. Coach Smith and Coach Van Gorder want to get faster and more athletic. And in turn, force more turnovers. So, see you later Brooking, Milloy, and Grady. And thanks for the memories. 
    Fans shouldn't panic, with now 5 starters out of the picture. There is no game this weekend. Free agency continues and the draft is just around the corner. Plenty of time to fill the void before they start putting on the pads.
    At linebacker, the Falcons will build around inside linebacker Curtis Lofton. He's a building block at MLB. And he is probably the most important piece of the puzzle on defense. As a 2nd year player, Lofton will now have to step up into a leadership position. That's a lot to ask of a 2nd year player, but they think he's special. Outside, the depth chart says that Coy Wire is the SLB and Stephen Nicholas is the WLB. Nicholas is described as an explosive player and just needs an opportunity. Well, here it is. 
    Look for the Falcons to grab an OLB in the draft. That position group is a deep one this year.
    Not real sure what the plan is at safety and DT. Not many 375 lb. dudes to choose from. Best I can tell at safety is that DeCoud is more of a FS, than a Milloy-type run-stuffer. Smith does like Fudge and Harris, but who knows if they can perform at a high level. Might have to add a SS in FA or the draft too.
     Tear it down, and rebuild it. That's the plan. Stay tuned.