The FalconsLife message board on AtlantaFalcons.com is where die-hard Falcons fans go to talk, share ideas and discuss every imaginable topic concerning the Falcons.
During the offseason we'll take a look at a hot topic on the Talk About the Falcons department of FalconsLife and examine what's on the minds of Falcons fans.
Many of this week's topics on FalconsLife revolve, as expected, around the NFL draft coming up on Thursday. Most pundits believe the Falcons need to upgrade the left tackle position, but without a first-round pick, that will be challenging to do so with starting-caliber, elite-level players.
Last season Will Svitek, a Falcon since 2009, moved into the starting lineup for the Falcons at left tackle when an injury to Sam Baker created a hole. Svitek's play helped solidify a shaky line and he did little to hurt the team with his play.
Falcons fan Gimmesomo!!! shares his view of the left tackle situation. "Why is there all this clamouring for a LT?" he asks, saying that Svitek played well when his number was called.
It's a valid question and one that comes up a lot around draft time. Svitek has been a backup tackle for most of his career and wasn't given an opportunity to start more than a few games in a season until last season when he started a career-high ten games. When the topic of the draft comes up, it's all about finding long-term solutions at positions.
While Svitek has played admirably, the 30-year-old tackle isn't seen by some as the long-term solution, hence the need for the expense of a draft pick. What the discussion on Svitek reveals is that he's a popular player among the fans for doing what he's been able to do, step in and solidify.
"Svitek is solid... If we need him to start this year he could but i don't think he is a long term answer," wrote another fan, atljbo.
The consensus for Svitek is similar to those sentiments. Many fans view him in a similar way they do Todd Weiner, a long-time Falcon who converted to left tackle in 2008 during his final season in the NFL. Weiner gutted through some serious injuries that season to help the Falcons make it to the playoffs. His blue-collar and tough approach to the game has placed him in select company among Falcons faithful.
Most believe Svitek can get the job done if needed, but they still believe a younger option is something they want. The thread reads like it's on repeat, with fan after fan saying he's a solid player that can start in a pinch. The beauty of what Svitek brings is that while he can start, assuming the position is filled by someone younger, he suddenly becomes reliable and game-experienced depth.
No matter where you stand on the Svitek debate, you can't argue with what he's accomplished for the Falcons. It's clear they're better off with him than without him, no matter where he's playing.
