FanPost

Hypothetical Free Agency Heats Up: Chad Ochocinco To Falcons?



Most NFL commentators seem to agree that Chan Ochocinco is on the way out along with Carson Palmer now that Cincy has seemingly drafted their replacements. So where might this bull riding, soccer playing, reality tv host, 6 time Pro Bowler WR end up? Well our own D. Orlando Ledbetter thinks we could see him in a Falcons uniform in the near future.

The obvious connection between the two organizations is QB coach Bob Bratkowski who Chad still holds in high regard...

"Coach Bratkowski is the reason why I’m with the Bengals," Ochocinco said after riding a bull at the Gwinnett Arena on Saturday. "He was my coach at the Senior Bowl when I was coming out. He went to bat for me. They weren’t going to take me. But from what he saw at the Senior Bowl before the draft is the reason why he stood on the table for me and that’s why they drafted me."

This would be a very interesting move for the Falcons to make.

This would obviously be a luxury pick. We don't have a glaring need at WR but adding Chad as a 3rd or 4th option would give us insurance against injury or a lack of production from some of our young or aging receiving options. If we are looking to "win now" adding more potency to our offense certainly fits the pattern of our recent moves. Also, while Chad can be a bit of a distraction, his antics don't appear to have the malice and/or selfishness behind them unlike certain other "diva" WRs. Lastly, we shouldn't underestimate the impact of leaving a dysfunctional locker room and organization behind. Being in Atlanta (around mature, professional guys like Tony G.for example) could actually be good for him.

On the other hand, a major concerns come to mind. Is Chad able to handle being a role player on the field and being paid like one off of it? He's not a clear #1 receiver at this point in his career and certainly wouldn't be treated as one in Atlanta. Dimitroff isn't going to break the bank for the likes of him, but if he came with the same attitude of Tony, who realizes he's near the end of his career and just wants a shot at a ring, it could work.

So any thoughts?

<em>This FanPost was written by one of The Falcoholic's talented readers. It does not necessarily reflect the views of The Falcoholic.</em>