Atlanta Falcons Seating Chart

Last season was nothing less than a complete disaster for the Atlanta Falcons, but at least there is hope heading into 2008.

By hope, don't get the idea this team will be competing for anything but a top draft pick in 2008. However, they have a rebuilding plan in place and a new head coach who seems patient enough to see it all transpire.

After head coach Bobby Petrino bolted back to the college ranks in the middle of his first season with the Falcons, Atlanta brought in Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith in the offseason.

The team officially put the Michael Vick situation behind them in the offseason, selecting quarterback Matt Ryan in the NFL Draft. Ryan is expected to step in and start immediately, with Chris Redman backing him up.

To upgrade the offense, the Falcons gave former San Diego Chargers backup running back Michael Turner a huge deal. While they certainly overpaid for him, Turner has a lot of potential and at least gives the fans a player to be excited about, which is the least the franchise can do.

The Falcons also cut ties with several older players to expedite the rebuilding process, as well as players with character issues or who have had run-ins with the law. While it may mean the team is slightly less competitive on the field this year, it's a smart move when looking at the long-term picture.

The team is really trying their hardest to put the Vick controversy behind them. The case against Vick, the idol of many of their fans and the face of the franchise, really sent the community into a tailspin.

The Falcons will likely finish with the worst record in the NFL in 2008, but at least their fans can be rest assured that the franchise is moving in the right direction.