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OLB Michael Boley, Atlanta Falcons

HT: 6-3, WT: 218, Born: 8-24-1982, College: Southern Miss, Drafted: Round 5

2008 Projections

Best Case

Michael Boley had one of the best IDP seasons ever out of the SLB/LOLB position last year. Despite the change in coaching staff this offseason, the Falcon system is likely to remain interchangeable at the OLB spots. Boley's pursuit, coverage and pass rush skills should keep his tackle and peripheral stats consistent. It may be a reach to predict LB1 status again this year, but Boley again has very high upside for a player who takes the majority of his snaps on the strong side.

Worst Case

Boley's value will still be sensitive to his supporting cast. He's unlikely to be the first to the ball frequently from the strong side, and his value may take a hit if Curtis Lofton wins the MLB role and plays effectively and the rest of the team improves against the run. Though he topped 90 solos last year, it wouldn't be surprising to see him play just as well this year but struggle to reach 85 solos. Should that happen, Boley may drop back into LB3 value (or worse).

Outlook

Boley has improved every year and has become one of the better all-around linebackers in the game. His talent should keep him among the best scoring LOLB in the league and keep him from sliding out of the top 40 even if his tackle opportunity drops. He should be safe to draft as a LB2.

Writeups last modified: 2008-05-01 15:00:59