Three Birds Join the Flock

By: T. Love

Third-round pick Laurent Robinson (pronounced La-RON), fourth-round pick Martrez Millner and sixth-round pick Doug Datish all reached contract agreements with the Atlanta Falcons on Wednesday. Each deal is for four seasons, however, financial terms have yet to be disclosed.

Robinson (6-2, 195 pounds), the 75th overall pick in the draft, is currently listed behind fourth-year veteran Michael Jenkins on the team’s depth chart. The Illinois State product could see ample time on the field as head coach Bobby Petrino employs four- and five-wide sets in his offense. Robinson could be a sleeper of the draft as he possesses the physical tools to be an effective wide receiver. He will also have the benefit of excellent coaching in offensive coordinator Hue Jackson and the guidance of 13-year veteran Joe Horn, who was brought in this off-season.

Milner (6-4, 240 pounds) earned first-team All-SEC honors in 2006 while playing tight end for the Georgia Bulldogs. Milner’s stock plummeted in the draft due to inconsistency catching the football. In Petrino’s offense, Milner should be able to contribute early as he is an excellent blocker. For now, Algernon Darius Crumpler can catch the football as he has done so well over his career while Milner develops.

Datish (6-5, 295 pounds) garnered All-Big Ten first-team honors last season playing center for Ohio State. He will be groomed for the eventual replacement for Todd McClure, but his versatility along the offensive line enhances his value.

With the signings of these three rookies, six of Atlanta’s 11 draft picks are now under contract. Linebacker Stephen Nicholas, fullback Jason Snelling and safety Daren Stone were the first to sign.

Falcons’ training camp will open on Thursday, July 26, at the Flowery Branch headquarters.