FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The Falcons added more toughness on defense with the first of two fifth-round picks.
The team selected linebacker Robert James (138th overall), adding a big-hitter to one of the game's key position.
"He's sort of a smaller run-and-hit linebacker," General Manager Thomas Dimitroff said. "This guy is a (weak side) linebacker type. I can't stress the importance in the middle rounds to shore up your special teams. We think Robert James is going to be a nice addition as a run and hit player on defense and really contribute on special teams."
Nicknamed "The Beast" by teammates for his reckless abandon on the field, James finally got an opportunity to start as a senior and did not disappoint. He helped the team improve from being ranked 51st in the nation in total defense (327.85 yards per game) in 2006 to 30th nationally in 2007 (345.15). He led the team in tackles with a career-high 106 during his final campaign, earning All-American and All-Pac 10 Conference recognition.
The Sun Devils' Most Valuable Defensive Player (2007) played at nearby Maryvale High School before arriving on ASU's campus. He lettered four times in football and twice in track, earning second-team All-City honors as a defensive back and first-team accolades at running back. He was also an All-City honoree in track as a sophomore.
In 2007, James was nearly unstoppable.
He led the Sun Devils with 62 solo tackles, getting to the quarterback 2.5 times with 9.5 stops for losses and a pair of pressures. He caused a fumble, broke up three passes and intercepted four others.
MORE ON LINEBACKER ROBERT JAMES:
- NFL.com: Robert James profile
- NEWS: Atlanta takes "The Beast" in the fifth round | Photos
- AF.com: Click here for complete NFL Draft coverage
