Asante Samuel

Samuel will likely start at cornerback for the Falcons in 2012. He'll bring a veteran presence to a deep Falcons secondary that includes Brent Grimes and Dunta Robinson. He should see an increase in tackles from last year when he was the odd man out in Philadelphia.

If he doesn't get traded, Samuel will start at corner for Philadelphia.

Samuel is the starting left cornerback.

Samuel's numbers predictably dropped during his first year away from New England in 2008, finishing with his fewest tackles (36) since his rookie year in 2003 and his fewest interceptions (four) since 2005. Samuel is talented and not a complete product of the Patriots' system, but it's also worth questioning the possible influence of coordinator Jim Johnson having to take an extended leave. Samuel is an OK IDP option but most of his upside went away when he left New England.

Samuel was unable to reach double-digit picks in 2007 but still finished with a respectable six interceptions on the year. He cashed in by signing a six-year deal with the Eagles and should hold similar value in the NFC.

Since he was unable to reach an agreement on a long-term deal with the Pats, Samuel sat out much of training camp before finally signing his $7.79 million franchise tender. When he is on the field, Samuel is a ball-hawk, as his 10 picks in 2006 demonstrate. It will be tough for him to reach double-digits in that category again, but in any case, he should be good for 60 tackles or so, and remember he is playing for his next big payday.

Samuel -- in a contract year -- is the most experienced and consistent cornerback on the Patriots roster. He may not rack up double-digit interceptions like the likes of Ty Law but he gets the job done as a cover corner and he is also very physical.

Samuel, a starter at cornerback for the Patriots, responded well when pressed into full-time action last season while battling a shoulder injury for much of the year. He lacks ideal speed, but has excellent ball skills and can play outside or in the slot.

Contributed as a rookie in 2003, Samuel will continue to be part of the DB rotation in 2004.

Fourth-round draft pick is expected to play a lot right away.