The Atlanta Falcons, like any underachieving team in the NFL, would prefer to end their season on a winning note.  But in a twisted sort of way, losing to the Seattle Seahawks next weekend can actually benefit the Falcons next season.  As in a better draft pick.

Here’s how the Falcons can gain a better pick during the 2008 draft:

  • A Falcons loss coupled with victories by St. Louis and the New York Jets will land them the second pick. All three teams are 3-12 heading into their final game of the season.

Tiebreaker rules would probably prevent Atlanta from getting the #2 overall pick if Atlanta, St. Louis and the New York Jets all lose and sport the same win-loss record.  The worst thing that can happen to the Falcons is that they can win on Sunday – I am not suggesting that they don’t – and depending on the tiebreakers with the other 4-win teams: Oakland, Kansas City and Baltimore, the Falcons could draft as low as 7th.