ESPN recently released an article outlining the latest rumblings and analysis from analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid alongside their team-specific contributors heading into the NFL Draft. For the Falcons, the conversation surrounded improving only one aspect of the team: Finding "anyone with a pulse" who can rush the quarterback.
Possible targets in Round 1 for the Falcons? "Anyone with a pulse that can rush the passer," per an NFC executive. And Atlanta could have its pick of the defensive litter at No. 8. Dallas Turner (Alabama), Laiatu Latu (UCLA) and Jared Verse (Florida State) are all viewed as options. Any one of them would help a pass rush that was last in pass rush win rate last season at 30.9%.
- Jordan Reid
If the Falcons don't address edge rusher, there are other avenues that they could choose to address as well, as outlined by ESPN reporter Michael Rothstein:
Cornerback, specifically finding a player to line up opposite A.J. Terrell has to be a priority with Terrell going into a contract year and not yet holding a long-term extension. There's no clear No. 2 opposite him. It rates slightly higher than receiver, where Atlanta added in free agency, but getting a young pass-catcher to pair with Drake London would be optimal if Atlanta wants to run three-WR sets this season. And even if the Falcons take an edge rusher at No. 8, it shouldn't preclude them from adding another later in the draft, considering the issues at the position over the past half-decade.
- Michael Rothstein
