Recapping All 32 NFL Draft Classes from 2017
Atlanta Falcons
Needs Entering Draft: OT, DE, DT, OLB
Positions Drafted: RB, TE, IOL, DE, OLB, CB
The Atlanta Falcons attacked most of their early needs with gusto, but really decided they didn’t want to draft the last two rounds of the event (shots fired). Edge rusher Takk McKinley is exactly the kind of player they needed to take pressure off of Vic Beasley, and linebacker Duke Riley adds even more speed to an already juiced-up second-level unit. Guard Sean Harlow adds a body to the offensive line that should help keep the quarterback upright and the running backs churning.
Running back Brian Hill adds a big-time power element to the backfield, but he wasn’t really a need with both Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman soaking up all the touches there. Eric Saubert has some receiving upside and adds depth behind Austin Hooper, but the Falcons needed another strong interior defensive lineman and missed out on one. Damontae Kazee’s selection is merely proof that one can never have too many cornerbacks these days.