The Atlanta Falcons are expected to add a defensive player with their first pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, according to several national mock drafts released by analysts on April 16.
The Falcons, who will make their first selection at pick number 48 in the second round, are preparing for their initial draft under general manager Ian Cunningham and head coach Kevin Stefanski. The focus on defense comes after a season where Atlanta allowed an average of 4.6 yards per rush, ranking them 25th in the league.
Mel Kiper from ESPN predicted that the Falcons would select Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter. “Atlanta might use the first of its five selections at receiver, perhaps with Georgia’s Zachariah Branch. It could also bring in Avieon Terrell to not only shore up the cornerback room but also team him up with his older brother, A.J. Terrell Jr. But Atlanta gave up 4.6 yards per rush last season, 25th in the league, so the interior defensive line is an issue worth examining. Hunter had a ridiculous 52 run stops and 33.5 tackles for loss over the past three seasons and could be an answer,” Kiper said.
Dane Brugler from The Athletic projected that Georgia’s Christen Miller would be chosen by Atlanta as a defensive tackle: “Miller can be up and down with his anchor and rush consistency, but he is rock solid as a run defender who should excel on early downs. His role will shift depending on scheme, though he projects best as a one-gapping nose in a four-man front.” Brent Sobleski from Bleacher Report suggested cornerback Colton Hood from Tennessee for Atlanta’s pick while Mike Renner of CBS Sports pointed to Clemson edge rusher T.J. Parker; both did not provide additional analysis.
The Falcons compete in the National Football League’s NFC South division according to their official website. They have advanced to two Super Bowls—in 1998 and again in 2016—and began play as an expansion team in 1965 according to their official website. Based out of Atlanta, Georgia according to their official website, they are represented by Freddie the Falcon as mascot according to their official website.
With several options available at key positions on defense and receiver noted by experts across multiple outlets this week, observers will watch closely how Cunningham and Stefanski approach this pivotal draft.