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Atlanta Falcons 2016 Draft: Deion Jones would be good fit on defense

By Freddie Boston

Nov 28, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Deion Jones (45) tackles Texas A&M Aggies running back James White (20) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Texas A&M Aggies 19-7. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Deion Jones (45) tackles Texas A&M Aggies running back James White (20) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Texas A&M Aggies 19-7. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn wants speed on defense. Look no further than LSU linebacker Deion Jones.

Outside of registering sacks, the Achilles heel on defense for the Atlanta Falcons last season was the inability to cover tight ends and running backs in the middle of the field.

Paul Worrilow was strong against the run but he repeatedly got burned by pass catchers able to get open at ease downfield. Getting reinforcements in this area is one of the priorities of the 2016 NFL Draft, and is where day two prospect Deion Jones could come in.

Jones has the speed and coverage ability to hang with pass catchers in the middle of the field. It doesn’t matter if it’s a slot receiver, tight end or running back — Jones is strong in coverage. He has the ability to make plays on the football, whether breaking up a pass or picking it off. He came away with two interceptions in 2015, returning one for a touchdown.

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With his speed, Jones can become a playmaker in the middle of Quinn’s defense. His ability to hold up in coverage will excite the Falcons. Shawn Spencer of NFL Mocks touched on this in his scouting report:

"“Man coverage is where he really excels. Whether covering a slot receiver, tight end or running back, Jones is able to matchup. At the snap, utilizes solid football intelligence to diagnose the play and react accordingly. Mirrors the receiver, forcing the QB to throw into tight windows. Possesses quick and flexible hips which he is able to either open and sprint downfield or change directions laterally.”"

Darron Lee is a popular choice in the first round, but Jones’ talent would allow the Falcons to focus on fixing their pass rush on day one, assuming they are in position to select the LSU talent in the second round.

Finding an upgrade to the pass rush has to be the Falcons’ priority in the draft. After posting just 19 sacks in 2015, it has to be the main priority for Coach Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff.

If the Falcons can find a pass rusher on day one and add Jones in the second round, the defense would have two of its biggest needs addressed right away.

Next: Falcons 2016 Draft: Day one options at linebacker

What are your thoughts on Jones? Would you like to see the Falcons go after him on the second day of the draft?