Atlanta Falcons 2014 Mock Draft: Pre Free Agency Edition
By Jake Bennett
Oct 19, 2013; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears guard Cyril Richardson (68) blocks Iowa State Cyclones defensive lineman Brandon Jensen (93) and linebacker Jeremiah George (52) during the game at Floyd Casey Stadium. The Bears defeated the Cyclones 71-7. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Round 3 – OG Cyril Richardson – Baylor
Atlanta shouldn’t wait to make this pick, as RG was an atrocity for the Falcons in 2013. Garrett Reynolds seemed lost, and Peter Konz continues to disappoint. Insert Cyril Richardson along with Jake Matthews, and the Falcons offensive line looks to be a strong point in 2014.
Run Blocking is an area of efficiency for Jackson, but his true talents lie in handling Defensive Tackles in pass protection. Given his 6’5″ and 340 lbs size, Richardson would be a prolific pass blocker in the Falcons line that severely needs to protect it’s $100 Million Quarterback. Ryan was sacked 44 times, and hurried 206 times last season, so something must be done.
Richardson’s stock dropped substantially after a lackluster Senior Bowl performance in which he looked stiff, but newly added Offensive Line Coach Mike Tice will get the best out of the Baylor product.