Atlanta Falcons: 5 Burning Pre-Draft Questions

Nov 15, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive end Vic Beasley (3) after a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the fourth quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Georgia Tech defeated Clemson 28-6. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Who will the Falcons select in the first-round?

There are a few defensive players who stand out in the early part of the draft.

Nov 15, 2014; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Dante Fowler Jr. (6) pressures South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Dylan Thompson (17) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the Florida Gators 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive tackle Leonard Williams and edge rusher Dante Fowler will be at the top of many draft boards, but could be gone by the time the Falcons pick.

If Clemson’s Vic Beasley is available, the Falcons shouldn’t hesitate to select him. I wrote about Beasley earlier this week; he would be an ideal fit for the Falcons.

Beasley has been rising up draft boards, and he too could be gone by the time the Falcons hit the clock.

If that’s the case, the Falcons could find value in Randy Gregory, Shane Ray or Bud Dupree. There have been some off-the-field issues with Gregory, but the talent is certainly there.

One thing is for sure, the Falcons should target someone who can hit the quarterback.

Next: Trade options