Atlanta Falcons Mock Draft Roundup: Bud Dupree rising

Sep 13, 2014; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators running back Matt Jones (24) runs with the ball as Kentucky Wildcats defensive end Alvin Dupree (2) defends during the first quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Walter Cherepinsky of WalterFootball.com

Can you guess the position addressed first in Walter Cherepinsky’s latest mock draft? 

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You guessed it.

The pick — DE Alvin Dupree, Kentucky

With Randy Gregory’s off-the-field concerns, former Kentucky defensive end Alvin Dupree has been rising up draft boards.

While Dupree might not be as pro-ready as some of the names previously mentioned, he has the raw talent and potential to become a star.

Here is what Cherepinsky thinks about Atlanta taking Dupree at No. 8:

"“The run on edge rushers continues, which is predictable, but some might be surprised by Alvin Dupree over Randy Gregory or Shane Ray. After all, Gregory was a popular top-three pick in 2015 NFL Mock Drafts prior to the NFL Combine, and Ray has been a steady member of my top six, so how could they slip past the Falcons, who are desperate for a pass-rusher? Well, Gregory had a poor showing at the NFL Combine, for one. Gregory then tested positive for marijuana, making things worse. There’s also his weight loss, and something else that the media is unaware of (but teams are). Ray, meanwhile, just doesn’t happen to be a good fit for the Falcons’ defense. Dupree has enjoyed an exceptional draft season. He’s also exactly what Atlanta is looking for in terms of an explosive defensive player, and he’s not a reach here. He’s a legitimate top-10 prospect.”"

Dupree would make a lot of sense for the Falcons in the first round, assuming Beasley and Fowler are gone.

Some people believe he’s not worthy of a top-10 selection. If Dimitroff senses teams immediately below the Falcons’ agree, he may look to trade down for Dupree.

I personally don’t think it would be a reach to take Dupree at No. 8. He has raw talent and the potential to become a top pass rusher in the NFL. With the right guidance from Dan Quinn, the Falcons could get themselves a real player here.

Next: CBS Sports: Rang, Brugler, Prisco, Brinson