2015 NFL Draft: Atlanta Falcons Last-Minute Predictions
Well, it’s finally here. The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for the 2015 NFL Draft, and here are our last-minute predictions.
The Falcons are scheduled to hit the clock with the eighth overall pick, barring any trades. With general manager Thomas Dimitroff, though, you just never know when the Falcons will be picking.
Can they fix the ailing the defense that ranked 32nd overall and against the pass in 2014? That’s the main priority in this draft.
With that said, here are my three last-minute predictions ahead of the draft:
1. The Falcons will trade up in the first round
With Dimitroff, you can bet he’s weighing up his trade options right now. The Falcons need to hit on a pass rusher, and by trading up from the No. 8 pick, they give themselves a great chance to address their biggest position of need.
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With the eighth overall pick, it seems unlikely Dante Fowler or Vic Beasley will be available, and the Falcons could have to settle for Alvin Dupree, Randy Gregory or Shane Ray. While all three are talented players, trading up for Beasley or Fowler would be the best option.
2. Running back will be addressed in Round 3 or 4
It’s not the biggest need for the Falcons, but running back is an area they could do with addressing in the draft. With Jacquizz Rodgers and Steven Jackson no longer in Atlanta, a talented back to pair up with Devonta Freeman is important.
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Ameer Abdullah could come into play at the top of the third round. Abdullah is one of my favorite backs in the class, and would provide the run game with a change of pace. Not only is he a talented runner, but he can also help out in the passing game and on special teams.
Another option could be Duke Johnson out of Miami, who is a similar player to Abdullah. London-born Jay Ajayi would be more of a workhorse back and could also be available on day two or three.
3. Atlanta will bring in another WR
Defense is the most important unit to bolster, as the Falcons already have a dangerous offense. Still, the Falcons will likely dip into the wide receiver market at some point in this draft.
A player to watch out for late on is Darren Waller. I wrote about the potential of him joining the Falcons a couple of weeks ago, and I believe he could add late-round value.
Waller is in an intriguing prospect for sure. He has incredible size at 6’6, 238 pounds. Despite that, he has decent speed once he gets going. Waller is raw and needs time to develop his route running and ability to gain separation, but he could certainly be a good pickup on day three.
Look out for this guy in the later rounds.
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