Atlanta Falcons: 5 reasons why the defense will bounce back

Jul 31, 2015; Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons tackle defensive end Vic Beasley (44) hits a tackle sled during training camp at Flowery Branch Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Vic Beasley

It was the player Falcons fans were hoping for. Well, those that weren’t expecting Todd Gurley. With the eighth overall pick, Vic Beasley fell into the hands of the Atlanta Falcons, and GM Thomas Dimitroff had no hesitation to select him.

Not only was he the best player available at this point of the draft, he also filled the Falcons’ biggest need. After mustering up a total of just 22 sacks in 2014, the same number Justin Houston finished on by himself may I add, Atlanta needed reinforcements.

Beasley’s burst off the snap is incredible, and his explosiveness to get to the quarterback rightfully has Falcons fans excited. He left Clemson as the all-time sack leader, so putting up double digit sacks isn’t anything new to him.

The pressure will be on to play well early, as is always the case with first round selections, particularly in the top ten. This is only further increased due to the glaring need he is filling on the Falcons’ defensive line.

Dan Quinn added some talented players in free agency, but Beasley is the premier piece the defense needed. Now he needs to get out on the field and prove it.

Next: Help at the back