Atlanta Falcons: Full 2016 seven-round mock draft

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Dec 31, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive end Shilique Calhoun (89) during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2015 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 2: DE Shilique Calhoun, Michigan State

It’s no secret the Falcons need to upgrade their front seven, and they could turn to defense again in the second round by selecting defensive end Shilique Calhoun. Calhoun has been given a late first round projection by some, but it seems more likely he drops to the second round, which could bring the Falcons into play.

After posting just 19 sacks in total last season, the Falcons need to generate more pass rush in 2016. That’s where Calhoun could come in. Here’s what Tyler Morales of NFL Mocks had this to say about Calhoun:

"“Calhoun is an explosive pass rusher, who uses speed more so than power to get by offensive linemen. He has flexibility to bend and dip around blockers which makes him tough to block. Calhoun has long strides which allows him to get past linemen quicker and can slip blockers thanks to said flexibility.”"

To fix the pass rush—which is one of the team’s biggest priorities this offseason—the Falcons will need to find players in both free agency and the draft. By the time they hit the clock in the second round, they will hope to have already addressed the position in free agency.

With this pick, a player like Calhoun could be a good fit.

Next: Round 3