Atlanta Falcons 2016 NFL Draft: Options at nose tackle

Dec 31, 2015; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle D.J. Reader (48) reacts after a play against the Oklahoma Sooners in the third quarter of the 2015 CFP Semifinal at the Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

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DT Austin Johnson, Penn State, 6’4 325 lbs

Oct 10, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Austin Johnson (99) during the third quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 29-7. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

Austin Johnson is an interesting name. Why? Based on the fact that free agency is right around the corner and we don’t truly know where Atlanta will go with their free agency dollars.

If they address particular needs, it may open up an avenue or two to take certain positions early in the draft. One of those positions may be interior defensive linemen. Here is where Johnson comes into play where is in the second or third round range.

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It’s obvious he has the size, a menace at the point of attack, and fights doubles teams on a regular basis. If the Falcons address certain needs in free agency and have an opportunity to go best player available on day two of the draft, Johnson is a name to consider.