Atlanta Falcons: Updated draft priorities after first wave of free agency
![Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fbloggingdirty-com-2Ffiles-2F2016-2F03-2Fncaa-football-missouri-georgia-590x900-9db22e3c0a38b1bad8065a9d852d862156f0782f76567e73a74fba4a25bf6f61.jpg)
After the first wave of free agency, what are the Atlanta Falcons’ draft priorities?
I’ve long been a believer that free agency shouldn’t dictate your draft but rather the way around. But I also understand this isn’t always the case. For the Atlanta Falcons — who have just five picks in this year’s draft — filling holes on the roster in free agency was vital for easing pressure in the draft.
GM Thomas Dimitroff tends to fill needs in the draft rather than taking a ‘best player available’ approach, which means his actions in free agency have even more bearing on his selections in the draft. After a flurry of moves in Flowery Branch over the past week, what are the priorities for the Falcons moving forward?
The Falcons have made steps to fix the defense by re-signing Adrian Clayborn and adding defensive end Derrick Shelby. Offensively, they also look in much better shape with the addition of center Alex Mack and wide receiver Mohamed Sanu. A more balanced offense with better protection looks like a reality next term.
But what are the priorities the Falcons must make when drafting in April? Here’s what they need to do to make it a great offseason.
Next: Above all the rest