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Atlanta Falcons: 2016 NFL mock draft roundup 3.0

By Freddie Boston

Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Who are the draft experts projecting to the Atlanta Falcons after the first wave of free agency?

With the wild spending of free agency beginning to slow down, we can begin to get a clearer idea of each team’s biggest needs entering the 2016 NFL Draft. For the Atlanta Falcons, they are largely the same as they were.

While the Falcons did add some defensive talent with former Dolphins defensive end Derrick Shelby, there is still plenty of work to be done. Atlanta’s spending in free agency will likely continue, but the draft is where the big decisions need to be made.

Who could the Falcons take in the first round? Here’s what the analysts are saying.

Chris Roling of Bleacher Report — LB Leonard Floyd

This move would make a lot of sense. Atlanta needs pass rushers, and Leonard Floyd could help the defense get after the quarterback. The 6-foot-6 linebacker could help Vic Beasley in rebuilding an anaemic pass rush.

Floyd would fit well as an outside linebacker in Atlanta. He could not only help the pass rush but also strengthen the run game. This wouldn’t be a surprising move by the Falcons.

Charlie Campbell of WalterFootball.com — DE Jonathan Bullard, Florida

It’s hardly surprising to see another pass rusher in this spot. Jonathan Bullard could be the best fit for the Falcons at No. 17 if he’s available. Bullard and Beasley together could form a strong young tandem rushing off the edge.

NFL.com mock draft

Daniel Jeremiah: OLB Leonard Floyd
Charles Davis: ILB Reggie Ragland
Bucky Brooks: OLB Darron Lee
Lance Zierlein: ILB Reggie Ragland
Chad Reuter: OLB Darron Lee

All linebackers in these mocks. Floyd’s name reappears and he is joined by Darron Lee and Reggie Ragland. Lee and Ragland are two different types of player. Lee would give Dan Quinn the speed he loves on defense; he can chase sideline to sideline, work well in coverage and also has some pass rushing qualities. Ragland is an old-school thumper and will make whichever team he lands on very happy.

CBSSports.com mock draft

Rob Rang: DT A’Shawn Robinson
Bob Brugler: ILB Reggie Ragland
Pete Prisco: OLB Darron Lee
Will Brinson: ILB Reggie Ragland
Jared Dubin: ILB Reggie Ragland

There’s more love for Ragland here, but there’s also the inclusion of defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson. There’s a lot to love about Robinson’s game and he as All-Pro potential. He could give the Falcons’ run defense a huge lift. While it’s not the biggest need, the Falcons’ defense shouldn’t turn its nose up at upgrades at any position.

What are your thoughts on these selections, Falcons fans?

Next: Best under-30 players for each NFL team

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