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Falcons 2016 Draft: Draft options to fix the need at linebacker

By Freddie Boston

Nov 28, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Deion Jones (45) tackles Texas A&M Aggies running back James White (20) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Texas A&M Aggies 19-7. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Deion Jones (45) tackles Texas A&M Aggies running back James White (20) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Texas A&M Aggies 19-7. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Darron Lee 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; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Darron Lee participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 1

There aren’t many players at the position who fit at No. 17, but there are two candidates for the Falcons on day one.

The best fit: Darron Lee, Ohio State

Top of the list is Ohio State’s Darron Lee. Lee is considered undersized, but many believe he’s the future of the position. Bigger, stronger linebackers could be replaced with smaller, faster players due to the passing nature of the league.

Lee has the speed and athleticism to give chase from sideline to sideline, and he can also cover tight ends and running backs in the middle of the field. Lee would be a perfect fit for Atlanta and feels like a Dan Quinn player.

Alternative target: Reggie Ragland, Alabama

Reggie Ragland is in many ways the opposite of Lee. He is an old-school thumping linebacker who would help shore up the run defense. Ragland’s speed and coverage ability has been called into question, but turn on the tape and you’ll see a talented football player.

Other options: There aren’t any other realistic options at the position in the first-round. Barring any trades, expect the Falcons to either go with one of these two or a different position completely.

Next: Day two