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Falcons 2016 Draft: Day one options at inside linebacker

By Freddie Boston

Oct 17, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field. The Crimson Tide defeated the Aggies 41-23. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field. The Crimson Tide defeated the Aggies 41-23. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) during the game against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) during the game against the Michigan State Spartans in the 2015 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Reggie Ragland, Alabama

Reggie Ragland is arguably the best inside linebacker in the entire class, and he succeeds with his old-school, thumping style of play. Ragland has great instincts and can become a force against the run.

While he lacks the speed and desired coverage ability the Falcons defense needs, the unit needs upgrades across the board and isn’t in a position to turn their nose up at talent, even if it’s not fixing an immediate need.

On one hand, the Falcons might feel they are best off going for an edge rusher to help fix their anaemic pass rush. On the other, a case can be made for simply taking the best available player on defense regardless of position. Dan Quinn is overseeing a transformation on defense in Atlanta and he needs to stock up on as much talent as possible.

There’s a good chance the Alabama product will still be on the board when the Falcons hit the clock at No. 17. The question is whether he would be the best fit in Atlanta, or would a speedier player like Darron Lee be a smarter move?

What is undeniable is that Ragland would be an upgrade on what the Falcons currently have at the position.

Next: Fix to the coverage issues?