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Atlanta Falcons 2016 Draft: Three potential targets at safety

By Freddie Boston

Sep 12, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Vonn Bell (11) picks up a fumble and runs it in for a touchdown in the second half of the game against the Hawaii Warriors at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State beat Hawaii 38-0. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Vonn Bell (11) picks up a fumble and runs it in for a touchdown in the second half of the game against the Hawaii Warriors at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State beat Hawaii 38-0. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 28, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) tackles Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Jesus Wilson (3) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida State defeated Florida 27-2. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) tackles Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Jesus Wilson (3) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida State defeated Florida 27-2. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Keanu Neal, Florida

Keanu Neal is a popular choice for the Falcons in mock drafts, and there’s a chance he will available in the second round. Neal is a violent hitter who will make sure pass catchers know exactly who he is.

As soon as a receiver makes a catch he’s on him, limiting the yards after the catch. This would be a huge lift for the Falcons’ defense that has been burned too frequently after the catch. Neal would give immediate support against the run and is also good in coverage. With his great athleticism and size (6-foot, 211 pounds), there’s a chance he could sneak into the first round.

In an ideal scenario, the Falcons will be able to trade down in the first round and acquire enough ammunition later in the draft to select him. If Atlanta can land a pick at the bottom of the first round or early in the second, they may be able to move where his value fits while acquiring some extra selections to use on fixing the pass rush and linebacker spots later on.

Whether he’s selected on day one or two, if the Falcons get Neal, they will receive one of the best safeties in the class.

Next: Could be available in second round