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Falcons 2016 NFL Draft: Best case scenario in opening three rounds

By Freddie Boston

Sep 26, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) tackles Tennessee Volunteers tight end Ethan Wolf (82) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Tennessee Volunteers 28-27. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) tackles Tennessee Volunteers tight end Ethan Wolf (82) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Tennessee Volunteers 28-27. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 26, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) tackles Tennessee Volunteers tight end Ethan Wolf (82) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Tennessee Volunteers 28-27. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) tackles Tennessee Volunteers tight end Ethan Wolf (82) during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Tennessee Volunteers 28-27. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 2: SS Keanu Neal, Florida

Keanu Neal is projected by some to go at the bottom of the first round, possibly to a team like the Carolina Panthers, while others see him dropping to the second round. In the best case scenario, Neal will still be there for the Falcons’ second-round selection.

The Falcons need to get better at safety, and William Moore’s departure indicates change is on the way. Neal would fit the bill on day two. He is a violent hitter, and he might be the best athlete at the position in the entire draft.

Neal would give an immediate upgrade against the run, and he makes a habit of popping pass catchers shortly after making a reception. Blogging Dirty’s own Eric Robinson referred to Neal as a “heat seeking missile”, and this is the perfect summary for the Florida product. He isn’t the best safety in coverage, but his physicality could appeal to Dan Quinn.

Quinn’s mantra since he arrived in Atlanta was to make the team more ‘fast and physical’ on both sides of the ball. They don’t get much more physical than Neal, who would be a great addition to the defense in the second round.

Next: Round 3