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Falcons draft Austin Hooper in third round: Twitter reactions

By Nicholas Moody

Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal tight end Austin Hooper (18) is defended by UCLA Bruins defensive back Randall Goforth (3) in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal tight end Austin Hooper (18) is defended by UCLA Bruins defensive back Randall Goforth (3) in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Atlanta Falcons honestly did not have many needs on the offensive side of the ball. With additions to the offensive line and wide receiver corps this offseason, the only true position that was a flag for concern was tight end.

The Falcons have an aging tight end in Jacob Tamme, who has proven he can play, but the question is how long? He’s over the 30 year mark, and the Falcons need a pass catching target they can build and count on for the future.

That’s why the Falcons selected Austin Hooper in the third round. Hooper played his college ball at Stanford, the new destination for tight ends apparently. He stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 254 pounds. Hooper has good route running ability, with hands that can catch, and has the speed and strength to be a hot target for Matt Ryan. The analysts compare him to Coby Fleener.

What do the fans think of the pick?

This video shows Hooper’s ability to catch the football, something the Falcons desperately needed.

Ouch! Our own Colin is not thrilled. He’s usually right, however I’m going to pray he is wrong this time.

Dan’s vision seems to be coming together smoothly. Three picks that make sense given his nature of work.

Yes we did! He can catch very well!

That’s a good way to look at it. You can never give your quarterback too many weapons.

Once again PFF, I do not care. Your grades always seem to be on the low end.

Next: Atlanta Falcons draft grades rounds 1-3

Most fans seemed to think the Falcons needed a threat at the tight end position. Although he might take a year or two, Hooper appears to be a good pick from a good school.