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2017 Atlanta Falcons Mock Draft: Intriguing Scenario at the Bye Week

By Scott Carasik

Sep 26, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Indiana Hoosiers head coach Kevin Wilson talks with offensive lineman Dan Feeney (67) during the first quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Indiana Hoosiers head coach Kevin Wilson talks with offensive lineman Dan Feeney (67) during the first quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 3, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive tackle Montravius Adams (1) walks off the field at halftime against the Clemson Tigers during the first half at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive tackle Montravius Adams (1) walks off the field at halftime against the Clemson Tigers during the first half at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports /

2016: 10 games played, 35 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 13 QB hurries, 1 fumble recovered, 2 pass deflections, 1 defensive touchdown, 2 kicks/punts blocked

2015: 13 games played, 44 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 6 QB hurries, 2 fumbles forced, 1 pass deflection

2014: 13 games played, 43 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, 12 QB hurries, 1 interception

2013: 13 games played, 20 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, 1.0 sacks, 7 QB hurries

When looking at a defensive lineman in the offseason, the Falcons need to keep in mind their need at the 3-technique in both the base defense and the nickel defense. Jonathan Babineaux’s contract is expiring, and Derrick Shelby will be coming off of an Achilles tendon rupture. The Falcons need to make sure they have some talent on the interior to compete with Shelby at a minimum, and at best, someone that can come right in and contribute as a pass rusher and run stuffing 3-technique in the base defense.

When looking for a guy who fits the attributes needed for a successful 3-technique defensive lineman in the NFL, Montravius Adams from Auburn has everything you would look for. He’s quick off the line and can dominate a half-man on the interior of the line. He explodes off the ball and uses his quickness to attack the gaps in the run game and as a pass rusher. He also has the ideal frame for the position at 6’4″ and 309 pounds with long-arms to hold offensive linemen at bay while he bursts through the gaps.

Adams is a bit scheme specific because of his skill-set being suited for only 3-technique. However, he has the long-term potential to be a Nick Fairley-esque disruptor on the interior of the line. For the Falcons, that will be just what the doctor ordered. Having an interior in base defense with Grady Jarrett teaming with Adams and then a nickel set where Jarrett, Adams and the aforementioned Shelby rotate in the spot next to Adrian Clayborn will be a much improved rotation. Atlanta could finally create an interior pass rush in both the base and nickel.