Atlanta Falcons: 2017 NFL Draft Review

Sep 3, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies running back James White (20) is tackled by defensive lineman Eddie Vanderdoes (47) and defensive lineman Takkarist McKinley (98) and linebacker Jayon Brown (12) during a game at Kyle Field. Texas A&M won in overtime 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Ray Carlin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies running back James White (20) is tackled by defensive lineman Eddie Vanderdoes (47) and defensive lineman Takkarist McKinley (98) and linebacker Jayon Brown (12) during a game at Kyle Field. Texas A&M won in overtime 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Ray Carlin-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (4) reacts with defensive back Dwayne Thomas (13) against the Louisville Cardinals during the second half at Camping World Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Louisville Cardinals 29-9. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; LSU Tigers linebacker Duke Riley (4) reacts with defensive back Dwayne Thomas (13) against the Louisville Cardinals during the second half at Camping World Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Louisville Cardinals 29-9. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 3, Pick 11 (75th overall) – Duke Riley (LB, LSU)

Sticking to defense, the Falcons added another “fast and physical” linebacker out of LSU.

Duke Riley was known for his speed in college, and showed it off at the combine with impressive speeds on the 40 yard dash, 20 yard shuttle, and 3 cone drill.

Riley has also earned praise for his great character, showing leadership and staying clean off of the field in his time at LSU.

Many analysts consider this pick a steal for the Falcons, as Riley definitely could’ve gone higher in the draft and another athletic linebacker could really bring together the still developing Atlanta defense.