Atlanta Falcons…You’re on the clock – Mock Draft 1.0

2nd Round-45th Overall Pick

Continuing with the theme of getting this defense right (even though there are quite a few offensive line prospects, I think it’s still too early to address those) we are looking for some who can get after the quarterback.

Jeffery Simmons would be a great pick here. Even with his off the field issue, he is another SEC outside rusher who could flourish in the NFL and he also doubles as a defensive tackle as well. He tore his ACL in a pre-draft workout so he might not be able to be ready by the start of the season.

Brian Burns would also be a nice addition to the defense with his explosiveness and speed to get around offensive tackles, but he is a bit on the smaller side right now (230 pounds) and experience tackles could neutralize his explosiveness.

I think the best pick for the Falcons would be Chase Winovich from Michigan. He’s been coached already by a former NFL coach in Jim Harbough and can play defensive end of outside linebacker at the next level. In addition to his effectiveness as a pass rusher he is also good on the run and can get in the backfield.

Winovich is also one of those guys where his motor is never in question. He is constantly playing hard and always finds himself around the ball on defense. This would be a great pickup for the Falcons in the second round.