Atlanta Falcons should look at quarterbacks during NFL Draft

While the Atlanta Falcons top priority in the draft should be on the defensive side of the ball, there are some offensive positions they should focus on. Sure, running back and depending on what happens with Austin Hooper, a tight end.

But why the Atlanta Falcons would pick up Matt Schaub’s option, makes little sense. In his emergency start for the Falcons last year, he played admirably against the Seattle Seahawks. Albeit, expectations were rather low.

The team was spiraling and had nothing to lose. But let’s face the reality of it, Matt Ryan at his age, seasons at his current production levels will not be obtainable for much longer. If he gives the Falcons at least three more competitive years, they should be grateful.

Bringing back Schaub could turn out to be a mistake. Sure, he’s cheap, sort of. But the $2 million they are throwing at him could be used elsewhere.

Especially on a team with such pressing needs in the cap space are and on the defensive side of the ball. And, to make matters worse. Schaub is older than QB1. The Falcons need to start looking at the draft as a means for finding Matt Ryan’s successor.

Or even an athlete that can come in and run some gadget offense. Much like that team in New Orleans does with Taysom Hill. That can add another layer to the Falcons offense to help spark an otherwise dejected run game.

If the Falcons use one of the later rounds to go after a quarterback that might be more of a project than an early rounder, they could find a diamond in the rough. Move on from Schaub and have a young guy waiting in the wings. Remember, Tom Brady was a sixth-round pick who got his start to glory because of an injury.

It’s time for Atlanta to start thinking that way. The best quarterbacks aren’t always high round picks. And outside of Schaub, they don’t have a solid option. Whether it be Kurt Benkert or Danny Etling, that position behind Schaub isn’t on solid footing.

But don’t neglect other needs just for a quarterback, although if one is there later on in the draft, the Falcons would be mistaking a mistake by not taking him.