The Atlanta Falcons don’t need to draft a quarterback

The Atlanta Falcons don’t have to take a quarterback in this year’s draft.

Right now, the NFL is swimming with young quarterbacks who the Atlanta Falcons could and should take a look at. It’ll just be a numbers game after that.

There is overwhelming consensus that Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence will be the first player and quarterback off the board. And rightfully so. Who’s next is up for debate. Justin Fields from The Ohio State University, Zach Wilson from BYU and there’s even talk of Trey Lance from North Dakota State.

Sure, all have their strengths and weaknesses and will need some time to grow. But the Falcons don’t need to pick any of them. Think about it. Sam Darnold has spent his entire career in a dysfunctional organization with the New York Jets.

Then you’ve got Josh Rosen who never got a fair chance in Arizona. And don’t forget about Carson Wentz who recently got benched in Philadelphia. And dare we say it, but Jameis Winston is still without a starting job.

The Falcons could provide all of these players with a more stable environment that they’ve had. But all the weight won’t be on them. Winston has been around Drew Brees for a year. Josh Rosen is on Tampa Bay’s roster and has seen Tom Brady show up to work every day. Wentz knows what it takes to get to a Super Bowl. He would’ve played in one if it wasn’t for an injury.

Matt Ryan’s contract is egregious for his age and production. (We can blame Arthur Blank for that but that’s a different story.) Ryan is also building somewhat of a hall of fame resume and no one has ever questioned his work ethic. None of these players have ever had talent like Calvin Ridley, Julio Jones and Hayden Hurst. All with an offensive line littered with first round picks.

This situation should be enticing to any new, offensive minded coach. A chance to see the end of one regime with players who can still make plays, while having a new GM and the freedom to build the team the way you want it.

The Atlanta Falcons should commit to the defensive building in the draft, find a young stud at running back but don’t waste a pick on a quarterback. Especially when everyone but Lawrence has major questions.

Matt Schaub has retired and if the Falcons were smart, they’d make some cap space and immediately snatch up or trade for one of these young stars already in the NFL. It could save them a lot of headache down the line.