8. player. 44. The Falcons will choose between Randy Gregory and Missouri’s Shane Ray here, but opt for the Nebraska pass rusher that has been projected as a top-3 pick for much of the offseason. Few teams need a shot in the arm on defense more than the Falcons, and Gregory’s upside could bring that with force.
<p>I’m not nearly as high on Gregory as many people are, especially after he arrived at the NFL Scouting Combine lacking bulk in the worst of ways. I understand the desire to test highly in speed and agility drills, but NFL tackles will swallow Gregory whole and dominate him in the leverage game unless he packs the pounds back on to his impressive frame.</p>
<p>Gregory plays the run above average for this draft class at his position, and uses his hands and length very well at the point of attack. The risk that Atlanta welcomes with Gregory’s low floor is his sky-high ceiling, which is one of the best in this draft. Prospects like Gregory need a great coach, and Atlanta could feel confident pairing him with the defensively-minded Dan Quinn.</p>. OLB. Nebraska. Randy Gregory