2017 NFL Draft: Atlanta Falcons Final 7-Round Mock Draft
By Nafisa H
Round 3, Pick 95: Jake Butt, TE – Michigan
The tight end position isn’t at the top of the Atlanta Falcons’ list of need,s but Jake Butt could add significant value to the team’s offensive line with his ideal size (6-5, 246 pounds), ability to beat zone coverage and create separation from defenders, blocking skills, and versatility. He has tremendous upside and would be a steal at No. 95 for the Falcons.
His stocked dropped after he sustained a torn ACL in the Orange Bowl. But before that, he proved to be a reliable target for his quarterback as he recorded 546 yards on 46 receptions, scoring four times last season. He was the recipient of the Kwalick-Clark Big Ten Award and also named first-team All-Big Ten.
Butt won’t be a starter in Week 1. In fact, I don’t expect him to start any more than three or four games this season, barring any injuries to Austin Hooper (drafted last year) or Levine Toilolo (re-signed). However, this won’t be a wasted pick because, presently, there is technically an empty roster slot from Jacob Tamme’s departure. Moreover, there’ll be a need for quality tight ends in the future.
Foresight is imperative to success. Teams must draft wisely in order to strengthen or rebuild it, but also in order to sustain success for several years. The Atlanta Falcons should draft Butt, limit his action until his ACL is healed and while he refines his technique, and then unleash him and let him wreak havoc. Patience is a virtue.