2017 NFL Draft: Atlanta Falcons Final 7-Round Mock Draft
By Nafisa H
Round 5, Pick 174: Eddie Jackson, S – Alabama
As the Atlanta Falcons roll on towards a Super Bowl championship, they should select another Alabama alum, safety Eddie Jackson, at No. 174. He fractured his leg this past October and subsequently saw his stock drop. However, if he is still on the board in the fifth round and the Falcons do pick him, the team could have another defensive stud coming into the fold.
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Jackson, like Derek Rivers, is another defensive player in this year’s draft class that can help the Falcons this season immediately (if healthy) in addition to having long-term value. Jackson may be one of, if not the, best fits for the Falcons.
His speed, physicality, versatility, and ball-hawking skills are exactly what the Falcons need in their secondary. And they’d complement Desmond Trufant’s skills and help the Falcons get on the right side of turnovers. Jackson’s athleticism, intellect and sharp instincts allow him to extend his impact past the secondary to the team’s first line of defense and assist in defending the run. Eddie Jackson has what the Atlanta Falcons want and need. He appears to be a perfect match for them. So, why shouldn’t the Falcons swipe right, so to speak?