2017 NFL Draft Grades: Atlanta Falcons Day 3 Picks
By Nafisa H
Round 5, No. 149: Damontae Kazee, CB – San Diego State
The Atlanta Falcons had needs on offense, defense and special teams this offseason, but spent three of their first four draft picks boosting their defense. While to some that might not be seen as the best approach, it is. After the team and defense collapsed in the Super Bowl, the Falcons absolutely had to take advantage of this year’s defense-heavy draft class by adding both starters and depth.
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They selected Damontae Kazee out of San Diego State with their first of three fifth-rounders. He’s listed as a cornerback, but will likely be utilized exclusively as a nickel or at safety. The Atlanta Falcons found a gem in the fifth round. Kazee is a beast on the field as a relentless ballhawk with speed that allows him to keep up with receivers and also get ahead of them. Furthermore, with his versatility, he can play on the outside or in the slot and come up with big plays on defense and also make an impact on special teams from the start.
In addition to his play, Kazee has the intangible skills Dan Quinn looks for: leadership, intelligence, and mental strength. He fits right into the Atlanta Falcons brotherhood and has the potential to carry over his role as team captain from college to the NFL. The Falcons are making it very clear that character factors greatly into their selections and because of that, the team has young players that can represent it in the best light, on and off the field.
Grade: A