2019 NFL Mock Draft: Defensive line dominates as quarterbacks fall

By Randy Gurzi | Jan 14, 2019

SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 07: Quinnen Williams #92 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts against the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Levi's Stadium on January 7, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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STATE COLLEGE, PA – OCTOBER 21: Rashan Gary #3 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts after stopping the Penn State Nittany Lions on October 21, 2017 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

14. Atlanta Falcons: Rashan Gary, DT, Michigan

Things got ugly for the Atlanta Falcons and because of that, head coach Dan Quinn will be looking for new coordinators for all three phases of the game. They’ll also need to add some help on the defensive side of the ball considering how they struggled in that area in 2018.

They end up landing a great defensive lineman who can shake things up for them as Rashan Gary is on the board waiting to be called upon. Entering the season, Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com said the Michigan product was a top three talent and praised his ability as a pass rusher.

"“Gary has a unique blend of size, speed and strength. He’s built like a defensive tackle and runs like a linebacker. As a pass rusher, he explodes out of a four-point stance and can easily convert speed to power off the edge. He uses his length to lock out offensive tackles with his inside arm before crossing their faces and winning inside. He also has flashed the ability to bend and wrap the edge, which is very unsusual for a 280-plus pound defensive end.” — Jeremiah, NFL.com"

Jeremiah went on to say his motor is outstanding which is high praise. Grady Jarrett is facing free agency, but if Atlanta can lock him up and put him and Gary on the same line, this team could be deadly, especially if they can get Takkarist McKinley to take the next step as an edge rusher.

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