Atlanta Falcons: 7-Round 2019 NFL mock draft to get back to playoffs
Round 5, Pick 152: Khalil Hodge, LB, Buffalo
Khalil Hodge is a fascinating evaluation, especially looking at his junior and senior years on tape. A fantastically quick and mobile player early on, he bulked up and robbed himself of what made him the most intriguing because of that. Having said that, if he can find a sweet spot with weight, he’s a tremendous middle-of-the-field patroller that offers a lot of versatility from the position with his athletic ability.
Round 5, Pick 172: James Williams, RB, Washington State
The Falcons are certainly hoping that 2018 fourth-round pick Ito Smith, who flashed in limited usage as a rookie, can help alleviate the loss of Tevin Coleman in free agency. Given the air of uncertainty with that and Devonta Freeman’s injury issues, though, adding another back isn’t a bad idea. James Williams is the prototype for an NFL receiving back, with terrific playmaking and balance in the open field, in addition to good hands. While it’s hard to see his immediate fit, Williams could be a crucial depth piece, even if he offers limited upside as a pure running back.
Round 6, Pick 186: Jalen Jelks, EDGE, Oregon
Jalen Jelks will enter the NFL as a ball of clay waiting to be molded, but he’s a desirable mold of clay. For whatever reason, he wasn’t coached much in terms of technique as a pass-rusher at Oregon, but he has the frame to potentially be effective in that role on the outside. With Dan Quinn’s ability to mold players and also fit guys into sub-package roles, Jelks appears to be a great add to put another capable piece on the defense.
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Round 7, Pick 230: Ryan Bates, OT, Penn State
After locking up Ty Sambrailo, the Falcons — and they may be alone — likely feel fine at tackle right now. However, they could use depth throughout the offensive line and Ryan Bates could give them that. While there are concerns about his length to play tackle in the NFL, he has the size and strength to go with solid footwork to potentially move inside, but even provide spells at tackle in a pinch. For a late-round pick, that’s a great pickup for Atlanta.