Atlanta Falcons defense takes new shape in 7-round 2020 mock draft

The sneaky truth about the Falcons as they enter this offseason is that their rushing attack isn’t where it needs to be, partially due to offensive line injuries and partially due to Devonta Freeman not living up to the extension they handed him. However, they could theoretically get away from Freeman and not take on a ton of dead cap.

In my mind, they should, which opens the door for Cam Akers to come in. The Florida State product was in an awful situation in college due to coaching flaws but his physical talent is truly remarkable. If he can be coached properly to utilize his tools in the box, he could be a stud for the Falcons offense that reignites the run game.

Injuries to Keanu Neal in recent years have hurt the Falcons at safety, highlighting the need for depth at the position. Southern Illinois’ Jeremy Chinn is available in the fourth round, however, and he can be an answer to those issues. While not ready for the NFL in terms of man coverage abilities, his skill in two-high safety sets and as a playmaker coming up into the box are quite impressive and Chinn could be an outstanding rotational piece and early-career special teams ace.

There are some good things going on in the Falcons linebacker group, especially when Deion Jones is healthy. However, this team needs to get stronger against the run at the position, which is where Michigan State’s Joe Bachie Jr. specializes. The former Spartan isn’t much in coverage but his instincts in power when crashing down on the line against the run is quite impressive for a player that Atlanta could get in the fifth round.

Some might say that the Falcons should address offensive line depth early in the draft but that’s an area I would rather see them attack in free agency given their defensive needs. However, they are able to nab an intriguing prospect in Terence Steele from Texas Tech.

Steele loves getting physical and isn’t a typical Texas Tech offensive lineman. Having said that, he needs to get in the weight room and likely spend a year on the practice squad. Even still, he’s got upside the Falcons could use and he’s well worth a seventh-round selection.