Atlanta Falcons fortify defense in 7-round 2020 mock draft

COLUMBIA, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 16: Defensive back CJ Henderson #1 of the Florida Gators in action against the Missouri Tigers at Faurot Field/Memorial Stadium on November 16, 2019 in Columbia, Missouri.
COLUMBIA, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 16: Defensive back CJ Henderson #1 of the Florida Gators in action against the Missouri Tigers at Faurot Field/Memorial Stadium on November 16, 2019 in Columbia, Missouri.
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Atlanta Falcons mock draft (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)
Atlanta Falcons mock draft (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)

Even if the Falcons had kept Trufant on the roster, cornerback would’ve made sense for the Falcons in the first round. Now that he’s gone, however, the need is that much greater. Sheffield and Oliver are fine young player but neither can be trusted to cover the top-end wide receivers currently in the NFC South. They need a top-tier option, which they can add with the No. 16 overall pick.

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Former Florida Gators standout C.J. Henderson would seamlessly slot into the Falcons defense. His elite man-coverage ability would be a tremendous asset for a unit that currently lacks that type of player. Henderson isn’t extremely physical on the line of scrimmage but he’s quick, agile and showcases great footwork.

On his college film, you rarely (if ever) see Henderson get fooled at the line. He doesn’t bite on false moves and steps and it’s near impossible to get past him in that regard. Besides his athleticism, his sure feet and balance are his best traits.

Adding Henderson to the Falcons defensive back group would be a godsend for the Atlanta defense. He can come in and play well in man coverage against anyone in the NFC South and league as a whole, though he does need to add more strength to his frame. Regardless, he has the potential to be one of the best cornerbacks in the league.

Other Players Available: Xavier McKinney, Trevon Diggs, Patrick Queen