2020 NFL Mock Draft: Unexpected first-round pick for each team

(Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
(Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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player. 44. . Running Back. Atlanta Falcons. D'Andre Swift. 16

Moving on from Devonta Freeman this offseason was an easy decision for the Atlanta Falcons after the running back took an unfortunate step back in 2019, but will Todd Gurley turn out to be that much better?

A few years ago, a signing like this would have been a huge deal for the Falcons since Gurley was considered one of the most dangerous running backs in the league, but the circumstances are different at the moment.

Whether Gurley wants to admit it or not, something is clearly going on with that knee of his after watching the former Georgia star’s production decline last season.

Atlanta obviously never would have made the decision to bring Gurley on board following his release from the Los Angeles Rams if they didn’t believe he was capable of bouncing back, but insurance purposes, adding another running back in the draft could help.

Taking a running back in the first round of the draft can sometimes be risky since they don’t always tend to be the best option for the long run, but D’Andre Swift could be the perfect running back to join the Falcons’ offense to compliment Gurley in the backfield.

There’s always the chance that Swift will still be available in the second round for Atlanta to consider, but with all the teams in need of help at running back, it may not be worth the risk.