NFL Predictions 2020: One surprise rookie gem who will star for each team

Atlanta Falcons: Mykal Walker, LB

Atlanta Falcons head coach Dann Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff were on the hot seat for all of 2019 and somehow escaped with their jobs even with their losing record of 7-9 — which oddly enough landed them in second place in the NFC South. Knowing that the seat is even hotter this season, the two got back to work trying to fix their roster, and Quinn, who rose to prominence as the defensive coordinator with the Seattle Seahawks, was focused on that side of the ball.

Four of their six picks in the draft were defensive players, starting with Clemson cornerback A.J. Terrell. Next was Defensive lineman Marlon Davidson out of Auburn. They addressed the offensive line in the third as they selected Temple’s Matt Hennessy, which could end up being a very solid pick.

However, the player to keep an eye on as a potential hidden gem is Fresno State’s Mykal Walker. What makes him stand out is his ability to not only play a traditional linebacker role but also serve as a stand-up edge rusher, much like Vic Beasley did for them. He doesn’t come in with the same pedigree as Beasley and has just 6.5 sacks in his career, but that doesn’t mean Quinn won’t find a way to unleash him.

Plus, the ability to rush the quarterback is just an added bonus to his skillset. What really makes Walker a player to watch is his ability to get to the ball carrier, evidenced by his impressive 182 tackles (with 22.5 going for a loss) in his two seasons.