Atlanta Falcons 7-round mock draft keeps offense lethal, upgrades defense
By Lucas Schuh
Atlanta’s defensive front needs help in any way it can get it, especially with versatile players. So after taking Turner, they could really benefit from a player like Milton Williams coming into the fold with a fourth-round pick.
Williams is a dense human being in the best possible way. He uses his frame to explode into offensive linemen and drive them back. One thing Pees would love about him as well is that he lined up in multiple fronts at Louisiana Tech and played all across the line.
To be sure, Williams is still a bit of a raw player and has no true pass-rush moves; he relies solely on his strength and physical gifts. However, with those tools at hand, he should be able to get coached up and have a positive impact on the Falcons D-line.
Just because the Falcons added one defensive player in Payton Turner to this team doesn’t mean they shouldn’t add another. With Dean Pees loving some versatility, he will need extra help and depth everywhere he can get it, and he can get some help from Milton Williams.
Other Players Considered: Talaona Hafunga, Jordan Smith, Stone Forsythe
Double-dipping on the defensive line could very well be followed by doing the same in the secondary. As of right now, the Falcons would start A.J. Terrell and Kendall Sheffield at cornerback with Isaiah Oliver and Fabian Moreau as the backups. There is a need for quality depth that speedy Ambry Thomas could provide.
Thomas burned up the turf at Michigan’s pro day with a 4.37-second 40. But he’s not all wheels as he’s proven his ability to be physical and use his hands in press coverage. Unfortunately, he is a bit thin and bigger receivers can simply out-muscle him. Still, with his tools, he’s worth a flyer as he could be a starter down the line if he develops his body but won’t have cost much if he doesn’t pan out.
Other Players Considered: Dazz Newsome, Joshuah Bledsoe, Caden Sterns