2023 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys stock up offense, Panthers reach at QB
By Randy Gurzi
EDGE. 8. player. 44. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Clemson. Myles Murphy
8. Atlanta Falcons: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
The Atlanta Falcons swung and missed on Deshaun Watson in the offseason which led to the departure of Matt Ryan, who didn’t care for the team openly courting Watson. In the end, they seemed to win that deal since Ryan was a disaster for the Colts. It’s always better to move on from a player too early than too late but the Falcons did so right on time it appears.
Having said that, they didn’t do near enough to replace Ryan. Marcus Mariota wasn’t the answer and they probably should have turned to Desmond Ridley sooner so they would have more to go on when judging whether or not he’s the guy.
Having said all that, they would likely take one of the top three options in this class if available but with them off the board, they go after Myles Murphy from Clemson. Murphy is one of the better overall prospects and fills a major need for Atlanta as well.
The Falcons’ defensive line needs a lot of work and they haven’t had a premier defensive end for years. Murphy could develop into that and pairing him with defensive tackle Grady Jarrett could improve the defense drastically. It might not be enough for them to win with Ridder under center but it never hurts being able to control the line of scrimmage on defense.