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Atlanta Falcons mock draft, Day 2: Following up Bijan Robinson shocker

By Michael Johnson

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS - NOVEMBER 19: Drew Sanders #42 of the Arkansas Razorbacks looks over the offense during a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Rebels 42-27. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS - NOVEMBER 19: Drew Sanders #42 of the Arkansas Razorbacks looks over the offense during a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Rebels 42-27. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Falcons
AUBURN, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 13: Defensive end Eku Leota #55 of the Auburn Tigers celebrates after a big play during the second quarter of their game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Jordan-Hare Stadium on November 13, 2021 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /

BONUS: 110. Eku Leota, Edge, Auburn

The Atlanta Falcons are in desperate need of a pass-rusher to help bolster their defense, and Eku Leota might just be the perfect fit for them. Leota, the former Auburn Tigers EDGE defender, possesses all the necessary tools to become a dominant pass-rusher in the NFL.

Leota spent his first three seasons with the Northwestern Wildcats, primarily serving as a rotational pass-rusher. However, in his limited starts this season, he showed his true potential by consistently getting after opposing quarterbacks. He accounted for 10 pressures and four sacks in just five games, demonstrating his ability to disrupt the backfield.

One of the most impressive things about Leota is his active pass-rushing style, where he doesn’t give up after his initial move is shut down. He uses counter moves to get past his blockers and can set the edge when defending the run game with his size and length. Leota’s hand power is also worth noting as he can soften edges and angles to create a clearer path to the football.

Furthermore, Leota possesses a quick burst that can affect the outside arc of offensive tackles. His athleticism and functional play strength make him a valuable asset on sub-packages to generate pressure on obvious passing downs. He could be used in obvious passing down situations now as he continues to develop.

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