The Atlanta Falcons are preparing for the upcoming NFL Draft, with national analysts predicting that the team will focus on defense when making their first selection at pick number 48 in the second round, according to an April 16 update.
The draft marks the first selections under general manager Ian Cunningham and head coach Kevin Stefanski. This is significant as it could set a new direction for the team, which competes in the National Football League’s NFC South division, according to the official website.
Recent mock drafts suggest several possible defensive picks for Atlanta. Mel Kiper of ESPN projects that the Falcons may choose Lee Hunter, a defensive tackle from Texas Tech. Kiper said, “Atlanta might use the first of its five selections at receiver, perhaps with Georgia’s Zachariah Branch. It could also bring in Avieon Terrell to not only shore up the cornerback room but also team him up with his older brother, A.J. Terrell Jr. But Atlanta gave up 4.6 yards per rush last season, 25th in the league, so the interior defensive line is an issue worth examining. Hunter had a ridiculous 52 run stops and 33.5 tackles for loss over the past three seasons and could be an answer.” Dane Brugler from The Athletic predicts Christen Miller from Georgia as a likely pick: “Miller can be up and down with his anchor and rush consistency, but he is rock solid as a run defender who should excel on early downs. His role will shift depending on scheme, though he projects best as a one-gapping nose in a four-man front.” Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report points to Colton Hood from Tennessee as another option at cornerback while Mike Renner of CBS Sports suggests T.J. Parker from Clemson at edge rusher.
The Falcons are based in Atlanta, Georgia according to their official website. The franchise began as an expansion team in 1965 according to their official website and has reached two Super Bowls—in 1998 and again in 2016 according to their official website. Freddie the Falcon serves as their mascot according to their official website.
As draft day approaches under new leadership, observers will watch closely how these predictions compare with actual selections made by Cunningham and Stefanski.
