Falcons Drafting QB 'Wouldn't Shock Anyone’ - ESPN Analyst
The Atlanta Falcons are hoping to shock the world and return amongst the NFL's elite in 2023, but those around the league have zero expectations when it comes to their draft class.
With needs across both sides of the football, the Falcons should draft a wide range of talents later this month.
According to ESPN, the Falcons' biggest needs are defensive end, receiver, quarterback, cornerback and defensive tackle.
"Second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder is the team's answer for now, but a quarterback selection wouldn't shock anyone if Will Levis (Kentucky) or Anthony Richardson (Florida) fall to No. 8 overall," ESPN writes. "The Falcons finished 31st in the NFL in sacks last season, and they have done nothing throughout free agency to truly address the edge of the defense. With eight total selections, the pass rush should see an upgrade."
While it doesn't appear that any of the top four quarterbacks will fall to No. 8, cornerback and defensive end appear to be hot commodities for the Falcons' first pick.
After the first round though, their options open up, and getting another receiver to add to their pass-catching corps is another necessity for the Falcons.
"Finding a speed receiver to pair with Drake London should be another early priority for the front office," ESPN writes. "Atlanta traded for Jonnu Smith to pair with Kyle Pitts at tight end, but it needs to surround Ridder with more talent outside."
Regardless of position, if the Falcons can find a handful of potential starters in this year's draft, Atlanta could be that much closer to shocking the world.
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