NFL Mock Draft: Falcons Take Another Top WR?
The Atlanta Falcons have taken a skill player in the first round in each of the last three years. So, why not take another one?
In Sports Illustrated's latest mock draft, the Falcons are slated to select LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers after trading a second-round pick for Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields.
SCOTT CLAUSE/USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK
"After trading for Fields in this mock scenario, the Falcons don't have to reach for a quarterback here," SI writes. "A stud pass rusher is tempting, but if Nabers is still on the board (he shouldn't be), he'd be too much to pass up. Adding his explosiveness and big-play ability to an offense with Fields, Drake London, Bijan Robinson and Kyle Pitts would be fun to watch."
Nabers has recorded over 1,000 yards in each of the last two seasons at LSU, including a 14-touchdown season in 2023.
Nabers would solidify an already explosive offense and would be another luxury pick, much like last year when the Falcons took Bijan Robinson after Tyler Allgeier ran for over 1,000 yards.
Considering the fact that the Falcons now have a defensive coach in Raheem Morris rather than an offensive mind in Arthur Smith, it would be a surprise to see Atlanta go for an offensive player that isn't a quarterback with the No. 8 overall pick.
That being said, Terry Fontenot is still the general manager, and if he opts for a "best player available" strategy, Nabers might be atop Atlanta's board when they are on the clock with the No. 8 pick.
