2015 NFL Mock Draft: Houston Sparks Trade Frenzy
By Erik Lambert
Nov 16, 2013; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks cornerback Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (14) warms up before the game against the Utah Utes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
#17 – Atlanta Falcons – Shilique Calhoun – DE – Michigan State
Pass rush has been the bane of the Atlanta Falcons defense for years. When they have it, things are great. When they don’t, they’re ugly. Shilique Calhoun may finally give them that young rusher to build around they’ve gone too long without.
#18 – New Orleans Saints – Ifo Ekpre-Olomu – CB – Oregon
Pass defense has suddenly fallen on hard times with the New Orleans Saints and it stands to reason the corners are at the root of it. They need another playmaker in that group. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu has his size questions, but he’s got every other tool required.
#19 – San Francisco 49ers – Trae Waynes – CB – Michigan State
They continue to survive but the San Francisco 49ers defense still has holes, and most of them come as a result of the secondary. None of their corners are difference-makers. Trae Waynes has that size and nose for the ball they covet.
#20 – Arizona Cardinals (f/GB) – Dante Fowler – DE – Florida
Trade: #22 pick, 7th in ’15 and 3rd in ’16 for Packers #20 pick
Pass rush off the edge is what makes and breaks the Arizona Cardinals. They don’t have enough of it, especially after the loss of John Abraham. So they move up a couple spots in order to get the disruptive Dante Fowler out of Florida.