Atlanta Falcons 2021 Mock Draft: Double dip at edge, quarterback late

It’s very clear that the defensive line for the Atlanta Falcons, outside of Grady Jarrett, has struggled for a couple seasons now. Atlanta let Vic Beasley walk after the 2019 season, and recently released former first round pick Takk McKinley this week. The philosophy of finding one trick pony speed rushers didn’t work out for Dimitroff and Quinn, and now it’s time to change the game.

Here in the first round, the Falcons select Miami defensive lineman Gregory Rousseau. Rousseau has been at the top of 2021 NFL Draft boards since the spring, and is still projected as the top defensive end in what is an interesting edge class. Opting out of the 2020 season has probably cost him some money, but not enough to exit first round discussion.

Rousseau has a lot of tools to work with as an edge rusher. He possesses the athleticism and length to win on the edge, and has been considerably effective when kicking inside against interior offensive linemen.

Right now, Rousseau is a bit of a projection. Much of his production in 2019 came from rushing on the interior and winning with pure athleticism and strength. He will need time to develop a pass rush plan and work on his technique. Picking Rousseau in round one could equate to the selection of Rashan Gary in 2019 by Green Bay, but the upside is there if he develops.