Atlanta Falcons: Top first-round targets in the 2021 NFL Draft
It looks to be a new era for the Atlanta Falcons, which features new head coach Arthur Smith and new general manager Terry Fontenot. Coming off another season of turmoil, featuring a near clean-house scenario, the Falcons finished last in the NFC South and find themselves with a top-five pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
A top-five pick gives the Atlanta Falcons a chance to add a truly special player in the draft. Obviously, there’s a lot of talk about the quarterback position. Matt Ryan has two big years left before the organization has an out, so bringing in someone to develop could make sense under the right circumstances. However, with an offense ready to compete with anyone, why not give yourself a chance to get back to the postseason and help out in other areas.
Of course, going best player available makes plenty of sense in the top five. Then again, trading back and acquiring more picks is an option for a team like the Falcons, who have plenty of needs to still address this offseason. They still lack a dynamic edge rusher, even with Dante Fowler on the roster. Getting someone to pair next to Grady Jarrett would make the defensive line loaded, especially with the Marlon Davidson selection in last year’s draft. Isaiah Oliver and Kendall Sheffield are fine, but getting another top corner to play opposite A.J. Terrell would make sense too.