7-Round Mock Draft: Atlanta Falcons Build Around Desmond Ridder By Bolstering Defense
By Evan Bachman
Round 2, 41st Overall: Jordan Battle, S, Alabama
Pass rush is the biggest need for the Falcons, however, improving their coverage unit also remains a big priority. PFF’s coverage grade for Atlanta is just 49.5, which is fourth-worst in the entire league. Jordan Battle would be a good addition to this secondary as he is a very consistent player. He has excellent instincts in coverage and rarely makes mistakes. Battle has had a great career at Alabama, recording 200+ snaps in each of the past four seasons and was named first-team All-SEC each of the last two seasons.
Round 3, 72nd Overall: Jarrett Patterson, IOL, Notre Dame
The Atlanta Falcons offensive line is pretty solid, but they can still improve the interior. Chris Lindstrom is one of the best guards in the league, but both other guards who’ve seen snaps this season are free agents, so they could find themselves in a spot where they need an interior offensive linemen to come in and start right away.
Jarrett Patterson would be a good addition even if he doesn’t start right away, as he provides good guard-center versatility as a backup. Patterson has had an excellent career for the Fighting Irish, spending three seasons starting at center before moving to left guard this season. Throughout his whole career, he hasn’t allowed a single sack, which is very impressive.