The Falcons have been a team on the rise seemingly ever since the Mike Smith era began in Atlanta. The Falcons are one of those organizations that drafts well year after year, building a team designed to be a contender for the long-term.
The Falcon's needs as I understand them are (in no particular order): RB, WR, CB, DE, OL.
The birds need help in the secondary with a total of 4 Cornerbacks scheduled to hit free agency (at some point) but with the top 3 CB's already off the board, the Falcons will stick to their philosophy of BAP, while still potentially filling a major need on their roster with a stud Defensive End who has the ability to cement himself as a major part of the franchise's future.
And with the 27th overall pick in the BCC Mock Draft, the Falcons select:
Adrian Clayborn (DE), Iowa, 6-3, 281.
Clayborn is often described by analysts and personnel types as being a "relentless" pass-rusher, who is a natural leader on the field. He enjoyed a decorated career at Iowa where he amassed some impressive stats on his way to becoming recognized as a first-team All-Big Ten honoree for his efforts. Clayborn is the type of players that possesses an immense amount of raw physical talent, leadership ability, and mental toughness. He may take a little more time to develop as a full-time NFL Defensive End in coach Mike Smith's defense but once he does, look out! If Sean Weatherspoon continues to develop as a linebacker and the Falcons get a premier, young DE like Clayborn, their Defense could be very good for a long time."
Pick made by: ChrisWilson
The New England Patriots are now on the clock.
Previous picks:
27. Adrian Clayborn
26. Anthony Castonzo
25. Jake Locker
24. Muh Wilkerson
23. Jimmy Smith
22. Danny Watkins
21. Phil Taylor
20. Justin Houston
19. Nate Solder
18. Ryan Kerrigan
17. J.J. Watt
16. Brooks Reed
15. Mike Pouncey
14. Corey Liuget
13. Cameron Jordan
12. Julio Jones
11. Robert Quinn
10. A.J. Green
9. Tyron Smith
8. Blaine Gabbert
7. Prince Amukamara
6. Da'Quan Bowers
5. Von Miller
4. Nick Fairley
3. Patrick Peterson
2. Marcell Dareus
1. Cam Newton