Initial Draft Grades 2016 - NFC North

1 (9). Georgia OLB Leonard Floyd
2 (56). Kansas State G/C Cody Whitehair
3 (72). Florida DE/DT Jonathan Bullard
4 (113). West Virginia ILB Nick Kwiatkoski
4 (124). Miami (FL) S Deon Bush
4 (127). Northern Iowa CB Deiondre' Hall
5 (150). Indiana RB Jordan Howard
6 (185). William & Mary S DeAndre Houston-Carson
7 (230). Western Michigan WR Daniel Braverman

Good Move - Lots to mention. The Bears needed OL help and Whitehair was the top rated Guard and getting him at #56 was an unexpected coup. They also needed DL help and Jonathan Bullard is a versatile, explosive guy and great value at #72. Jordan Howard also dropped to #150 and looks a bruiser of a back, ideal for the cold days at Soldier Field. He could see significant playing time.
Bargain Pick - All the late round picks made sense but on a personal level I loved the move for Daniel Braverman in Rd7. I'm hoping he can make the roster as he is sharp with exceptionally quick feet. I heard someone say he was a prototype Patriots slot guy and that analogy hopefully showcases how effective he could be if used correctly. With 2015 Rd1 pick Kevin White returning from injury the Bears WR corps gets two new weapons to incorporate into it's offense.
Risk / Reward Gamble - Leonard Floyd is a classic low floor / high ceiling pick. He suffers from not having an obvious natural position but has a tool set which should see him become a highly effective impact player. I can't wait to see how Vic Fangio plans to utilise him in Chicago. I think it's a good fit for player and team alike but only time will tell if he can translate the measurables into performance.
Tell Me Why Again - Bears fans will be asking 'Why can't the draft be in Chicago every year'. Another solid draft class to follow-on from 2015 and the only issue I can really pick out of the class is the selection of Kwiatkowski. I think he's a great Bears type LB, I just wonder how many opportunities he will see after the free agency signings of Jerrell Freeman and Danny Trevathan.

1 (16). Ohio State OT Taylor Decker
 2 (46). Alabama DT A'Shawn Robinson
 3 (95). Michigan C Graham Glasgow
 4 (111). Southern Utah SS Miles Killebrew
 5 (151). Washington State OG Joe Dahl
 5 (169). Georgia Southern LB Antwione Williams
 6 (191). Michigan QB Jake Rudock
 6 (202). Penn State DL Anthony Zettel
 6 (210). Baylor LS Jimmy Landes
 7 (236). Washington RB Dwayne Washington

Good Move - The Lions wanted to improve in the trenches on both sides of the ball and four of their first five picks addressed these aims. Decker, Robinson and Glasgow could probably start on day one.
Bargain Pick - Antwione Williams will need to develop his cover skills in the pro's but has perfect size and exceptional arm length and with some time under his belt adjusting to the NFL, he could really contribute for Detroit.
Risk / Reward Gamble - Miles Killebrew has coverage limitations which he'll need to improve upon or he may get found out in the passing game but he can hit like a train and if used in the fashionable new hybrid LB/S role he could potentially flourish.
Tell Me Why Again - I liked the first 6 picks which all fitted a certain philosophy to get tougher. I was surprised that WR and CB weren't addressed at all, I did expect a WR to be taken relatively early on, but when that didn't materialise I was a bit dumbfounded that a pick wasn't spent late on when their was still value to be had. I know that you generally get less contributions from later round picks, but I didn't like much about the picks past Antwione Williams at all.

1 (27). UCLA DT Kenny Clark
2 (48). Indiana OT Jason Spriggs
3 (88). Utah State OLB Kyler Fackrell
4 (131). Nebraska ILB Blake Martinez
4 (137). Northwestern DE Dean Lowry
5 (163). California WR Trevor Davis
6 (200). Stanford OT Kyle Murphy

Good Move - Despite the calls for a middle linebacker to move Clay Matthews back outside, the Packers prioritised a replacement for B.J Raji to plug the interior. Clark should help the defense immediately.
Bargain Pick - Fackrell could be a potential steal in the 3rd round. An athletic LB with both pass-rush skills and the ability to drop into coverage, he has the capability to become a 3-down LB for the Packers.
Risk / Reward Gamble - If the plan really is to move Matthews back outside, Martinez will need to contribute immediately. The Packers passed on Reggie Ragland and hope that Martinez can bring the same sort of intensity to the middle of the Packers defense. The knock on Martinez is his speed and agility. He won't be found wanting in the power department.
Tell Me Why Again - I really expected a high pick on a middle linebacker to allow Clay Matthews to move back outside, but if Martinez can step up then kudos to the Packers.

1 (23). Ole Miss WR Laquon Treadwell
2 (54). Clemson CB Mackensie Alexander
4 (121). Western Michigan T/G Willie Beavers
5 (160). Missouri ILB Kentrell Brothers
6 (180). Germany WR Moritz Boehringer
6 (188). Texas-San Antonio TE David Morgan
6 (227). Vanderbilt DE Stephen Weatherly
7 (244). Clemson S Jayron Kearse

Good Move - Teddy Bridgewater needed a big bodied WR and Rick Spielman delivered. Treadwell wasn't the first receiver off the board but many had him tagged as the best WR available. A great needs and value pick at #23
Bargain Pick - Stephen Weatherly has some power and speed and was well worth the late round pick in a league where those traits are priceless.
Risk / Reward Gamble - Both Beavers and Boehringer are projects with intriguing tool sets but needing a huge amount of developmental work. Beavers needs to develop more playing strength whereas Boehringer has no college football experience whatsoever, becoming the first ever draftee via the German Football League. The athletic traits are off the charts but the learning curve will be immense. Time will tell if the leaps of faith pay off.
Tell Me Why Again - It's not that I don't rate Mackensie Alexander who exudes an air of confidence when he's on the field. It's not that he had no college interceptions either. My only quibble is that it wasn't a need area for the Vikes and for a playoff type team I thought they may just have looked for an impact guy at a position of more immediate need at #54. This is being picky as it's a pretty good draft class and you've got to factor into the draft grade the trade of their 2016 Rd3 pick in exchange for a Rd3 and Rd4 pick in 2017

Initial Draft Grades 2016 - NFC East

1 (4). Ohio State RB Ezekiel Elliott
2 (34). Notre Dame LB Jaylon Smith
3 (67). Nebraska DT Maliek Collins
4 (101). Oklahoma DE Charles Tapper
4 (135). Mississippi State QB Dak Prescott
6 (189). Purdue CB Anthony Brown
6 (212). Central Michigan S Kavon Frazier
6 (216). Eastern Michigan RB Darius Jackson
6 (217). Baylor TE Rico Gathers

Good Move - Picking at #4 overall the Cowboys wanted an impact player and landed one. Elliott is by far the best RB in the draft class. The Cowboys were criticised for picking a RB so early but it's hard to fault a team for drafting to their board and is Darren McFadden likely to remain injury free for two consecutive seasons? Behind the Dallas O-line, Elliott should be an early front runner for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Bargain Pick - There might be some unanswered questions over Kavon Frazier's coverage skills but he was regarded as a tempo setter in college and has ideal size, knows how to hit hard and was a leader at Central Michigan. His route to making the roster may initially be via special teams but the Cowboys depth chart could offer opportunities

Risk / Reward Gamble - The ultimate second round throw of the dice. I was really pleased for Jaylon Smith on a personal level. He's undoubtedly a top 10 talent if healthy but projects to miss 2016 as a minimum. The risk of nerve damage could potentially be career threatening, so to select him #34 overall was a massive gamble. I'd have thought teams may entertain a selection from Rd4 onwards. That said, if Smith comes back 100% then kudos to Jerry Jones for making sure he's a Cowboy.

Tell Me Why Again - The Cowboys draft strategy rarely feels consistent. With Tony Romo aging, they took a win-now move grabbing Ezekiel Elliott at #4 but then took the absolute opposite option taking Jaylon Smith in Rd2 knowing he is unlikely to play in 2016. Both players were picked higher than anyone expected. I just wonder if they'll regret passing on Jalen Ramsey with such a problematic secondary in Dallas? They've also failed to address their pass rush problems and are going to need to put up points and eat up the clock to be competitive.

1 (10). Ohio State CB Eli Apple

2 (40). Oklahoma WR Sterling Shepard

3 (71). Boise State S Darian Thompson

4 (109). Clemson LB B.J. Goodson

5 (149). UCLA RB Paul Perkins

6 (184). South Carolina TE Jerell Adams

Good Move - The Giants had an overall solid draft, addressing team needs with players who should get opportunities for playing time. The safest move was the addition of Sterling Shepard who probably becomes the Giants WR3 immediately and is ideally suited to operating in the slot.

Bargain Pick - B.J Goodson isn't the quickest LB but he's a tough inside thumper. The Giants always seem to be papering over cracks in their linebacking corps so he should get an opportunity to make an impact.

Risk / Reward Gamble - Darian Thompson posted some great ball-hawking numbers for Boise State but question marks over his speed and tackling ability will need to be dispelled for this pick to be a success.

Tell Me Why Again - If the rumour really is true that the Bears traded up above the Giants following a back-room leak in New York that they were about to pick Leonard Floyd, then questions need to be asked in the Giants war room. Was the selection of Apple a panic selection with Floyd no longer available? Apple to the Big Apple is a great headline for the press and he has bags of potential, but he's not yet the finished article. The pick feels a bit of a reach within the top 10, especially with Vernon Hargreaves still on the board. I was also surprised the Giants did not address their O-line at all. I'm sure Eli Manning felt the same.

 

1 (2). North Dakota State QB Carson Wentz

3 (79). Oregon State G/C Isaac Seumalo

5 (153). West Virginia RB Wendell Smallwood

5 (164). TCU T/G Halapoulivaati Vaitai

6 (196). Auburn CB Blake Countess

7 (233). LSU DB Jalen Mills

7 (240). Florida DE Alex McCalister

7 (251). Oregon LB Joe Walker

Good Move - It may have cost a lot and drafting a QB is always something of a lottery, but the Eagles were at least brave enough to aim beyond the average starter level incumbents on their roster. Wentz has all the tools and ran a pro-offense at North Dakota State. The only knock on him is the level of competition he's faced, but that's not something he should be blamed for. The Eagles were also smart enough to assign two picks for their O-line but were a little hampered in how early they could address this by the earlier trade-up to secure Wentz. 

Bargain Pick - Jalen Mills was a 4-yr starter at LSU. He comes with a few off-field red flags but seems terrific value in Rd7. His skill set is perhaps best suited to operate as slot Corner rather than Safety, it will be interesting to see where the Eagles plan to utilise him best.

Risk / Reward Gamble - Trading up from #13 to #8 to #2 cost the organisation a lot of draft picks. The success of this draft class will almost exclusively depend on Carson Wentz development from Division 1-AA to the NFL. He has the tool set and the intangibles, let's hope he can handle the step up to the pro's and the ever impatient Eagles fanbase.

Tell Me Why Again - Why the large amounts of guaranteed cash for Bradford and Daniel if the plan all along was to aggressively chase Wentz? The Bradford situation will likely create a lot of media attention in Philly which could affect the rookie Wentz.

 1 (22). TCU WR Josh Doctson

 2 (53). USC S/LB Su'a Cravens

 3 (84). Virginia Tech CB Kendall Fuller

 5 (152). Temple DE Matt Ioannidis

 6 (187). Indiana QB Nate Sudfeld

 7 (232). Boston College LB Steven Daniels

 7 (242). Georgia RB Keith Marshall

Good Move - It's important to note that the Skins came out of this draft with a further three picks for 2017, but the best move of all was the drafting of Josh Doctson who will compete immediately and provide another deep threat target for Kirk Cousins. The learning curve for a rookie WR can be steep but he should contribute immediately. It's a good future proving move too, with both Desean Jackson and Pierre Garcon entering contract years. Su'a Cravens adds speed to the defense and could be used in a hybrid LB/S role.

Bargain Pick - Keith Marshall didn't see a great deal of playing time at Georgia due to a fair amount of injuries, including a serious ACL injury in 2013 but is an ideal fit for a zone scheme. He doesn't have many miles on his clock and running the fastest 40 of all running backs at the combine should hopefully help dispel lingering doubts that the ACL injury slowed him at all. He could really surprise if he gets the right opportunity.

Risk / Reward Gamble - There's some injury history surrounding Kendall Fuller but there's enough upside to get value from this pick in Rd3 if the injuries are in the past. Kendall becomes the 4th Fuller brother to make it into the NFL so the pedigree is certainly there.

Tell Me Why Again - Despite a solid overall draft class, I was surprised that the interior of the O-line wasn't addressed at any point.

Initial Draft Grades 2016 - NFC South

1 (17). Florida SS Keanu Neal
2 (52). LSU LB Deion Jones
3 (81). Stanford TE Austin Hooper
4 (115). Minnesota LB De'Vondre Campbell
6 (195). San Jose State OG Wes Schweitzer
7 (238). UCLA WR Devin Fuller

Good Move - The Falcons main objective entering the draft was to add speed, aggressiveness and versatility on defense. They achieved this with the picks of Neal, Jones and Campbell. Coach Quinn is being given players that fit his template for success. Whether the template is the winning formula or not remains to be seen, but the good move was in the Falcons focusing on this specific strategy and executing it during the draft.
Bargain Pick - Austin Hooper was generally regarded as the second best TE in the class with ability to help as an in-line blocker as well as a pass catching weapon. There are some favourable comparisons of Hooper with fellow Stanford TE Zach Ertz. He'll likely spend a year behind Jacob Tamme, but should still feature lots as a rookie in the two TE sets that Kyle Shanahan likes to employ frequently. He should be the starting TE in 2017.
Risk / Reward Gamble - Both Keanu Neal and Deion Jones were taken ahead of their projected draft spots.  The consensus was that "better value" was available at the spots the Falcons picked, but credit is due to the Falcons sticking to positions of need and guys identified as scheme fits. History will prove whether the Front Office was brave or foolhardy when the policy pays off or not.
Tell Me Why Again - With only 19 sacks in 2015 the organisation seemingly failed to address the pass rush with this draft class. However, Vic Beasley should kick on from his rookie season and Atlanta did acquire Derrick Shelby from Miami in free agency. It might be churlish to pick apart the back end of draft classes, but Atlanta's final two picks felt like particular reaches, especially with seemingly better prospects still available at these positions.

1 (30). Louisiana Tech DT Vernon Butler
2 (62). Samford CB James Bradberry
3 (77). West Virginia CB Daryl Worley
5 (141). Oklahoma CB Zack Sanchez
7 (252). Montana State TE Beau Sandland

Good Move - Vernon Butler adds further depth to an already formidable Panthers D-line. As Kawann Short enters his contract year this displays exemplary forward planning by GM Dave Gettleman to ensure continuity in the Panthers approach on the field.
Bargain Pick - Beau Sandland is raw but not without ball skills. He's got a chance to stick in Carolina and is the long wingspan type of receiver that Cam Newton enjoys. He'll be a bit of a project but well worth the 7th round investment.
Risk / Reward Gamble - The analogy of throwing three darts and hoping one sticks springs to mind with the Panthers draft strategy of picking 3 corners. However, the secondary was the most pressing need and the pre-draft departure of Josh Norman just added to the priority. They will need a contribution somewhere from this class of corners early in their careers.
Tell Me Why Again - The Panthers surprisingly failed to address the offensive line in the draft, due in large part to only retaining 5 picks. I have to question them relinquishing the two draft picks (4th and 5th round) to move up 16 places to acquire Worley, which ultimately left them unable to address other needs.

1 (12). Louisville DT Sheldon Rankins
2 (47). Ohio State WR Michael Thomas
2 (61). Ohio State S Vonn Bell
4 (120). Manitoba DT David Onyemata
7 (237). California RB Daniel Lasco

Good Move - I'd expect all of the first three picks to be immediate starters. Rankins is NFL ready and fills an immediate need for New Orleans. Vonn Bell was arguably the best cover safety in the draft and upgrades the secondary.

Bargain Pick - Daniel Lasco was an intriguing pick. He has some injury history and doesn't have the most robust of frames for the position, but had an excellent combine and is explosive in the open field. It will be really interesting to see how Sean Payton plans to utilise him.

Risk / Reward Gamble  - The Saints took a flyer on a small school DT whilst also expending a further draft pick to move up to acquire David Onyemata. He'll have to overcome a huge step up in class from Manitoba to the NFL but the Saints have a history of small school success stories so we'll give them the benefit for now.

Tell Me Why Again - The Saints twice spent picks aggressively moving up the draft to secure players. I've no issues with doing this aside from the fact that the Saints have lots of holes to fill and ended up with only 5 draft picks. They still have holes at Guard, Corner and DE which those picks could surely have helped address;

1 (11). Florida CB Vernon Hargreaves

2 (39). Eastern Kentucky DE Noah Spence

2 (59). Florida State K Roberto Aguayo

4 (108). North Carolina Central CB Ryan Smith

5 (148). UCLA T/G Caleb Benenoch

6 (183). Oklahoma LB Devante Bond

6 (197). Northwestern FB Dan Vitale

Good Move - The Bucs not only landed their number one target in the draft, they somehow managed to acquire a 4th round pick from Chicago in the process. Hargreaves should start early and immediately addressed the teams biggest need. This was a complete win-win on day one.

Bargain Pick - I really liked the pick of Caleb Benenoch. It's a likely developmental pick for 2016 but Benenoch is agile, athletic and aggressive. With a year of pro development he could definitely contribute.

Risk / Reward Gamble - Noah Spence was one of the top pass rush talents in the draft, but off-field concerns were always going to push his stock down as he remains a risk. Spence was kicked off the Ohio State programme for continued drug test fails but appears to have turned round his career after transfer to Eastern Kentucky.

Tell Me Why Again - Kickers are allegedly people too, but are they really 2nd round picks? What made this selection more astonishing was the Bucs spending a 4th round pick to move up 15 slots to select him. It was an otherwise strong draft which gets marked down a grade for this move.

Falcons potential draft picks by position

Ahead of this months collegiate draft I've scanned over the current Falcons roster and offered some potential options that may be under consideration at Flowery Branch. I've not looked at BPA for each position but more who could be available in the rounds Atlanta would likely consider a selection for each position.

Atlanta's Picks (as at 12th April 2016)
Rd1 overall pick #17
Rd2 overall pick #50
Rd3 overall pick #81
Rd4 overall pick #115
Rd7 overall pick #241
Atlanta forfeit Rd5 pick; Atlanta traded Rd6 pick to Tennessee Titans in exchange for Andy Levitre in 2015


Quarterback
Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Sean Renfree, Matt Simms
With Atlanta only holding 5 draft picks, it's highly unlikely the Falcons expend a draft pick on a passer. Matt Ryan is firmly entrenched as the starter and veteran cover was added in free agency with Matt Schaub re-uniting with the Falcons. The team is unlikely to cope with any lengthy time without Ryan behind Center but that is true of the majority of NFL franchises. The Falcons won't do anything draft-wise but may offer an opportunity to a developmental prospect who goes undrafted.
Possible Options :
Tempting If Undrafted Free Agents
Jeff Driskel (Louisiana State) - Heir apparent to Tebow at Florida but broken leg in 2013 cost him the full-time starter role. Performed well as a senior following transfer to Louisiana and has prototypical size, arm strength and above average athleticism. Question marks on accuracy but if undrafted has enough potential to warrant competing for QB3 in Atlanta. I'd certainly like to see him in an Atlanta uniform at the start of training camp.
Stephen Rivers (Northwestern) - Brother of Chargers QB Philip, his signing might make an interesting back story, but if truth be told, this would likely be no more than a camp arm signing;

Running Back
Devonta Freeman, Tevin Coleman, Terron Ward, Patrick DeMarco (FB)
A position of doubt heading into last years draft is now one of perceived strength. Freeman was nothing short of outstanding and Coleman should improve from an injury stunted rookie year. DeMarco was a surprising bonus and had a really good year at fullback. Any additions here will likely be college free agent signings only
Possible Options :
Late Round / Tempting If Undrafted Free Agents
Keith Marshall (Georgia) - would be an intriguing late round pick with local ties, scheme fit and potentially high ceiling but I can't envision Atlanta spending a draft pick or Marshall now being available after an especially fast combine 40. Ideal size and speed and well suited to a zone scheme. Injuries derailed his opportunities in college, particularly a torn ACL in 2013. Lack of college output could mean he escapes radar of many teams. However, that combine 40 may have helped dispel speed concerns and he'll likely be a mid to late round pick for someone.

Wide Receiver
Julio Jones, Mohammed Sanu, Justin Hardy, Nick Williams, Eric Weems, Devin Hester,
It's strange not seeing Roddy White on the depth chart but his role reduced dramatically last year and the lack of interest in free agency is further evidence of declining skills. Free agent signing Sanu was WR3/WR4 in Cincy but is about to be paid as a top WR2 in Atlanta and will need to raise his output to justify the salary. Without the Sanu signing, or more accurately the financial investment in Sanu to be a genuine #2, I'd have guessed Atlanta would address WR early, now I imagine a late round pick and college free agents invited to training camp. There is opportunity for a rookie to make the WR4 spot on this roster.
Possible Options :
Round 2 onwards
Charone Peake (Clemson) Size, speed and length that tick all boxes. Next in line from production line of DeAndre Hopkins, Martavis Bryant and Sammy Watkings. Potential to become a WR1, but some question marks over his hands and two previous knee surgeries with somewhat limited college output compared to his athletic potential mean that he could still be around when the Falcons start to consider WR.
Rashard Higgins (Colorado State) Huge production. Nickname of "Hollywood" is fair reflection on his self-confidence. Excellent ball-winning skills and tracks the deep ball well. Needs to improve his release and adding strength would help. Hands have improved year-on-year.
Mid to Late Rounds
Daniel Braverman (Western Michigan) Undersized at 5'10 and a little lean at under 180lbs, Braverman is likely a slot receiver in the pro's. Where he does excel though is in the open field, very quick footed showing real elusiveness after the catch. There's a role for him to make his own in Atlanta at WR3/WR4 and he's an intriguing weapon for Matt Ryan. Depending on what happens with Devin Hester, he could possibly fulfil punt returns duties effectively too.
Moritz Boehringer (No college) Real wild card from German Football League. Outstanding pro day has garnered a fair degree of media attention. Can't look past his lack of football experience though. I think he'd be 7th round value for Atlanta but suspect someone will buy into the media hype much earlier. Huge potential but no college level playing experience means an enormous learning curve at one of the harder positions to transition college to pro.


Tight End
Jacob Tamme, Levine Toilolo, D.J Tialavea
Tamme's 2015 output was a career best and proved a decent enough free agent signing, but he didn't remind anybody of Tony Gonzalez. He's serviceable but lacks speed and his blocking is below average. Back-up Toilolo's blocking has improved every year and is a strength, but more was hoped for him as a catching target than he will ever achieve. Overall it's a pretty disappointing group. It's an area of need, but Atlanta weren't aggressive in chasing any veteran options in free agency. The organisation possibly views the position as serviceable for another year, prioritising other positions higher in the draft, but don't be surprised to see a pick here either if the right player fell to them.
Possible Options :
Addressing Early
Hunter Henry (Arkansas) Arguably the best TE in a relatively weak draft class. Atlanta could be interested if he's available in the 2nd round, but he may have earlier suitors, possibly Green Bay at #27. The Falcons may also feel they have more pressing needs elsewhere. Unlike a lot of the TE draft class, Henry is a complete player, moreso than just an oversized WR - yes he's a good receiving target (51 catches and no drops in 2015) but he excelled as a run blocker too. Arkansas ran a pro-style offense so the transition to the NFL shouldn't be too great a leap. He could be a week one starter. The pro comparisons to Jason Witten and Tyler Eifert have been complementary, but he could be an upgrade over Jacob Tamme in Atlanta.
Going Mid Rounds
Nick Vannett (Ohio State) Intriguing prospect with the size and athleticism to contribute as an all round TE but was little used as a weapon at Ohio State. You can take his college career two ways, he either gained lots of experience and extensive playing time on a successful program, or you can question why he didn't put up many numbers within said program.
Late Rounds
Ben Braunecker (Harvard) Dominated at IVY league level and had a fantastic combine. The step up in class will be huge but could be a good late round pick for Atlanta where he could sit behind Tamme for a year and continue his development without too much pressure.
Tempting Undrafted Free Agent
Temarrick Hemingway (S.Carolina St) Raw but has great separation and could prove a match-up nightmare. Had a good combine performance too but has major question marks on his blocking and hands. Would be a serious long-term developmental pick if drafted, but could be considered a worthwhile project should he go undrafted.

Offensive Tackle
Jake Matthews, Ryan Schraeder, Bryce Harris, Tom Compton
The starters seem set here with both Matthews and Schraeder posting very good years. Schraeder is an RFA and likely to return with Atlanta looking to lock him up on a longer term deal. Compton was a free agent signing to provide depth which possibly rules out a draft pick used here.
Possible Options :
Tempting If Undrafted Free Agents
Tyler Johnstone (Oregon) Good size, agility and quickness, Johnstone excels in pass protection. Ideally suited to zone blocking scheme, which is fit in Atlanta. Have the injuries taken their toll? Twice torn ACL for a player who could have gone in top half of draft otherwise.
Caleb Benenoch (UCLA) Very agile and aggressive, great fit in UCLA's up-tempo spread offense.  Adjustment from the spread to the pros will take time but he's a well suited candidate for a zone block scheme. Shown some versatility at Guard and Tackle in college but probably lacks the weight and strength to be an interior lineman in the pros.

Offensive Guard
Andy Levitre, Mike Person, Ben Garland
The trade for Levitre last year could have been promising but he generally disappointed and picked up a penchant for penalties during important drives. Person has been shifted back to Guard from a failed conversion to Center but his role will be unclear until camp. Both Guard spots are obvious areas of weakness which the Falcons Front Office are trying to address via low cost veteran bodies. A mid-round draft pick is a strong possibility.
Possible Options :
Addressing Early
Cody Whitehair (Kansas State) College Left Tackle who projects as a Guard in the pro's due to lack of height and length. He's more of a technician than a powerful mauler so despite being widely accepted as the best guard prospect in the class he could be available in Rd2. He's versatile enough to provide cover across the O-line and probably better suited to a zone block scheme such as Atlanta's.
Christian Westerman (Arizona State) Athletic Guard with blocking ability on the move which should be ideally suited to zone block scheme. Could provide cover at Center too if required.
Mid to Late Round
Rees Odhiambo (Boise State) College tackle, projected to move inside. Odhiambo was injury prone in college which could see draft stock fall, but shows athleticism to thrive in zone block scheme.
Darrell Greene (San Diego State) Georgia native is a tremendously powerful mauler of a guard with a mean streak. Relatively short arms aren't ideal but the power he can generate is a big upside. He was suspended for 6 games in 2015 for positive marijuana test, so teams will be doing their due diligence. Not sure of scheme fit but great value to find a potential starter in the later rounds
Tempting If Undrafted
Jordan Walsh (Iowa) A little undersized and won't fit a power system but was a 3-yr starter at RG in college and technique improved year-on-year.

Center
Alex Mack, James Stone
The signing of Mack was a huge boost for the offense, particularly for Matt Ryan. If Mack can bounce back from a down year in 2015 the signing will be a huge success. Even if he doesn't he'll still be a significant upgrade on what the Falcons had on their 2015 roster. James Stone will provide capable back-up and the Falcons can safely be assumed to not consider this position during the draft.
Possible Options :
Spending a draft pick at Center just isn't happening;

Defensive End
Adrian Clayborn, Vic Beasley, Derrick Shelby, Tyson Jackson, Malliciah Goodman
The Falcons need more pass rush impact and will hope that Beasley kicks on from his rookie campaign and that free agent signing Shelby can carry on the impressive end of season form shown in Miami. This draft class has pretty good depth at the edge, and with rumours of Beasley spelling time as the LEO in 2017 it's likely Atlanta could add a further option from the college ranks.
Possible Options :
Addressing Early
Shaq Lawson (Clemson) Presumably Joey Bosa and Deforest Buckner will be off the board in the top 10 picks. Lawson would appear to be the next ranked DE on the majority of draft boards. Will he be available at #17? Posted 25.5 tackles for loss in 2015 with 12.5 sacks and was a consistent threat off the edge. There are some questions on his overall explosiveness as a pass rusher in the pro's but he's not one dimensional and has shown strong against the run too.
Kevin Dodd (Clemson) Lived a little in the shadow of team-mate Lawson, posting 23.5 tackles for loss in 2015 and 12 sacks. Has the physical tools and improved through the season. Is only a one year starter and has to answer how much of his success was due to a strong Clemson defense and double teaming protection onto Lawson.
Emmanuel Ogbah (Oklahoma State) More powerful than athletic, has played all across the D-line and could possibly play OLB in a 3-4. Lacks the explosion of a traditional rush end and some scouts have raised concerns over sustaining effort levels but was very productive in college and should translate success to the NFL.
Noah Spence (Eastern Kentucky) Some off-field red flag concerns to weigh-up, with failed drug tests and disorderly conduct charges, but Spence appears to have turned this around following transfer from Ohio State. Interesting player who may be a little shorter than desired at 6'2 for an end position so perhaps better eventually suited to a rush 3-4 backer, so a sub-package guy for Atlanta, but talented and has on-field smarts to become a success in the NFL.
Mid to Late Round
James Cowser (Southern Utah) Would become 1st player drafted from Southern Utah. Faces huge step up in class but did fare well against FBS teams. Has relentless high rev motor and broke Jared Allen's Big Sky Conference sack record. Worth a gamble if available in the latter rounds and would be an interesting project for Dan Quinn to work with;
Matt Judon (Grand Valley State) NFL build, burst and bend. Led the nation with 20 sacks in 2015. Technique would need a lot of work and again a large step up in class to overcome, but a good Dan Quinn project if available in the later rounds;

Defensive Tackle
Jonathan Babineaux, Rashede Hageman, Grady Jarrett, Joey Mbu
An area that is a strong candidate to be addressed during the draft, but will it be addressed early with a potential starter or is it a candidate for late round depth? Atlanta cut ties with run stuffer Paul Soliai in the offseason and stalwart Jonathan Babineaux is not getting any younger. It's possible Tyson Jackson makes a permanent move to the interior as a Soliai's replacement. One of the strengths of this draft class appears to be it's depth at DT so it would make some sense for Atlanta to address the position in the earlier to mid rounds - albeit there are many names not listed below which could be under consideration too.
Possible Options :
Addressing Early
Robert Nkemdiche (Mississippi) Scouts compare him to Seahawks Michael Bennett which could attract Coach Quinn. There's off-field red flags though which could keep him off the organisations draft board entirely.
Vernon Butler (Louisiana Tech) Under-rated prospect who could yet slide into day two. Butler's athletic and versatile enough to provide run support and good interior pass rush. Whilst his production doesn't quite match the sum of his parts yet, would be an ideal investment for Atlanta
Jarran Reed (Alabama) If Atlanta were looking for a direct replacement for Soliai then Reed would be an ideal candidate offering excellent run stop capabilities but likely subbed out in pass situations.
Mid to Late Rounds
Chris Jones (Mississippi State) A name that's creeping up the draft boards, Jones provides a good interior push and is a solid tackler. A little bit inconsistent, would appear to be high ceiling candidate if someone can get the best out of him.
Jonathan Bullard (Florida) Played both End and Tackle in college and displays power and quickness to offer both pass-rush and run-stop abilities. Probably needs to bulk up a little for DT in the pro's and would benefit from improvements to his pass-rush techniques. A good mid-draft investment.

Linebacker
Brooks Reed, Paul Worrilow, Courtney Upshaw, Phillip Wheeler, Sean Weatherspoon, Tyler Starr
The linebacker corps is in a state of flux and has lots of question marks hanging over it. One of last years free agency splurges, Brooks Reed, will need to bounceback in 2016 after missing a fair bit of training camp through injury last year he never really made the impact the Front Office hoped for. Worrilow remains serviceable but has shortcomings in coverage and would be better suited in a back-up role. Wheeler was a late season signing and has been retained. The off-season free agency signings of Upshaw and Weatherspoon have added numbers to the competition but do not immediately define an obvious depth chart or address the perceived speed and pass coverage weaknesses in the group. Weatherspoon was a popular re-signing but his role and level of play will be an unknown until training camp. Upshaw is a good run stuffer but won't be the impact pass rusher or sideline-to-sideline cover LB. A high round draft pick looks entirely likely here, with either a thumper of an inside backer or a truly fast cover LB who can offer pass rush skills.
Possible Options :
Addressing Early
Darron Lee (Ohio State) Most pundits expected pick in current mock drafts. Lee would bring much needed speed to the defense. A high school QB, he has good instincts and is quick to the ball. A decent gap blitzer, the main attraction of the pick would be the addition of much needed speed to help pass coverage at LB, a long-time weakness in the Falcons defense. He has undoubted superior speed for a linebacker but isn't the finished article in pass coverage yet. His pro success could depend on adding more muscle to his frame, he looks wiry and isn't the strongest in contact, evidenced by 21 missed and 5 broken tackles over the last 2 college years.
Reggie Ragland (Alabama) Would be a need pick and bring some intensity and leadership to the unit. Personally I think it's a bit high for an MLB in Rd1 unless you're pretty happy with the rest of your roster. Yes the Front Office likely want an upgrade over Paul Worrilow but I do think there are more pressing needs. Ragland would be a solid pick, likely be a 2-down enforcer but probably taken off the field in the sub packages - I'm thinking a Curtis Lofton type of pick.
Jaylon Smith (Notre Dame) Projected as a top 5 pick until injury in his last ever game for the Irish in the Fiesta Bowl. It's a lottery as to where his draft stock is right now. He's unlikely to contribute in 2016 so it's a probable fall out of round 1. There's some talk of nerve damage so it's almost an unknown where he could fall to. It's an ultimate high ceiling / low floor pick where he may not recover from injury but if he does someone is going to get a hell of a bargain. Is anyone brave enough within Flowery Branch to take the gamble? I'd say that if we had a higher number of draft picks this year we open up draft room talks on Smith from Rd3 onwards. The fact we're limited to 5 picks leads me to think we're unlikely to be in the running unless Smith's draft stock went into freefall or we were involved in a day one trade down which garnered additional picks to allow one to be a gamble.
Mid / Late / Undrafted
Nick Vigil (Utah State) Instinctive linebacker with impressive production last 2 years (267 tackles). Will need to add a bit of strength but has the smarts to contribute.
Cassanova McKinzy (Auburn) Experience playing inside and out; Tough inside thumper who would likely be found wanting in coverage. Possible special teams depth.
Yannick Ngakoue (Maryland) Excellent 2015 season with 15.5 sacks. Lacks the height and weight to be the full-time DE he was in college and is relatively raw still, but could be used as a situational pass rusher in the pro's with some development.
Antwione Williams (Georgia Southern) Perfect size and exceptional arm length, enough tools to warrant a late round draft pick. Would certainly have a chance to make this Falcons roster and contribute.

Cornerback
Desmond Trufant, Robert Alford, Jalen Collins, Akeem King
Trufant continued his quest to become one of the leading NFL cornerbacks and was at times ably supported by Alford. Jalen Collins mostly struggled in a rough rookie season, but this wasn't entirely unsurprising considering his limited playing time in college. A four game PED ban to start 2016 is a huge setback. Atlanta don't have much depth here and this could influence the Falcons adding some depth in the draft, particularly with Trufant and Alford's rookie deals also nearing an end
Possible Options :
Early to Mid Rounds
Eli Apple (Ohio State) Probably too highly rated to be available in the 2nd round but listing him in the mix, just in case. Apple's one of the top 3 corners in the draft so likely long gone but I've seen him fall out of Rd1 in some experts mock drafts.
Rashard Robinson (LSU) Not sure he makes the Atlanta board with off-field issues but athletically looks like a Dan Quinn corner. He would be a similar pick on many levels to last years 2nd rounder Jalen Collins. Long athlete with undeniable cover skills and recovery speed, but also extremely limited playing time in college due to team suspensions, including an indefinite suspension throughout all of 2015. All the physical tools to become a star, but with Collins on the roster, maybe a double-dip of risk at the position would be unlikely.
D.J White (Georgia Tech) Atlanta born and locally schooled, White would prove a popular pick. Team captain for Tech, with good athleticism, instincts and cover skills. Not quite ideal height or top end speed but the measurables could work in Atlanta's favour and see him fall into the middle rounds of the draft.
Late Round / Undrafted
Mike Hilton (Ole Miss) Can play man or zone and is a willing and excellent tackler in run support. At 5'9 lacks ideal height and doesn't own top level recovery speed. Played every position in the secondary in college, but would be consigned to slot corner role in the pros due to size and speed.
Kevon Seymour (USC) Injuries derailed 2015 but consequently he could fall into the latter rounds. Wasn't a major playmaker with only 3 interceptions in 3 years, but decent size, excellent NFL speed and good athleticism should garner interest later in the draft. Special teams play should help him make an NFL roster.

Safety 
Ricardo Allen, Robenson Therezie, Kemal Ishmael, Charles Godfrey
The conversion of Ricardo Allen from practice squad corner to Free Safety was a masterstroke by the coaching staff and he should return as the starter in 2016. William Moore was cut this offseason and whilst the Falcons will miss his hard hitting and off-field leadership, he couldn't stay on the field much the last few seasons. Undrafted rookie Robenson Therezie played well in patches as did Kemal Ishmael but the group does look relatively thin. With a lack of action at the position in free agency, it will be interesting to see if Atlanta consider either Therezie or Ishmael the long term answer or attempt to address during the draft. I'd expect a pick to be expended here if the right player falls within reach. I expect the wish-list is for a tall physical safety to lay some wood rather than a prototypical cover safety. I don't think back-up depth is necessary, Therezie and Ishmael are good reserves,but expect the position to be addressed if a starter calibre prospect is available in Rds 2 or 3.
Possible Options :
Addressing Early
Vonn Bell (Ohio State) Often left on an island for Ohio State as single-high and nickel safety, has reliable ball skills and has the versatility to play man or zone and decent enough in run support. Likely available in Rd2 and would be a solid option.
Karl Joseph (West Virginia) Team captain and leader for West Virginia. ACL injury limited his 2015 junior year and could affect his draft stock. Alongside Jalen Ramsey, was regarded as the best safety prospect, but the ACL means he could be available in Rd2. Despite an ultra-physical approach to the game, prior to the ACL he had been durable, starting each game of 2013 and 2014. He's a hitter but can cover deep field too. Mike Mayock compared him to Earl Thomas at the combine, that could well translate to interest from Dan Quinn.
Mid to Late Round
Keanu Neal (Florida) Highly physical, tough and aggressive tone setter. Tackling technique needs refinement but he likes to lay the wood. Played both Strong and Free for the Gators. Regarded as a little one paced but this may not be a premium for the Falcons Cover-3 system. Special teams demon in waiting who who would compete for playing time in the secondary on any team who drafts him. He'd likely be a starter in Atlanta relatively early on. I initially thought he was an ideal Rd3 pick for the Falcons, but his pre-draft stock seems to be on the up, which may mean Atlanta unfortunately miss out unless they take him in the 2nd round. Let's not dismiss the link with Dan Quinn here who recruited him to Florida.
Miles Killebrew (Southern Utah) Good sized hard-hitting safety who brings the hammer. Not as impactful in coverage but ideal for a team looking for LB/S hybrid type.
Tyvis Powell (Ohio State) The poorer relation to Vonn Bell at OSU but has size, speed and intelligence to be of interest if available at the right point in the draft. Needs to improve tackling and overall physicality.

And with this review I bid good luck to the Atlanta Falcons and to all the prospects of the 2016 NFL Draft. I'll be denying any knowledge of this article for any draft busts and claiming all credit for any late round All-Pro's listed above!