The Atlanta Falcons finished 7-10 last season for the second year in a row. However, the 7-10 record this past season hurt a little bit more because the team was looking to improve and because every team in the NFC South finished with a losing record.
The goal for the Falcons is to become better this season because every team in the division is not going to have a losing record again. The team is optimistic about having QB Desmond Ridder start every game this season. Also, Atlanta is seeking to get back over .500 by improving the roster through the NFL Draft. Here is a look at who the Falcons selected in the Draft.
Round 1, Pick 8: Bijan Robinson - RB - Texas. 5'11", 215 lbs (1,580 yds, 18 TD, 6.1 yds per carry, 314 rec yds, 2 rec TD).
Robinson is the most dynamic running back in this year's Draft. He is capable to break off long runs multiple times throughout each game. Robinson is also able to catch balls out of the backfield or in the slot in multiple receiver sets. Atlanta already has a 1,000 yard rusher in Tyler Allgeier; the Falcons could have two 1,000 yard rushers this season.
Round 2, Pick 7: Matthew Bergeron - OT - Syracuse. 6'5", 318 lbs.
Bergeron has started at both tackle positions throughout his college career. The team needs depth on the offensive line after the Falcons gave up 37 sacks last season. He will compete to see some time at either the tackle position or at the guard position because of his large frame.
Round 3, Pick 12: Zach Harrison - DE - Ohio State. 6'5 1/2", 274 lbs (8 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 1 INT, 2 forced fumbles, 4 pass breakups).
Harrison is capable of bringing the pressure on each and every play. Batting down four passes also shows that he does not give up on the play when he is initially blocked. The Falcons will welcome his pass-rushing abilities because the defense only had 21 sacks last season.
Round 4, Pick 11: Clark Phillips III - CB - Utah. 5'9", 184 lbs (6 INT, 6 pass breakups).
Phillips III has great anticipation when breaking on balls. He will be able to help out the Falcons secondary because Atlanta only had 10 interceptions last season. He could see some time as a nickel cornerback against obvious passing downs.
Round 7, Pick 7: DeMarco Hellams - S - Alabama. 6'1", 203 lbs (108 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 1 INT, 7 pass breakups).
Hellams adds depth at strong safety.
Round 7, Pick 8: Jovaughn Gwyn - G - South Carolina. 6'2", 297 lbs.
Gwyn was a three-year starter at South Carolina at right guard. He will add depth to the interior of the offensive line.
Overview: The Falcons clearly showed their strategy for next season when they drafted Robinson. Atlanta is seeking to control possession next season with the running game and a deeper offensive line. All of the defensive picks could see some time because the defense needs help. The Falcons really needed to draft a wide receiver. Grade: C+.
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