The Atlanta Falcons started off the 2015 season 5-0. The problem is they somehow missed the playoffs going 3-8 down the stretch. Can Atlanta improve via the draft to make the playoffs in 2016?
The defense is the problem with this team. The main addition to the team this offseason on defense was outside linebacker Courtney Upshaw. Upshaw, a run stuffing specialist, should help but they still need a sack artist to play opposite of Vic Beasley. One player who could fit that void would be Emmanuel Ogbah from Oklahoma State. He reminds me a lot of Ziggy Ansah from the Lions and appears to be a perfect fit for Dan Quinn’s defense. Other players who could be a nice fit in Atlanta are Kevin Dodd from Clemson and Shalique Calhoun from Michigan State.
On offense the Falcons have upgraded the offensive line by adding center Alex Mack and the receiving game with Mohammed Sanu. I would like to see the Falcons add a premier tight end such as Hunter Henry from Arkansas. The last time the Falcons had marginal success Tony Gonzalez was in town. Getting a talented tight end could get Atlanta back in the playoffs.
Finally I would like to see the Falcons add a tailback. Sure Devonta Freeman had a nice year but he isn’t an every down back. With one of the best running game coaches in the NFL in Kyle Shanahan as the offensive coordinator, I would like Atlanta to take another back. Kelvin Taylor could be that guy late in the draft who has a Giovanni Bernard type of impact.
