NFL Draft 2013: Grading the Atlanta Falcons

Overall, I would say the Falcons had a good draft. They addressed their needs and got impact players. “Trader Thomas” did a nice job with this class, and lets take a look at how he went about it.

Draft Picks

(22) Desmond Trufant, Washington, DB
(60) Robert Alford, Southeastern Louisiana, DB
(127) Malliciah Goodwin, Clemson, DE
(133) Levine Tolio, Stanford, TE
(153) Stansly Maponga, TCU, DE
(243) Kemel Ishmael, UCF, DB
(244) Zeke Motta, Notre Dame, DB
(249) Sean Renfree, Duke, QB

Best Move: Trading up for Desmond Trufant.

Some people thought it would have been better to sit and wait at 30 for Xavier Rhodes. I liked “Trader Thomas’s” move up to snag Trufant because I think he will have an instant impact for the Falcons. Let’s not forget that the Falcons were 11 yards away from the Super Bowl last year, and it’s better to be aggressive because the Falcons really are just one piece away in my belief. I think Trufant can take Atlanta to that level as he is a great cover corner.

Steal of the Draft: Robert Alford

Alford was a bit of a surprising pick in some people’s opinion, but I think he was a great pick. This is a kid who ran a 4.38 40 yard dash. Also, he does not need to step in right away for the Falcons. But, he is full of potential for the Falcons, and he can sit and learn from an experienced vet in Asante Samuel.

Most Questionable Pick: Sean Renfree

I just did not really get this pick. The Falcons have Dominique Davis as a young developmental quarterback. Renfree will most likely be relegated to the practice squad, and with Matt Ryan about to enter his prime, he will likely never see the field in Atlanta.

Overall Grade: B+

The Falcons addressed their secondary, but after that, some of their picks will most likely not have an impact right away. Still, it was a good draft for Thomas Dimitroff and the Falcons.