Atlanta Falcons Pre-Draft Press Conference Reactions
By John Buhler
Atlanta Falcons HC Dan Quinn and GM Thomas Dimitroff had their pre-draft press conference this afternoon. Both gentlemen seem in sync with each other as they gear up for the First Round Thursday night in Chicago.
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It appears that the former Seattle DC Quinn will lean on Dimitroff when discussing players on the offensive side of the ball. That’s understandable as Coach Q brings a more defensive-minded philosophy to the Falcons from the Pacific Northwest. Dimitroff drafts well in regards to offensive players (Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Jake Matthews). Quinn has to take charge in the war room if Atlanta chooses to select a pass rusher 8th Overall.
The Atlanta Falcons front office entertains the idea of moving both up and down in the draft order. Dimitroff claims that the Falcons are a first contact for many teams looking to reposition themselves within the draft. This makes sense as Atlanta moved up the pecking order to draft Julio Jones in 2011 and Desmond Trufant in 2013.
From the questions asked by the reporters in the press conference, it seems that Atlanta looks to draft a RB and a WR as well as a pass rusher next weekend. Quinn wants high character guys that ‘play angry’ and fit well in within the new HC’s scheme. To quote GM Thomas Dimitroff on Quinn, “his approach is what is going to turn this football team around.”(23:32)
Head Coach Dan Quinn didn’t take the bait when asked about UGA RB Todd Gurley. He applauded this year’s talented crop of tailbacks collectively. Coach Quinn did say, “Man, is he tough” when talking about Mr. Gurley. Quinn isn’t overly concerned if an RB’s skill set is like that of Falcons starting RB Devonta Freeman.
The NFL Draft begins Thursday night at 8PM ET from Chicago. Television coverage will be courtesy of ESPN.