10 Best Draft Picks in Atlanta Sports History

Aug 23, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Roddy White (84) makes a move on Tennessee Titans strong safety Bernard Pollard (31) after a catch in the first quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

10. Pete Maravich

“Pistol Pete” was the 3rd overall selection in the 1970 NBA Draft. After one of the greatest college careers ever at LSU, he was an all-star with the Hawks.

While his best years were with the New Orleans Jazz, he did have a productive four year start to his career with the Hawks. He averaged over 24 PPG and 5 assists per game during his time in Atlanta. He guided the Hawks to the playoffs in each of his first three years. After the 1974 season he was traded to New Orleans for a handful of players and draft picks.

9. Roddy White

Looking at things through the prism of “right now”, Julio Jones is a better player; but what Roddy White has meant to the Atlanta Falcons during his career is pretty substantial, and Julio has a way to go.

After being the 27th overall selection in the 2005 draft, it took Roddy a couple of years to reach his potential in the NFL. But once he did in 2007, he became an elite wide receiver. SIX consecutive 1,000 yard receiving seasons including a pair of 100+ reception years and 10+ touchdown years in there. He was a key cog in the best stretch in Falcons history (2008-2012).