Is it time for the Atlanta Falcons to draft a new backup quarterback?
The Falcons have used a number of different backups since drafting Matt Ryan, but should the team use the NFL Draft to find a long-term option?
Matt Ryan has been a model of consistency since he joined the NFL, only missing two games in his career. He has also been one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks throughout his career, winning the MVP award in 2016.
He will likely sign the biggest contract in NFL history in a few weeks, securing him for another five or six years.
Although he will likely still put up big numbers through his next contract, injury issues might start to occur as he moves into his mid/late thirties.
Ryan’s current backup is Matt Schaub, who at 36 years old, is not exactly the definition of a spring chicken.
Schaub has had highs and lows throughout his NFL career, but his contract expires after this upcoming season.
Although the Falcons could decide to resign him again after this contract, it might be smarter to draft a developmental prospect who could turn into their long-term backup.
Trevor Knight is on the practice squad, but he would be hard to trust as an important backup considering his struggles in college.
The Falcons also have Garrett Grayson signed to a futures contract, but the former third-round pick has struggled to make an impact, even in preseason games.
Grayson threw 35 passes for the Falcons in the 2017 preseason, but only completed 42.9% of them, took five sacks, and lost a fumble.
It’s hard to imagine the Falcons suddenly viewing him as a long-term replacement for Schaub, despite his lofty draft status.
Who are some of the Falcon’s realistic options in the draft?
The top guys are out of the picture, so you can ignore Rosen, Mayfield, Darnold, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson.
One realistic option for the Falcons might be Kurt Benkert, who started at the University of Virginia the last two years.Benkert threw for almost 6,000 yards, 46 touchdowns, and set the school record for passing yards in a single game.
The redshirt senior displayed a strong arm, but displayed some decision-making issues, as he tossed 20 interceptions over the last two seasons.
He also took 62 sacks and struggled to complete passes outside the pocket.These issues might correctable once he gets into the NFL and his potential could help him become a strong backup for the Falcons.
Another option for the Falcons could be Kyle Lauletta, who threw for over 10,000 yards at Richmond.The biggest knock on Lauletta is arm strength, which could be hard to improve, even inside an NFL training facility.
Although there is always a possibility his arm strength could improve, it might be a hard adjustment against NFL defenders.
Even with these faults, Lauletta could be a smart option due to his smart decision making and his leadership.
Backup quarterbacks tend to win games with smart passes, not with 80-yard bombs. Lauletta could come in for a game or two and play mistake-free football.
Either of these options would be smart for the Falcons, and it’ll be interesting to see if the team drafts one.
The team likely feels their Super Bowl window is open and could see another position as more of an immediate help.
Saying that it might be wise for the team to draft someone now, let him develop behind Ryan, and then slide him in as the main backup once Schaub’s contract expires.