Falcons Focus on Defense During Day Two
After spending their first-round pick on wide receiver Calvin Ridley, the Falcons used both of their day two picks on defensive pieces.
The Falcons pick in the second round of the NFL Draft, was Isaiah Oliver, a cornerback out of Colorado.
Many people had Oliver going in the late-first or early-second round, so the Falcons got a good value out of their pick.
The only question is how they will utilize him during his rookie year? During the past season, the Falcons typically utilized Desmond Trufant, Robert Alford, and Brian Poole.
Oliver will likely play in sub-packages or will be utilized in a situational role to start the season.
If he is able to exceed expectations though, there is a chance he ends up starting multiple games for the team.
He will likely need to work on his tackling if he wants to secure a consistent role though.
One positive is that Oliver is extremely quick, and should be a solid playmaker for the Falcons.
What impact can the Falcons expect from their third round pick?
With their third-round pick of the NFL Draft, the Falcons finally addressed their hole at defensive tackle.
The team used their pick on Deadrin Senat out of South Florida. Senat will likely replace Dontario Poe at the main defensive tackle spot and should see heavy action this season.
He is viewed as a strong player who can take on multiple blocks constantly.
This is a role necessary for the Falcons so they can properly utilize Grady Jarrett and Vic Beasley. Senat likely will struggle with his pass rushing, but if he can open up space for the other defensive linemen, the unit will thrive.
If he starts double-digit games while improving the Falcons’ run defense, this pick is likely a steal.
The team still needs to address their guard positions and could use some more depth on the D-line.
I’m interested to see what route the team takes and how they end up using their day three picks.