Atlanta Falcons Potential First Round Pick: Cody Ford

Fit with the Atlanta Falcons

Cody Ford would fit tremendously well with the Atlanta Falcons. His ability to play both guard and tackle would give the Falcons multiple options. Atlanta needs to replace as many and three starters up front this offseason. Ford could immediately supplant Ryan Schraeder at Right Tackle. Schrader lost his job to Ty Sambrailo late last season.

Cody Ford could also play guard, where Wes Schweitzer has struggled mightily the past two seasons. Right guard Brandon Fusco is also a question mark while recovering from a broken ankle, so either guard spot could be an option for Ford. Ben Garland who started when Fusco went down and was benched, will likely move on to a new team this offseason.

The combination of size and speed that Cody Ford has, is exactly what the Atlanta Falcons need in the zone blocking scheme that coach Dan Quinn favors. One of the problems that the Falcons have had in recent seasons, is converting short yardage scenarios. The smaller, quicker linemen used in the zone blocking scheme, get overpowered at the point of attack.

Cody Ford provides the best of both worlds as a guy who is quick enough to run to a zone and block, yet he can also overwhelm his opponent in a man on man power situation. The nasty streak and willingness to play to the echo of the whistle, is something the Atlanta Falcons offensive line has lacked since the departure of Tyson Clabo and Harvey Dahl.

Rivals Football and Basketball Recruiting offered this short scouting video on Cody Ford via their YouTube channel:

Drafting Cody Ford at number 14 might be a slight reach. However once the NFL Draft Combine starts, we will have a better grasp on what player’s stocks are rising and who’s stock is falling. Should Cody Ford’s stock shoots up the draft boards, or the Falcons trade down on draft night, don’t be surprised to see Cody Ford selected in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.