Falcons 2023 draft class has potential to make big impact as rookies

The Falcons brought in a six-man draft class this offseason, and they have the potential to make a significant impact as rookies. Let’s check out the first-year Falcons, how their offseason is going, and what their 2023 season could hold:

Round 1 (Pick 8): Bijan Robinson: The Texas product has already shown what’s capable of on one drive. Against the Bengals, Robinson showed the kind of dynamic runner he is. He’ll garner a ton of touches via the run and pass game, likely more than anyone on the offense. Robinson will be in the conversation for the Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Round 2 (Pick 38): Matthew Bergeron: Before training camp, many expected Bergeron to win the left guard position battle over Matt Hennessy. However, the veteran started camp with the first team, but an injury has cemented the second-round pick as the starter. He’s looked respectable in pass protection and menacing as a run blocker. The Falcons offensive line has the potential to be elite.

Round 3 (Pick 75): Zach Harrison: I couldn’t have been more wrong on Zach Harrison. Coming out of Ohio State, I (along with many others) dubbed him a project. He’s shown already that isn’t the case. He’s working with the second-team defense and has shown an ability to rush the passer and defend the run throughout training camp. Harrison has played himself into the defensive line rotation.

Round 4 (Pick 113): Clark Phillips III: The undersized Phillips dropped to the fourth round because of his lack of size and speed. Still, he’s a menacing football player in other facets that don’t show up at the combine but do on the field. There are a lot of corners bidding for the starting nickel — Mike Hughes and Dee Alford — so Phillips might have a tough time. I do think we see him regularly at some point.

Round 7 (Pick 224): DeMarcco Hellams: Like Harrison, I couldn’t have been more wrong on Hellams. I expected him to be a contributor on special teams, but he’s shown that he might be able to contribute as a safety in a pinch. If injuries arise, the Falcons can turn to Jaylinn Hawkins and Hellams. He’s recorded a pair of interceptions in the preseason and has solidified himself over Micah Abernathy on the depth chart.

Round 7 (Pick 225): Jovaughn Gwyn: Out of this class, Gwyn might be the only one without a roster spot. At worst, he’ll end up on the practice squad, though.

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