Trevor Sikkema released his latest mock draft for PFF, and he has a very interesting choice for the Falcons. With the players on the board, it becomes even more interesting:
https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1620059808366997505?s=20&t=H5-BvtnWyIyIz_5qbnHwKA
Sikkema has the Falcons selecting CB/S Brian Branch. It’s hard to go wrong with Nick Saban defenders, and here’s Sikkema’s rationale:
8. ATLANTA FALCONS: CB/S BRIAN BRANCH, ALABAMA
Though the Falcons’ top need on defense is along the defensive line, I’m not as high on the defensive line talent in this class as it seems others are. The Falcons and general manager Terry Fontenot are committed to building the team the right way. That means not forcing picks at positions of need and instead drafting players they believe will be important contributors, potential second-contract players. Brian Branch has that potential.
As a hybrid defensive back who has played both safety and nickel defender, Branch was an elite run defender (90.7 grade) and an elite coverage player (90.4 grade) while missing just three tackles on over 600 run-defense snaps in his caree
What’s interesting about this pick is that Sikkema actually has CJ Stroud going 9th to the Panthers. I find it hard to believe this regime would pass on another quarterback, especially with how the Justin Fields situation worked out. I don’t covet Branch as much as the other cornerbacks in this class, but Branch makes a lot of sense. I personally love Devon Witherspoon in this spot if he’s available.
We’ll see how this draft shapes up, but all options are on the table for the Falcons.
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Photographer:Â Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire
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