Draft season is nearing its climax, and rumors are flowing expeditiously. The Falcons hold the 8th overall pick, and Todd McShay of ESPN had a few notes about what he’s hearing pertaining to Atlanta’s potential plans.
This might be the most likely cornerback selection in the top 10, as long as both Witherspoon and Gonzalez aren’t already off the board. Landing one of those two to play opposite A.J. Terrell gives this defense an extremely talented duo on the outside.
If neither are there, though, I gather the Falcons could explore a trade back. You also might have heard some rumblings about Texas running back Bijan Robinson here, and he could be the pick if the corners aren’t available.
I don’t think any Falcons fan would be against Devon Witherspoon or Christian Gonzalez; both seem prime to become the next crop of elite cover men, and A.J. Terrell needs a long-term running mate. Jeff Okudah could be the other half of that future duo, but nobody would say his ceiling is higher than either Witherspoon or Gonzalez after several poor seasons riddled with injuries.
McShay isn’t the only insider who believes trading back is a legit possibility for the Falcons. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported something similar. Moreover, several insiders, including Peter King among the aforementioned McShay and Breer, believe Bijan Robinson is absolutely in play for the Falcons.
Fans might want to come to grips with a scenario where the Texas product is Atlanta’s first-round pick. It makes sense from multiple angles. He’s arguably one of the most talented prospects in the class, and Terry Fontenot has preached a best player available draft philosophy ad nauseam. It’s also a perfect schematic fit — the Falcons’ run heavy offense married to the best running back in the draft.
There are narratives working against this Bijan Robinson possibility, though. Positional value certainly is the driving force in not selecting him in the top 10. Tyler Allgeier being under contract at a fraction of the Robinson’s potential salary is another.
It’ll be up to Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot to weigh the pros and cons of drafting Robinson, but it’s beginning to look likely. He’s the overwhelming favorite to be the 8th overall pick.
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