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The Falcons lost an ugly game today, one that took them from playoff hopeful to top ten draft pick. While it was a bitter, disappointing end to the 2014 season, the Falcons are set up to acquire real talent in the draft ahead.
Atlanta went from possibly winning NFC South on last day of season to having 8th overall pick in draft.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 29, 2014
That's not an ideal spot, perhaps, but a top ten pick is a top ten pick. In a class with some intriguing pass rushers, Atlanta will be in a position to acquire badly needed talent on the defensive side of the ball in the first round. They have most of their selections next year, as well, so no matter how much shuffling takes place on the coaching staff and in the front office, this team will have an opportunity to improve. Throw in close to $30 million in cap space and you've got yourselves a small party, at least.
Here's the full draft order from Bucs Nation:
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Along with the inevitable coverage of staffing changes, we'll have a ton of draft profiles, mock drafts and more in the months ahead, so stay tuned for that.
The Falcons have had the eighth pick a total of three times in their history, and they've made one terrific pick, one middling one and one terrible one.
@TheFalcoholic Falcons historic 8th picks: Jamaal Anderson, Deangelo Hall, Bob Whitfield
— Paul (@GaVaHokie) December 29, 2014
It is worth noting that the #8 pick isn't everything. Draft position matters less than excellent scouting and smart selections, so we'll have to hope the Falcons can nail the upcoming class and set themselves up well for 2015 and beyond.
Who's on your early list of preferred draft picks?