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Dan Quinn orchestrated a defensive rejuvenation by adding the fast and physical Keanu Neal and Deion Jones. They traded down a few spots before selecting Jones, and picked up a much needed 6th round pick. The team fixed two positions without any real talent or depth, and now have the option to improve other positions.
With the 81st pick of the draft, the Falcons selected Standford TE Austin Hooper.
#Falcons select Stanford TE Austin Hooper
— D. Orlando Ledbetter (@DOrlandoAJC) April 30, 2016
Well sure, when you have so much success with Levine Toilolo, you go back to Tight End U. Hooper differs a lot from Toilolo, in that he is a really solid player. Looking at his measurables, and you can feel Dan Quinn's presence: 6-foot-4, 254-pounds, with a 4.72 40 and 7.00 3-cone. This guy is big and fast.
At 81, this is great value, and Hooper should provide a quick impact supplementing current starter Jacob Tamme. Most had him as the second best tight end in the draft, after only Hunter Henry. He needs to work on his hands, but can run block well and provides the downfield speed the Falcons offense desperately needed.
Falcons Selections
Round 1, Pick #17: S Keanu Neal
Round 2, Pick #52: LB Deion Jones
Round 3, Pick #81: TE Austin Hooper
Round 4, Pick #115
Round 6, Pick #195
Round 7, Pick #238
Top Remaining Needs
#1: Pass rusher
#2: Guard
#3: Cornerback
#4: Tackle
Draft Schedule & Channels
Second & Third Rounds
When: Friday, April 29, 7 p.m.
TV Channels: ESPN & NFL Network
Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, & Seventh Rounds
When: Saturday, April 30, 12 p.m.
TV Channels: ESPN & NFL Network