SB Nation’s latest mock draft has the Atlanta Falcons selecting a guard with the 31st overall pick

The Atlanta Falcons will eventually have to prepare for the NFL Draft. By then they will be Super Bowl champions with an eye towards continued success. But what will their priorities be? Where will they look to improve?

The Falcons offensive line has been reliable and durable this season. They’ve literally handed quarterback Matt Ryan the opportunity to be great. But as good as they’ve been, Chris Chester and Andy Levitre aren’t getting any younger. I think you can safely pencil in guard as a position of need.

SBNation broke out their first mock draft earlier this week. If you ask them, the Falcons won’t just prioritize drafting a guard. Nope, they’ll go further; they will actually draft a guard with their first round pick.

31. Atlanta Falcons: Forrest Lamp, G, Western Kentucky

While it’s tempting to give the Falcons a player on the defensive line, it seems like Dan Quinn could find a player in the middle of the draft who fits the scheme. If they don’t go after a defensive lineman early, a player like Lamp could come right in and plug into the right guard position.

Couple things worth noting here. I respect Dan Kadar but apparently he thinks we’re going to lose the Super Bowl. Not cool, Dan. Second, the Falcons would be lucky to land Lamp. He’d need to convert from tackle but he showcased his elite potential against some big name teams in college. He’s apparently trying to overcome a high ankle sprain and may not play in the Senior Bowl. If that happens, his draft stock could drop. That said, the Falcons have shown their not afraid to “reach” to get their guy in the first round. And look how that worked out in 2016.

Something to ruminate on; that’s all. I’ll now redirect you back to your regularly scheduled pre-Super Bowl giddiness.