Top remaining draft needs for the Atlanta Falcons

Whether you like, love, or hate the Takkarist McKinley pick, we can all agree he’s going to step in and attempt to solve one of the team’s most persistent issues: The lack of a gifted complementary pass rusher. That need has been filled, at least for now, and the Falcons have just three selections left with which to get better.

Given that, I thought it would be instructive to look at the team’s top remaining needs

#1: Safety

I would rank guard higher, here, but I suspect the Falcons would not. Perhaps I’ll be proven wrong later tonight.

This is a team that wants to play three safeties at once at times, has casually mentioned a desire to upgrade free safety, and has to like the fact that there are still many intriguing options left at the position. Don’t be surprised if a safety gets his name called at #63.

#2: Guard

A big one. If Wes Schweitzer is ready to step in and start, or Hugh Thornton miraculously finds the talent that made him interesting for the Colts early on, you’re all set for this year. Those are big ifs, though, and Atlanta would be wise to try to shore up the position further. Also, Andy Levitre won’t be here forever.

#3: Defensive Tackle

The Falcons could still use a slashing interior presence alongside Grady Jarrett, and with Dontari Poe and Ra’Shede Hageman not locks to return in 2018, this is a potentially huge long-term need. There are some talented defensive tackles left on the board, including Malik McDowell.

#4: Tackle

There is no swing tackle on this roster. The Falcons should probably go get one.

#5: Linebacker

Especially if McKinley primarily plays end, the Falcons have a real need here for depth with the upside to start later on. Expect them to look hard at linebacker in the later rounds.