Atlanta Falcons mock draft: Best and worst-case scenarios for Raheem Morris in 2024 NFL Draft

The Atlanta Falcons made a major impact in free agency by signing quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract. Although the deal only guarantees $90 million, it was clear that the Falcons were fully committed to their new acquisition and sending a strong message.

In order for Raheem Morris to have a successful season as head coach, his team will require support in the 2024 NFL draft. From an external perspective, there are evident gaps in the roster, particularly on the edges and in the receiving department, that must be addressed.

Kyle Pitts’ responsibility will be to exceed expectations as a tight end, while Bijan Robinson aims to alleviate some of the pressure on Cousins by delivering a standout second season in the league.

Despite not being Superbowl contenders in 2024, the Falcons’ roster is brimming with talent, which is why they pursued Cousins so aggressively. With a successful draft, this team has the potential to make it to the playoffs.

In the secondary, there are concerns about A.J. Terrell’s need for more support despite his excellent performance in the 2023 season. This could potentially be addressed by adding another cornerback or a versatile safety who can fulfill various roles in the backfield.

Atlanta must prioritize this position as it holds significant importance, although it may not be as pressing as addressing the concerns at edge rusher and WR.

In a perfect scenario, Atlanta would have the opportunity to select one of the top three wide receiver prospects at No. 8. However, as the draft draws near, it seems highly unlikely that this will occur.

Despite the impressive moves made by the front office in recent years, Atlanta fans should still be aware that any team is capable of a nightmare performance. Therefore, they can continue to have high expectations for their team this year.

It is crucial for the Falcons to secure an elite pass rusher in the first round of any draft. Neglecting this position could have disastrous effects as it is integral to success in the NFL. The ability to pressure opposing QBs is essential for any team to succeed.

In the NFC South, which boasts talented quarterbacks such as Baker Mayfield, Derek Carr, and Bryce Young, it is imperative that Atlanta is able to effectively pressure these players in the 2024 season. Not doing so would be unsustainable.

Predicting the Atlanta Falcons’ 2024 NFL Draft Picks

Falcons mock draft: Dream scenario

Jared Verse remains the top natural pass rusher in this draft class, possessing explosive power off the line and the ability to make offensive linemen appear clumsy with his hand movement.

Although Bralen Trice may be seen as the most determined edge rusher in the class, it would be too big of a gamble for the Falcons to pass on the opportunity to potentially add a Pro Bowl player to their roster. His addition greatly enhances Atlanta’s defense and poses a greater challenge for the opposing quarterbacks they will encounter in the upcoming 2024 season.

With their second selection in the draft, the team adds Florida State’s Keon Coleman to provide quarterback Kirk Cousins with an additional receiving option. Known for his impressive ball skills and rangy build, Coleman is a reliable target who can be counted on to come down with the ball when thrown his way.

Despite concerns regarding his mediocre performance in college, it is important to recognize his potential and the unique qualities he will bring to the table.

It would be unwise to pass up on a receiver with such natural abilities, especially with the presence of Pitts and Robinson to support his development. Cousins will play a crucial role in helping him grow into a top-tier talent over time.

By waiting until their third selection, the team could likely secure Kris Abrams-Draine from Missouri, who is considered one of the top CB options available. Although he may not be as highly-ranked as other players in that position, he possesses excellent size and versatility in the secondary, making him a valuable playmaker.

Tyler Davis, a product of Clemson University, is a highly reliable force on the defensive line. With 52 starts under his belt since 2019, he brings explosiveness in the gap and has the ability to stop runs and disrupt the quarterback.

This fourth pick has allowed the Falcons to add a valuable component to their defense at a reasonable price.

This is the full outcome of their draft class in this particular scenario:

• · Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
• · Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
• · Kris Abrams-Draine, BC, Missouri
• · Tyler Davis, DT, Clemson
• · Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
• · Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia
• · Myles Murphy, DT, North Carolina
• · Bad Okie-Anoma, EDGE, Charlotte

Falcons mock draft: Draft disaster scenario

Although having the 8th pick in the first round is typically seen as a positive for any team, the Falcons may not benefit from it this year. While Brock Bowers is considered the top TE in the draft, the Falcons already have Kyle Pitts on their roster and do not necessarily need another TE. While it may be unfair to label this pick as a waste, it is hard to justify its value, especially with the talented Malik Nabers still available.

In this scenario, Jer’Zhan Newton, a player from Illinois, is chosen in the second round for edge rushing, while Trey Benson, who is projected to be a backup for Bijan Robinson, is the third player picked by the Falcons. Despite this, edge rushing still remains a neglected aspect in the second round.

It would be a major failure for the front office of the Atlanta Falcons to reach the third day of the NFL draft without having drafted an edge rusher or a wide receiver.

While Kris Abrams-Draine was the only player drafted on both lists, the main focus remains on the selection’s value and its prioritization over other areas of need.

Despite being selected as the team’s sixth pick, Nelson Ceaser may not immediately become a starter in his rookie year. His skills may not meet the team’s requirements for this position in the long term. However, his arrival is a welcome help from the sidelines.

Failing to address the team’s needs and selecting this group of players in the NFL draft would demonstrate a lack of understanding and disappoint fans of the Atlanta Falcons greatly.

The complete compilation of worst-case scenario selections is listed below: