The Falcons have been one of the most active teams in the league so far this offseason, making a number of notable additions on defense. That leaves them well-positioned for the upcoming draft, regardless of which direction they end up taking this week. 
Atlanta owns pick No. 8, which should leave them with a number of options on the defensive side of the ball in particular. The Falcons have already invested heavily with deals for safety Jessie Bates and defensive lineman Calais Campbell, along with a trade for cornerback Jeff Okudah. They could add further to their secondary if one or both of Devon Witherspoon and Christian Gonzalez, the class’ top corners, were to be available when they are on the clock.
That position represents one of interest for Atlanta, as noted by ESPN’s Todd McShay. Selecting Witherspoon or Gonzalez would come as little surprise, but both coming off the board earlier could change the Falcons’ plans. Both McShay and SI’s Albert Breer add that a trade down is a distinct possibility, with the latter noting that general manager Terry Fontenot has “explored the idea” of moving a few spots down the board.
Especially if that were to happen, attention in the organization could turn to running back Bijan Robinson. The Texas product is widely seen as one of the most talented prospects at any position, but the devaluation of tailbacks has led to a large range with respect to his floor and ceiling in the draft. Both McShay and Breer name Robinson as a prospect of interest for the Falcons in the middle of the first round, and Peter King of NBC Sports has them drafting Robinson in his mock draft (adding that doing so later on Day 1 would provide better value).
Robinson won the Doak Walker award as the nation’s top running back in 2022, adding All-American honors following his hugely productive junior season. That will make him a valuable addition to any team, though the Falcons enjoyed plenty of success on the ground last season with their incumbent options. That includes fifth-rounder Tyler Allgeier, who posted 1,035 rushing yards as a rookie. Robinson would represent not only another investment in the backfield for Atlanta, but the latest in a string of premium picks being used at the offensive skill positions (including tight end Kyle Pitts in 2021 and wideout Drake London last year). Whether the Falcons elect to follow suit this season will be a key storyline to watch.
Falcons have a few areas where they really need to focus in dur8ng this draft. RB doesn’t really move the needle in my opinion.
That is, UNLESS, they’re able to trade back into #13-15 spot, and they’re able to collect another 2nd Rounder and 3rd/4th rounder or something like that…
The Falcons need depth, they need speed on defense, another WR, and they need to get better in both of their trenches.
This draft will be pivotal for the Falcons, and it could make the difference in just how fast they’re able to rebuild this team. They cannot afford to mess this up, or take.any unnecessary gambles
If Arthur Smith can squeeze 1k yards out of Allgeier imagine having Bijan and what could happen. Ridder would need to be at least an average game manager and Bijan would be highly productive….But I agree, trade back into the teens b/c an RB at 8 is too for a team still rebuilding.
I think ATL is most likely to drop down to the teens, and I think UGA OT Broderick Jones/ CBs Witherspoon/ Gonzalez/Porter Jr, & RB Bijan Robinson represent the most likely candidates.