The Atlanta Falcons hold the No. 17 overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft after a season that didn't quite match their expectations. The team started hot, but they fell apart mid-way through the season and weren't able to recover. A return to the playoffs next year is a real possibility. However, drafting a bust could cause them to take a step back in 2016. Here are three players the Falcons need to avoid in the first round:
3. Scooby Wright, MLB, Arizona Wildcats
Wright has talent, but he shouldn't be the Falcons' first round pick. He had a monster sophomore season, but took a step back in his junior year because of injuries. While he'd fit in the team's 4-3 defense, he'd be a much better and more productive player in a 3-4 scheme. Those injury issues might not go away and Wright is better off being taken in the second round. He's a fun player to watch, but isn't worth taking No. 17 overall despite the team's need at LB.
2. Reggie Ragland, MLB, Alabama Crimson Tide
Another MLB makes this list in Ragland. Ragland was great at Alabama, but he might have been a beneficiary of the talent surrounding him. He's too slow to be worthy of a first round pick. Like Wright, he's worth taking in round two if he drops. Ragland is best in a 3-4 defense, the same issue Wright has. Ragland wouldn't be an awful pick, but the Falcons are better off hoping that Notre Dame's Jaylon Smith falls to them.
1. Jayron Kearse, S, Clemson Tigers
Kearse has drawn comparisons to Kam Chancellor because of their size and play style, but he has some serious deficiencies in his game. He's a liability in coverage and isn't even that great against the run. Kearse could have troubles covering tight ends in the NFL, which has become a necessity for safeties. He's not worth taking in the first round, although there is a chance he could find success as an in-the-box safety when paired with a true free safety. The Falcons have to avoid Kearse.
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