Back in 2014, the Atlanta Falcons were going through a new makeover by transitioning the team’s defense into more of a 3-4 defense. Former defensive coordinator Mike Nolan, along with assistant GM Scott Pioli, made a strong push for players like Tyson Jackson and Paul Soliai to help establish plays who could fit into the new defensive scheme and help with run-support. Still with these new pieces the team was still desperate for a pass-rusher.
After drafting OT Jake Matthews, it seemed certain that the team would take an edge player would could help boost the team’s pass rush.