Close Article Return to stream X
NFL

2015 NFL Draft Grades for the Atlanta Falcons

+Read full article

2015 NFL Draft Grades for the Atlanta Falcons

 NFL Draft Grades for the Atlanta Falcons
Getty Images

From the very first pick until the last, the Atlanta Falcons proved they were determined to get back on the right path via the draft. First-rounder Vic Beasley fulfills the desperate need for a pass rusher who can contribute immediately, while running back Tevin Coleman is a stellar asset who could very well start come Week 1. Here are breakdowns and grades for every one of Atlanta’s seven draft picks in 2015.

Round 1 (No. 8): Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson

Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson
Getty Images

Round 1 (No. 8): Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson

Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson
Getty Images

The Falcons made the brilliant decision to draft top-tier pass rusher Vic Beasley No. 8 overall to help upgrade their ability to get after the quarterback. When it comes to registering sacks, there was no one better in the draft than Beasley. Despite there being a possibility he will struggle against the run out of the gate, his ability to wreak havoc on passing downs makes him well worth it.
Grade: A+

Round 2 (No. 42): Jalen Collins, CB, LSU

Jalen Collins, CB, LSU
Getty Images

Round 2 (No. 42): Jalen Collins, CB, LSU

Jalen Collins, CB, LSU
Getty Images

It’s no secret Atlanta needed to make an improvement in the secondary. Even though Jalen Collins may be a bit difficult to work with, the gamble will prove to be well worth it if he can come close to making good on his potential. His stellar size is a perfect fit for what new head coach Dan Quinn wants his defense to look like, which means there’s a good chance Collins starts in Week 1, if he’s able to handle it.
Grade: B+

Round 3 (No. 73): Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana

Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana
Getty Images

Round 3 (No. 73): Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana

Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana
Getty Images

Outside of Beasley, my favorite pick by the Falcons is definitely Tevin Coleman. In fact, don’t be surprised if he’s No. 1 on the depth chart come Week 1. New offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan has to be a huge fan of the Coleman selection because of the different attributes he brings to the game. His outstanding vision will give him a huge upper hand, while his ability to accelerate on a dime makes him a premier talent.
Grade: A

Round 4 (No. 107): Justin Hardy, WR, East Carolina

Justin Hardy, WR, East Carolina
Getty Images

Round 4 (No. 107): Justin Hardy, WR, East Carolina

Justin Hardy, WR, East Carolina
Getty Images

Despite Julio Jones and Roddy White doing work in the receiving game, Atlanta has no true No. 3 on the depth chart. That’s where Justin Hardy comes into play. Hardy will have the opportunity to become the top slot receiver on the team due to a superb quickness and stellar route-running skills. He also will get plenty of work on the outside, which makes him a difficult threat to cover.
Grade: A

Round 5 (No. 137): Grady Jarrett, DT, Clemson

Grady Jarrett, DT, Clemson
Getty Images

Round 5 (No. 137): Grady Jarrett, DT, Clemson

Grady Jarrett, DT, Clemson
Getty Images

Possibly the biggest steal for the Falcons in the draft was Grady Jarrett. The defensive tackle worked seamlessly with Beasley at Clemson to form a dangerous pass-rushing duo. Where Beasley will create pressure on the outside, Jarrett will be causing all sorts of issues as an interior pass rusher. Even if Jarrett doesn’t start right away, Beasley and Jarrett could form a fantastic combination for years to come.
Grade: A-

Round 7 (No. 225): Jake Rodgers, OT, Eastern Washington

Jake Rodgers, OT, Eastern Washington
Twitter

Round 7 (No. 225): Jake Rodgers, OT, Eastern Washington

Jake Rodgers, OT, Eastern Washington
Twitter

Jake Rodgers won’t have an immediate impact for the Falcons, but he does provide quality depth. As long as he stays hungry, he could get a chance to start in the ensuing years. He has the potential to be a true contributor in both the running and passing game, which makes him a desirable prospect to have on the roster.
Grade: B-

Round 7 (No. 249): Akeem King, S, San Jose State

Akeem King, S, San Jose State
Getty Images

Round 7 (No. 249): Akeem King, S, San Jose State

Akeem King, S, San Jose State
Getty Images

Following what Quinn wants from his defensive backs, selecting Akeem King, who stands at 6'1", makes perfect sense for a potential upgrade at safety. King is an incredibly athletic player who has the capability to be a top-notch playmaker for years to come. He will certainly be competing for a starting job, but it’s more realistic that he will play a big role on special teams in 2015.
Grade: B+

Your Favorites