5. Atlanta Falcons – Defensive Line
The Falcons have an offense to be wary of and a young defense that seems to have some upside, but it needs depth and a few more playmakers. Specifically, Atlanta needs some help along their defensive line with an added emphasis on pass rushers.
Jonathan Babineaux could be heading towards retirement, Tyson Jackson has been released, and despite his surprise performance in the Super Bowl, questions still linger for Grady Jarrett. Dwight Freeney could also be on his way out, so the gaps are obvious.
How the Falcons will attack those issues in the NFL Draft remains to be seen, but in all likelihood, their first two picks will be used on defensive linemen that fit their defensive philosophy. So whether it’s a pass rusher in the first and a 3-technique defensive tackle in the second or visa versa, expect the Falcons to fill those gaps on defense.
4. Oakland Raiders – Linebacker
The Raiders needed a running back, but that sounds like it’s close to resolving itself with the potential acquisition of Marshawn Lynch. So with that out of the way, Oakland can turn their attention to the linebacker position.
With Malcolm Smith departing to the San Francisco 49ers, and the team missing out on Zach Brown to the Washington Redskins, the Raiders find themselves in a position of need at linebacker. Perry Riley Jr. also remains unsigned, only adding to their urgency to find some help.
Although Oakland will also have to target some defensive linemen to help shore up those position, it’s entirely plausible they draft a linebacker with their first of eight picks in the upcoming draft. And by all accounts, they’ll target a versatile player who is both capable against the run and in coverage.
3. New York Giants – Offensive Tackle
There’s absolutely no denying what the Giants need heading into the 2017 NFL Draft: an offensive tackle. A stout offensive tackle. An offensive tackle who can come in and make an impact right away.
Unfortunately for the Giants, there may not be one of those available in the first round. As the draft nears, stock seems to be dropping for the entire offensive tackle pool. And that’s a big problem for general manager Jerry Reese & Co.
But that certainly doesn’t mean the Giants won’t draft a tackle or possibly even two. It simply means it may not happen in Round 1. Despite their desperate need at the position, they could also go running back, linebacker or defensive line.
However things shake out, the Giants at least need to find some depth at the position. Ereck Flowers has not progressed as expected and their sole reserve is Michael Bowie. Who? Exactly.
2. Dallas Cowboys – Secondary
The Dallas Cowboys have an impressive offense and that’s unlikely to change in 2017, but they’ve certainly taken a hit in their defensive secondary.
In 2015, the Cowboys sported a rather horrendous group at cornerback and safety. And while that did improve a bit in 2016, free agency has cost the team cornerbacks Brandon Carr and Morris Claiborne, as well as safeties Barry Church and J.J. Wilcox.
In a division that features names like Odell Beckham Jr., Brandon Marshall, Terrelle Pryor, Nelson Agholor and Alshon Jeffery, those losses in the secondary hurt. And as good as their offense may be, the Cowboys can’t risk a secondary secondary.
Whether it’s a cornerback or safety, the Cowboys have to go with one or more early in the draft. Based on their list of pre-draft visits, it seems like they are prepared to do so.
1. Cleveland Browns – Quarterback
27 quarterbacks have come and 27 quarterbacks have failed since 1999. For the Cleveland Browns, it’s a curse unlike many in the NFL, and their fans pray it’s broken in 2017.
The Browns have two picks in the first round of the NFL Draft, but despite their absolutely dire need for a franchise quarterback, the No. 1 overall pick is unlikely to be used on one. Rather, the Browns are expected to select Texas A&M defensive end Myles Garrett and rightfully so. Garrett is easily the best prospect in the draft and he’s just not someone the Browns can pass up.
Luckily for Cleveland, they’ll get a second pick at No. 12 overall, and that’s when they’ll likely pinpoint their next investment at the quarterback position.
Who will be remaining at No. 12 is anyone’s guess; the quarterback pool is rich with high-potential players and there are a number of quarterback-needy teams. That may mean the Browns don’t get their first choice, but they’ll likely land a solid prospect nonetheless.
