2017 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterback rush gets bigger

44. For all the upgrades they seemed to make in the off-season, to lose their home opener to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was disconcerting for the Atlanta Falcons. That’s putting it mildly. The defense still struggled and Matt Ryan could move the ball but did not put it in the end zone enough times. It’s the same problems that dogged them throughout 2015 and nothing has gotten better. <p>One of the primary culprits to the constant headache is the pass rush. Jameis Winston had little trouble dealing with it in the opener. Vic Beasley has yet to take a step forward as their anticipated sack artist. That in itself is a huge disappointment. Unless he’s able to turn it around in the near future then the Falcons will be obligated to try finding more help.</p> <p>This time around it won’t be about potential though. They will want more of a guarantee. Somebody who had success against top competition in college. Jonathan Allen is at the top of that list. A unique blend of size, strength, quickness and explosion. He’s got the body to play inside if required but also the athleticism to man the edge as well. Maybe having him in the middle might ease the burden on Beasley.</p>. DE. Alabama. Jonathan Allen . 5. player