2018 NFL Mock Draft: Josh Rosen, Sam Darnold lead the way
By Brad Weiss
Maurice Hurst
Defensive Tackle, Michigan
The Atlanta Falcons have found their mojo, and are coming off an impressive victory over the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football. Atlanta had quite the hangover after blowing their 28-3 lead in the Super Bowl last February, but they have seemed to right the ship in recent weeks. With their win over the Saints, they are firmly back in the playoff hunt, and they have the talent on both sides of the ball to make another run.
If they continue to play well, they will likely be picking towards the bottom of the first round, and they may want to use the pick on a defensive lineman. The team drafted Takkarist McKinley in the first round last year, and while he has had a rough rookie season, you can never have too much talent up front. Maurice Hurst from Michigan is a tremendous player, and one who could be used in many roles within the Falcons defense.
The offense in Atlanta is one of the best in the business, so it makes sense that they would use their top pick in 2018 on the defense. The defense has some huge names on it as well, but playing in the NFC South, you need to continue to bring in players who can get after the quarterback. This franchise has the talent to be good for a long time, and it all starts with them continuing to find success via the NFL Draft.