Atlanta Falcons Mock Draft: Full Analysis of Each Potential Pick

Much to the disappointment of many fans, the Atlanta Falcons decided against making their usual big splash this offseason, choosing instead to bring back their core group of players.

Unfortunately, that lack of excitement may continue into this year’s draft with the team’s biggest areas of need lying in the trenches.

But Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff isn’t there to make the "sexiest" moves, he’s there to pick the players that can best help his team win a championship.

And you can bet he’s going to continue doing just that come draft day.  

So without further ado, here’s how I see the 2012 NFL Draft unfolding for the Atlanta Falcons.  

Second Round, 55th Overall

DT Brandon Thompson

I have a feeling the Falcons will be drafting the big boys early and often in this year’s draft, and what better way to start than acquiring one of the top defensive tackles available?

A 6’2” 314-pound senior out of Clemson, Thompson is a disruptive run defender with a quick first step to complement his great strength.

While not known for his pass-rushing ability, the former Tiger nonetheless showed he could get to the quarterback with three sacks last season.

He still has room for improvement, but there’s no question Thompson would instantly upgrade one of the league's weaker defensive tackle rotations.   

Third Round, 84th Overall

DE Cam Johnson

Cam Johnson is the popular choice here on many mock drafts, and understandably so.

He only recorded four sacks last season, but Johnson is regarded as one of the better pass rushers available in the draft with a motor that never stops.

While best suited for a 4-3 scheme, the 6’3” 268-pound senior out of Virginia could also play in a 3-4, giving him added value with Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan planning to use both looks next season.

Johnson won’t be an immediate starter, but he would easily find a spot in the Falcons’ pass-rushing rotation as he develops into John Abraham’s eventual successor at the right defensive end position.

Fifth Round, 157th Overall

OT Nate Potter

As much as Falcons head coach Mike Smith may not want to admit it, Sam Baker is not the long-term answer at left tackle.

It’s time to bring in someone who can compete for that role, and Boise State’s Nate Potter could definitely be that guy.

Potter isn’t the most explosive pass protector available at this point the draft, but he more than makes up for that with great technique and quickness.

His experience is an added bonus after having started every game at left tackle the past two seasons, yet the 6’6” 303-pounder will need to improve on his strength before stepping in as a full-time starter at the next level.  

Sixth Round, 192nd Overall

QB B.J. Coleman

I’d like to say right off the bat I don’t think Atlanta should select a quarterback in this year’s draft.

But this mock draft isn’t about what I think the Falcons should or shouldn’t do—it’s about what I think they will do.  

And I think they will draft B.J. Coleman to compete for Chris Redman’s back-up spot.

A three-year starter for Tennessee-Chattanooga, Coleman has prototypical size at 6’3” and 233 pounds. He has a strong arm and looks to have the ability to make every throw at the NFL level.  

Coleman’s biggest weakness may be pocket awareness, but otherwise he has all the looks of a solid, pure pocket passer.

Seventh Round, 229th Overall

WR Devon Wylie

With Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter looking to implement a four-verticals scheme in Atlanta, he’ll need someone better than Kerry Meier, Kevin Cone or Drew Davis to play that fourth spot.

Fresno State's Devon Wylie would be a great fit.

While just 5’9” and 189 pounds, Wylie is one of the fastest receivers available in this year’s draft after running a 4.39 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. He also has added value with his ability to step in immediately as a returner.

He’s a raw player who has been slowed down by injuries throughout most of his career, but Wylie’s versatility and talent might give him a legitimate chance at earning a spot on the Falcon’s final roster.  

Seventh Round, 249th Overall

S Tavon Wilson

Atlanta needs some depth at safety behind Thomas Decoud and William Moore, and Wilson is a player who could fit that role.

The senior out of Illinois has an ideal frame for the spot at 6' 205 pounds, and could possibly compete for the extra defensive back position in Nolan’s big nickel scheme. His experience at both the cornerback and safety positions may help in that regard.  

However, Wilson would more than likely end up contributing on special teams while he works on improving his coverage and tackling skills in his first few seasons.