2012 NFL Mock Draft: Sideline Scouting's Recent Picks for the Atlanta Falcons

Sidelinescouting.com is probably one of the lesser known draft websites on the internet, but that doesn't mean it's any less effective in determining each team's possible selections in the upcoming NFL draft.

As one of the few sites with a recently-updated seven-round mock draft, let's take a look at their latest projections for the Atlanta Falcons.



Round 2: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

Allen is widely considered one of the top tight end prospects for this year's draft.

A solid blocker and even better receiver, Allen won't be speeding past the secondary anytime soon with his 4.89 40-yard dash time. But at 6'4" and 255 pounds, he'll consistently create the separation needed to get open for Matt Ryan.

With Tony Gonzalez planning to retire after the 2012 season, acquiring a talented tight end like Allen in next month's draft could potentially have Atlanta set at that position for many years to come.

While tight end may not be the Falcons' most pressing need, it'd be hard to pass Allen up if he were to be available for Atlanta's first pick.

Grade: A

Round 3: Vinny Curry, DE/OLB, Marshall

With 112 tackles, 26.5 sacks and 10 forced fumbles in four years with the Thundering Herd, the 6’3” 266-pounder could be the explosive pass rusher desperately needed on the Falcons’ defensive line. 

John Abraham may have just re-signed with the team, but the soon-to-be 34-year-old isn’t getting any younger, and Curry just might be the guy to fill the Predator’s shoes when his time is up.

Curry’s ability to play both defensive end in the 4-3 and outside linebacker in the 3-4 would also undoubtedly make him a fantastic fit for Mike Nolan’s system.  

What’s left to be seen is whether Curry actually falls to the third round—most experts have given him a second-round grade, and some even have him gone in the first.

Grade: A+  

Round 5: Terrance Ganaway, RB, Baylor

Ganaway has become somewhat of a forgotten prospect with the hype of fellow Baylor Bear Robert Griffin III. Though he isn’t exactly the breakaway speed-type at 6’ and 240 pounds, Ganaway played a big role in the team’s success, with 250 carries for over 1500 yards and 21 touchdowns last season—all career highs.

That being said, Ganaway is probably the biggest head-scratcher on this list. If drafted by Atlanta, he would join a crowded backfield of Michael Turner, Jason Snelling and Jacquizz Rodgers.

There are more pressing needs the Falcons should address over running back at this point in the draft. 

Grade: C- 

Round 6: Tyler Nielsen, LB, Iowa

Nielsen was solid in both run support and coverage, and a team leader as a three-year starter for the Hawkeyes.  

Injuries might be the biggest concern for the 6’3” 238-pound linebacker, who was sidelined by a broken vertebrae in his neck eight games into the 2010 season.

But a strong 2011 campaign which saw him start every game on his way to recording 73 tackles, one sack and one forced fumble are all good signs that he could have a productive NFL career if healthy.

At best, Nielsen’s experience at both OLB and ILB would allow him to provide depth at all linebacker positions. At worst, he’ll have a chance to make a name for himself on special teams. 

Grade: B

Round 7: Donald Stephenson, OT, Oklahoma

Injuries and academic issues have kept Stephenson from gaining much experience at Oklahoma, where he didn't quite come into his own at left tackle until his senior season. His poor bench press performance of just 19 reps at last month's combine definitely won’t help his cause, either.

Nevertheless, the towering 6’6” 307-pound lineman showed flashes of potential as a full-time starter last year, and could be an absolute steal for the Falcons in the seventh round.

Stephenson is a developmental player who won’t be starting anytime soon, but he could certainly provide an interesting battle with Sam Baker for the backup tackle position.

Grade: B+