2012 Atlanta Falcons Mock Draft: 7 Rounds After Compensatory Picks

The Atlanta Falcons have decided to stick with the players they have going into next year, instead of opting for the major free-agent splash that everyone expected.

However, the Falcons could end up much better after this draft.

They were awarded an extra seventh-round pick once the compensatory selections were announced. Now the Falcons have six picks to get the right guys to help take the team to the top.

2nd Round Pick (No. 55 Overall)

Brandon Thompson, Defensive Tackle, 6'2" 314 pounds

Clemson 

Brandon Thompson has been brought in for a visit with the Falcons and his mass, along with his style of play, will be a great fit in defensive coordinator Mike Nolan and head coach Mike Smith's new defense. Thompson is a big quick penetrator who can play the nose in the three and four-lineman looks.

3rd Round Pick (No. 84 Overall)

Ladarius Green, Tight End, 6'6" 238 pounds

 Louisiana - Lafayette

Green is a good fit as a receiving option at tight end for a year while Tony Gonzalez trains him up to be his replacement. He's got excellent body control in the offense and gets separation.

Green's issues, however, are correctable in blocking technique and route running.

5th Round Pick (No. 157 Overall)

Donald Stephenson, Offensive Tackle, 6'6" 312 pounds

Oklahoma 

Donald Stephenson is a greatly athletic, if not raw, tackle.

His agility and kick step have put him towards the top when people talk about guys who are going to be good pass blockers at the next level.

His biggest issues, however, are technique and hand usage. Pat Hill will have fun turning this project into a starter.

6th Round Pick (No. 192 Overall)

Robert Blanton, Cornerback/Safety, 6'1" 208 pounds

Notre Dame

Robert Blanton is a bigger corner and fits in with Mike Nolan's idea of a big nickel player and he can also fit as a reserve safety.

Blanton adds depth and is the type of player general manager Thomas Dimitroff is looking for as he is a team leader who is willing to do whatever it takes to win.

7th Round Pick (No. 229 Overall)

Junior Hemingway, Wide Receiver, 6'1", 225 pounds

Michigan

Hemingway is a speedy fourth option in the passing game. He has good speed in and out of breaks and can get separation.

He got around 30 catches, 600 to 700 yards a year and four touchdowns as an option in the Michigan passing game. Hemingway also returned punts in college and could compete for that job as well.

7th Round Pick (No. 249 Overall, Compensatory)

Garth Gerhart, Center/Guard, 6'1" 305 pounds

Arizona State University

Garth Gerhart is an excellent fit as depth at the guard and center spots. Gerhart has a Todd McClure aura about him as a tough nasty player who has been leading an offensive line for four years. Gerhart is also a quick and powerful player who fits in either a power blocking or a man blocking scheme.

Undrafted Free Agent Candidate

Charles Mitchell, Safety, 5'11" 202 pounds

Mississippi State

Mitchell is a ballhawk who could surprise in camp by winning a starting job.

He is a good fit for the reserve safety competition and could help out on special teams as well as depth.