Pre-draft visits always lead to plenty of speculation of what direction a team is going to go in come May. The Atlanta Falcons have been focusing on three main areas when looking at potential picks. The team has looked at pass rushers like Jadeveon Clowney and Khalil Mack, Offensive linemen like Greg Robinson and running backs like Jeremy Hill. All three positions are big needs for Atlanta. So why is the team bringing in wide receivers with just two weeks until selections start?
According NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, the Atlanta Falcons are headed to South Carolina in order to get a close look at wide receiver Bruce Ellington. The SEC standout has seen his stock rise in recent weeks thanks to his big speed and reliable hands. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr, put Ellington at No. 48 in his mock draft while Todd McShay ranks the receiver at No. 60. Would the Falcons draft him that high?
Atlanta does not need a wide receiver. They have two clear No. 1 threats in Julio Jones and Roddy White. They have an excellent No. 3 in Harry Douglas, who is coming off a career-high season. Drew Davis is developing into a strong threat and Levine Toilolo will help make up for the loss of Tony Gonzalez. Is Ellington needed?
Behind those players listed, the Falcons do not have anyone else they can truly rely on. Devin Hester signed in the offseason, but he will mainly be used on special teams and not a constant in the rotation. The loss of Gonzalez hurts considering he was the second-leading pass catcher on the team last year. Douglass has proved himself worthy of Matt Ryan's attention. But injuries hit hard last year and the Falcons are thinking depth over everything.
Jones suffered a season-ending foot injury mid-way through last year just as he was leading the NFL in yards. White was in and out of the lineup thanks to a high ankle sprain suffered in the preseason and hamstring injury that popped up later. Both players are expected to return healthy for the start of the year. Head coach Mike Smith told media that Jones was ahead of schedule on his rehab and has already taken part in team workouts. White healed in the offseason. Ellington would be an excellent option for depth while being a quality slot receiver. If the Falcons are serious about bringing on another wide receiver mid-way through the draft, Kevin Norwood from Alabama and Jordan Matthews could be strong options.
