There will come a time when the Atlanta Falcons run onto the field and Roddy White is not there. The wide receiver is still under contract for three more seasons after signing an extension prior to 2014, but that is not stopping the Falcons from beginning to prepare for life after White. The franchise wide receiver has struggled with injuries lately and while he is still putting up big numbers, Atlanta is starting to look at wide receivers who can help out for years to come.
On paper, the Falcons have one of the more dynamic wide receiver groups in the NFL. Julio Jones is the clear No. 1 threat as he ranked in the top three this season. Roddy White is a stable No. 2 while Harry Douglas, Devin Hester and Eric Weems rotated for the third spot. However, on the field that was not always the case. Everyone struggled with injuries this season hurting consistency on the field with quarterback Matt Ryan. With the draft approaching and a new coaching staff being put into place, the Falcons are glancing at their wide receiver options.
One mock draft has the Atlanta Falcons selecting Amari Cooper out of Alabama with their first-round pick. That is likely to not happen. While Cooper is a clear talent, the Falcons' first-round needs rest in the defense. However, according to SBNation.com, the Falcons scout team is taking looks at several wide receiver options at the Senior Bowl.
According to Dan Kadar, the Falcons were preparing to interview Miami wide receiver Phillip Dorsett who is known for his speed. Some have him as the fastest player in this year's draft while putting up 871 yards and 10 touchdowns for the Hurricanes last season. If the Falcons opt to wait until the second or third round to grab a wide receiver, Dorsett would be likely be available. Sammie Coates out of Auburn is an option for the team. Devin Smith from Ohio State will be available along with Dorial Green-Beckham from Oklahoma.
First a foremost, getting a contract extension for Julio Jones is a priority for the team. Jones is the top guy on the offense. However, after him is a bunch of players either 30 or older. There is a need for youth on the rotation which means the draft will be the best option going forward. The chances Cooper is taken with their first pick is slim, but nothing can be ruled out from Thomas Dimitroff.
