The last few weeks heading into the NFL Draft the Atlanta Falcons have been linked to running backs in either the first round or via a trade. The Falcons let go of Steven Jackson and Jacquizz Rodgers in the offseason and opted to re-sign Antone Smith to backup Devonta Freeman who is the favored starter. However, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan is making the ground game a priority which has many believing Atlanta is in play for either Todd Gurley in the draft or a trade for Adrian Peterson.
With the No. 8 pick in the NFL Draft, several mock drafts have predicted the Falcons to take Gurley in the first round. The hype around the former Georgia running back is growing by the day as ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr ranks him one of the top all-around athletes in this year's class. With Gurley suddenly predicted to go in the first round, if the Falcons wanted him they would have to draft at No. 8 to do it.
Sports Illustrated's Peter King reports there is no way the Falcons draft Gurley at No.8, writing that while the running back is good, Atlanta has other needs that must be addressed first. This year's draft class is very deep at the running back position and Atlanta's need for another back is not great enough that it needs to be addressed in the first round. During their pre-draft press conference, both Thomas Dimitroff and Dan Quinn made it clear that a running back will be added, but likely not until a middle round with players like Ameer Abdullah or potentially TJ Yeldon as targets.
That will also rule Atlanta out of the Adrian Peterson trade talks. According to Chris Tomasson of the Pioneer Press, the Falcons are one of six teams interested in trading for the Minnesota Vikings' running back which could cost teams upwards of a first-round draft pick. If Atlanta does not want Gurley, they definitely do not want to give up their top pick for Peterson who is 30 and not getting younger.
Instead, the Falcons will likely stay par for the course and draft defense in the first round like most have predicted. Atlanta has taken a look at almost all of the top pass rushers entering the draft and could select one at No. 8 or move up a spot or two for someone. Vic Beasley, Dante Fowler, Leonard Williams, Randy Gregory and Shane Ray are all first-round options as the Falcons eye someone who can help their sack issues from last year.
