With the 16th pick in the latest NFL.com 2020 Mock Draft, the Falcons select TCU defensive tackle Ross Blacklock.
NFL Network analytics expert Cynthia Frelund's mock draft had a surprise at the top however -- Ohio State defensive end Chase Young going to the Bengals with the No. 1 overall pick with Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow falling to the Dolphins at No. 5. Read more about the top of the draft here.
As for the Falcons and Blacklock, Frelund believes the 6-foot-3, 290-pounder helps the Falcons fill ‘a big need’ on the defensive line. Blacklock ran the 40-yard dash in 4.9 seconds at the scouting combine and received a 6.4 grade from NFL.Com, which means that he’s projected to be a NFL starter within his first two years in the league.
Here’s what NFL.Com’s Lance Zierlein wrote about Blacklock: “Flashes menacing disruptive qualities as a gap seeker, but is just ordinary when forced to sit and take on blocks. Blacklock rebounded from a 2018 Achilles injury and showed off basketball quickness that was often too much for a single blocker.
“However, his technique and hand usage need work, as he's inconsistent holding the point and keeping his feet. He's a hit-or-miss run defender, but he's a relentless pass rusher with elite lateral quickness and change of direction to exploit interior galoots and open pathways to the pocket.
“Blacklock needs development as a one-gapping three-technique with rare movement talent and intriguing rush potential.”
This move would signal that the Falcons plan to pair a big tackle with Grady Jarrett and rush up the middle to improve their pass rush.
The Bow Tie Chronicles Podcasts:
Can be found on Google, iTunes and TuneIn
For more content about the Atlanta Falcons:
Follow me on twitter @DorlandoAJC
On Facebook at Atlanta Falcons News Now
Atlanta Falcons coverage on the
Have a question? Email me at dledbetter@ajc.com
About the Author
