Here are the top five inside linebacker prospects (with projected round):
1. Denzel Perryman, 5-foot-10 ¾, 242 pounds, Miami (second): The knock on Perryman is that's he's short and can't cover running backs out of the backfield. He's an old-fashion run-and-hit linebacker, who packs a punch. While not the fastest linebacker, some believe that his football instincts will allow him to become a successful pro.
2. Paul Dawson, 6-0, 235, Texas Christian (second-third): He had a very poor combine workout, but had a stellar career at TCU. He led the Horned Frogs in tackles as a junior and turned in a monster season with 128 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, five sacks and four interceptions in 2014.
3. Benardrick McKinney, 6-4, 246, Mississippi State (second-third): He was Mississippi State's top tackler over his final two seasons. He played in 39 games and made 36 starts. He finished with 244 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks and seven pass breakups over his career.
4. Stephone Anthony, 6-3, 243, Clemson (second-third): He was a first-team All-ACC pick. He had a team-high 90 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 11 quarterback pressures, one interception for eight yards, four pass breakups and two caused fumbles in 711 snaps over 13 games (12 starts).
5. Eric Kendricks, 6-0, 232, UCLA (second-third): The 2014 Butkus Award winner and finished his career as UCLA's all-time leading tackler. He led the Bruins in tackles in each of the past three seasons.
Teams in need: Denver, Green Bay, Indianapolis and Pittsburgh.
Need area for Falcons? Yes, but the Falcons have higher priorities. The Falcons signed Justin Durant in free agency and he's being cross-trained at weakside and middle linebacker.
Top 5 seniors for 2016 draft: 1. Cassanova McKinzey, 6—2, 249, Auburn. 2. Reggie Ragland, 6-2, 244, Alabama. 3. Rodney Hardrick, 6-1, 231, Oregon. 4. Zeek Bigger, 6-2, 228, East Carolina. 5. Kenttrell Brothers, 6-1, 220, Missouri.
