The Atlanta Falcons have wrapped up the 2018 draft and what a whirlwind it was welcoming new birds to the nest. I'm going to give my thoughts and grades on the players the team selected in this class so sit back and relax because I know reactions are coming after this one.
Round 1 Calvin Ridley WR Alabama
Atlanta was probably aiming for Da'Ron Payne or Vita Vea in the first round to put next to Grady Jarrett but they moved to the next position of need which was receiver. Calvin Ridley is a speedy receiver that can run the proper routes and become another threat for the Falcons offense on third down and in the red zone.
Ridley's career at Bama could have been a bit greater but they were a run dominate team. He was explosive and came through in the clutch at Bama, so the Falcons hope it transitions to the next level to replace Taylor Gabriel playmaking and take pressure off of Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu. Remember Sanu is nearing the end of his deal meaning this could be insurance.
Grade: A+
Round 2 Isaiah Oliver CB Colorado
The Falcons fell victim to injuries the last two seasons at the cornerback and even lost Trufant for the season during the 2016 Super Bowl run, so depth is a plus at this position. Oliver is a definite need in an NFC South that includes 3 rivals that cab put up points. A speedy playmaker is what Quinn likes so this was a brainer.
Grade: A
Round 3 Deadrin Senat DT South Florida
The Falcons finally got a defensive tackle as they added a bull (how ironic) in the middle to replace Poe. The 315-pound space eater will help the Falcons in the run game and they could use his strength (35 reps at the combine) to help move the pile.
Grade: B+
Round 4 Ito Smith RB Southern Mississippi
Atlanta got the insurance they needed with Tevin Coleman possibly playing his last season with the Falcons or becoming trade bait before the trade deadline. Smith is a speedster that could also help in the passing game and become a game breaker Atlanta's face paced offense.
Grade: B
Round 6 Russell Gage WR LSU/ Foyesade Oluokun LB/S Yale
The Falcons moved up at took the burner Russell Gage from LSU in the 6th round. Gage can come in and contribute on special teams right away and help on designed plays on offense.
Atlanta also took Yale linebacker/Safety hybrid Oluokun in the 6th round after Gage. He could also help on special teams but could also develope as an outside linebacker or Free safety depending on where coach Quinn needs him. He was awarded as an All-Ivy league second teamer, so he is also a playmaker.
Grade: C
The Falcons made the best of the draft like they've done the last three since coach Quinn took over and it seems that they got the impact players they were focusing on.
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