After nearly winning Super Bowl LI, the Atlanta Falcons are looking to bounce back from their epic collapse on Super Bowl Sunday. With the Falcons being fairly set on offense, their main focus in the offseason resides in their defense. With a solid young core of Deion Jones and Keanu Neal, the Falcons defense has upside to be one of the best in the league some day. However, they are still a few pieces away from entering the upper echelon of defenses. To help push the Falcons over the top, the perfect draft pick for them is University of Michigan linebacker/safety Jabrill Peppers.
Why the Atlanta Falcons Should Draft Jabrill Peppers
Versatility
If there was one thing that was holding back the Falcons defense in 2016, it was a lack of versatility. While Deion Jones was a solid coverage linebacker, he struggled to guard speedy receivers or bigger tight ends. Enter Peppers, who would fit in perfectly alongside Jones and Neal in the defense. A hybrid player, Peppers can thrive in the NFL at either safety position and linebacker. With the speed to cover receivers and the physicality to go at it with tight ends, Peppers is the perfect player for the Falcons defense. One thing to look for is if Atlanta would use him as a cornerback. Peppers played corner for much of his college career. As a rookie, Peppers could be the dynamic playmaker the Falcons rely on to defend their NFC South title.
In addition to being an asset on defense, Peppers is also a great special teams player. As a kick and punt returner, Peppers can thrive for the Falcons. Eric Weems, the current return specialist for Atlanta, is 31. With the Falcons perhaps looking to get younger, Peppers would be the perfect replacement for Weems.
Pro-Ready
If there is one guarantee about Jabrill Peppers, it is that he is ready to play at the NFL level. Peppers is not one to shy away from big games, and played one of his best games in Michigan’s loss to Ohio State this season. With the build of an NFL player and the mentality of a pro, Peppers is ready to compete at the NFL level.
Other Options for Atlanta
If Peppers is not available with the 31st pick in the NFL Draft, there are still other solid options that could be available. One of which is Adoree’ Jackson, who brings the same skill set as Peppers. At cornerback, Jackson is a quick, athletic player who can add more depth at that position for Atlanta. While more of a developmental project than Peppers, Jackson can still be valuable as a return specialist as a rookie. With eight career return touchdowns, Jackson would be a more explosive option than Eric Weems as a returner.
Another option could be Florida State’s DeMarcus Walker, a defensive end with huge upside. With a very refined ability as a pass rusher, Walker could be a great compliment to Vic Beasley on the defensive line.
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