Niner Noise
FanSided

2019 NFL Draft: Full two-round mock for each team across the league

By Peter Panacy

The 2018 NFL Draft logo (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The 2018 NFL Draft logo (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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ANNAPOLIS, MD – OCTOBER 20: Ed Oliver #10 of the Houston Cougars looks on after the Houston Cougars defeated the Navy Midshipmen at Navy-Marines Memorial Stadium on October 20, 2018 in Annapolis, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
ANNAPOLIS, MD – OCTOBER 20: Ed Oliver #10 of the Houston Cougars looks on after the Houston Cougars defeated the Navy Midshipmen at Navy-Marines Memorial Stadium on October 20, 2018 in Annapolis, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

44. . Defensive Tackle. Houston. Ed Oliver. 7. player

Pick a position on the Atlanta Falcons defense and, chances are, it needs an upgrade.

True, the Falcons’ woeful defense has suffered a ton of injuries this season. And there are going to be some players returning to help head coach Dan Quinn’s squad out in 2019. That said, the lack of overall defensive prowess is hurting quarterback Matt Ryan and Co.’s chances of exploiting their current offensive window.

Plus, the offensive prowess within the NFC South mandates Atlanta does something about the defensive side of the ball early and often.

Houston defensive tackle Ed Oliver was considered a top-five candidate for the NFL Draft not long ago. His stock has slipped a bit, namely because of injury, but that doesn’t remove him from being an impact talent up front.

Plus, his presence should open up more opportunities for pass-rushers Vic Beasley and Takkarist McKinley.