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2020 NFL Draft: Grading the draft class from all 32 teams

By Jeremy Wohlfart

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 13: Joe Burrow #9 of the LSU Tigers reacts to a touchdown against Clemson Tigers during the third quarter in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Mercedes Benz Superdome on January 13, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 13: Joe Burrow #9 of the LSU Tigers reacts to a touchdown against Clemson Tigers during the third quarter in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Mercedes Benz Superdome on January 13, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /
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Clemson Tigers
A.J. Terrell, Clemson Tigers (Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images) /

B-. . . . ATLANTA FALCONS

Team needs

The Atlanta Falcons had a porous defense in 2019, and the Falcons needed multiple upgrades in both the defensive line and the secondary to ensure its 6-2 second half of the season carries on.

Offensively, aging quarterback Matt Ryan needed as much protection as possible with an upgrade needed at left guard especially.

2020 NFL Draft class

  • No. 16: A.J. Terrell, Cornerback, Clemson
  • No. 47: Marlon Davidson, EDGE, Auburn
  • No. 78: Matt Hennessey, Center/Guard, Temple
  • No. 119: Mykal Walker, Linebacker, Fresno State
  • No. 134: Jaylinn Hawkins, Safety, California
  • No. 228: Sterling Hofrichter, Punter, Syracuse

Draft review

I mean I get it, the Falcons desperately needed cornerback help and A.J. Terrell was the best corner arguably one the board. However, Terrell was a slight reach at No. 16, although at least it filled a big need, unlike other reaches.

The Falcons did better on Friday in terms of value. Marlon Davidson should develop into a strong player while upgrading the trenches, while Matt Hennessey is a talented interior lineman who can instantly slide into their starting lineup.

The late picks were pretty much reaches, although that doesn’t matter as much in the later rounds. I’m not sure if Mykal Walker and Jaylinn Hawkins will survive as late picks with below-average physical skills, but they do provide depth in positions of need. Taking a punter, meanwhile, is just a “meh” pick.

The Falcons at least got some nice pieces on the first few days even if Terrell was a slight reach. Considering people don’t care much if Saturday picks bust, this can be viewed pretty favorably.