| Sign Up | Google+

NFL Mock Draft 2013: Falcons select LSU DE Sam Montgomery

Stay connected for news and updates

USA TODAY Sports

Atlanta could solidify its pass rush by taking Montgomery in the first round.

The Falcons are still playing football in January. That's a good thing — a very good thing. But it's never too early to start looking ahead to April's NFL Draft and trying to project how the Dirty Birds can get even better.

One area Atlanta could look to improve is along the defensive line, particularly in terms of improving its pass rush.

The Falcons were one of the worst teams in the NFL in generating sacks. They recorded just 29 on the year, the fifth-lowest total in the league and second-worst in the NFC.

CBS Sports' Rob Rang thinks Atlanta will address this need with their first pick in this year's draft, selecting defensive end Sam Montgomery from LSU.

While the Falcons possess the best record in the NFC their inability to supply consistent pressure on the opposing quarterback has to be a major concern. The 6-5, 260 pound Montgomery has a quick first step, long arms and the passion to excite scouts but is viewed by some as a bit stiff. At this point in the draft, however, Atlanta might see him as a steal and a potential replacement for the aging John Abraham.

                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Recent Posts

The Next Read

There are 0 Comments. Add Yours. Loading

Shortcuts to mastering the comment thread. Use wisely.

C - Next Comment
X - Mark as Read

R - Reply
Z - Mark Read & Next

Shift + C - Previous
Shift + A - Mark All Read

Comment Settings

Live comment alert: Hide it!

Comments for this post are closed.

Photographs by coka_koehler used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.