2013 NFL Mock Draft: Falcons get pass rush help in latest mock

The Falcons are predicted to take Florida State defensive end Tank Carradine, who possesses huge upside, but is dealing with a torn ACL.

By Peter Berkes Mar 21, 2013, 8:00am EDT

The Atlanta Falcons look to be among the best teams in the NFL entering the 2013 season, but they still have needs they need to address in the 2013 NFL Draft. The return of tight end Tony Gonzalez means their biggest need is probably a pass rusher, and that's exactly what they get in Dane Brugler of CBSSports.com's latest mock draft.

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Cornellius "Tank" Carradine has fallen down draft boards a bit due to a torn ACL this past November, but if he can come back healthy, he'll be a steal for the Falcons at the 30th pick. He had 11 sacks and 13 tackles for a loss in 12 games for Florida State in 2012, and has a great mix of size and speed. Here's what Brugler had to say about Carradine

While Tony Gonzalez's retirement decision could determine whether the Falcons look at tight end here, Atlanta needs to upgrade the defensive end position. While his November ACL tear is worrisome, Carradine might be worth the chance with this pick as long as his recovery process stays on track.

The Falcons will be without veteran defensive end John Abraham in 2013, and Carradine would fit in nicely as a long-term replacement.