Phin Phanatic
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2016 NFL Mock Draft: Big boys dominate first round

By Brian Miller

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Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Braxton Miller (1) carries the ball as Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) attempts to tackle in the first quarter in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Braxton Miller (1) carries the ball as Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) attempts to tackle in the first quarter in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

  1. Atlanta Falcons

Jaylon Smith – ILB – Notre Dame

Defense is a priority this year for the Atlanta Falcons and Jaylon Smith’s fall finally stops at 17. It’s entirely possible and likely that Smith will be long gone before this pick but who will take him is the question. With Cleveland taking Wentz at quarterback with number two and thus Joey Bosa being freed up someone has to drop.

Smith was the top linebacker prospect in this years draft but his knee injury has killed some of that buzz. Not a lot as there are plenty of teams still on board with Smith and believe that he will recover completely from his injury. The Falcons need linebacker help and while it’s not a top priority if Smith is still on the board it’s almost a no-brainer.

The Falcons could opt to go safety here but I think interior linebacker is the choice and if Smith goes to Detroit or isn’t on the board I think they will target Reggie Ragland as well.

Next: Indianapolis Colts

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