With the NFL draft only a few short days away, teams are starting to crack down on finalizing their draft board.
The Atlanta Falcons, coming off a painful Super Bowl loss to the New England Patriots, know that this year’s draft is important to their continued success and that landing an impact player in the 1st round is crucial.
With the recent issues surrounding linebacker prospect Reuben Foster and with many players in the past coming into the draft process with what may be considered “red flags” in regards to character, teams are often left with tough choices.
Make a “safe pick” or take a risk and pick a more talented player who may come with some baggage.
The Falcons are making it clear that if a top-line prospect such as Foster is available when they pick, they won’t shy away from his red flags and concerns.
“Of course, I’ve said this time and again: We aren’t looking for angels,” Dimitroff said, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
“We are looking for guys who are real. We are looking for guys who ultimately will fit into the brotherhood. … We are particular about looking at the character situation and how they fit. It’s a big thing, of course.”
But according to the report, the Falcons won’t be taking Oklahoma running back Joe Mixon who is apparently off of the team’s draft board.
“That doesn’t just come from a head coach and general manger,” Dimitroff said regarding the team’s evaluation process.
“Believe me, that comes from higher than us for sure. (Owner Arthur) Blank is very direct about it.
“I think that’s important for this organization and this community to know that.”