2016 Draft Guide

2016

SATURDAY, APRIL 30 TIME.................................................................................. 11AM-3PM

ATLANTA FALCONS DRAFT EVENT DETAILS

LOCATION.................... West Plaza Georgia World Congress Center Welcome to the 2016 Atlanta Falcons Draft Day Event! For your entertainment we will have a fun-filled day that begins with Dave Archer and Wes Durham giving an analysis of the Falcons Draft choices and the 2016 NFL Draft overview. First round pick Keanu Neal will be on hand signing autographs. In addition, 92.9 The Game will be out for a live remote and Gritz and Jelly Butter will be performing throughout the day. DJ Jay Envy will be spinning some fun while video updates from Flowery Branch will be keeping all fans informed of what’s happening at The Branch. You will also have a chance to get an autograph or take a selfie with your favorite alumni player and cheerleader. There will also be activities for the whole family including cornhole, face painters and other fun games! Food and beverages from the Budlight Mobile Bar, Adult Beverage Plaza and delicious Food Truck options from Yumbii, Gezzo’s and Genki’s will be available for purchase.

DIMITROFF’S DRAFT DAY DEALS // BY ANDREW HIRSCH

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n Thursday, Thomas Dimitroff mentioned that the Falcons aren’t opposed to adding more draft selections when the NFL convenes in Chicago. Dimitroff has made at least one draft day trade each year since joining Atlanta in 2008, and with a low number of picks at his disposal, it wouldn’t be surprising if Atlanta’s GM pulls the trigger on another one this week.

Here’s a look at every draft day trade Dimitroff has made so far:

2008:

Dimitroff dealt two second-round picks

lineman Garrett Reynolds and defensive end Vance Walker, respectively.

2010:

Dimitroff dealt the Falcons’ fifth-rounder and one of their two sixth-round picks to the Rams to move up 14 spots in the fifth round. Atlanta used that selection on cornerback Dominique Franks, who played 39 games with the Falcons.

2011:

Dimitroff pulled off a blockbuster trade with the Browns to land the No. 6 overall pick, which was used on star receiver Julio Jones. In exchange for that premium selection, Cleveland received two first-rounders, two fourth-rounders and a second-rounder. That same year, Dimitroff dealt a fifth-round choice and a seventh-rounder to move up 13 spots in the fifth. Atlanta used that selection on running back Jacquizz Rodgers.

2012: and a fourth-rounder to Washington in exchange for the Nos. 21, 84 and 154 selections.

He used the first-round choice on offensive tackle Sam Baker, the third-rounder on wide receiver Harry Douglas and the fifth-round pick on defensive end Kroy Biermann. While Baker’s career was cut short due to injury, Douglas and Biermann played 14 combined years in Atlanta.

2009:

Dimitroff sent Atlanta’s fifth-rounder to the Cowboys for Dallas’ fifth-rounder, which was 13 spots back, and a seventh-round selection. The Falcons used those picks on offensive

Dimitroff traded the No. 84 overall pick to Baltimore for the Nos. 91 and 164 selections.

Atlanta used those picks on offensive tackle Lamar Holmes and defensive end Jonathan Massaquoi, respectively.

2013:

Dimitroff sent the 30th overall pick, along with a third- and sixth-rounder, to St. Louis in exchange for the No. 22 overall pick, which was used on Pro Bowl cornerback Desmond Trufant.

Two days later, Atlanta traded a fifth and a seventh to Chicago to move up 10 spots in the fifth round. Dimitroff used that selection to draft defensive end Stansly Maponga.

2014:

Dimitroff dealt Atlanta’s sixth-rounder and one of three seventh-rounders to Minnesota for its fifth-round pick. The Falcons used that selection on linebacker Marquis Spruill.

2015:

Dimitroff traded the Falcons’ fifth-rounder and sixth-rounder to Minnesota to move up nine spots in the fifth. Atlanta used that pick on defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, who became the team’s most consistent rookie during Dan Quinn’s first campaign as head coach.

ANALYSIS:

A strong argument can be made that the best trade on the above list is the one that brought Jones to Atlanta. Yes, it cost a king’s ransom, but opportunities to add a franchise cornerstone don’t come around often—especially when you post five straight winning seasons. Dimitroff swung for the fences when he moved up 21 spots to select Jones, and it’s certainly paid off.

It’s only been a year since the Falcons acquired Jarrett, but it’s already clear giving up a sixth-rounder to draft the defensive tackle was a wise decision. It didn’t take long for Jarrett to make a significant impact in Atlanta, and his future under Dan Quinn is bright.

Dimitroff’s most efficient draft day trade appears to be the one that allowed him to pick Trufant. Every GM in the league would give up a third- and sixth-rounder to move up eight spots and find a defensive cornerstone.

FALCONS LAND NEAL TO SOLIDIFY SECONDARY // BY CRAIG SAGER II

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he Atlanta Falcons selected Florida safety Keanu Neal with the 17th overall pick of the NFL Draft on Thursday and added physicality and versatility to their energetic and talented secondary. With a vision to bring in a hard-hitting safety that can disrupt plays, cover sideline to sideline and get downfield in a hurry, the franchise successfully brought in the 6-foot-2, 211-pound Neal and solidified his immortal status as a first round pick.

“We had a game plan coming into this draft like we always do,” explained Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff. “It was very well though out. We had targeted our first round pick Keanu Neal from the beginning. He was the guy that we really believe was the top safety for our system.”

Neal’s fit into the Falcons system and his projected success at the professional level made him one of the hottest commodities available on draft day. Taking into account that Neal is joining a Falcons defense that will give him an opportunity to become the starter right away, it is a mutually beneficial relationship that the young star is eager to begin.

“I think I fit perfectly,” Neal said moments after the Falcons called his name. “They want guys who are interchangeable. Who can do more than just one thing and I fit that.”

The ability to be interchangeable is a key ingredient to Quinn’s defensive philosophy and the safeties that star in his exciting and fast-

paced style. Neal has the ability to cover tight ends with his physicality and contribute in the run-game with his explosive tackling. Neal’s power and explosiveness as a tackler went viral in 2014 when he stonewalled Heisman Trophy Winner and 240-pound running back Derrick Henry with a crushing hit.

STARRING ROLE…

The immediate impact that Neal will have on the roster, however, is perhaps the most exciting aspect that the organization and fans can look forward to. The Falcons are in need of a strong safety after releasing William Moore and having big shoes to fill grants Neal the opportunity to shine and develop his way into a young leader on a future-minded pack of emerging defensive stars.

Even with his reputation as being an enforcer and not backing down from contact, there are gifted and proven coverage skills already in his repertoire. He played both safety positions at Florida and is more than capable of dropping into coverage and fulfilling the challenging role of strong safety.

“The strong safety position is a critical one for us and one that’s really valuable,” Falcons coach Dan Quinn said on Neal’s versatility. “You have to have the run-and-hit factor of playing a linebacker because we play our safeties so close to the line of scrimmage. He’s either in the box or close to the line. He also has to have the cov-

erage skills to play safety, play on the tight ends and be a real factor on third downs.”

The new Falcon has been a passionate competitor since his childhood when he discovered the game of football, as AtlantaFalcons.com reported. As a kid, he played lots of tackle football with no pads; while attending South Sumter (Bushnell, Fla.) and “developed a reputation being one of the most intense young men to go through the school.”

While at Florida, SEC Country reported that his first name was a product of the Hollywood star Keanu Reeves.

“My brother is a huge fan of Keanu Reeves, so he was like, ‘Keanu.’ (My mother) loved it and it stuck.” Neal’s friends tritely adopted the nickname “The Matrix” after the 1999 dystopian Sci-Fi thriller, Reeves starred in.

BORN TO FLY...

There is already a familiar bond that Quinn and Neal share as both hail from the Swamp in Gainesville, Florida. Quinn led the Gators defense from 2011-2012 as defensive coordinator before making the move back to the NFL as a first-time coordinator with the Seattle Seahawks, where he reached back-to-back Super Bowls. As a coordinator with Florida, his defense was top-10 in the country both seasons.

During the 2011 season, the Gators would rank eighth nationally in total defense (299.5), seventh in passing defense (166.8) and second in

third-down defense (27.12 percent). Neal was partially recruited by Quinn before he left Florida to return to the NFL.

Neal is coming off a productive junior season and skipping his senior year was a lucrative decision for the highly demanded defender.

Neal was the Gators’ third-leading tackler last year with 96 tackles and added one interception. The leading factor to his first-round draft status, was the course that last season took.

After beginning the year with an injured hamstring that sidelined him for the first two games, Neal rapidly improved as the season went on and his health returned. His emergence as a leader and his impact on the field continued to blossom each week and his potential for more growth at the next level became visible.

His ability to fight through an injury and lead through example fits the toughness that Quinn is looking to bring to the defense. The 8.5 tackles per start he tallied along the way, is evident of his ability to push through setbacks and play through pain.

“He is a guy that embodies what we were looking for as far as his passion and his toughness on and off the field,” Dimitroff said. “It’s something that’s very important for this organization to have someone who has a presence on the field and makes a big impact defensively both in the run and the pass game.”

Photo courtesy of CollegePressBox.com

JULIO LEADS

FALCONS INTO NEW GENERATION

// BY KYLE SANDY

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or the past 11 years, Roddy White has been the one mainstay on the offensive side of the ball for the Atlanta Falcons. White developed into the go-to receiver on offense and was viewed as Atlanta’s main playmaker on the outside. White, who finishes his career as the Falcons all-time leader in receptions (808), yards (10,863) and touchdowns (63), now moves aside. But before the veteran left, he made sure to mentor a player who is expected to far surpass the production of the great White. Six-year pro Julio Jones is now the new face of the franchise at age 27 and there’s no disputing it.

When fans and opposing coaches and players think Falcons, they think about Julio Jones, arguably the best wide out in the game.

Countless hours are spent game planning ways to slow down Jones, but just like Waffle House, it seems like he is always open.

Selected sixth overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, Jones was viewed as a gamble. Not due to his talent, but because of the amount of future assets that the Falcons gave up in order to get him.

Atlanta traded a first round, second round and two fourth round picks in the 2011 Draft along with their first rounder in 2012 to nab Jones. It’s safe to say the gamble paid off, as the Falcons found an immediate game-changer who has become a staple in the franchise’s offensive system year in and year out.

It didn’t take long for Jones to make his presence felt. As a rookie, the former Alabama Crimson Tide caught 54 passes for 959 yards and eight touchdowns. In his second season,

Jones was a key piece to one of the most feared receiving trios in the League. Jones, White and Tony Gonzalez combined to catch 264 balls for 3,479 yards and 25 touchdowns. Julio was rewarded with the first of three Pro Bowl appearances during his career after it marked the first time since the Falcons made the Super Bowl in 1998, that two birds were 1,000-yard receivers in the same year with Jones totaling 1,198 and White 1,351.

The 2013 season saw Jones battle injuries and appear in just five games, but that didn’t hinder him from producing in those handful of games. He averaged 116 yards per contest and left Falcons faithful craving for more. He fulfilled the hunger for a breakout season when he returned healthy in 2014 and led the NFC in receiving yards with 1,593, while shattering White’s former franchise record of 1,389 yards.

Last season left no doubt as to who the League’s premier receiver is. Jones erupted with franchise records of 136 receptions and 1,871 yards; both good to lead the NFL and both placing him second all-time in NFL history for single season totals. He was named a First Team AllPro and established himself as one of the toughest covers in League has seen in years.

FALCON FOR LIFE...

“We could not be more thrilled to make Julio a Falcon for life. Julio has established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL during his career and has already set the franchise record for receiving yards in a season. I am extremely proud of what he has accomplished and

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he has just begun to scratch the surface in terms of his potential.”

These were the words from Falcons Owner and Chairman Arthur Blank on August 29, 2015, when the Falcons announced a five-year, $71.5 million extension with $47 million guaranteed.

Scratching the surface? Boy was Blank right.

Across sports, athletes’ motivation has been called into question. Is it for the money or for the love of the game? Too many times once players receive their massive payday, they rest on their laurels and go through the motions. Not Julio.

Judging by his performance in the following months, unfathomably it seems as if the Falcons have gotten a bargain with the superstar who nearly re-wrote the NFL’s history books in 2015.

Jones exploded out of the gates quickly last season and never looked back, catching 34 passes in the first three weeks, an NFL record, and also collecting over 135 yards in each of the first three games of the season, another NFL first.

“I didn’t have any doubt in my mind that we were going to get it done,” admitted Jones when speaking on his contract negotiation. “Whether it was this year or next year, we were going to get a deal done. I want to be a Falcon for the rest of my career and Mr. Blank let it be known that he wanted me here as well.”

The main beneficiary of this long-term deal? None other than quarterback Matt Ryan who has been with the team since 2008.

“Obviously, I’m probably the happiest person in the organization to have him back,” said Ryan before throwing for his fifth consecutive

4,000-yard plus season, all coming since Julio’s arrival. “He is a premier player, one of the best in the League and an even better teammate. He is the best and I’m just excited that he is going to be here for a long time.”

COMMUNITY CULTIVATOR...

By now, everyone in the football world knows about Jones’ accomplishments on the gridiron, but it’s his contributions off the field that make him an ambassador for the game of football, especially in the state of Georgia.

Jones has participated in countless community efforts such as serving as a celebrity waiter for the fourth annual Huddle Up for Miracles event and meeting members of the Warrior Transition Battalion at a USAA NFL sponsored events.

“That event was so impactful, because it gave me an opportunity to praise those guys that go out there and fight for our country every day,” Jones said. “A big part of what’s so great about America is the men and women who sacrifice daily, so we can live our lives and feel safe.”

He has become a familiar face across the state in charitable efforts and knows that there is more responsibility when it comes to being the face of a franchise than just producing on the field.

“I’m trying to impact the youth,” Jones stated. “I try to lead by example, always keeping my nose clean and staying out of trouble, because I know kids are looking up to me; I want to be the best example I can be for them.”

Photo courtesy of the Associated Press

ALEX MACK CENTERS FREE AGENCY HAUL // BY CRAIG SAGER II

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here is a delicate balance between patching up weaknesses and diving for treasure that the Falcons have watchfully demonstrated in the first stages of the offseason. Before the free agency period began, the Falcons gears were already turning. Veteran safety William Moore and linebacker Justin Durant were released on Feb. 8 and a week later the team shed more weight by parting with cornerback Travis Howard and fullback Collin Mooney. The final move made before free agency was the biggest move of the 2016 offseason so far and sent a message to openness for drastic changes as the Falcons released Roddy White on March 2. Parting with White, the best receiver in franchise history, is understandably difficult for much of the fan base, but what is important now is where the team goes from here. This move also proves what we already knew; Julio Jones is the new face of the franchise and this is his era.

Atlanta introduced one new face and one familiar face to the offensive side of the ball on March 9, while waiving nose tackle Paul Solia.

Center Alex Mack was inked to a five-year contract to give the team an experienced anchor to the line. We all remember the botched snaps and busted plays that were direct results of inexperience and inconsistency at the center position last year. Mack is an expensive pillar, but the upside is well worth it. Mack is a beast in the run game at 6-foot-4, 311 pounds and a big body in the interior to free up the elusive and hardrunning of Devonta Freeman, who needs just a sliver of open field to make something happen.

Mack joins Atlanta with a familiarity of the current playbook, having spent 2014 with offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan in Cleveland. His leg injury in 2014 prevented him from playing much that year, but he nonetheless was well-acquainted to the outside zone blocking scheme after spending the entire year with Shanahan. Before the injury in 2014, Mack, a 2009

first round pick (21st overall), never missed a snap in the NFL. He returned last season fully healthy and started all 16 regular-season contests for the Browns. This durability helped Mack to three Pro Bowl nominations and solidified him as one of the best free agent offensive linemen available this free agency.

This is a significant deal as Mack was brought in to be an immediate leader on the field and in the locker room. Mack’s five-year deal is worth $45 million and includes $28.5 million in guaranteed money. The contract made Mack the highest paid center in the NFL going into the 2016 season if that’s any gauge on the level of performance the organization expects from the former Cal Bear.

FAMILIAR FACES…

The familiar face that returned to Atlanta, was quarterback Matt Schaub, who was picked up on Wednesday from Baltimore. Schaub, at 6-foot-5, 235 pounds, was originally selected by the Falcons in the third round (90th overall) of the 2004 NFL Draft out of Virginia. He spent his first three seasons in Atlanta and played in 38 games with two starts for the team, while completing 84-of-161 passes for 1,033 yards and six touchdowns.

Schaub was traded to the Houston Texans during the 2007 offseason. He played in 90 games with 88 starts for the team, and completed 1,951 of his 3,020 passes for 23,221 yards with 124 touchdowns, and a 90.9 passer rating, while being selected to two Pro Bowls. During the two years Shanahan was offensive coordinator for the Texans (2008-09), Schaub went 647-of-963 for 7,813 yards and 44 touchdowns, and had a 95.7 passer rating.

This move gives the Falcons a reliable and proven backup at the quarterback position.

Secondly, it brought in an experienced quarterback that will directly impact Ryan this offseason. By having a quarterback familiar with Sha-

nahan, familiar with the Falcons organization and fluent to life in the NFL, it will undoubtedly push Ryan and should better-prepare the franchise veteran for 2016.

LINE OF DEFENSE...

Day 2 of free agency was focused on the defensive end position as the Falcons agreed to terms with Adrian Clayborn and Derrick Shelby.

Clayborn was signed by the Falcons last offseason and played in every game in 2015, while tallying 15 total tackles (14 solo), three sacks and one fumble recovery.

Shelby, 6-2, 280 pounds, was originally signed as a college free agent by the Miami Dolphins following the 2012 NFL Draft out of Utah. Shelby has seen action in 63 games with nine starts, while posting 103 total tackles (74 solo), nine sacks, four forced fumbles, two interceptions, one fumble recovery, and one defensive touchdown. Last season, he started eight of the 16 games he played in and recorded career highs in total tackles (37 – 25 solo) and sacks (3.5), as well as recording two forced fumbles and one interception, which he

returned for a touchdown.

Wide receiver Mohamed Sanu was added as a 6-foot-2, 210-pound target for the offense.

Sanu comes from Cincinnati and will have a much more important role in Atlanta’s offense.

Also, former Falcon Sean Weatherspoon was signed to a one-year deal. After missing the entire 2014 season, Atlanta separated with Weatherspoon and he spent last season on the Arizona Cardinals.

To end the month of March, Atlanta bolstered the roster with the signing of linebacker Courtney Upshaw. Upshaw, 6-2, 272 pounds, was originally selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the second round (35th overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft out of Alabama. Upshaw saw action in 64 games with 51 starts and has recorded 183 total tackles (111 solo), seven passes defensed, five sacks, five fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles.

Last season, he started 15 of the 16 games he played in and recorded 51 total tackles (29 solo), three fumble recoveries, two sacks, two passes defensed and two forced fumbles.

Photos courtesy of the Associated Press.

ATL A NTA FA L C O NS DR A FT DAY 2016 | 5

Ken Reaves

Drafted 49th overall (Round 4) out of Norfolk State in 1966, Ken Reaves was a part of the Falcons first draft class.

Reaves amassed 29 interceptions over his eight seasons and finished Top 10 in the NFL in interceptions three separate seasons. He earned a 1969 Pro Bowl bid.

He also played for Saints and Cardinals.

Jeff Van Note

Jeff Van Note (Round 11, 262nd pick) was drafted as a linebacker before Norm Van Brocklin moved him to center upon his arrival. He appeared in six Pro Bowls, started in three separate decades and played a team-record 155 consecutive games before earning a spot in the Ring of Honor in 2006.

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The Italian-born kicker was selected out of Temple University in the 10th round (248th overall) of the draft.

Mike-Mayer earned a Pro Bowl trip his rookie season after booting through a career-best 26 field goals and playing for three teams in a productive 10-year career.

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With the 275th pick of the 1968 Draft, linebacker Greg Brezina began an 11-year career with the Falcons.

Brezina finished with 12 career interceptions and 14 fumble recoveries and also starred in the Gritz Blitz defense and Atlanta’s first playoff team in 1978.

Jim Mitchell

Photo courtesy of AJC

Jim Mitchell (Round 4, 81st pick) played 11 seasons from 1969-1979 with the Atlanta Falcons. At 6-foot-2, 234-pounds and out of Prairie View A&M University, Mitchell earned two Pro Bowl selections (1969, 1972) and finished his career with 28 receiving touchdowns and 4,358 yards in 141 career starts.

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D R A F T

Jeff Merrow was brought to the Falcons with a Round 11 pick (263rd overall) out of West Virginia. The defensive end spent all nine seasons of his professional career in Atlanta and appeared in 108 games with 101 career starts, including three playoff berths (1978, 1980 and 1982).

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Jeff Merrow

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Third-round pick (79th overall) William Andrews broke 19 Falcons team records and was the second running back in NFL history to have two 2,000-yard (combined yards) seasons. In his first five seasons, Andrews had more total yards (8,382) than any player in the NFL.

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William Andrews

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Tom Pridemore was a ninth-round pick (236th overall) that bolstered Atlanta’s secondary for eight seasons.

Pridemore and Scott Case formed a feared hard-hitting tandem before his career ended at 29. Pridemore finished his career with 21 interceptions and 13 fumble recoveries.

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Tom Pridemore

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Greg Brezina

Nick Mike-Mayer

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Alfred Jackson

The seventh-round pick (167th overall) and seven-year Falcon developed into a valuable contributor at wide receiver. Jackson was a versatile playmaker and fan favorite that exceeded expectations. Jackson’s career ended in 1984 after posting a career-best 52 catches and 731 receiving yards.

Lynn Cain

Lynn Cain (Round 4, 100) played from 1979 to 1984 before wrapping up his career with the Rams. He managed to have his best year in the NFL in his second season (1980), rushing for over 900 yards and eight touchdowns.

Lynn helped lead the Falcons to the 1980 NFC Divisional Playoff Game.

Stacey Bailey

Stacey Bailey was taken in the thirdround (63rd overall) and spent nine seasons in the Atlanta receiving corps.

Bailey’s most productive season came in 1984 as he hauled in 67 passes for 1,138 yards and six touchdowns. Bailey appeared in 91 games during his career and found the end zone 18 times.

Michael Haynes

Seventh-round pick (166th overall) Michael Haynes spent six years in Atlanta. Haynes caught the gamewinning touchdown in the 1991 Wildcard Game in New Orleans, giving Atlanta its first playoff win since 1978. Haynes led the NFL in yards per reception in 1991 with 22.4.

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Travis Hall was added to the Falcons defensive line with the 181st pick (Round 6) in 1995. Hall spent 10 of his 11 professional seasons with the Falcons, including the 1998 NFC Championship campaign. Hall recovered a career-high four fumbles in 998 season and had 42 career sacks.

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Elbert Shelley Elbert Shelley spent 10 seasons in Atlanta after getting drafted in the 11th round (292nd overall). The ferocious gunner made enough of an impact to earn four straight Pro Bowls from 1992-95 and garner three All-Pro selections as a special teams star.

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Jamal Anderson

Seventh-round pick Jamal Anderson (201st overall) finished his eightyear career with 31 touchdowns and nearly 7,000 yards of offense.

Anderson rushed for 1,846 yards off 410 carries during Atlanta’s run to Super Bowl XXXIII, while earning First-team All-Pro honors.

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Todd McClure

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Matt Bosher

Punter Matt Bosher was a sixthround (192nd overall) steal in 2011.

Bosher earned Falcons Man of the Year in 2012 and has starred as Atlanta’s punter the past five years. He led the NFL in hang time in 2014 and has a 41.1 career net average and 218 touchbacks on 420 kickoffs.

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Seventh-round pick (244th overall) Jason Snelling was a jack-of-all-trades, playing tailback, fullback and special teams. Snelling finished with 363 carries for 1,420 yards with eight touchdowns, while also compiling 168 receptions for 1,249 yards and nine touchdowns as a receiver out of the backfield.

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Jason Snelling

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Travis Hall

Drafted in the seventh round with the 237th pick overall, Todd McClure overcame missing his entire rookie season with a torn ACL. McClure earned the starting center job in 2000 and only missed one game until his retirement in 2012, while leading Atlanta to fivestraight winning seasons.

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Harry Douglas

Harry Douglas was brought in with a third-round pick (84th overall) and spent seven seasons in Atlanta’s receiving corps. Douglas racked up a career-high 1,067 yards and 85 receptions, and 2 touchdowns in 2013, before signing a three-year contract with the Titans in 2015.

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Devonta Freeman

Fourth-round pick (103rd overall) Devonta Freeman had a breakout 2015 campaign. Freeman was named a Second-team All-Pro and captained the 2016 Pro Bowl after rushing for 1,056 yards and 11 touchdowns and catching 73 balls for 578 yards and three scores last season.

ATL A NTA FA L C O NS DR A FT DAY 2016 | 7

2016 Atlanta Falcons Schedule // BY KYLE SANDY

AUG 11 7:00EDT PM

REDSKINS Georgia Dome

It took overtime for the Falcons to knockoff the Redskins and move to 5-0 last year in the Georgia Dome. This time, Atlanta welcomes the Skins for a preseason meeting. Devonta Freeman ran wild and set a career-high in rushing yards with 153 in the win. Robert Alford sealed the deal with a 59-yard interception return touchdown to clinch it.

AUG 18 8:00EDT PM

BROWNS FirstEnergy Stadium

The Falcons haven’t picked up a win against Cleveland since 2010 when they defeated the Browns 20-10. The Browns own an 11-3 edge against Atlanta in the all-time series. They last met in the Georgia Dome in 2014 where Billy Cundiff booted a 37-yarder as time expired to slip by the Falcons 26-24.

AUG 25 8:00EDT PM

DOLPHINS Sun Life Stadium

Last year, the Dolphins earned a 13-9 preseason victory against the Falcons to move their all-time preseason series to 7-7. It was a sloppy game that featured seven total fumbles, eight sacks and one interception. T.J. Yates threw for 187 yards while Ryan Tannehill finished 15-of-19 in two quarters of work. Atlanta’s points came off of three Matt Bryant field goals.

SEP 1 7:00EDT PM

JAGUARS Georgia Dome

A nightmarish six-game losing streak was snapped last year when Atlanta got back on track with a 23-17 win at EverBank Field. Matt Ryan and Julio Jones connected nine times for 118 yards and a touchdown. Shayne Graham broke an early fourth quarter tie with two field goals in the final 11 minutes. The Falcons and Jags have split six regular season meetings since 1996.

SEP 11 1:00EDT PM

BUCCANEERS Georgia Dome

After being swept last year by the up-and-coming Buccaneers, the Falcons look to start off the 2016 NFL season on the right foot, hosting Tampa Bay in the Georgia Dome for one final time.

The Bucs defeated the Falcons in the two teams’ first meeting at the Dome, 31-24 in 1993. Craig Erickson tossed four touchdowns in the win.

SEP 18 4:25 EDT PM

RAIDERS O.Co Coliseum

Atlanta returns to O.Co. Coliseum after eight years and looks to extend a three-game winning streak against the Raiders that dates back to 2004. In their latest clash back in 2012, Matt Bryant saved the day with his golden leg. Bryant sailed in a 55-yard field goal with one second left to deny the Raiders a shot at overtime.

SEP 26 8:30 EDT PM

SAINTS Mercedes-Benz Superdome

The bitter rivals will battle in the Big Easy in what will be an emotional game. It will be the 10-year anniversary of New Orleans’ first game back in the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina. Atlanta will try to play the role of spoiler, something they couldn’t do a decade ago as they fell 23-3.

OCT 2 1:00 EDT PM

PANTHERS Georgia Dome

Expect Carolina to be hungry for revenge after the Falcons spoiled the Panthers quest for a perfect 16-0 season. The Georgia Dome was a house of horrors Week 16 for Carolina as they were stunned 20-13. Julio Jones was a workhorse with nine catches, 178 yards and one touchdown. Vic Beasley Jr. came away with the game-clinching strip-sack of Cam Newton with 1:08 left.

OCT 9 4:05 EDT PM

BRONCOS

Sports Authority Field at Mile High

Atlanta squares off with the Super Bowl 50 champion Denver Broncos in the Mile-High City for the first time since 2004. With no Peyton Manning under center, Coach Dan Quinn will try to devise another devastating defensive game plan, much like the one Seattle used in Super Bowl 48. In 2012, Atlanta protected its home turf with a 27-21 victory.

OCT 16 4:25 EDT PM

SEAHAWKS CenturyLink Field

Coach Dan Quinn’s homecoming will come in front of a raucous fan base. The Seahawks lead the series 9-5, with Seattle scoring a 33-10 win in the Dome back in 2013. While Quinn was in charge of the Legion of Boom, the ‘Hawks led the League in fewest points and yards allowed in back-to-back seasons, just the fourth time ever.

OCT 23 4:05 EDT PM

CHARGERS Georgia Dome

Playing the Chargers has been a fun time for the Falcons dating back to their first meeting in 1973. Only having played nine times, Atlanta owns an 8-1 record against the Bolts and the best winning percentage (.889) against any opponent. The last time the Falcons hosted the Chargers, Atlanta squeezed out a 21-20 win.

OCT 30 1:00 EDT PM

PACKERS Georgia Dome

Green Bay visits Atlanta for the first time since 2011 during Week 8 of the season. In 2014 at Lambeau Field, the Packers beat the Falcons 43-37. Julio Jones set a new career high with 259 receiving yards during that game. His monster performance ranks as the fourth best total for a receiver in a Monday Night Football contest.

NOV 3 8:25 EDT PM

BUCCANEERS Raymond James Stadium

The last time the Bucs and Falcons played on Thursday night, Atlanta cruised 56-14 at the Georgia Dome in 2014. Both teams will don Color Rush uniforms as they light up televisions across the nation. The Falcons will need to avoid unlucky number 23 after the Bucs won both games last year, scoring 23 in each.

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NOV 13 1:00 EDT PM

EAGLES Lincoln Financial Field

Last season, the Falcons kicked off the Dan Quinn era on Monday Night Football versus the Eagles and came away with a 2624 victory. Fast forward to 2016 and they will be invading the City of Brotherly Love. Atlanta won for the first time in Philadelphia since 1988 when they clipped the Eagles 30-17 in 2012.

NOV 27 1:00 EDT PM

CARDINALS Georgia Dome

Matt Ryan threw for 361 yards and hit Julio Jones for 10 catches, 189 yards and a score in the Falcons 29-18 win in the Dome two years ago. Back-up quarterback Drew Stanton nearly eclipsed the 300-yard mark through the air, but hurled two interceptions. Matt Bryant hit five field goals in the upset.

DEC 4 1:00 EDT PM

CHIEFS Georgia Dome

Week 13 will see the Falcons set sight towards a third consecutive victory over the Chiefs. The Falcons last played Kansas City in the Georgia Dome in 2008, coming away with a 38-14 victory. In their latest meeting in 2012, the Falcons hung 40 points on host Kansas City in a 40-24 rout.

DEC 11 4:25 EDT PM

RAMS Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Football is back in L.A. The trip to beautiful California marks the first time in 22 years that the Falcons will suit up in Los Angeles. In 1994, the last time Atlanta played the Los Angeles Rams, the Falcons pulled out an 8-5 victory as Bobby Hebert hit Ricky Sanders from 13 yards out in the fourth quarter to seal up the low scoring win.

DEC 18 4:05 EDT PM

49ERS Georgia Dome

The 49ers visit the Dome for the first time since the 2012 NFC Championship game. Atlanta lost at Levi Stadium 17-16 last year, pushing the 49ers head-to-head series lead to 46-29-1. Blaine Gabbert replaced a benched Colin Kaepernick and got the start, going 15-of-25 for 185 yards and two touchdowns in the win, surviving two interceptions.

DEC 24 1:00 EDT PM

PANTHERS Bank of America Stadium

Christmas Eve sets up a showdown between the Falcons and Panthers. Atlanta will be searching for its first victory in Bank of America Stadium since 2011. Last season in Charlotte, the Panthers handed out a 38-0 shutout to the Falcons. Cam Newton threw for 265 yards and three touchdowns, while missing completions on just six throws.

JAN 1 1:00 EDT PM

SAINTS Georgia Dome

New Year’s Day signifies the final regular season game in Georgia Dome history and the 199th all-time since 1992. Last year’s season finale didn’t go as planned with New Orleans’ Kai Forbath drilling a 30-yarder as time expired to put a close to Atlanta’s roller coaster season. Julio Jones closed his record setting season with nine catches and 149 yards.

DOLPHINS

LAREMY TUNSIL / OT

RAIDERS

DEFOREST BUCKNER / DE

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The Niners double dip with Oregon Ducks on the defensive side of the ball after selecting Arik Armstead a year ago. Buckner blends size and speed and has great upside at 6-foot-7.

TITANS

JACK CONKLIN / OT The Titans traded up in the draft with the Cleveland Browns to select Jack Conklin, a left tackle from Michigan State. The All-American will become a favorite of Marcus Mariota’s.

DARRON LEE / OLB

TEXANS WILL FULLER / WR

The Texans traded up one spot to pick Will Fuller, a blazing wide receiver down the sidelines. He lit up a 4.32 40-yard dash but the Notre Dame product has to catch better with his hands.

REDSKINS JOSH DOCTSON / WR

BROWNS

VIKINGS

COREY COLEMAN / WR

The Browns hope speed demon wide receiver Corey Coleman can be the next Josh Gordon minus the off-field problems. He runs a 4.37 40-yard dash and boasts a 40-inch vertical.

LIONS

TAYLOR DECKER / OT

Detroit is desperate to keep Matt Stafford upright and develop a run game. Taylor Decker is a consistent tackle on the offensive line that projects well in the Motor City.

LAQUON TREADWELL / WR

Following a gruesome leg injury his sophomore season, Treadwell rebounded his junior season at Ole Miss, totaling 1,153 yards receiving and 11 touchdowns. He fits in nicely next to Stefon Diggs.

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The Ohio State linebacker usually saves his best performances for the big stage. In 2014 he led OSU to the National Championship by receiving Sugar Bowl Defensive MVP.

BRONCOS

PAXTON LYNCH / QB

PACKERS

KENNY CLARK / DT

Clark improved every year at UCLA as a physical defensive tackle. As a junior he recorded 73 stops, 10.5 for loss and 5.5 sacks while defensing five passes as well.

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JETS

Josh Doctson has been a major producer at TCU the past two years and finished his career second in career receptions and yards and set the record for touchdown receptions.

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49ERS

KARL JOSEPH / S

SHAQ LAWSON / DE

Rex Ryan already has a ton of Clemson ties up north in Buffalo and adds another Tiger in Lawson.

He learned behind Vic Beasley Jr. and will now try to make a mark rushing the passer in the NFL.

Karl Joseph injured his knee after four weeks last year. The safety is now healthy and ready to make an impact as a ballhawking big hitter that picked off five passes last year.

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RONNIE STANLEY / OT Ronnie Stanley, a durable and athletic left tackle with a clean track record, quickly moved up draft boards to become the first lineman selected. He will be tasked to protect Joe Flacco.

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RAVENS

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Once viewed as a potential number one pick, Tunsil dealt with injuries and off the field issues before a picture of him smoking weed was released on Twitter just minutes before the Draft.

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From Tallahassee to Jacksonville, the freakish athlete from Florida State will stay in the Sunshine state. Ramsey might be the most talented defender in the Draft when all is said and done.

BILLS

ARTIE BURNS / CB

With no more Peyton Manning under center, the Broncos traded up to select Paxton Lynch, a 6-foot-7 quarterback with great arm strength and foot speed out of Memphis to be the future.

49ERS

JOSHUA GARNETT / OG

San Francisco traded with Kansas City to get back into the first round and select Garnett, a guard out of Stanford. He is the son of former defensive lineman Scott Garnett.

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SHELDON RANKINS / DT

Sheldon Rankins provides versatility along the defensive line for the Saints. He recorded 13 tackles for loss and six sacks his senior season at Louisville. Rankins prepped at Eastside High School.

RYAN KELLY / C

STEELERS

Artie Burns was an All-American hurdler on the Miami track team as well as a shutdown corner for the Hurricanes on the gridiron. He has a confindence that can’t be taught in the secondary.

CARDINALS

ROBERT NKEMDICHE / DL

Arizona, already known for its stingy defense, adds one of the most talented players in the draft in terms of overall athleticism. If Nkemdiche can keep his nose clean, he can thrive.

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JALEN RAMSEY / CB

SAINTS

COLTS

// COMPILED BY KYLE SANDY

PANTHERS

VERNON BUTLER / DT

Out of Louisiana Tech, the 6-foot-4, 323-pound interior defensive lineman has a mean streak and a hot motor that continues to run. He joins an already stout defense in Carolina.

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JAGUARS

VERNON HARGREAVES III / CB

Size and speed are the two main concerns about Hargreaves as a cornerback, making him a potential boom or bust pick. His competitiveness, agility and hands are all strengths.

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EZEKIEL ELLIOTT / RB Jerry Jones is on the hunt for the next Emmitt Smith to carry the load in the backfield. Ezekiel Elliott is a 225-pound proven workhorse back that gets downhill in a hurry.

BUCCANEERS

KEANU NEAL / SS

Ryan Kelly filled in nicely for Rimington Trophy winner Barrett Jones in 2013 and now looks to fill even bigger shoes as the Colts hope he is the next Jeff Saturday under center.

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COWBOYS

ELI APPLE / CB

FALCONS

Atlanta brings fresh blood into the secondary looking to revitalize its big play defense. Keanu Neal is an electric athlete out of Florida who possesses a hit-stick mentality.

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JOEY BOSA / DE

San Diego nabbed the top pass rusher in the draft in Joey Bosa. The Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year is known for his relentless motor and productivity on the edge.

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CHARGERS

GIANTS

There are now two Eli’s in the Big Apple. The Giants finished third to last in points allowed last season at 27.6 and dead last in passing yards making cornerback a logical decision.

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CARSON WENTZ / QB From FCS unknown to the second pick in the draft, the Eagles hope Carson Wentz can eventually repeat the success he had as quarterback at North Dakota State.

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EAGLES

LEONARD FLOYD / OLB

Chicago traded with Tampa Bay to move up two slots and select linebacker Leonard Floyd out of Georgia. The former Bulldog was a standout at Dodge County High School.

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JARED GOFF / QB After making a blockbuster trade on April 14 to move up to No. 1, the Rams got their man in Goff.

The former Cal Bear threw for 43 touchdowns in his final season.

BEARS

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RAMS

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2016 NFL DRAFT FIRST ROUND PICKS

SEAHAWKS

GERMAIN IFEDI / OL

Seattle moved down in the draft to add Germain Ifedi, a massive 6-foot-6, 324-pound guard from Texas A&M. He was named All-SEC Second Team and declared after his junior year.

BENGALS

WILLIAM JACKSON III / CB

Jackson worked his way up from Trinity Valley Junior College to the Houston Cougars and now to the Cincinnati Bengals as a tall cornerback with quick feet in coverage.

ATL A NTA FA L C O NS DR A FT DAY 2016 | 9

THE DREAM OF MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM QUICKLY BECOMING A

REALITY // BY KYLE SANDY

S

ince its doors opened in 1992, the Georgia Dome has provided the city of Atlanta unforgettable memories. The Georgia Dome, the world’s largest dome structure when erected, has been home to such marquee events as the 1996 Summer Olympics, championship football games, monster truck rallies, legendary concerts and many more. The Dome has been the Southeast’s mecca of all things sports and entertainment and will be closing its doors after this year, but with that, comes an unimaginable set of endless possibilities as Mercedes-Benz Stadium takes center stage June, 2017.

Scott Jenkins, general manager, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, has overseen the process of the new crown jewel since day one and expects the stadium to be unlike any other.

“Because of the stunning architecture, the overall visual experience, the level of service guests will receive, the stadium will define Atlanta and become the heart of the city,” said Jenkins.

With its state of the art design and breath-taking views, patrons won’t find anything like Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The retractable roof, inspired by the oculus in the ancient Roman Pantheon, brings a new, exciting NFL experience to Falcons fans as they will now be able to watch their birds take flight during Atlanta’s beautiful summer and

fall months. In seven minutes, eight roof petals will open in a camera lens-like fashion to allow for natural light and fresh air to flow into the building. As Mercedes-Benz Stadium inches closer to becoming a finished product, the steel and roof are now the focal point of the project.

“It’s looking magnificent,” says Jenkins.

“The exterior is over half way up and we’re making really good progress on the roof steel.

You’re starting to see the stadium take form and shape. In addition, on the inside, we are making really good progress on the finishes.

You can start to see what we’re going to have a little over a year from now.”

SOPHISTICATED LUXURY...

“You couldn’t get a better naming rights partner than Mercedes-Benz. The brand is synonymous with terms like quality and best-in-class,” explained Jenkins. “When you look at what we are building here, the magnitude of the project, the innovation involved, the beauty involved, it’s a perfect fit for us.”

By the end of summer, you can expect Mercedes-Benz Stadium to have its personality really start shining through.

“There are roughly 100 large picks that we have to do. We have a really good momentum and by the end of the summer, the fixed roof structure will be in place.”

10 | ATL ANTA FALCON S D RAF T DAY 2 0 1 6

GAME DAY EXCITEMENT....

As you look up towards the Georgia sky, a 5-story, 360-degree, 63,000-square foot oneof-a-kind HD digital halo board will be there to greet you.

Along with the halo board, Jenkins says there’s even more to be excited about.

“The mega column is a 100-foot tall video element that features nearly 7.3 million LED lights and offers a pathway to the “window to the city”. The stadium has 3,200 feet of ribbon board that we will be able to light up and put on a show like you’ve never seen in a sports venue before.”

The stadium’s atmosphere and game-day experience is scalable from NFL football, to MLS soccer, to college basketball. Seats will be able to retract for soccer games and the curtain system from the roof can enclose the upper bowl to maintain an intimate feel for any event.

“Right from the beginning, the building is meant to be multipurpose and take the fan experience to the next level.”

One feature of this exquisite stadium is offering guests a look at downtown Atlanta like never before. To the northeast corner, natural sunlight shines through the stadium’s ‘window to the city” which boasts Atlanta’s unmistakable skyline.

“It’s looking great. The view from the bridges is spectacular. It’s one of my favorite places in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. I think it’s looking even better than what the rendering projected.”

LASTING IMPACT...

Less than 14 months from now, Atlanta will be home to the most talked about stadium in the world and that will have a tremendous impact for the city of Atlanta.

“I think it’s going to have an uplifting impact on the economy certainly the community with the efforts on the west side. I’m confident that with the efforts of the Blank Family Foundation, you’re going to see some significant opportunities in the community,” said Jenkins.

“You’re already seeing benefits with the efforts of Westside Works. Many residents of the west side of Atlanta have received training in construction, culinary and nursing and have put those skills to work in their communities and for some, in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The new 2,000,000 sq. ft. MercedesBenz Stadium is not yet complete, but has already started to evolve the perception Atlanta into an innovative and progressive metropolis.

Whether it’s the action inside the facility or the electric atmosphere in the surrounding areas, Mercedes-Benz Stadium will forever change the city of Atlanta.

IT’S WHAT YOU DO IN THE DARK THAT PUTS YOU IN THE LIGHT.

ATLANTA FALCONS 2016 DRAFT ROUND

ROUND

ROUND

ROUND

ROUND

1

2

3

4

7

KEANU NEAL SS/ FLORIDA

PICK 19 (50)

PICK 18 (81)

PICK 17 (115)

PICK 17 (238)

AUTOGRAPHS