ATLANTA FALCONS
6-7, 317, Washington 5-11, 193, Ohio State 6-5, 286, Charleston (W.Va.) 6-1, 228, Pittsburgh 6-1, 186, Washington 5-8, 190, Louisiana-Monroe
Grade: D+
It seemed as if the Falcons took a page from the Colts’ approach in 2018, throwing extra resources at the offensive line to ensure it’s fixed. That’s understandable, but both Lindstrom and McGary felt like slight reaches, and the latter cost Atlanta its second- and third-round picks in a trade-up. Sheffield is gifted, and Cominsky could rotate in early, but it’s a surprise to see no defensive tackle in a D-line-heavy draft.
Best pick
Even if he was a slight reach, Lindstrom is a very polished player with above-average movement skills. He could start immediately, even after the Falcons signed guards James Carpenter and Jamon Brown in free agency, and he’s more mobile than both.
Upside pick
6-4, 308, Boston College
Sheffield isn’t a finished product, but he has a great combination of size, speed and press-man coverage ability, which perfectly fits the mold for cornerbacks in Dan Quinn’s defense. It will take some time, but Sheffield could become a topend starter with more consistency. 6-5, 310, Mississippi 6-3, 217, West Virginia 6-3, 247, Alabama 5-11, 208, Florida 6-5, 317, South Carolina 5-11, 184, Georgia
Grade: B
Carolina is trending toward more 3-4 looks on defense, as Burns and Miller are lighter types who mostly used two-point stances in college. The Panthers couldn’t pass on Burns for a top offensive tackle at No. 16, so they traded up to secure Little in Round 2. Grier at No. 100 was a worthwhile flier given Cam Newton’s shoulder issues, and Carolina added some playmakers late.
Best pick
Burns must keep his added weight on and maintain his explosiveness, and he might be limited to passing downs early on. However, he has a premium skill — pass rush — that the Panthers need with Julius Peppers gone. It’s not all about his physical ability; he has a nice array of moves, including a nasty spin.
Upside pick
Little didn’t live up to his recruiting status at Mississippi, but he had stretches of brilliance when using proper footwork and technique. With Daryl Williams around for at least one more year, he has time to develop.