Falcons focus on defense in Draft Wire’s new two-round mock

The 2023 NFL draft order is officially locked in and for the second straight year, the Atlanta Falcons have landed the No. 8 overall pick.

After selecting skill-position players with their last two first-round picks, many fans are hoping to see the Falcons focus on defense early. Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling gives the people what they want in his latest two-round mock draft.

In round one, the Falcons select Clemson edge rusher Myles Murphy:

“This is a great scenario for the Falcons, who need help along the entire defensive front, and have multiple options from the same program that could fill that need in different ways,” writes Easterling. “We’ll have them go with the edge player in Murphy, giving them a complete defender who can anchor against the run as well as rush the passer.”

Murphy has recorded 66 QB hurries and 20 sacks over the last three seasons. The Clemson standout is becoming a popular selection for the Falcons based on his mix of value and need at that No. 8 spot in the first round.

In the second round of Draft Wire’s mock, Atlanta selects Syracuse cornerback Garrett Williams. Ranked as Pro Football Focus’ 37th-rated player. Williams is coming off a season in which he recorded two interceptions and allowed 14 catches on 21 targets in seven games.

Williams played mostly on the outside during his time at Syracuse. Make sure to check out Draft Wire’s full two-round mock.