The Atlanta Falcons will be one of two teams coaching the 2023 NFL Draft prospects at the East-West Shrine Bowl this offseason. After getting an up-close look at these players, who might the Falcons target with their own selections?
5 Prospects the Atlanta Falcons Could Draft From the Shrine Bowl
All-star prospects are in play for all 32 teams. But the teams who coach those players on the all-star circuit get unparalleled access throughout the week — something that can sway their preferences in April. For the Falcons specifically, which Shrine Bowl prospects might be prime targets?
Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
Atlanta has a foundational piece in Drake London. And if Kyle Pitts rebounds in 2023, that’s another dynamic weapon. But the Falcons could use a more explosive space weapon alongside them. Serving as a high-level RAC threat with his burst, balance, and agility, Zay Flowers fits that mold. He can also separate and make plays at the catch point.
Brenton Cox Jr., EDGE, Florida
Interviews will be crucial for Brenton Cox Jr. during the week of the Shrine Bowl. A midseason dismissal from Florida in 2022 will cloud his stock. But from a pure talent perspective, he’s one of the better edge rushers in the 2023 NFL Draft. Opposite Arnold Ebiketie, his power and violence would be welcome (if he can hone his traits).
Nic Jones, CB, Ball State
Opposite A.J. Terrell, nothing is set in stone. Casey Hayward could be cut, and there aren’t any other surefire starters on the boundary. Nic Jones may not be a starter right away, but he’s one of the more exciting sleeper CB prospects at the Shrine Bowl. Jones has rare proportional length and twitch, and he’s a chippy competitor with plus ball skills.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB, UCLA
The Falcons could be in play for a first-round QB, but they could just as easily spend that pick on a blue-chip talent elsewhere. If they stick with Desmond Ridder, it would be smart to have insurance behind him. For a late-round pick, Dorian Thompson-Robinson can provide that. He’s a hyper-athletic signal-caller with creation capacity and experience.
Mark Evans II, OL, Arkansas Pine-Bluff
Interior offensive line is another potential area of need for the Falcons in the draft. There’s also some uncertainty at tackle. Kaleb McGary showed some progression in 2022, but it remains to be seen if Atlanta will re-sign him. As an experienced college OT who projects inside, Mark Evans II has the natural leverage, reach, and functional mobility worth monitoring.