The Atlanta Falcons spent big while addressing their hole at quarterback in free agency, but that hasn’t prevented fans from selecting a quarterback in PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator. Quarterback remains the top position selected by Falcons users on the simulator, even after Kirk Cousins signed a mega contract to become the next passer in Atlanta.
Who are the players that Falcons fans are picking the most in mock drafts? Let’s take a look.
Most Drafted Players by Atlanta Falcons Users
The Falcons have been linked with drafting a quarterback for several seasons, and that speculation went up a gear after dismal performances in the 2023 season. However, Atlanta attacked the position in free agency, signing veteran Kirk Cousins to a big-money deal.
But that hasn’t stopped fans, who, despite the Falcons signing their quarterback to a four-year $180 million contract in free agency, continue to select quarterbacks in the MDS. In fact, the QB at the top of the list is far and away the most picked player to Atlanta.
While the precise reason for Falcons users to select a QB early in their mock drafts isn’t obvious, there are potentially a couple of reasons.
Firstly, it could be that the Atlanta faithful isn’t sold on Cousins as the answer and want cover seeing that he is coming off a season-ending injury in 2023.
Secondly, question marks remain over the talent available in future classes, and entering his age-36 season, Cousins won’t be the long-term solution. Fans could feel it’s more effective to take one now, rather than take the chance in the future.
Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Jayden Daniels is shockingly the most selected player to the Falcons by a large margin by MDS users.
For Daniels to often be the selection for fans is surprising, given the signing of Cousins and that the LSU QB is projected to be selected in the top three. He’s also the bookmakers’ favorite to be drafted by the Washington Commanders.
The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner is an elite athlete who has built his game on athleticism, vision, and intelligence. Daniels is dangerous as a rusher, as well as having adequate arm strength. He’s a quick processor and can read the full field, plus sitting behind Cousins could allow Daniels to be more productive in the future.
Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
Michael Penix Jr. is the second-most-picked player to the Falcons in the PFN Mock Draft Simulator. The selections make slightly more sense in the context that they will be Day 2 picks, and Atlanta has limited backup QB options.
Taylor Heinicke is the only backup currently rostered, although ESPN reports that he has agreed to a pay cut for the 2024 season. However, with several holes to fill on the defense line and at cornerback, the selection is unlikely to be prioritized for Atlanta’s front office as it is for users.
Penix may slide to Day 2 due to his extensive injury history. However, his play warrants first-round discussion. The Washington QB is a powerful thrower and can generate intense velocity and touch. Overall, he’s a good decision-maker who shows excellent anticipation and awareness under center.
J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
J.J. McCarthy is also one of the 10 most-picked players by fans and one of the most hyped-up quarterbacks in the 2024 class. The Michigan prospect is a natural leader and a born winner. However, he will need to operate in the correct scheme to be successful at the next level.
Given that the Falcons have Cousins, being able to sit McCarthy while he learns the scheme and becomes more comfortable is likely what users are thinking with this selection.
RELATED: Top QBs in the 2024 NFL Draft
The national champion has enough arm talent, athleticism, and creation capacity to be a good NFL quarterback if he lands in the right spot. Behind Cousins, he would have the opportunity to improve his accuracy, consistency, and timing.
Other Falcons Fans’ Favorites in the 2024 NFL Draft
While a good deal of users are still selecting a quarterback for the Falcons post-free agency, many have transitioned to attacking other positions with Atlanta’s early-round selections.
Dallas Turner has become increasingly popular and is the third-most-selected prospect to the Falcons on the Mock Draft Simulator. The Alabama edge rusher is a scheme fit in Atlanta, as well as filling the young pass-rusher role that Atlanta has been searching for.
Other edge rushers that fans are selecting are Utah’s Jonah Elliss (fifth-most chosen player) and Alabama’s Chris Braswell (10th), who are likely Day 2 selections.
The defensive line is a favored position for Falcons users to address with their Day 2 selections. Defensive tackles are often being picked, and Texas’ T’Vondre Sweat is the fourth-most selected player to Atlanta.
Day 2 seems to be the sweet spot for DTs among Falcons users, with Texas A&M’s McKinnley Jackson and Leonard Taylor III also being popular selections.
KEEP READING: Rams, Cowboys, Jets, and 5 More Teams That Could Shock With Round 1 QB
Users are also choosing to pick up a wide receiver for the Falcons, although the selection isn’t as popular as quarterback or defensive lineman.
South Carolina’s Xavier Legette is the most popular wide receiver selection to Atlanta. His combination of size, athleticism, and ball skills would add another dimension to the Falcons’ offense.
Draft with your friends today! PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator now supports multiple drafters during the same draft! Ensure your player rankings are up to date on the 2024 NFL Draft Big Board and you know what every NFL team needs before drafting.