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15 hours ago
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The Atlanta Falcons have constructed a strong secondary over the last several years. A.J. Terrell, the team's first round draft pick from 2020, has blossomed into one of the better cornerbacks in the league. They've also built a ridiculous safety tandem behind him, signing Jessie Bates and Justin Simmons in recent years.
Atlanta has also had some players step up this season, one being Mike Hughes, who's played solid across from Terrell. The Falcons are still locked into a tight race for the NFC South division crown, as they're tied with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at 8-7. Atlanta holds the lead, however, as they swept Tampa Bay earlier in the season.
If they want to run away with the division lead next year, they'll need to consider continuing to add to their strong secondary. That's why Travis May of A to Z Sports has Atlanta selecting Texas corner Jahdae Barron with the No.19 pick in his recent mock draft.
This might feel like a reach for the Atlanta Falcons, but it surely is not. Jahdae Barron has been a turnover machine and an important leader this season for the Texas Longhorns defense. He's been nearly perfect in coverage as he's giving up just 7.9 yards per reception, zero touchdowns allowed on 61 targets, and 13 passes defended this year. He just seems to be in the right place at the right time all the time thanks to his veteran savvy, physicality, and instincts at defensive back.
Barron has turned into a superstar at Texas this past season, totaling 11 passes defended and five interceptions. In five seasons with the Longhorns, Barron has compiled 24 passes defended, 20 tackles for a loss and eight interceptions. The extra experience could be beneficial in his transition to the NFL, as cornerback is one of the toughest positions to become adjusted to at the next level.
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