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Falcons GM Terry Fontenot 'Wants to Add Everywhere' on Defensive Line

The Atlanta Falcons will look to draft several defensive line pieces this offseason in free agency and the draft.

The Atlanta Falcons could be interested in a number of pass rushers in this year's NFL Draft, especially with the No. 8 overall pick.

But exactly where along the line will the Falcons go? The possibilities are endless, according to Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot.

"When we talk about pass rush, it's not just about the defensive line or the defensive tackles or the defensive ends, you want to add everywhere," Fontenot said. "Because no matter how quick you're getting to the quarterback, if your coverage or not, isn't good, it doesn't matter, they can get rid of the ball quick. So you want versatile players, but you have to make sure you're approving your whole defense. And you're not just focusing on one area, because it's a total picture."

The Falcons have reportedly met with several edge rushers like Clemson's Myles Murphy and Texas Tech's Tyree Wilson, but have also talked with Alabama defensive tackles D.J. Dale and Byron Young.

Given the flow of the draft, several pass rushers are likely going to have good value at the No. 8 pick, more than the defensive tackles. However, Georgia's Jalen Carter could be worth the pick if he's there at No. 8. 

In Sports Illustrated's latest mock draft, Carter was projected to be the No. 1 overall pick going to the Chicago Bears. However, this was written before the news that Carter was issued an arrest for his role in the death of his teammate Devin Willock and team staffer Chandler LeCroy back in January.

There is a lot of uncertainty in how the Falcons will attack adding on the defensive line during the draft, but the only thing certain is that Atlanta will add talent in the trenches this spring.


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