Does USC QB Caleb Williams Think Being Drafted to Falcons is 'Cool'?

Does USC QB Caleb Williams Think Being Drafted to Atlanta Falcons is 'Cool'?

It is a story from the Super Bowl a year ago that is now being recirculated. But it merits a check-back now that the Atlanta Falcons finished out their 2023 season with a 7-10 record and will have the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. ...

And now that Caleb Williams has declared for the draft.

In an interview with People.com a year ago, the Heisman Trophy winner already had an idea of where he'd like to land to launch his NFL career. And Atlanta gets a mention.

Caleb Williams and the Falcons
Caleb Williams and the Falcons / ChatSports

"I like to be around younger coaches," he said. "I'd probably go to the Dolphins. I also would be able to play with Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Mike Gesicki. The defense isn't bad. That's probably my No. 1 spot. ... I also like the colors. The colors are pretty cool and the weather's good."

All good. We get it. Of course, the Dolphins' first-round pick is a late one, in spot No. 21. So that hookup is unlikely.

Anybody else, kid, that catches your eye?

Williams said that "San Fran, Raiders or Falcons" are other places he would love to play.

Are the Falcons - now with Bijan Robinson and Drake London and Kyle Pitts - suddenly viewed as "cool"?

Cowboys OUT on Belichick; Falcons Hiring Coach's Best Option?

The Falcons pick in the No. 8 slot. The USC star Williams, who has company when it comes to the debate of who'll be taken No. 1 in April, doesn't figure to fall to No. 8. There are, however, rumors about the idea of Atlanta trading up to the top slot, where the Chicago Bears have the pick and have a big decision to make on whether they wish to commit to QB Justin Fields.

In the end, Williams - at least a year ago - noted that when it comes down to the draft, "I'd play anywhere."

That might not end up being Atlanta. But it's the thought that counts. And it's always nice to be wanted.


Published
Mike Fisher
MIKE FISHER

Mike Fisher - as a newspaper beat writer and columnist and on radio and TV, where he is an Emmy winner - has covered the NFL since 1983, is the author of two best-selling books on the NFL.