Round 1, Pick 4: Justin Fields, Quarterback, Ohio State
The time to move on from Matt Ryan has come as the team ushers in a new era with a new head coach and general manager. While it is still unclear how the team moves on from Ryan, it is clear it is time for some fresh blood on this team. With Fields on the board the Falcons would be crazy to pass up such a natural quarterback, especially as the team likely won’t be picking top five often.
Fields has shown to be human this season while at Ohio State but don’t let his statistical performances against Northwestern or Indiana distract you from the talent he has. While he has made some poor decisions in recent weeks the talent is clearly still there and shines even in his worst performances. He will need development in reading a field and diagnosing what is in front of him but he brings so many traits that others simply don’t possess to the table.
Fields still has the arm talent, accuracy, and athleticism to be a very successful quarterback. This pick will likely differ depending on who the head coach is but Fields should be a fit in most offenses, and fits well with the current offensive firepower the Falcons have at their disposal.