With the 2020 NFL Draft in the books, the Atlanta Falcons have successfully built a roster with elite talent on both sides of the ball.
As fans have learned over the past two seasons, though, talent doesn’t always translate to success. The presence of veteran players and locker-room leadership can be just as conducive to winning as anything else.
That’s why we’re highlighting three positions on the Falcons’ roster which, while not short on talent, may still benefit from a veteran addition or two before training camp.
Tight end
Hayden Hurst may very well become a viable replacement for Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper, but to assume the transition will be seamless would be naive. Hurst was one of three tight ends used in Baltimore’s high-powered offense in 2020. The former first-round pick has a ton of talent, but still must prove he can be a weapon at the position in Dirk Koetter’s offense.
Atlanta signed XFL standout Khari Lee, who has good upside and should provide depth. However, adding a veteran like Delanie Walker would help provide some leadership and a reliable target for Matt Ryan. For now, it’s up to Hurst to show he can be that No. 1 option at tight end.