The Atlanta Falcons traded up into the second round of the 2024 NFL draft to select Clemson defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro on Friday evening.
In the second trade between the two teams this offseason, the Falcons sent the Cardinals pick No. 43 and pick No. 79 (from the Jaguars) in exchange for Arizona’s second-round pick (No. 35) and sixth-round selection (No. 186).
Another surprise from Atlanta: It’s Clemson DT Ruke Orhorhoro.
Comp: Falcons trade picks No. 43 and a 3rd (79) to Cardinals for picks No. 35 and No. 186 https://t.co/LW6u9FIuH6
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 26, 2024
The Falcons needed help along their defensive front and Orhorhoro can help right away as a rotational lineman while eventually developing into a starter. Orhorhoro racked up five sacks and 17 hurries while playing all over the defensive line for the Tigers last season.
“Orhorhoro is a versatile defensive lineman who can be a high-floor player at defensive end or defensive tackle,” Pro Football Focus wrote on their 2024 big board. “However, he needs to develop technical pass-rush moves to be more than a rotational player at the next level.”
Ruke Orhorhoro was drafted in round 2 pick 35 in the 2024 draft class. He scored a 9.92 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 15 out of 1808 DT from 1987 to 2024. https://t.co/siMT48fh6f pic.twitter.com/6wg63e95m6
— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 26, 2024
Atlanta’s next pick is in Round 3 (No. 74 overall), assuming the team doesn’t make another trade.
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