The Falcons came away with two pass rushers in the first round of the NFL Draft, selecting Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. Both of whom have sky-high potential, but are getting absolutely no love from ESPN’s panel in their Defensive Rookie of the Year predictions:
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Bell: Mykel Williams, Edge, 49ers.
Bowen: Abdul Carter, Edge, Giants.
Fowler: Walter Nolen, DT, Cardinals.
Graziano: Carter.
Maldonado: Williams.
Miller: Jahdae Barron, CB, Broncos.
Moody: Mike Green, Edge, Ravens.
Orlovsky: Carter.
Jason Reid: Carter.
Jordan Reid: Barron.
Schatz: Carter.
Solak: Williams.
Tannenbaum: Mason Graham, DT, Browns.
Thiry: Williams.
Walder: Derrick Harmon, DT, Steelers.
Yates: Malaki Starks, S, Ravens.
Not one single pundit predicted either of the Falcons rookies to garner DROY consideration, which is especially puzzling considering it’s essentially become a pass rusher’s award.
Since 2010, only four non-pass rushers have won the award. There were 10 defensive linemen drafted in the first round, two of whom are on the Falcons. You’re telling me not a single person believes Jalon Walker, who most considered to be a top 10 talent in this draft, even has a chance at the award?
Well, how about James Pearce Jr.? Sure, there are questions about his love for the game, but there’s never been any question about the talent. He’s a freak of nature athlete, and if his strengths are accentuated in this Falcons defense, you can bet your bottom dollar he’ll be among those in the running for the DROY.
I have no idea why the Falcons aren’t getting attention. You can argue Terry Fontenot gave up too much to draft James Pearce Jr., but they are two of the most talented defenders in this rookie class. Not even having one pundit mention them is absolutely asinine.
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Photographer: Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire
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