27. Atlanta Falcons: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa

Despite their 13-3 record last year the Falcons still have some holes on their team that need to be filled if they are to be a legitimate Super Bowl contender.  GM Thomas Dimitroff and Head Coach Mike Smith have publicly stated that they would like the team to become more explosive on offense but they won't be able to pass up a defensive gem like Clayborn with the 27th pick.  As evident by the game against Green Bay, the Falcons defense needs to prevent big plays and get opposing offenses off the field.

Creating a fierce pass rush is the first step the Falcons will take to shore up the defense and Clayborn can provide exactly that.  Despite his medical condition Clayborn played four seasons at Iowa finishing with 30 consecutive starts, 192 total tackles, 37 tackles for loss, and 19 sacks. Working in rotation with aging Johnathan Abraham and emerging Kroy Biermann, Adrian Clayborn will help the Falcons put pressure on opposing QB's and relieve some of the strain on their young group of DB's.  Should a steal like Clayborn not be available at #27, you can expect the Falcons to trade down to acquire additional picks and TE Kyle Rudolph, whose value is projected at the top of round two.