ATLANTA – Arthur Smith’s first draft as coach of the Atlanta Falcons helped to prove he’s taking an even-keeled approach to building the roster.
Sure, the first pick for Smith, the former Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator and tight ends coach, was a tight end.
But after Florida’s Kyle Pitts was the No. 4 overall selection, Smith and first-year general manager Terry Fontenot made sure to pay attention to the Falcons’ defense as well.
“It’s fun to be a part of it,” Smith said. ” It’s fun to have to get to worry about the whole team.”
The proof came Saturday, when four of the Falcons’ final six picks were defensive players: cornerbacks Darren Hall of San Diego State and Avery Williams of Boise State and defensive linemen Ta’Quon Graham of Texas and Ade Ogundeji of Notre Dame.