NFL Draft: Why Atlanta Falcons Should Select Byron Murphy II

The Atlanta Falcons will be looking for reinforcements on the defensive line in this year's NFL Draft.

Among the top defenders in the class is Texas Longhorns standout Byron Murphy II, who is expected to be a first-round pick in this month's NFL Draft.

Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Byron Murphy II (90) celebrates sacking Iowa State quarterback / Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman /

With Grady Jarrett coming off a torn ACL and Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree still unsigned, having a player who can get after the quarterback as well as Murphy can is crucial for the Falcons.

"If the Falcons believe they need a better option in the middle of their new three-man defensive front, then the 6-1, 308-pound Murphy is the answer," The Athletic writes. "He had 45 quarterback pressures from the interior last season."

Murphy should be on the board when the Falcons are on the clock with the No. 8 pick, but he may not be there when they come back up in the second round. So the only legitimate shot Murphy has to join the Falcons is if the team trades back from No. 8 in the first round.

The Falcons may look to trade back in order to acquire more assets in a deep defensive draft when the top of the first round should lead to more offensive players being selected.

The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 25-27 in Detroit.