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Kiper Picks Athletic Pass-Rusher to Falcons at No. 31

The 2016 season was a breakout season for Vic Beasley Jr. and Grady Jarrett in many ways as they both evolved into integral players in Atlanta’s defense. Not only did they find their knack for getting to opponents’ quarterbacks – the duo combined for 48 percent (21.5) of Atlanta’s 44 total sacks on the year, postseason numbers included – they learned and defined their specific roles.

Third-year defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman also emerged onto the scene late in the season for the Falcons, becoming a key player for Atlanta’s defense in the postseason. Hageman showed his dominance along the interior with his performance in the NFC Championship game versus the Green Bay Packers where he recorded three tackles, three tackles for loss and one sack.