2022 NFL Draft: 3 Players Falcons should take with No. 8 pick
By Kathryn Rose
Charles Cross – Offensive tackle – Mississippi State
Matt Ryan led the league in hits taken during the 2021 season. His passing stats suffered for it, and that kind of porous line play is one of the reasons Mariota was brought in as a stopgap replacement.
The Falcons only had one decent offensive lineman, that being Jake Matthews at left tackle. Yet, there are far more talented prospects at left tackle, and Matthews could slide to right tackle if need be.
Enter Charles Cross. The Mississippi State left tackle’s film will look like cool water in a hot desert for Mariota or any quarterback for that matter. He is as solid as concrete but combines that solid base with good agility. His first punch is remarkable, and he plays with a violence that isn’t seen very often. While he does tend to overset some in pass protection, that can be coached out of him.
Despite coming from a Mike Leach offense, he’s also a nasty run blocker. His potential is sky-high, and he should be the first choice for the Falcons with the 8th overall pick.