Top cornerback prospect Justin Gilbert from Oklahoma State tweeted that he is scheduled to visit Atlanta this week.
New York Tmrw to visit the Jets, followed by Denver, Detroit, & Atlanta ✈️✈️ wish me luck #Business #BusyWeek #Blessed #Grateful 🙏
— Justin Gilbert (@JGil_4) April 21, 2014The Falcons currently hold the sixth overall pick and are bringing in top prospects such as South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, Buffalo outside linebacker Kahlil Mack and Texas A&M offensive tackle Jake Matthews this week. Gilbert is considered a top-15 pick.
In his latest mock draft, ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has Gilbert going to the Tennessee Titans with the No. 11 pick.
The Falcons obviously are doing their homework on all scenarios, although securing offensive line help, a pass-rusher and a safety would appear to be the priorities. The team seems set at cornerback with second-year players Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford looking like the starting corners for the future. But head coach Mike Smith has emphasized the need for the extra defensive backs in today's NFL, with so many teams running multiple-receiver sets.
Atlanta has competition at nickelback with Robert McClain, Javier Arenas and Josh Wilson.
The 6-foot, 200-pound Gilbert ran the 40-yard dash in 4.37 seconds at the NFL combine and also completed 20 reps in the bench press. He also is an outstanding kick returner, although the Falcons signed Devin Hester to handle those duties.