Top-three QB falls to Falcons in latest mock draft

The Falcons are searching for their next franchise quarterback this offseason. Whether they obtain him through free agency next week or the 2024 NFL Draft on April 25 remains to be seen.

However, CBS Sports' Will Brinson predicts one of the top quarterbacks in this year's rookie class will fall to Atlanta in his latest mock draft.

Brinson has the Falcons landing LSU QB Jayden Daniels at pick No. 8.

"The Falcons are THRILLED to find Daniels sitting here, even though he doesn't necessarily fit the coaching staff's description," Brinson writes. "Plus, I think they'll sign a veteran quarterback in free agency, giving Daniels a year plus to sit and learn Zac Robinson's system."

Thrilled would be an understatement. The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner is viewed by most as one of the top three quarterbacks in this year's draft along with USC's Caleb Williams and UNC's Drake Maye. All are expected to go within the top five picks.

Daniels is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, throwing for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns as well as rushing for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2023.

It feels unlikely that Daniels will fall all the way to No. 8. Brinson is aware of that and he prefaced his mock draft with, "Let's go nuts," but crazier things have happened on draft night.

The Falcons have also been heavily linked to Vikings QB Kirk Cousins, who is set to hit the open market when free agency opens. 

If Cousins joins Atlanta, the team will likely use its first-round pick on another position. However, it would still be difficult to pass on Daniels if he is somehow available when it makes its first pick.

If Cousins returns to Minnesota or goes elsewhere, do not be surprised if the Falcons find a way to land one of the top quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft. Although, it would likely take a trade up to accomplish that goal.