Everyone knows the Hawks own 3 of the Top 40 picks in the 2010 NFL Draft, including #6 and #14. We also know the Hawks have needs at every position outside of kicker, punter and possibly linebacker. What gets really exciting is seeing that we have these great picks in what looks like a fantastic draft.
For the first time in my life, I spent some time watching the NFL combine, and it was way more captivating than I would have ever guessed.
The array of playmakers coming out this year stood out. CJ Spiller and Jahvid Best are well known, but I had never heard of Ryan Mathews out of Fresno. This kid is built like a truck at 5’11” 220lbs, and flew down the track at 4.45 in the 40. He looks every bit the part of an every down back. Dexter McCluster, out of Mississippi, did not have the greatest 40 time, but is a willing and able blocker in the passing game while also showing incredible potential as a receiver. A guy with his talent could actually make a difference at RB and WR for the Hawks. There were at least a half-dozen more guys that looked ready to make an impact out of the backfield as rookies. So while a guy like Spiller with sub-4.3 speed who had 20+ TDs of 50+ yards is tantalizing, it is becoming clear that the Hawks should be able to get some impact players on the offensive side of the ball whether they go for Spiller or even trade down from #14.