Falcons trade up to select edge rusher Takkarist McKinley

The Atlanta Falcons have selected outside linebacker Takkarist McKinley out of UCLA with the 26th pick of the 2017 NFL Draft.

McKinley will likely feature on the outside in the Falcons' scheme, operating off the edge opposite NFL sack leader Vic Beasley Jr.

The former UCLA standout excels against the run and will be another key pillar of a young and talented Falcons defense that shocked the football word at-large en route to Super Bowl LI.

Takkarist McKinley Bio:

Position: OLB/DE
School: UCLA
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-2
Weight: 265 lbs.

Strengths

• McKinley boasts a strong ability to cut on a dime and change directions while pursuing the ball carrier.
• Rarely, if ever, gives up on a play and will relentlessly back track to find the ball carrier even if he's well out of position.
• Bursts off the snap and can blow by opposing tackles due to his strong acceleration.
• McKinley is versatile enough to play as a standup outside linebacker in 3-4 schemes, or can be moved inside to play in the interior.
• The former UCLA standout excels against the run.

Weaknesses

• McKinley needs to a better job of disengaging from blockers and takes too long to separate.
• Often gets overpowered and fails to leverage his excellent reach.
• Needs to improve in coverage when deployed against opposing tight ends and running backs.
• McKinley relies on pure speed to beat opposing tackles and will need to develop an array of pass-rush moves to succeed at the next level.

Combine Results