Like a large contingent of the Falcons fan base, Dave Archer believes that the organization should prioritize finding a productive pass-rusher in next week’s NFL draft. But if he had to pick one, which of the young quarterback prospects does the former Falcons signal-caller prefer?
Joining 92.9 The Game this morning, Archer told Chris Goforth that he would roll with Liberty’s Malik Willis—a prospect that he says has the highest ceiling in the class. Archer explained that while the comparisons to Michael Vick’s rushing ability may be a bit of a stretch, there are areas of his game that exceed Vick’s at the time he was coming out of Virginia Tech.
“I think he’s more accomplished in the passing game coming out of college than Michael was. I think he has a better idea of what’s going on, he throws the ball incredible on the move. I think he has a willingness, from all the interviews I’ve seen, to get better. You can’t come in saying ‘hey, I’m all that.’ You come in with that confidence, but you’ve got to come in willing to learn and get better. I think Malik has all of that,” he said.
After transferring from Auburn to Liberty, Willis elevated the Flames' national profile while compiling 47 touchdown passes over two seasons against 18 interceptions. On the ground, he rushed for an additional 27 touchdowns and 1,822 yards.
Archer did note that the Atlanta native needs to work on going through his progressions and conceded that questions about the competition Willis faced at Liberty will remain.
The Falcons met with Willis during the pre-draft process in addition to Ole Miss’ Matt Corral and UNC’s Sam Howell. The team also had a strong presence at Pitt’s pro day to evaluate Kenny Pickett. So, will the Falcons select one of the young quarterbacks to be the eventual face of the franchise or will they roll with free-agent acquisition Marcus Mariota as they begin the post-Matt Ryan era? We’ll find out when the NFL Draft begins this Thursday.