The Falcons have picked up a second rounder, and bumped up two spots in round one, by shipping backup quarterback Matt Schaub to the Texans.  Of course, the move creates a gaping hole at backup quarterback, in the event that D.J. Shockley isn't ready to become Mike Vick's No. 2.

Armed with an extra-second round pick, a move into striking distance for receiver Calvin Johnson would be wise, in our view.  First, the do-it-all receiver would increase Mike Vick's margin for error, since Johnson has the ability to catch balls that otherwise would sail over a "normal" wideout's head.  Second, the local product could take Vick's place as the face of the franchise if/when the team decides to move on.  (Or move out.)

If the Falcons stay put at No. 8, safety LaRon Landry or Reggie Nelson could be a good choice, given that current free safety Chris Crocker is better suited for the strong safety position -- or the bench.

We also think that the Falcons should consider running back Adrian Peterson, if he slides into their lap.  Warrick Dunn is getting up there in years, and the pass-catching skills Peterson displayed at his Pro Day workout could give Vick another easy short-range target if/when Vick invariably runs outside of the pocket.  Peterson could be an intriguing addition to a team that should focus on cultivating more weapons that don't necessarily depend on the ability of Vick to deliver deep balls with accuracy and consistency.

And don't rule out an arguable reach at No. 8 for Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye, who played in college for Falcons head coach Bobby Petrino.  With Grady Jackson's future now squarely in doubt due to his decision to sue the franchise, Petrino might prefer coaching up a guy with whom he already has a comfort level.

Another area of need is at defensive end, given the departure of Patrick Kerney.  Though John Abraham helps to offset Kerney's absence, Abraham's injury issues require more depth at the position. 

The Falcons had hoped to increase the size of their offensive line as they move away from the zone-blocking scheme, but they have come up short to date in free agency.  (With the exception of Two-Ton Toniu Fonoti.)  The draft is a great opportunity to add some big beefy guys who can knock the guy across from him on his butt.

Linebacker is suddenly an area of need, given the release of Edgerton Hartwell and Ike Reese.  Also, Demorrio Williams was rumored to be on the trading block -- and likely could return if the Falcons can draft one or two more in April.

Finally, the Falcons could use a new kicker, given that the current guy is more than twice the age of most draft-eligible prospects.