RSS Falcons Team Notes

[Atlanta Falcons]

Atlanta Falcons NFL draft 2026 prospect rumors, news tracker

Apr 24, 2025; Green Bay, WI, USA; The Atlanta Falcons logo is projected on the video board during the NFL Draft at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons will roll into this year’s draft with a new President of Football (TM), general manager, and head coach. That means we have to throw out what we know about this team’s tendencies and learn new ones, especially in terms of who this team will be interested in.

As always, we’re maintaining our 2026 NFL Draft interest tracker right here. This will be full of reported top 30 visits, virtual meetings, and outsized interest shown at post-season all-star games and the scouting combine. The list will start small and grow as we get new reports in the door.

Last year was a banner year for draft interest matching up with results, as the Falcons actually took players from their local pro day (Jalon Walker), top 30 visits (James Pearce Jr.), and NFL Scouting Combine (Billy Bowman Jr.). Undrafted free agent tackle Jordan Williams, who was also at the local pro day, spent the summer with the team too. Some years only one or two of the names reported out actually land in Atlanta, so that was something.

We’ll soon find out if the Falcons will telegraph their interest under Ian Cunningham’s front office or not. Stay locked in to this tracker as we learn names.

---

NFL Scouting Combine​

TBD

American Bowl​

RB Barika Kpeenu, North Dakota State (Per source)

Senior Bowl​

As our own Kevin Knight points out annually, every team meets with every prospect at the Senior Bowl, so no meetings here will particularly noteworthy unless we hear otherwise.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...ospects-rumors-news-meetings-interest-tracker

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons lose DBs coach and assistant head coach Jerry Gray to 49ers

Nov 23, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Atlanta Falcons helmets sit on a bench prior to a game New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images | Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons have seen a pair of assistants on the defensive side of the ball depart, losing passing game coordinator Mike Rutenberg to the Browns and now assistant head coach on the defensive side of the ball Jerry Gray to the 49ers. Rutenberg left to be the defensive coordinator in Cleveland, while Gray will reunite with ex-Falcons head coach Raheem Morris in a defensive backs coach role in San Francisco.

The #49ers are expected to hire veteran defensive backs coach Jerry Gray, sources tell @CBSSports.

Gray was assistant head of defense for Atlanta the last three years. In addition to that and his time as a DB coach, was also a defensive coordinator for both the Titans and Bills. pic.twitter.com/RN0r4aWFuY

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 15, 2026

Both feel like significant losses for the defense. Gray joined Atlanta in 2023 under Arthur Smith and Ryan Nielsen and helped the Falcons pull together quality pass defenses in two of his three years here, including last year with Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinator. Despite having to work with three different coordinators, Gray was an experienced, stabilizing force for the defense, especially the secondary. It’s easy to see why Morris was eager to poach him, especially since he’s joining a San Francisco team that has cycled defensive coaches in recent years.

Gray and Rutenberg, who had key roles with this team’s pass defense, are probably not going to be easily replaced. I mentioned that secondary coach Justin Hood, who the Falcons blocked from interviewing for at least one other position, would be a strong bet to fill Rutenberg’s shoes as passing game coordinator and am fairly convinced that’s a role he’ll end up getting. It’s less clear whether Gray’s direct role as assistant head coach for the defense will be filled, but the Falcons undoubtedly will try to add more experience to the staff regardless of the title.

We wish Gray well except for those occasions where the Falcons play the 49ers, and we’ll see how the Falcons choose to fill the void left by his departure.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...-and-assistant-head-coach-jerry-gray-to-49ers

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

How did you become a Falcons fan?

Some fans choose their team, and some fans are chosen by their team. Which was it for you? Today, we want to hear your story: How you became a fan of the Atlanta Falcons.

I moved to Georgia in Summer 2005, during the Michael Vick era. I wasn’t much of an NFL fan during the time I lived in Ohio — I was a huge Buckeyes fan, but as far as professional sports, we were more of a Major League Baseball family. (I was a Braves fan even as a kid growing up in Ohio; shoutout to TBS.) I rooted for the Bengals in their Super Bowls, but beyond that, I wasn’t too jazzed about Cincinnati or the Browns. Shocking, I’m sure.

We won tickets to see the Falcons play the Minnesota Vikings in the Georgia Dome during the 2005 season — my very first NFL game. Michael Vick was electric. He got a little banged up in that one — again, shocking, I’m sure — so I also saw Matt Schaub play as Vick’s backup. The Falcons won 30-10, and I was obsessed. The rest is history.

Join the conversation!​

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When did you first become a Falcons fan? Were you born into it? Was there a specific game or season that pulled you in? What’s the earliest moment you remember as a fan?

Let’s hear your story.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlanta-falcons-discussion/91868/how-did-you-become-a-falcons-fan

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Atlanta Falcons reportedly plan to franchise tag Kyle Pitts

Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. (8) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

It’s not a surprise, but NFL insider Ian Rapoport is reporting that the Falcons will indeed use the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts.

After a breakout season that saw him set career marks in receptions in touchdowns, and with incoming head coach Kevin Stefanski being one of the biggest NFL tight end enthusiasts this side of Arthur Smith, this felt close to inevitable. Rapoport indicates the Falcons will use the tag to buy themselves time for a long-term pact with Pitts, with the deal needing to be done by July.

The #Falcons are planning to franchise tag standout TE Kyle Pitts, sources say, keeping their playmaker in the fold on a 1-year, fully guaranteed deal worth more than $15M.

The hope is to work out a long-term deal rather than the tag. The two sides have until July to do it. pic.twitter.com/dwtlUbKxz7

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 23, 2026

Pitts, who won’t turn 26 until October, has already played five seasons in Atlanta and has 284 career receptions for 3,579 yards and 15 touchdowns as a Falcon. Those numbers are good for 4th all-time among Falcons tight ends for receptions and yardage and 5th in touchdowns, with Jim Mitchell, Tony Goznalez, Alge Crumpler, and Austin Hooper (for touchdowns) ahead of him. The bulk of Pitts’ production has come between his 2021 rookie season and 2025 breakout campaign, where he put up a little over half of his receptions and yardage, but the Falcons seem convinced that the young tight end is on the cusp of making his 2025 totals a regular thing. In a tight end friendly offense, we hope so too.

We’ll see when this is official, but all signs have pointed to this outcome for a while now, and the Falcons will be able to count on putting Bijan Robinson, Kyle Pitts, and Drake London on the field at the same time. That should help the offense and whoever is playing quarterback, so long as the Falcons get all the other pieces around them right.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...s-reportedly-plan-to-franchise-tag-kyle-pitts

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons confirm they will release Kirk Cousins on the first day of the 2026 league year

Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

There was too much smoke around Kirk Cousins’ release to expect anything but a fire. After he restructured his deal, something that gave the game away, insiders kept reporting Cousins would indeed be let go after two seasons in Atlanta. Today, the team made it all but official, with new general manager Ian Cunningham telling 92.9 the Game that the veteran quarterback will be cut on the first day of the new league year.

Again, this is not at all surprising. Cousins had not played well enough for the Falcons to feel good about absorbing the increased cap hit in his contract for this year, and the restructure had made it financially untenable for them to keep him around. Cousins wants a shot at the open market, logically, and the Falcons wanted cap space to be able to pursue their offseason objections.

The Falcons confirmed to Kirk Cousins this week that they will release him on the first day of the league year, GM Ian Cunningham told @929TheGame. "Out of respect for Kirk and Michael, felt like that was the right decision."

— Josh Kendall (@JoshTheAthletic) February 24, 2026

Cousins, who is top 20 in most passing categories in NFL history, has had a long and productive career that will go down as one of the greatest ever for a quarterback drafted in the fourth round; only Dak Prescott has been better. The Falcons pursued him after the first truly major injury of his career expecting that it wouldn’t impact him as heavily because Cousins has never won with his mobility, but unfortunately Cousins was not quite the same player once he recovered and additional injuries ended up conspiring with terrible play to get him benched late in 2024. He took over for an injured Michael Penix Jr. in 2025 and turned in some mostly solid work, but the prolific passer that thrived in Washington and Minnesota may not be there heading into his age 38 season.

When the release is official on the new league year, which kicks off at 4 p.m. on March 11, the Falcons will just have Penix under contract for the upcoming season. They’re widely expected to chase a starting-caliber option in free agency, the draft, or the trade market.

Given his age, Atlanta’s team needs, and the fact that there’s a few quarterback-starved teams out there, Cousins will probably land somewhere else. We wish him well wherever he goes, especially after Cunningham flatly said this morning the team won’t re-sign the veteran.

Ian Cunningham: “We won’t re-sign Kirk.”

— Josh Kendall (@JoshTheAthletic) February 24, 2026

Now the only drama around the offseason is exactly where it should be: Focused on how and when the Falcons will get better with the resources available to them.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...-day-of-the-2026-league-year-michael-penix-jr

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons to franchise tag Kyle Pitts: How much will it cost?

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 07: Kyle Pitts #8 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with a catch during the first quarter of a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 07, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

New Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham announced that the team would be using the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts. Kevin Knight breaks down the cost of the franchise tag, as well as what a potential long-term extension for Pitts might look like along with commentary on whether or not Pitts should be traded. Fellow Falcoholics, welcome to another episode of the Dirty Birds and Brews podcast!

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We hope you enjoy the show! If you have comments, we’d love to hear them. Send them to us on Twitter (@FalcoholicLive), leave them below, or e-mail the show at [email protected].

Thanks for watching!

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...ranchise-tag-kyle-pitts-how-much-will-it-cost

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Vote on the best Falcons punter from 2000-2025

Aug 29, 2019; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons punter Matt Bosher (5) warms up during the second half against the Atlanta Falcons at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images

We’re kicking off our series for the all-quarter century Atlanta Teams team with punter, the most glamorous position on the roster.

This is also a fun one to start with because there are three options who are at least worth considering for the honor of the team’s best punt over the past 25 years. There’s the team’s current day punter in Bradley Pinion, a longtime and beloved punter and big hitter on special teams in Matt Bosher, and a reliable option who the team actually used as both their punter and kicker for a short time in Michael Koenen.

Read our capsules if you need a refresher on these players, including statistics and all-time franchise history rankings in parentheses, and then vote!

Matt Bosher​

The raw numbers: 489 punts (2nd), 20,120 net yards (2nd), 45.1 yards per punt (2nd), 40.4 net yards per punt (2nd), 38.9% inside 20% (2nd), 9 punts blocked (1st), 1 highlight reel tackle

The Mighty Bosh was a fixture on Falcons special teams from 2011 to 2019, and boasts the second-highest number of games played from a Falcons punter, just behind the insanely overworked John James of the 1970s. He’s also top three in every franchise punting category, which is a good thing except for the number of blocked punts, the one notable flaw in his game.

Still, Bosher has the longevity argument, the quality of resume argument, and his status as a long-time fan favorite.

He also did this, if it helps to persuade you to vote for him.

Michael Koenen​

The raw numbers: 440 punts (4th), 18,501 net yards (4th), 42 yards per punt (9th), 36.9 net yards per punt (8th), 34.1% inside 20%, 6 punts blocked (1st), 4/13 on field goals

What made Koenen effective in his prime was a big leg—he once kicked a 58 yard field goal in an otherwise ill-starred turn as the team’s kicker—and quality hang time. Despite having just 50 fewer punts than Bosher, he had 343 fewer return yards against him, a testament to his ability to give his coverage teams room to catch up. He ended up doing a lot of work in a fairly short amount of time for Atlanta, given how often the team was punting early in the new century.

The problem is that the rate numbers are well behind his two competitors here, but no accounting of the best punters of this era for Atlanta is complete without him, even so.

Bradley Pinion​

The raw numbers: 248 punts (9th), 10,037 net yards (8th), 46.2 yards per punt (1st), 40.5 net yards per punt (1st), 39.5% inside 20% (1st), 0 punts blocked

Pinion’s case is simple: By rate numbers, he’s the best punter in team history. The case against him is equally straightforward: He hasn’t done the job as long as Bosher or Koenen. You have to decide how much you want to weigh those factors.

Like cornerback, punter is a position that only gets noticed when something spectacularly good or terrible happens, and Pinion’s occasional ugly shanks get outsized notice. On a punt-to-punt basis, though, nobody in team history has been better at pinning opposing offenses deep in their own territory, and he’s been a hyper-reliable option for four seasons now.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...ote-on-the-best-falcons-punter-from-2000-2025

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons reportedly will cut KhaDarel Hodge

Oct 3, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge (12) runs after a catch to score the game-winning touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in overtime at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

After four seasons as a special teams ace and occasionally electrifying receiver on offense, KhaDarel Hodge will play somewhere else in 2026. The Atlanta Falcons will release him soon, per NFL reporter Jordan Schultz.

Sources: The #Falcons informed former Pro Bowl special-teamer KhaDarel Hodge that he will be released.

Hodge spent four years in Atlanta, including that Pro Bowl season in 2024. pic.twitter.com/qVEfOvaSnT

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 25, 2026

Hodge, 31, joined Atlanta in 2022 as a less-than-heralded addition to their special teams and quickly made himself a fan favorite. One of the most reliable performers on Marquice Williams’ units, Hodge was among the team leaders in special teams tackles every season and was a force for good in coverage, ultimately earning Pro Bowl recognition for his work in 2024. On offense, he came into his own as an occasional receiving option after coming to Atlanta with just 30 total career receptions, putting up 37 grabs for 596 yards and a pair of touchdowns in four seasons. One of those scores is one of the most fun, memorable moments we have from this deeply cursed franchise in recent years.

Hodge seemed to have fallen out of favor with the team late last year, as he was suddenly benched temporarily before the Falcons placed him on injured reserve in December. The Falcons, who have an entirely new front office and coaching staff, are moving on from Hodge and saving a little over $2.6 million in 2026 by doing so, with about $625,000 in dead money. With a million holes to fill and a roster to reimagine, it’s a logical move, albeit one that still makes me a bit sad. Hodge’s energy, playmaking verve, and consistency were welcome for a Falcons team that had too little of all three during his four years here, after all.

We wish Hodge well wherever he lands, and he shouldn’t take long to find a new home, given his track record.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlanta-falcons-news/91982/falcons-reportedly-will-cut-khadarel-hodge

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Why the Falcons should make the bold decision to move on from Kyle Pitts

Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. (8) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

New Atlanta Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham needs to make bold moves to get the Falcons out of their rut. And one of the boldest he could make is moving on from tight end Kyle Pitts this offseason.

It’s already been announced that Pitts will be franchise tagged. That makes sense, given that he’s coming off a second-team All-Pro bid and keeping him for another year would be a safe choice. It would give Cunningham a chance to evaluate him for a full season in Kevin Stefanski’s offense before making a long-term decision about his future.

However, Pitts’ long-term outlook in Atlanta isn’t as rosy as it might appear at first glance, since a return in 2026 would mean the Falcons are treading the same ground that has led to repeated disappointing seasons as of late. They are running it back with the same core of offensive weapons and personnel for the fourth consecutive year, with the only substantial changes made during that period being at quarterback. The Falcons have essentially tried and failed with four different quarterbacks to try and unlock the full potential of that talent, and are on a path to trot out a fifth one this year. Will Cunningham let this same hackneyed formula fail them again in a fourth season in a row?

If so, then how is he any different or better than his predecessor, Terry Fontenot? He’d be making the exact same mistake that led to Fontenot’s downfall: trusting far too much in the supremacy of his roster construction. Alas, Cunningham has to switch things up, and letting Pitts go is the boldest, but probably best pivot he can make this offseason. It would also be poetic, given that Pitts was Fontenot’s first draft selection, and a clear indicator that there is a new sheriff in town.

Falcons can find a replacement for Pitts in a deep TE draft class​

Of course, losing Pitts would be a significant blow to the Falcons’ offense, but one that this team should be prepared to recover from rather quickly. There are 27 tight ends invited to the Scouting Combine, dwarfing the last few years’ list of invites. And while some think the 2026 tight end class lacks a wealth of high-end talent, the aforementioned number reflects the enormous depth available later this spring with considerably cheaper options than Pitts. That money saved could do wonders to shore up other areas of concern for the Falcons, including the trenches, where Cunningham has stressed he wants to beef up.

Stefanski runs a tight-end-friendly offense, which obviously could benefit Pitts but should also help any potential replacements, especially those of lesser talent. But more importantly, the physical, run-first identity of this new-look offense doesn’t quite mesh with Pitts’ pass-first playing style. And when you factor in that Pitts doesn’t quite mesh with the team’s more important offensive fixtures, Bijan Robinson and Drake London, it makes sense for the team to move on.

Pitts’ skills don’t mesh well with both Bijan and Drake London​

A tight end that brings a bit more oomph as a run blocker would be a better fit with Robinson and the run game that Stefanski and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees want to be the foundation of the offense. An inline “Y” tight end also better meshes with London’s skill set, as well, given that he has been one of the NFL’s top “power slot” receivers since entering the NFL in 2022. According to PFF, London has ranked sixth or higher in three of his four seasons in yards per route run when lined up in the slot.

Pitts functions much the same as a big slot when flexed out, as evidenced by the fact that he led all tight ends in that same slot yards per route run metric for the final seven games of 2025, with London limited or out of the lineup. However, in the first 10 games of 2025, Pitts ranked 31st among tight ends in that same metric. In non-slot yards per route run, Pitts ranked 20th during that early stretch of the season with London in the lineup. The Falcons have struggled to feature these overlapping skill sets together over the past four years. The numbers underscore the core issue: Pitts and London rarely work well together. When one is productive, the other is usually quiet.

Many may hope that Stefanski can resolve this dilemma, but those hopes are just a rehash of Fontenot’s playbook. It’s often said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.

A tag-and-trade scenario could leave Falcons with something rather than nothing​

Now, should Cunningham simply let Pitts walk in free agency? A case can be made that the Falcons should in hopes of recouping some value in the form of a compensatory draft pick in 2027. Cunningham’s background of working with the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles, two teams that have had more success than most in gaming the system with compensatory picks over the years, lends credence to adopting a similar strategy here in Atlanta.

But there would be risk involved in letting Pitts hit the open market because the Falcons could negate their compensatory pick windfall by signing free agents from other teams. The Falcons can mitigate that risk by electing to franchise tag and then trade Pitts, guaranteeing they can get some form of draft-pick compensation.

Since 2018, tag-and-trades have become increasingly common, with eight happening in that span. While many might dream of receiving a first-round pick in exchange for Pitts to replace the one absent from the Falcons’ current coffers, that is unlikely. Instead, most tag-and-trade scenarios involved second or third-round picks.

But that would still be valuable to Cunningham, who has also stated he views draft picks as currency. He can start collecting it by moving Pitts to a new team where he can flourish. Pitts’ potential success elsewhere should not be seen as a deterrent against moving him, as it often is, for fears that the much-maligned tight end finally turned a corner in 2025 and will start to live up to the hype as the highest-drafted tight end ever.

Other teams have successfully made bold moves by trading their TEs​

Replacing quality tight ends hasn’t been a huge problem for many NFL teams over the past decade or so. Ask the Detroit Lions or Las Vegas Raiders if they have lingering regrets about trading T.J. Hockenson and Darren Waller, respectively, and landing Sam LaPorta and Brock Bowers within a year of those trades. Each of the latter two have outshined their predecessors. The Falcons only have to look at their bitter rival trading Jimmy Graham back in 2015 as inspiration. While the Saints never acquired a comparable tight end in the decade since that move, their offense improved thanks to investing more in wide receivers like Brandin Cooks and Michael Thomas. The Falcons are already on the path of looking to upgrade their wide receiver position this offseason after a disastrous 2025 season for the position.

In the end, trading Pitts in his prime would be a very bold decision by Cunningham, creating an immediate void, but the Falcons are well-positioned to recover quickly. And it wouldn’t be as bold as many of Fontenot’s huge swings, such as selecting a tight end fourth overall, or handing out the biggest free agent contract ever to a quarterback in the same offseason as drafting one in the top 10, or trading away a future first-round pick for a pass-rusher with known character red flags.

However, the Falcons likely will wait and see on Pitts before making any bold decisions. Perhaps Stefanski and Rees will find more creative ways to maximize both Pitts and London within the same offense this season. Tagging him gives them time to figure that stuff out. But in the meantime, a bolder move that could pave the way for a brighter future for the Falcons’ offense will be just a phone call away.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...-the-bold-decision-to-move-on-from-kyle-pitts

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Atlanta Falcons discussion: Have you ever met a Falcons player or coach in real life?

We’re beyond the Super Bowl but not quite to the start of the new league year so it’s a somewhat quiet time in the NFL. Let’s pass the time by talking about the Atlanta Falcons.

Where’s the most random place you’ve run into a Falcons player or coach, and who was it?

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You could always tell us about any experience you’ve had meeting a Falcons player (or multiple players if it’s happened more than once) in real life.

I meet everyone through my coverage of the team, so I’m going to go way back and tell a story about my younger daughter (now 26, she was probably eight or nine years old at the time) meeting Arthur Blank for the first time, years before I joined the team at The Falcoholic. It was training camp, Arthur Blank was signing autographs, and some grown man shoved my child out of the way so he could get the last autograph. A staffer told Blank what had happened as they walked back toward the team’s facility, and Blank turned right around, marched back over to the rope, and called us over so he could sign my daughter’s Falcons flag. I sincerely appreciated that. It was early in my Falcons fandom, and definitely helped solidify the love part of my love/hate relationship with this team.

Scroll down to the comment section below to share your stories!

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...-life-experiencese-autographs-fans-discussion

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

LaTroy Lewis fired by Falcons after sexual assault allegations surface

Jun 3, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; An Atlanta Falcons logo in the media room before the start of Falcons OTA at the Falcons Training facility. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

This story contains references to sexual violence and harassment and may be disturbing to some readers.

Just 17 days after he was hired as the Falcons’ assistant defensive line coach, LaTroy Lewis has been fired by the team after a report surfaced that he was accused of rape in Michigan, according to Darko State News.

The Falcons issued a report on Friday morning, stating:

“We are aware of allegations regarding LaTroy Lewis. We are in the process of gathering information and will have no further comment at this time.”

Just a few hours later, the news broke that Lewis was fired by the teams.

The Falcons have now fired assistant DL coach LaTroy Lewis https://t.co/CqiTbZM6k0

— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) February 27, 2026

According to the report, the assault occurred while Lewis was on the University of Michigan’s coaching staff. The report claims Lewis not only sexually assaulted the accuser, but harassed her, allegedly sending texts to the accuser that said “I’m going to fuck you up,” and “I’d fucking kill you! Don’t play with me.”

The report also claims the accuser reported the rape to then-Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore, who was a mandated reporter of sexual assault under both Title IX and the university’s policies. Moore allegedly failed to report the assault, gave Lewis a raise, and allegedly sexually harassed the accuser himself, per the report.

The alleged assault took place in 2024. Lewis spent 2025 as the University of Toledo’s defensive line coach. He accepted a job with UConn before jumping to the NFL with the offer to join Atlanta’s staff.

Sherrone Moore was fired by the University of Michigan on Dec. 10, 2025, after the university became aware that he’d had an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Moore was arrested the same day and charged with felony home invasion, stalking, and breaking and entering.

No charges have been filed against Lewis related to this incident that I’ve been able to confirm, and because of that, I don’t know the team could have found this during a background check. If charges are filed, Lewis should be considered innocent until proven guilty by the legal system — but the Falcons aren’t under any such obligation, and given the level of scrutiny they’re already under as we wait for a resolution in James Pearce Jr.‘s criminal case, the choice to close the door on Lewis’s brief employment in light of these allegations is no surprise.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...gations-university-of-michigan-sexual-assault

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons hire Patrick Toney as new defensive pass game coordinator

Sep 10, 2023; Landover, Maryland, USA;Arizona Cardinals defensive backs coach Patrick Toney walks on the sideline before the game against the Washington Commander at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brent Skeen-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons have filled their defensive pass game coordinator vacancy left by the departure of Mike Rutenberg, hiring Ole Miss defensive coordinator Patrick Toney for the role.

The #Falcons are expected to hire Ole Miss defensive coordinator Patrick Toney as defensive pass game coordinator, sources tell me and @AKinkhabwala.

Highly respected defensive mind in coaching circles. Pre-Ole Miss, was a DB coach for the Cardinals and DC at Florida. pic.twitter.com/mCs3utqOsW

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 27, 2026

Toney was not at Ole Miss very long—he just joined earlier this year—but had spent 2023-2025 as the defensive backs coach for the Arizona Cardinals. Prior to that, he was the co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach for Florida in 2022, the defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach for Louisiana from 2020-2021, and a safeties and defensive backs coach prior to that with multiple schools.

The 35-year-old steps into big shoes, as Rutenberg was one of Jeff Ulbrich’s most trusted lieutenants and had coached with him in one capacity or another since 2021. Toney’s multiple years of college defensive coordinator experience actually make him a bit more seasoned in that capacity than Rutenberg was when he joined Atlanta in 2025, as Rutenberg had previously only spent time as a position coach. The important thing is that Ulbrich has identified Toney as a bright defensive mind and worthwhile hire to fill a key role for a team that hopes to build on its defensive gains in 2026, and we’ll hope Toney can deliver in this role.

Give him a warm welcome, if you would.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...efensive-pass-game-coordinator-mike-rutenberg

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Atlanta Falcons fan discussion: Where in the world are The Falcoholic’s readers?

Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; An Atlanta Falcons fan shows their pride during the first half of a game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images | Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Two dominant Falcons storylines this offseason have not been fun. Between James Pearce Jr. and the news that broke Friday about allegations against the team’s newly hired, and now newly fired assistant defensive line coach, I think it would be nice to have something a little lighter to discuss this weekend. And that makes it a perfect time to ask: Where in the world are our The Falcoholic readers?

We don’t want or need your address or any personal details — sharing just the state is fine, or city and state if you’d like to be more specific. Same thing if you live abroad – if you’d like to just share the country, that’s cool, and if you want to share more details like the city or region, that’s totally up to you.

Join the conversation!​

Sign up for a user account and get:

• Fewer ads
• Create community posts
• Comment on articles, community posts
• Rec comments, community posts
• New, improved notifications system!

Now it’s your turn to scroll down to the comments and let us know where you are! We’ll update this list as locations are shared.

Falcons fans in the United States​

• Georgia
• Florida
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• Oregon

Falcons fans abroad​

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlanta-falcons-discussion/91865/fan-survey-location-census-discussion

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons salary cap 2026: Updated number released by the NFL

Feb 9, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell speaks at the Super Bowl LX host committee handoff press conference at Moscone Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

A $22M increase is good news for your cash-strapped Atlanta Falcons, who have begun the process of creating cap space for the 2026 offseason.

Ian Cunningham has already announced the Falcons will move on from Kirk Cousins, and that will likely be a post-June 1st designated cut, which maximizes the savings from moving on from Cousins, but the money saved can’t be touched until summer. This means the Falcons have to get creative with contracts and explore all available options to achieve cap flexibility.

The team has indicated that they will be moving on from KhaDarel Hodge, a move that saves them $2.6M, which can be used immediately. We expect a handful of other moves that can create space, but nothing will help the team as much as the newfound $22M.

NFL clubs were informed today that the salary cap for the ’26 season will jump $22 million per club to $301.2 million. Add in another $77.6m in benefits & that’s $378.8m per club in player spending. Tremendous growth pic.twitter.com/cQ5Zf3aGVW

— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) February 27, 2026

The league is as healthy as ever from a business standpoint; the cap has nearly doubled in the last decade. Players are seeing their contract values rise, so while new cap space is appreciated, the market will adjust. Prepare to see the largest [insert football position] contract ever given updates, along with a pay bump for the league’s middle class, but that doesn’t mean teams won’t still be able to take advantage of the additional space.

This will help teams immensely when it comes to budgeting for the upcoming draft class and structuring extensions with key players.

Ian Cunningham has a lot to navigate in his first season, and this is another piece of the offseason puzzle. The new GM has taken a pragmatic approach to the offseason when discussing potential free agents and re-signings, and we’ll see what kind of spender he is soon.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlanta-falcons-salary-cap/91996/2026-nfl-updated-number-increase

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

NFL sources expect Joe Flacco, Tua Tagovailoa to be in play for Falcons in 2026

Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, facing, chats with quarterback Joe Flacco (15) during training camp July 30, 2025, in Berea. | Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Who will the Atlanta Falcons bring in to replace/compete with/back up Michael Penix Jr.? It’s one of the central questions of the offseason, and while we’re likely only weeks away from finding out, a little healthy anxiety about the option is normal.

Only the Falcons know who they’re after, but there are those around the league who have conversations with Falcons staffers, agents, and players and may have an idea. Based on reporting from the NFL Scouting Combine, insiders have the NFL believing Atlanta will wind up with Joe Flacco or maybe Tua Tagovailoa in 2026.

ESPN’s Dan Graziano made it clear he heard from plenty of folks in league circles who expect Flacco to join Kevin Stefanski in Atlanta, an option I’ve identified as likely basically since Stefanski was hired. Flacco played for Stefanski in 2023 and 2025 before Cleveland’s front office shipped him out last year, with that 2023 stint responsible for revitalizing his career as a starter. Flacco can still sling it heading into his age 41 season, even if he’s most immovable, and would be a stylistic complement to Penix who could fill in but would not bristle at being a backup if it came to that. He’s a very logical choice, albeit one I wouldn’t be interested in investing in beyond 2026.

Tagovailoa is a different story. In that same article, an NFL coach told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler (unprompted, as Fowler puts it) to keep an eye on Tua to the Falcons. The 28-year-old quarterback is considerably younger than Flacco and would seem to have more upside, but his tenure ended awfully in Miami, he’s been brutally bad in the intermediate-to-deep middle and as a deep passer in general in recent years, and he’s suffered multiple scary concussions along the way. If Tua was outright released by the Dolphins and the Falcons could get him for cheap, believing he could bounce back elsewhere, then I’d understand the interest to a degree. A trade would be a complete non-starter in my mind, because of concerns that Tua needs a very specific system to thrive and is one injury away from the end of his career.

I’d view Flacco as the clubhouse leader at the moment, but it’s worth keeping an eye on any number of options as the Falcons try to figure out how to address quarterback this offseason.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...e-in-play-for-falcons-in-2026-kevin-stefanski

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Atlanta Falcons Mock Draft Tracker 2.0: Step One, Scouting Combine

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 1: Zachariah Branch #1 of the Georgia Bulldogs runs the ball against the Ole Miss Rebels during the second quarter of the College Football Playoff Quarter Final Game at Caesars Superdome on January 1, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The All-Star games have come and gone, but the Atlanta Falcons weren’t a full-fledged front office by that time. Now, with the official hiring of former Chicago Bears Assistant GM and Roswell, GA native Ian Cunningham as Atlanta’s GM, the first step of the Ryan-Cunningham-Stefanski throuple is in Indianapolis for the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

Before we get into our 2.0 of the Mock Draft Tracker, we need to do some housekeeping from Mock Draft Tracker 1.0.

First of all, if you look at the selections from the first tracker, there were 26 unique prospects with six of them being selected in two different instances (listed below):

If you didn’t notice, three of them are wide receivers, all three with different skillsets. Whether that’s indicative of the glaring need at wide receiver, a symptom of a full organizational reset, or a mixture of the two, I’ll leave up to you.

Secondly, the number of receivers selected between the 13 mock drafts almost doubles the next two positions that, in my estimation, are the biggest needs that can be filled with Atlanta’s day-two picks in cornerback and defensive tackle.

I’m a bit surprised there weren’t more offensive tackles in this draft, given Stefanski’s propensity to run the football and the fact that Jake Matthews will be 34 years old at the start of the season.

Okay, enough talk.

There are 19 more mock drafts to analyze and 23 more prospects to add to the tracker, which I will list at the end of this article. All 49 prospects listed should be available to go at the Scouting Combine.

Let’s get into the 2nd version of this 2026 Atlanta Falcons mock draft tracker.

Also, please let us know in the comments who you would snag in this year’s draft with the limited amount of picks the Falcons have this April.

Kevin Knight’s Post-Ian Cunningham hire 7-Round Mock Draft – February 13, 2026​

Ian Cunningham may not be the highest in command in Atlanta, but there’s no doubt that his fingerprints will be all over Atlanta’s drafts. So, our Kevin Knight took a quick look to see what Cunningham’s influence could look like in this year’s draft.

Saivion Mixson’s Mock Draft 1.0 – February 11, 2026​

I put up my best guess as to what this regime’s first draft may look like under the new trio at the top. Please let me know what you think!

FanSided’s Cody Williams’ Pre-Combine 3-Round Mock Draft – February 21, 2026​

2.48 – Keionte Scott, CB, Miami​

While A.J. Terrell remains a top-tier cornerback in the NFL, the rest of the Falcons secondary leaves a bit to be desired. So after making such heavy investments in the outside linebacker spot and front seven over the past couple of years, they turn their attention back to the secondary with Keionte Scott. An elite run defender at the position, he was sixth in college football in coverage stops this season while also recording two interceptions. He’s likely a slot in the NFL, but he can fill that role for the Falcons, no doubt about it.

Height: 6’0”​

Weight: 195​

Year: Redshirt Senior​

Yes, the Falcons have Dee Alford (for now). Yes, the Falcons have Billy Bowman. But, with the way that Xavier Watts burst onto the scene, does that put Jessie Bates on the trading block? Does that open up the pathway to a Bowman and Watts safety tandem with a new opening at nickel?

If that’s in the cards, you won’t get much better than Scott. A very good blitzer, a solid tackler, and an all-around weapon for your defense. The Seahawks showed what a versatile nickel can do for your defense, if Ulbrich wants to follow that meta, bringing in Scott could do the same for the Falcons defense.

Keionte Scott is a fun nickel to study.

Extremely disruptive at the LOS due to his speed, balance and competitive toughness. Has been playing at this level all season for Miami. pic.twitter.com/W2ac3OBYSi

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) December 22, 2025

3.79 – Max Klare, TE, Ohio State​

Height: 6’5”​

Weight: 243​

Year: Junior​

Kyle Pitts’ franchise tag would be $16 million. Would you get what you pay for with Pitts’ $16 million, especially with a question mark at quarterback?

That’s the thing, we have no idea. Pitts’ career has been up-and-down, some of it by no fault of his own, but betting on Pitts’ upside could be a worthwhile bet.

However, if the Falcons pick Ohio State’s Max Klare here at pick 79, they would pay Klare $1.27 million. And while you may not get the explosiveness of Pitts, you will get a versatile receiving threat that can continually attack both vertically and make himself available underneath. He won’t give you the improved blocking that Pitts has shown, but that’s the payoff for having almost $15 million to play with for the rest of the roster.

Finally watching Ohio State TE Max Klare and I like what I see. Good mover and really solid hands.

Strengths: Explosive route runner, strong catch-to-attack mentality, and ability to create.

He is noted for his vertical speed and fluid athleticism. pic.twitter.com/5EmS1Te76g

— big ounce (@_bigounce) February 17, 2026

A to Z Sports’ Travis May’s 7-Round Mock Draft – February 21, 2026​

2.48 – Blake Miller, OT, Clemson​

Height: 6’6”​

Weight: 315​

Year: Senior​

If you want Blake Miller, this is going to be the spot to grab him. I could easily see Miller and his overall solid to good traits and production shoot him up in this draft that has a few questions at the tackle position. But, as I always say, now that the Falcons have Bill Callahan on staff, that opens you up to bring any offensive lineman you may want into the building and have confidence they will be developed into the more idealized version of themselves. For Miller, that’s a very similar trajectory to Jake Matthews, where they are a reliable tackle for a very long time.

Finally a 2026 tackle that I like. Blake Miller is balllling this year.

– 6064/315/35-inch arms
– elite++ athlete, no pull is off the table
– ends dreams at the 2nd/3rd level
– violent block finisher
– skilled hands
– B+ anchor
– strike power/grip strength shuts down reps on… pic.twitter.com/VxcmmKsu3A

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) November 6, 2025

3.79 – Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas​

Height: 6’0”​

Weight: 183​

Year: Junior​

For years, Muhammad has been one of my favorite CB prospects, not only because of his versatility as a defensive back, but his ability to click and close on routes. He is a twitched-up defensive back that can play outside corner, nickel, anywhere. He would be a plug-and-play guy on the other side of A.J. Terrell, or another candidate to play nickel if you had other plans for Billy Bowman or Dee Alford.

Malik Muhammad has allowed a 30.8 passer rating in coverage this season pic.twitter.com/M8pqBj7uxA

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) October 23, 2025

4.114 – Skyler Bell, WR, UConn​

Height: 6’0”​

Weight: 185​

Year: Senior​

If you want a vertical threat, you can call UConn’s Skyler Bell. If you need a physical blocker, you can call UConn’s Skyler Bell. If you need a route-runner who understands how to tempo and beat a defensive back one-on-one…you get the idea.

His size will have him drop, but make no mistake, Bell is a playmaker who can make an immediate difference in the passing game, especially in Atlanta, where verticality is much needed.

Trying to watch Buffalo LB Red Murdock but UConn WR Skyler Bell (#1) is doing cool stuff pic.twitter.com/COM8EcObro

— JP Acosta (@acosta32_jp) February 13, 2026

6.196 – Dae’Quan Wright, TE, Ole Miss​

Height: 6’4”​

Weight: 255​

Year: Senior​

One of the underrated aspects of this draft class is the depth of the tight ends. Dae’Quan Wright may be one of the better all-around tight ends in this class, and he falls to the sixth round in this mock.

Wright has some nice moments as a blocker, where he shows much-needed violence and good pop. He can immediately become a plus on special teams, and if he continues to develop as a receiver, which he’s already not too shabby at the moment, he could be a nice TE3 or even a TE2.

Every time I watch a new TE prospect, I’m amazed at how deep this class is. Most recent watch… Dae’Quan Wright pic.twitter.com/mGYinot8aN

— Panthers Pulse (@PanthersPulze) February 17, 2026

7.231 – Vincent Anthony Jr., EDGE, Duke​

Height: 6’5”​

Weight: 246​

Year: Senior​

Another special teams ace that can moonlight as a developmental EDGE prospect: Vincent Anthony, Jr. has fantastic bend and a superb motor that will make it tough to keep him off the field, especially if he’s producing.

Duke EDGE Vincent Anthony Jr. is a problem.

Displays WILD bend for a 6’6, 260lb defensive end. 3 sacks against Illinois and cooked NFL-caliber LT JC Davis on two of them.

Major candidate to be a 2026 NFL Draft riser pic.twitter.com/zOtE5mIS1D

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) September 10, 2025

PFF’s Gordon McGuinness’ 3-Round Mock Draft – February 16, 2026​

2.48 – R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma​

Height: 6’2”​

Weight: 249​

Year: Senior​

One of the things the Falcons defense will (potentially) miss from James Pearce, Jr. is his explosiveness getting to the quarterback. Well, if they bring R Mason Thomas into the fold, that will take the edge off a bit. (pun intended)

Oklahoma’s defense was a top 10 unit in the country, and one of the reasons was R Mason Thomas’ ability to get to the quarterback, as well as his willingness in the run game. While there are more needs the Falcons could snag at 48, keeping the floor high on that talented defensive unit from last year could be a good investment.

#Oklahoma EDGE R Mason Thomas is one of the most explosive pass rushers in the draft.

Great first-step with the ability to convert speed to power, relentless in pursuit, very good bend, and overall just a pressure machine. Top-50 on my Big Board. pic.twitter.com/OftFmg3meJ

— Andy (@AndyyNFL) February 12, 2026

3.79 – Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor​

Height: 6’4”​

Weight: 240​

Year: Redshirt Senior​

As we approach the scouting combine, expect a ton of buzz around Baylor’s Michael Trigg. A mismatch waiting to happen with his size, strength, route-running ability, and quickness. Trigg looks like what most people think about when they think of a tight end.

Has work to do as a blocker, but there is no doubt that you should take a flyer on Trigg if you have a chance.

Would love to see Jags select Baylor TE Michael Trigg in the draft

Elite ball skills
Fluid route runner with slot credentials
Mackey finalist
Contested catch monster

Trigg X Strange in 12-personnel would feed families
pic.twitter.com/GTtXgTnT9D

— SleeperJaguars (@SleeperJaguars) February 20, 2026

ESPN’s Matt Miller’s Post-Senior Bowl 2-Round Mock Draft – February 2, 2026​

2.48 – Eli Stowers​

With Kyle Pitts Sr. set to hit free agency, the Falcons could be looking for a new starting tight end. Stowers is a true F-tight end prospect with a game very similar to Harold Fannin Jr. from last year’s class.

Height: 6’4”​

Weight: 235​

Year: Redshirt Senior​

One of the better parts of this draft class is their tight end class, and the most recent Mackey Award Winner, Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers, is a quarterback’s dream. He knows how to work and find space underneath, he is a vertical threat up the seams, he has a phenomenal catch radius, and he eats up space after the catch.

The short area quickness, ball skills, and body control of Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers makes him one of the best F tight ends in the class. One-on-one nightmare.

Stowers was No. 2 in the country among TEs in yards per route run (2.55) and 1st down receptions (40). pic.twitter.com/8DMqYdNUyO

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) February 16, 2026

PFF’s Dalton Wasserman’s 3-Round Mock Draft – February 23, 2026​

2.48 – D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana​

Height: 5’9”​

Weight: 170​

Year: Junior​

The definition of a dawg, D’Angelo Ponds, may be the most talked-about non-QB prospect in this year’s draft. His size is an obvious red flag, but when you see him play, there’s no doubt he deserves for someone to take a shot on him.

Instinctual, athletic, confident, all of the things that you would want out of your defensive back, if Ponds finds his way to Atlanta, Ulbrich will have fun figuring out where best to deploy him. Whether that’s outside or at nickel, it would be electric to have this sort of attitude and electricity in the defensive secondary.

Indiana CB D’Angelo Ponds is so damn good

No need to mention the size. You can’t put a collar on that DAWG.

pic.twitter.com/0avQPrflmg

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) January 20, 2026

3.79 – Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia​

Height: 5’10”​

Weight: 180​

Year: Junior​

With the lack of firepower from the passing game last season, the Falcons will need to find all the hidden yardage they can. One of the best at finding those nooks and crannies to gain extra yardage was Georgia’s Zachariah Branch.

Nimble, fast, and a certified weapon with the ball in the hands, Branch can turn five into 25 at the drop of a hat.

“My Guy” WR Zachariah Branch is what the Falcons need…burner speed, raw athleticism, lose your ass in a phone booth elusiveness….demon returning punts.

2025:
81 catches, 811 yds, 6 TD
15 PR, 180 yds
10 KR, 205 yds https://t.co/51qafwxubG pic.twitter.com/iP3QMSWZkt

— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) January 5, 2026

NFL.com’s Chad Reuter’s 3-Round Mock Draft – February 9, 2026​

2.48 – Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor​

This 2-Catch Sequence from Baylor TE Michael Trigg is absurd pic.twitter.com/HJcWxVbfiX

— Coach Dan Casey (@CoachDanCasey) October 4, 2025

3.79 – Chris Bell, WR, Louisville​

Height: 6’2”​

Weight: 220​

Year: Redshirt Senior​

A late-season ACL tear will give a team a chance at Bell that may not have had a shot at him if the injury wasn’t there, since Bell was almost penciled into the back end of the first round. But make no mistake, he won’t be there for long. Bell has game-breaking speed and a remarkable ability to find yards after the catch using that speed.

Chris Bell Jr. (6’2 227) Louisville

+ Elite straight-line speed
+ Just a 5.3% drop rate in 2025
+ Career 56.1% contested catch rate
+ Adjusting to back shoulder throws
+ Breaking through arm tackles
+ 2.55 yards per route ran in 2025
+ Career 67.7% completion rate when targeted… pic.twitter.com/1jmc2e6NkP

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) February 22, 2026

The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner and Scott Dochterman’s 2-Round Mock Draft – January 29, 2026​

2.48 – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State​

Height: 6’0”​

Weight: 185​

Year: Senior​

He’s a good man-to-man corner, but when Chris Johnson gets his eyes on the quarterback and reads the field, there may not be a better cornerback on the field. Matching him up with another really good zone cornerback in A.J. Terrell, and watch how different the secondary feels when two guys take away massive amounts of the field with their coverage ability.

San Diego State CB Chris Johnson was one of the NCAA's cheat code guys in off coverage last season. Seven catches on 19 targets for 4.6 yards per attempt, and nearly more picks than catches. pic.twitter.com/LEOYhUPEj3

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) February 20, 2026

Saturday Blitz’s Nicholas Rome’s Post Senior Bowl 2-Round Mock Draft – February 3, 2026​

2.48 – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State​

Kevin Stefanski has a few major holes to fill for the Falcons, with one of the biggest lying in the secondary as the team needs a solid cornerback opposite AJ Terrell. Chris Johnson is on the smaller side, but he’s impressive in off-man coverage and in zone, giving him a chance to excel in any defensive scheme.

Really liking Chris Johnson out of SDSU. Long intelligent corner who can be a very solid starter in the league. Show: @nfldraftfanatc pic.twitter.com/OBbiQfIUN3

— Tyler Hill (@tyler_hill5) February 17, 2026

The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner’s Post Super Bowl 3-Round Mock Draft – February 9, 2026​

2.48 – Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State​

The Falcons gave up a lot for James Pearce Jr. last spring, and Pearce then led all rookies with 10.5 sacks. “Big Citrus” could be the perfect addition to Atlanta’s emerging defensive front.

Height: 6’4”​

Weight: 325​

Year: Senior​

I can’t believe it took this long for Big Citrus to find his hypothetical way to Atlanta, but I’m so glad he did. Beyond an incredible name, Orange’s sheer strength and cat-like quickness along the line is one of the main reasons why the defensive line may be the most fun position to scout in this year’s draft. If the Falcons want someone to immediately improve their run defense, break out the oranges.

Iowa State DT Domonique Orange 6’4 325

In his last two seasons at Iowa state he recorded 23 pressures, 29 stops and 4 qb hits

Strong at the point of attack and engaging blockers one on one, good pop in his hands and maintains pad level pic.twitter.com/UTL7XhCJFy

— Yuri (@Yuri_Ravens) February 15, 2026

Rotowire’s Mario Puig’s 2-Round Mock Draft – February 20, 2026​

2.48 – Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia​

The Falcons wide receiver personnel has been mismanaged to an almost immoral extent. After Drake London and Darnell Mooney it has been practice squad-types for years, so Atlanta would be lucky to get Branch here.

Give me Zachariah Branch @Lions please Perfect WR and Kr/Pr replacement pic.twitter.com/bZoMMP6E1Z

— MotorCityDraft (@MotorCityDraft) February 22, 2026

Athlon Sports’ Luke Easterling’s Pre-Super Bowl 3-Round Mock Draft – February 4, 2026​

2.48 – Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee​

Height: 6’5”​

Weight: 200​

Year: Senior​

Drake London can win at all three levels, but he is mostly a master of the short to intermediate. To truly unlock all the weapons in this offense, there has to be someone who can continuously take the top off the defense. Especially if Penix is supposed to be the QB of the future. Chris Brazzell II not only takes the top off the defense with his speed, but he is a threat to win down the field due to his size.

Film Breakdown

Chris Brazzell II, WR – Tennessee

– 6’5 | 200
– 1st Team All-SEC
– 62 Rec | 1017 Yds | 9 TDs pic.twitter.com/Y1OhxRvTkc

— Chris Cooper (@ChrisCooper_NFL) February 13, 2026

3.79 – Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State​

Height: 6’2”​

Weight: 195​

Year: Senior​

The only thing better than having one physical lockdown corner is having two of them. Igbinosun’s 2024 season was forgettable, mired with penalties and overly aggressive play. 2025, Igbinosun flipped the narrative surrounding him, showing to be more than just a ball of traits.

He was able to show that he can cover without getting too handsy and was able to show off his impressive length and long speed to stay attached to receivers.

Beautiful pass breakup by Davison Igbinosun CB Ohio State! #SeniorBowl @AtoZSportsNFL pic.twitter.com/YhW2PmEdGj

— Travis May (@FF_TravisM) January 27, 2026

A to Z Sports’ Travis May, Ryan Roberts, and Kyle Crabbs’ 3-Round Mock Draft – February 18, 2026​

2.48 – Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama​

Height: 6’1”​

Weight: 204​

Year: Senior​

This is the first time I’ve seen Germie Bernard given to Atlanta, and I believe that’s simply because he is too talented to fall to the end of the first 50 picks. Bernard is a deceptively smooth route-runner; he wins from virtually everywhere on the field, all three levels of the field, not to mention his ability to find hidden yardage after the catch.

A receiver room headlined by Bernard and London would be a consistent headache for a lot of secondaries in the NFL.

101 Film Review W/Corky@GameTapeGods
– Germie Bernard is a player I think can sky rocket his value with good testing at the combine, his skill set could make him a fringe 1st rounder. Let's see why.

1. Versatility- Germie is the most versatile player in this draft, he can win… pic.twitter.com/DiLXJZG2AP

— Leagues 1.01 (@Leagues_101) February 19, 2026

3.79 – Darrell Jackson, Jr., DT, Florida State​

Height: 6’5”​

Weight: 337​

Year: Senior​

If Ulbrich wants a big body in the middle of the defense, look no further than Florida State’s Darell Jackson, Jr. The definition of a space eater in the middle, Jackson, Jr., shows off enormous size and strength, along with a mean streak that can make any run defense better. Being able to develop a pass-rush bag and forcing defenses to account for him on third down could further open up the Falcons’ young, rejuvenated pass rush.

FSU DT Darrell Jackson Jr. just arrived at the @seniorbowl and made a POWERFUL impact.

He’s gonna be special pic.twitter.com/LX0IWisU5O

— The Draft Network (@TheDraftNetwork) January 28, 2026

FanSided’s Sayre Bedinger’s 3-Round Mock Draft – February 22, 2026​

2.48 – Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama​

Germie Bernard has the profile of a high-end WR2 who plays for a decade or more

Broad route tree, nuanced separator, strong after the catch, alignment versatile, reliable hands. Robert Woods type of player: pic.twitter.com/xvmoHcxIXO

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) February 18, 2026

3.79 – Keionte Scott, CB, Miami​

Germie Bernard has the profile of a high-end WR2 who plays for a decade or more

Broad route tree, nuanced separator, strong after the catch, alignment versatile, reliable hands. Robert Woods type of player: pic.twitter.com/xvmoHcxIXO

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) February 18, 2026

FanSided’s Sayre Bedinger’s 2-Round Mock Draft – February 3, 2026​

2.48 – Chris Bell, WR, Louisville​

Chris Bell is worth the wait. He should come off the board in round 2. The injury just provides some team a discount. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/G6Q4Z4esA5

— Ray G (@RayGQue) February 22, 2026

Athlon Sports’ Luke Easterling’s 2-Round Mock Draft – February 2, 2026​

2.48 – Omar Cooper, Jr., WR, Indiana​

Height: 6’0”​

Weight: 204​

Year: Redshirt Junior​

If you’re looking for some explosion out of the wide receiver position, then Omar Cooper, Jr. is your guy. He eats up space on DBs very quickly and attacks every route as if he’s getting the football. His ability after the catch, breaking tackles, and using his unique blend of speed and strength to gain that extra yardage may be a huge asset next to Drake London.

Omar Cooper Jr.

Indiana really maximizes CFB spacing to attack coverages – often you'll see Cooper Jr. on the field side with so much room to work with

or you'll see him in the slot, like on this snap. Breaks three tackles with 27 yards of YAC here on the slant/glance pic.twitter.com/2TUBuEvC53

— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) February 23, 2026

A to Z Sports’ Ryan Roberts’ 3-Round Mock Draft – February 11, 2026​

2.48 – Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State​

#IowaState DT Domonique Orange deciding to end this run rep by using the C to tackle the LT and RB. Orange's pass rush upside is very limited, but he provides a lot of value on early downs as a run defender pic.twitter.com/Q3IVfApmLy

— JP Acosta (@acosta32_jp) February 17, 2026

3.79 – Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State​

Height: 6’5”​

Weight: 265​

Year: Senior​

Dennis-Sutton truly has no business moving as fluently and as smoothly as he does at almost 270 pounds. While he may not be the most skilled of pass-rushers, his combination of size, speed, and strength is an asset that any defensive line rotation would love.

It would be very easy to see his size partnered up with the explosiveness of Jalon Walker and continue to build out this EDGE room for the future.

Penn State's Dani Dennis-Sutton is a great pass-rusher, but it's his open-field speed and agility that could have him standing out in a big way at the scouting combine. No. 33 can move! pic.twitter.com/ETuQ67QwCw

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) February 19, 2026

The Draft Network’s Jaime Eisner’s 7-Round Mock Draft for the Falcons – February 16, 2026​

2.48 – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State​

The Falcons found some major safety help in the 2025 NFL Draft; now it’s time to start stocking the cornerback cupboard for the future as well. Only A.J. Terrell and Mike Hughes are under contract beyond the 2026 season, with the latter being an easy cut to save cap space before 2027 if the Falcons need it. San Diego State’s Chris Johnson has had back-to-back strong seasons with the Aztecs and will be just 21 years old when the NFL season starts. Johnson is scheme-versatile and a difference-maker on the back end—he has five interceptions, four forced fumbles, and two touchdowns over his last two collegiate seasons. Johnson is still ascending as a prospect, leaving plenty of room for growth into being Terrell’s long-term complement.

Vikings prospect spotlight:

Chris Johnson

Position: Cornerback
College: San Diego State
Height/Weight: 6-0, 190 lbs pic.twitter.com/hYgePLBT60

— Mc (@3mc10) February 3, 2026

3.79 – Omar Cooper, Jr., WR, Indiana​

Omar Cooper Jr. may end up going a round higher than this when the pre-draft process is all said and done, but I like his fit with the Falcons. Cooper isn’t going to be a major vertical threat, but he has excellent contact balance with the ability to consistently break tackles in the middle of the field. He has really good hands, is quick out of his breaks, and is a YAC machine. He’ll be a reliable option for whoever is under center for Atlanta next season. Also, Darnell Mooney could be a cap casualty this offseason, leaving a weak Falcons receiving corps even weaker.

Omar Cooper Jr. (6’0 201) Indiana

+ Shifty with the ball in his hands with excellent contact balance
+ 2.55 yards per route ran in 2025
+ 4.2% drop rate in 2025
+ 54.3% career contested catch rate
+ Ball security with 0 career fumbles
+ 20 receiving touchdowns combined in the… pic.twitter.com/zHjyIgLMVP

— Bengals & Brews (@BengalsBrews) February 24, 2026

4.114 – Darrell Jackson, Jr., DT, Florida State​

The Falcons need to continue investing in the interior of their defensive line, and I like the idea of them starting day three with a Senior Bowl standout. Darrell Jackson Jr. stands at 6-foot-5 and 330 pounds. He has the requisite size for the position with good athleticism to boot. He should be an impact run defender right away. The potential lack of pass-rushing upside is what may keep him out of the top 100, but don’t be surprised if he’s an instant contributor on early downs as a rookie.

Darrell Jackson Jr. is the rare NT with pass rush juice

At 6’5, 328lbs, 35” arms, he’s definitely a run stuffer first, but he can harass pockets too

I think the Texans defense would benefit from a bigger DT like DJJ

pic.twitter.com/vVYJvLoXfp https://t.co/X1NkMVAOvs

— Jordan Pun (@Texans_Thoughts) February 13, 2026

6.196 – Nate Boerkircher, TE, Texas A&M​

Will Kyle Pitts return to the Falcons in 2026? If so, will it be on the franchise tag or a multi-year deal? While a sixth-round pick won’t be a like-for-like Pitts replacement, Nate Boerkircher turned some heads with a strong Senior Bowl performance that gave scouts a peek into his potential upside. Boerkircher is an intelligent, high-effort player who can provide some nice depth for the Falcons. His football IQ and solid hands make him a reliable target, even if he’s not much of a YAC threat. He’s probably more of a help or chip blocker at this stage of his career, but there may be more upside there as well. He projects as a solid TE2 who can wear multiple hats on offense and special teams.

Height: 6’4”​

Weight: 250​

Year: Redshirt Senior​

Now we know, Kyle Pitts is in fact coming back (or so it seems), but adding a guy like Boerkircher to add to your special teams depth, and those beautifully chaotic three-tight-end sets, seems like a win for everybody. Especially given Atlanta’s inept special teams performance last season.

The tight end class is very crowded but I won't be surprised if a team really likes Texas A&M TE Nate Boerkircher (87). One of the best blocking tight ends in the class and flashed nice ball production in an offense not built to highlight him #GigEm @NBoerkircher pic.twitter.com/N552nwGZy8

— Anthony Russo (@Anthony_Russo97) February 18, 2026

7.232 – Nadame Tucker, EDGE, Western Michigan​

Nadame Tucker is a very interesting name to monitor through this pre-draft process. He was a monster on the statsheet in 2025, recording a nation-leading 14.5 sacks and 21 TFLs at Western Michigan. However, he’s an older prospect (he’ll be 26 when the season begins) with only one year of production. He’s also undersized for an NFL edge rusher. He may be worth a gamble for a team that believes Tucker is simply a late bloomer. He could go anywhere from the fifth to the seventh round.

Height: 6’3”​

Weight: 250​

Year: Redshirt Senior​

One of the best bets a team is going to make on day three is bringing Nadame Tucker to lift the floor of your EDGE room. Tucker finds his way to the quarterback and brings guys down into the backfield.

It will be fun to see if he can bring that same production from last season into this season, despite him playing lesser competition, not to mention he will be 26 at the start of his rookie season.

Western Michigan's Nadame Tucker tied for second in the FBS last season with 14 sacks.

This is why. He also rag-dolled two different Michigan State left tackles for sacks, so strength of competition isn't really an issue. pic.twitter.com/q1my1UaEam

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) February 19, 2026

Summary​

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...k-draft-tracker-2-0-step-one-scouting-combine

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Vote for the best Falcons kicker from 2000-2025

Jan 13, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons kicker Matt Bryant (3) kicks the game winning field goal against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter of the NFC divisional playoff game at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 30-28. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Matt Bosher won our punter competition with the greatest of ease, snaring nearly 74% of the vote. Now it’s time to vote on the best Falcons kicker of the past 25 years.

Some of you may ask where Morten Andersen is here. Unfortunately for Andersen, he only kicked three seasons in Atlanta this century, in 2000 and 2006-2007, so he didn’t make the cutoff. Neither did Jay Feely, who had four decent seasons after Andersen’s first stint in Atlanta. That leaves the two names you’d expect, and I’ll break down their stats and all-time franchise rankings below.

Matt Bryant​

The raw stats: 296 field goals attempted (1st), 259 field goals made (1st), 87.5% FG percentage (1st), 390 extra points attempted (1st), 386 extra points made (1st), 99% XP percentage (3rdd)

Money Matt, as he was known at the height of his powers, has a very strong case for best Falcons kicker ever. During a lengthy prime that stretched from 2010-2018, Bryant never hit at a lower rate than 86.8% of his field goal tries and only missed four extra points as a Falcon. The reliability was so, so key for a high-scoring football team, and it made him a fan favorite.

Oh, and he was a perfect 12/12 on field goal tries in the postseason, too. We miss you, Matt Bryant.

Younghoe Koo​

The raw stats: 205 field goals attempted (3rd), 178 field goals made (3rd), 86.8% FG percentage (2nd), 173 extra points attempted (4th), 166 extra points made (3rd), 96% XP percentage (10th)

The end of Koo’s career in Atlanta got so dispiriting that it might hurt him in voting here, but we shouldn’t forget how good he was in his prime. He’s third all-time in field goal percentage and was actually first ahead of Bryant until his 2024-2025 implosion, and looked like he might legitimately threaten some of Bryant’s marks for several years. He and Bryant were also very close from 50+ yards, and unlike Bryant, Koo routinely handled kickoffs for a few seasons there.

The problem for Koo in this particular competition is that his prime wasn’t as lengthy as Bryant and his final numbers aren’t quite as good, either, but I’m leaving the choice up to the voters nonetheless.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...icker-from-2000-2025-matt-bryant-younghoe-koo

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Falcons will announce new uniforms on April 2

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 08: Detail view of the Atlanta Falcons uniform and logo seen at the Super Bowl Experience on February 08, 2022, at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

We’re one month away from seeing the new Atlanta Falcons uniforms, assuming they do not leak before then. I can’t imagine the Falcons would be happy about that.

Regardless, we now have an official release date of April 2 for the new uniforms, which the Falcons announced with a video featuring Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Jalon Walker, and A.J. Terrell reacting to seeing them for the first time.

Mark your calendars pic.twitter.com/mBFqX0qST9

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) March 2, 2026

I’ve seen some purported leaks out there that were not all that exciting, but I am a known old man who would love a return to the throwbacks. Terrell’s “about time” while wearing a throwback hoodie gives me some hope, but the reality is we have to wait a little longer to know.

The Falcons unveiled new uniforms in 2020, but assuming these changes are major, they will not have lasted long. The previous uniforms were tweaked and had different throwback and alternate looks over the years, but did not change substantially between 2003 and 2019. In contrast, the newer jerseys lacked staying power; the gradient never really got off the ground, the red pants were scrapped, and while I did not mind the black home jerseys at all, they’re likely to at least be re-imagined in this next wave of changes. Like many things that happened with the Falcons from 2020-2025, Atlanta’s last round of uniforms didn’t go over the way the team hoped.

For almost a decade now, the Falcons have been forgettable on the field and their uniforms have worn out their welcome even with a change in the middle of that era, so a fresh start on all fronts is more than welcome. We’ll have to hope they will look good and play good starting in 2026.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...falcons-will-announce-new-uniforms-on-april-2

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Atlanta Falcons free agency: A 2026 wish list for a new era

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 9: Wan’Dale Robinson #17 of the New York Giants runs with the ball for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on October 9, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

For the first time in several years, the Falcons have more pressing offensive than defensive needs. Some of it is due to the unfortunate circumstances at the sport’s most important position. Some of it can be attributed to the remarkable defensive ascendance. While the defense could use multiple additions to solidify Jeff Ulbrich’s group toward taking the next pivotal step in its trajectory, how Kevin Stefanski shapes the outlook of the passing game will be most fascinating during free agency.

The free agency wish list has been one of my yearly traditions for nearly a decade. Some accurate predictions have been made. It started with a nice call on Derrick Shelby in 2016, followed by more predictable judgments on Jessie Bates and David Onyemata. The most memorable prediction I have made came in 2024 with Darnell Mooney.

This wish list is constructed of ten players who could bolster five of the biggest needs on the roster. Edge rusher was given some consideration following James Pearce Jr.’s transgressions. It feels highly unlikely the front office would make another major investment at the position after what the previous regime did in the first round of last year’s draft. That is why it was left off the list. There are other positions where it’s realistic to see the new regime make notable signings.

Quarterback​

Potential Game Changer: Geno Smith

Given how much Malik Willis is expected to command on the open market, the Falcons are going to be priced out of pursuing him. That leaves them with veteran options who can provide stability in a position of uncertainty. Watching Smith last season would raise serious eyebrows based on his overall numbers and decision-making.

Still, it’s hard to find a team that was more poorly coached last season than the Raiders. No quarterback could have functioned behind such a talent-deficient offensive line and Chip Kelly’s incoherent system.

Smith isn’t far removed from playing at a top-ten caliber level in Seattle. His poise operating in collapsed pockets, accuracy throwing outside the numbers, and confidence to push the ball aggressively downfield offer plenty of excitement. Some of those attributes can lead to turnovers where he forces the ball into throwing windows that don’t exist. Despite those frustrations, Smith will get the ball to his playmakers and never lose self-belief in his ability to make a difference. He would be the best realistic fit to fill in for, or even challenge Michael Penix Jr., if the coaching staff believes there should be an open competition.

Solid Alternative: Marcus Mariota

Unexpected reunions can happen when they’re least anticipated. Envisioning Mariota playing in Atlanta again after how poorly he took being benched during the 2022 season seems inconceivable. With all the organizational changes that have transpired since then, there shouldn’t be any lingering animosity. The focus must be on finding a capable quarterback who can back up or possibly compete with Penix Jr. Mariota clearly wouldn’t be signed to compete for the starting role. That said, he has proven to be one of the better backups during his recent seasons in Washington.

His athleticism still poses problems for opponents, including Ulbrich’s defense when they squared off early in the 2025 season. Stefanski has plenty of experience working with dual-threat quarterbacks who can thrive when asked to run under-center play action. The quarterback market in free agency rarely provides many attractive options. While Mariota eventually crumbled as a starter in Atlanta, there has been enough from him since then that he can be a viable backup and fill in for a few games if needed. It would be something if the first quarterback to replace Matt Ryan as the opening day starter ends up being the opening day starter for the legendary quarterback’s first year as the franchise’s President of Football.

Wide Receiver​

Potential Game Changer: Wan’Dale Robinson

Besides the glaring need for a capable, experienced quarterback, the offense desperately needs more juice from the wide receiver group. One of the roots of Raheem Morris’ downfall was his mishandling of the unit, from personnel decisions to a lack of urgency in acquiring talent. They need players who can create separation and stretch defenses, especially with Darnell Mooney’s uncertain future. Robinson would bolster the aerial attack with his unique skill set and ability to make plays after the catch.

While he is more accustomed to being a short-to-intermediate threat, the multi-dimensional wide receiver has proven to be a downfield threat, accelerating past defensive backs. For him to be the third receiving option in a more well-rounded group could help maximize his capabilities as a playmaker. The Giants would force-feed screens and other quick-designed plays. That’s something Tommy Rees won’t have to replicate from his array of playmakers. Moving Robinson across formations and pinpointing mismatches for him to exploit are ways their new number two wide receiver becomes a nightmare to contain, as Drake London and Kyle Pitts attract the majority of the attention.

Solid Alternative: Christian Kirk

If other positional needs are given greater investment, the front office should remain aggressive in pursuing a separator with strong hands and route-running ability. Kirk possesses those qualities as a steady playmaker who can deliver in prime moments. He was outstanding in the Texans’ playoff win over Pittsburgh with eight catches for 144 yards and one touchdown. What he offers in the slot could be welcome on a team without a true option in that particular spot.

While injuries have plagued him over the last three seasons, he can be a valuable security blanket for a passing game that severely lacks that type of player. Converting third downs proved challenging all season for the Falcons. Not having a wide receiver outside of London who can consistently make catches in tight areas greatly affected them in obvious passing situations on third down. Kirk would provide much-needed relief in taking the onus off the two star pass catchers. Although he doesn’t possess breakaway speed, defenses will have to account for his ability to get open and positional versatility.

Center​

Potential Difference Maker: Connor McGovern

Watching the Bills impose their will on the ground against most defensive fronts generated intrigue about their offensive line. It’s not a group filled with Pro Bowl accolades outside of stalwart left tackle Dion Dawkins. The unit is built on discipline, cohesiveness, and athleticism. McGovern was at the forefront of their success, from making blocks at the second level to keeping their protection plans organized. How the Bills were able to gain countless chunk plays on the ground, where James Cook was gaining four to six yards before contact, is a testament to how dominant they were at times.

As well as Ryan Neuzil played in certain games, the Falcons endured long stretches of struggling to run the ball consistently and convert in short-yardage situations. There were also far too many occasions where unblocked rushers would burst into the pocket. Neuzil would have mental lapses in pass protection, while failing to make blocks on the second level due to his physical limitations. If Stefanski wants to provide a jolt to an offensive line in need of some refreshment, McGovern is the center to sign. What he can do as a run blocker would make a notable difference. His dependability as a pass protector must be valued following a season where he didn’t allow a sack. per Pro Football Focus.

Intriguing Alternative: Cade Mays

Reuniting Ethan Pocic with Stefanski would have been a sensible move if the veteran was healthy. Unfortunately, his status going into next season is in doubt after suffering a torn Achilles’ tendon in December. Recovering from that injury is always difficult. Being 30 years old after being a starter since 2020 raises major concerns about him getting back to playing at the high level he was playing at during some of Stefanski’s best years in Cleveland.

That leaves the front office with someone who enjoyed plenty of success against the Falcons last season. Mays stepped in admirably for an injury-plagued Panthers’ offensive line, where he quickly earned the coaching staff’s trust to become the starting center by October. Mays plays with a nasty edge, who can be devastating on combo blocks and effectively climb to the second level. 2025 was the first time he played more than 495 snaps in a season. There is still uncertainty about how good he truly is, but his lack of starting experience could allow the coaching staff to have an open training camp battle between him and Neuzil to see who should be the starter.

Defensive Tackle​

Potential Difference Maker: D.J. Reader

This is one of the few positions where spending considerable money on a player over 30 years old is understandable. The top interior run-plugging nose tackles normally age well. Reader has established himself as one of the better players at the position over the last several years. Being at the heart of a stout run defense in Detroit shows that he has plenty left in the tank after injuries began to derail his time in Cincinnati. His two-gapping ability to command double teams and create space for the players around him to close on ball carriers is hugely valuable, particularly for an undersized group filled with penetrators.

Pairing Reader with the likes of Brandon Dorlus and Zach Harrison can create better matchups for them to get into the backfield. The veteran nose tackle’s presence may help bring the best out of Ruke Orhorhoro, who took on far too many double teams for a player of his stature and ability. Every defensive line needs at least one veteran who is playing significant snaps. With Onyemata and Leonard Floyd likely moving on elsewhere, they need to acquire a battle-tested player with playoff experience who provides size up front. Reader is exactly that at a critical position.

Solid Alternative: Khyiris Tonga

One of the unsung heroes in a defense that massively overachieved, the relentless nose tackle should attract plenty of interest following his terrific season. Tonga generates serious push with his sheer power. What also stands out in his game is his consistently good pad level when moving interior offensive linemen off their spot. His tremendous motor helped him become a fan favorite in New England, where teams were often forced into passing situations in later downs when he was on the field.

Recent reports revealed contract talks have broken down between the Patriots and him. That will excite teams who can use a violent nose tackle with a nasty streak. As much as Ulbrich’s unit is severely lacking in size up front, they are also lacking a tone setter who could be a genuine disruptor and nuisance for opponents on running downs. Tonga would be a welcoming addition to the base defense alignment. There is also the exciting possibility of him lining up at fullback after how much he embraced the unexpected role.

Cornerback​

Potential Difference Maker: Jaylen Watson

One of the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal Chiefs’ season, Watson should command plenty of interest. His sheer size and urgency to challenge wide receivers at the line of scrimmage to disrupt their route make him a nuisance for opposing offenses. Being a consistent open-field tackler also frustrates skill position players, knowing they will need to do something spectacular to gain yards after contact with him swarming in. Watson spoke highly of Kansas City, but the franchise’s current cap space conundrum could make it improbable for them to make a genuine offer to re-sign him.

Signing a quality outside corner could help the Falcons’ defense ascend to the next level. Mike Hughes has performed valiantly as the starter for the last two seasons, but he isn’t someone who can be relied upon for the long-term. Adding Watson would be a statement signing in having the drive to build off last season’s defensive success. Bleacher Report’s free agency big board ranks him as the 11th-best impending available player. Although it’s not a position in total desperate need of upgrading, signing a big cornerback entering his prime could do wonders for a secondary that possesses plenty of talent but needs more consistent man coverage on the outside.

Intriguing Alternative: Asante Samuel Jr.

This would be a worthwhile gamble if the front office doesn’t want to add another high-priced player within the secondary. Samuel Jr. was emerging into one of the better corners in the league in 2023. A severe chronic shoulder and neck issue derailed his progression over the last two seasons. After clearing the necessary medical requirements to get back on the field, he proved to be a capable contributor for the Steelers.

Expecting a player who hasn’t played much football since 2023 to be the immediate default starter wouldn’t be sensible. Samuel Jr. would have to show he is ready to compete in an open battle. He possesses the tools to build on the seven encouraging games from last season. It’s a matter of being able to stay on the field and playing with that aggression that made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles. Considering how beloved his dad was in Atlanta for reading quarterbacks’ eyes and baiting them into regrettable throws, it would be special to see him make plays like this.

Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...-agency-wish-list-wandale-robinson-geno-smith

 

[Atlanta Falcons]

Top Falcons targets from the NFL Combine: Tuesday Takes with Tre’Shon

BOULDER, CO - AUGUST 29: North Dakota State wide receiver Bryce Lance (5) runs the ball and is pulled down by Colorado safety Shilo Sanders (21) during the college football game between the North Dakota State Bison and the Colorado Buffaloes on August 29, 2024 at Folsom Field in Boulder, CO. (Photo by Kevin Langley/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The NFL Combine is in the books, and the class clocked in as one of the most athletic in history. Kevin Knight and Tre’Shon Diaz break down their top performers and targets for the Falcons coming out of Indianapolis, including wide receivers, linebackers, defensive and offensive linemen, and more. Fellow Falcoholics, welcome to another episode of the Dirty Birds and Brews podcast!

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Source: https://www.thefalcoholic.com/atlan...om-the-nfl-combine-tuesday-takes-with-treshon