2026 NFL Team Draft Page

2025 Draft Grade: B+

The Atlanta Falcons had an eventful 2025 NFL Draft, walking away with two RD 1 picks. Their first pick, Georgia's Jalon Walker, initially looked like a best player available pick. The Falcons needed an EDGE, but Walker was looked at as more of a linebacker. Walker was expected to be off the board by the time the Falcons made their RD 1 pick. However, Walker is already impressing as an EDGE defender in OTAs. Walker is number two in odds for the defensive rookie of the year, Ii he develops as an EDGE, then the Falcons hit a home run with this pick.

Atlanta's second RD 1 pick was another EDGE, and another value pick, Tennessee's James Pearce Jr. It's a little odd to see the Falcons double up on EDGE rushers, but it was a glaring need in Atlanta, and you can never have enough pass rushers. Pearce was at one time the top player on out 2025 big board, but a slow start to the 2024 season and questions about his work ethic sent Pearce sliding. Still, he finished the seasom on an uptick, Pearce was second in all of FBS in pressure rate since 2023 and second in pass rush win rate in 2024. He's fast and explosive and has a high upside.

After RD 1, we had to wait until the Falcons traded up again to number 96 overall to select Xavier Watts. Watts is a ball-hawking safety with 13 interceptions over the past two seasons. Jessie Bates will certainly be starting at one safety position for Atlanta, but Watts should challenge newcomer Jordan Fuller for playing time.

Then, the Falcons doubled up on safety just like they did with EDGE. They took another ball-hawk, Billy Bowman Jr. It is possible that Bowman could challenge at nickel back instead of safety - he has great speed and notched 11 interceptions. Finally, the Falcons took T Jack Nelson. He's a very good athlete and should provide depth at the T position.

Looking Ahead - 2026 Draft

After the 2025 NFL Draft, the Falcons still look deficient in some key positions groups. The offensive line and interior DT are likely the two biggest needs for Atlanta, and potential 2026 Draft targets. Ryan Neuzil signed with the team but hasn't started close to a full season. He was ranked 31 out of 40 possible centers in 2024 PFF grades. The Falcons also need help on the interior of the defensive line. They have players with potential, but no one who's shown that they can be an impactful starter in the NFL.

Jonah Anderson, Senior Drafttek Analyst