The Atlanta Falcons are entering a new era with quarterback Michael Penix Jr., and will now look to build around him in the 2025 NFL draft. While Kirk Cousins future remains unclear, the Falcons are moving forward with a young core. Breaking down every Atlanta Falcons draft pick as it happens during draft week.
The Atlanta Falcons have multiple needs in the 2025 NFL draft, including pass rush, defensive line, and cornerback.
Notable Offseason Additions: LB Divine Deablo (LV), DE Leonard Floyd (SF), CB Mike Ford (CLE), DE Morgan Fox (LAC), S Jordan Fuller (CAR)
Round 1 – Pick 15 – Jalon Walker, EDGE, Georgia
The Atlanta Falcons finally prioritised a pass rusher in the opening round of the draft, covering a key need in the front seven of their defense. They’ve got some great coverage talent in their secondary, and now applying pressure upfront should help to bring it all together.
Jalon Walker is the latest defensive star to come from the Georgia Bulldogs, with seven sacks and five quarterback hits in the 2024 season. He’s a great scheme fit for the Falcons, and they came back into the first round to add another piece just 11 picks later.
Round 1 – Pick 26 – James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The Falcons acknowledged the need for pass rush, and climbed back into the first round to eventually address it twice on the opening night of the draft. It is worth mentioning that it was a very hefty price to pay for the selection. So it better work out.
According to Ian Rapoport, Atlanta was happy to take James Pearce Jr. at 15, having loved him during the pre-draft process. They met with Pearce the day before the draft, and when he was still available in the mid-20s, they acted.
GM Terry Fontenot traded the Falcons’ first-rounder in 2026 as part of the deal, double-dipping on pass rushers to give Atlanta a completely revitalized defensive line.
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