Atlanta Falcons fans are excited for the 2025 season after the team earned an A-plus draft grade and named Michael Penix Jr. the starting quarterback in his second year. He takes over for veteran Kirk Cousins. The Falcons also improved their defense with strong pass-rushing help, including first-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. With these changes, the team hopes to make the playoffs for the first time in seven years.
Top 3 Falcons Breakout Candidates for the 2025 Season
3. Michael Penix Jr.
Penix Jr., the Falcons’ first-round pick at No. 8 in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a standout college season at Washington in 2023. He led the team to a 14-1 record, throwing for 4,903 yards, 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. As a rookie, he played in three games and started two. He completed 60.4% of his passes for 464 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Penix showed strong arm strength and stayed calm under pressure, giving fans hope that he can lead the team as a full-time starter.
2. Jalon Walker
Walker, the No. 15 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is set for a big rookie season with the Atlanta Falcons. Head coach Raheem Morris called him a “sharp man” with a “very high” football IQ, showing trust in how quickly he can learn. The team gave him jersey No. 11, which was worn by Falcons legend Julio Jones, showing how much they believe in his potential. Walker’s speed, versatility and pass-rushing skills could make him a key player on defense.
1. Kyle Pitts
Pitts is heading into a key contract year in 2025 and wants to show he can live up to the hype. Even though he has shown flashes of star talent, some fans and critics say he hasn’t done enough. A former No. 4 overall pick, Pitts will benefit from having the same starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., for the first time. That gives him a full offseason to build chemistry and try to become the game-changing tight end the Falcons hoped for.
