NEWSLETTER
The Atlanta Falcons were a model of consistency under former head coach Arthur Smith. Just not the good kind. They finished 7-10 for the third consecutive season which resulted in his firing and the hiring of Raheem Morris. The new regime made a big splash by adding Kirk Cousins via free agency and now it’s time to focus on the NFL Draft. Let’s examine Atlanta’s top NFL Draft priorities.
Atlanta Falcons Positions to Address in NFL Draft
The offense has been the focal point during the beginning of the offseason, but the defense should sit atop the Atlanta Falcons NFL Draft priorities.
Edge Rusher
The Atlanta Falcons struggled to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2023, ranking as one of the worst in the NFL, and may lose their top two sack producers as well. This team has loaded up offensively the last two seasons, and with Kirk Cousins now under center, is looking to win now. If they have any hopes of succeeding in this goal, they must address this defensive weak point.
Cornerback
A.J. Terrell is as good as it gets at corner but beyond him, Atlanta is pretty weak. They only have three total cornerbacks currently under contract for the 2024 season. The emphasis on winning has been elevated with the Kirk Cousins signing, and if the Falcons hope to compete with the NFC’s best teams, defending the pass will be crucial.
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Offensive Tackle
The tackle position is amongst the most important in football and the Falcons have been pretty stable at the position. That said, both starters on the outside are aging with Jake Mathews entering his 11th year in the league and Kaleb McGary going on 29 years old. Adding a developmental player at either left or right tackle might be wise for the Falcons, especially since they’re already extremely light at the position as it stands.
Running Back
Yes, the Atlanta Falcons have one of the most dynamic players at running back in Bijan Robinson, and a very good backup in Tyler Allgeier. That said, the departure of Cordarrelle Patterson leaves the running back room with just four players. Depth at the very high volume position is paramount so it wouldn’t be a shock to see Atlanta add an RB late in the draft.
Quarterback
It’s Kirk Cousins or bust for the Falcons in 2024. However, their only other QB on the roster currently is Taylor Heinicke, and I think it’s fair to presume, he’s not their choice for successor. This particular QB draft class is fairly deep, and adding a player who would sit behind Cousins for a couple of seasons might pay dividends later.
Atlanta Falcons Free Agency Additions
The Atlanta Falcons’ focus this offseason has been on offense with most of their free-agent acquisitions playing that side of the ball. See their most impactful moves below.
Atlanta Falcons 2024 NFL Draft Picks
Atlanta currently holds the 8th overall selection in the upcoming NFL Draft and has a total of eight picks right now. See all their slots below.
