Falcons Focused on Pass Rush for NFL Draft 2025
ATLANTA, GA – According to sources, the Atlanta Falcons have set their sights on shoring up their pass rush heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Here’s the latest insight into their draft strategy, straight from 247Sports.
Pass Rush a Top Priority
The Falcons’ pass rush has been a popular talking point leading up to the 2025 draft, and for good reason. With 28 sacks last season, they ranked 25th in the league. "Pass rush is the obvious need," said Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot.
In an interview with ESPN, Fontenot hinted at his draft approach, "We’re going to prepare as if we’re going to play it straight." While this comment doesn’t guarantee a pass rusher will be drafted in the early rounds, it suggests the Falcons are serious about addressing this need.
Double Down on Edge Rushers?
A recent mock draft by Pro Football Focus (PFF) sees the Falcons addressing the pass rush deficiency with a double dose of edge rushers. They suggest the Falcons could take Florida’s Brenton Cox Jr. and Oregon’s Jaylon Redd at picks 16 and 44 respectively.
"Cox and Redd aren’t the most refine pass rushers, but they provide a consistent pass-rush presence," said PFF’s Mike Renner. "Both offer good explosiveness off the edge, and they’re more experienced against the run than many of the top EDGE prospects in this class."
Falcons’ Draft Order and Targets
The Falcons currently hold the 16th overall pick in the first round. As of now, they don’t have a second-round selection due to the Julio Jones trade, but they could pick at 44 in the second round following the compensatory pick formula. Here are some players who could be on the Falcons’ radar based on their draft position:
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- Bryce Young, QB, Alabama, pick 16
- Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia, pick 16
- Will Anderson Jr., OLB, Alabama, pick 16
- Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas, pick 44
Falcons Insider Draft Guide
A comprehensive Falcons draft guide, titled "Nerdy Birds: 2025 Falcons Insider Draft Guide," is set to provide a deep dive into potential draft targets. The guide, created by the Falcons cite>@TheFalcoholic, offers a detailed look at what the team might do in the draft.
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Q: Which players have the Falcons met with or worked out leading up to the draft?
A: The Falcons have met with several prospects, including but not limited to, Alabama QB Bryce Young, Georgia DT Jalen Carter, and Texas RB Bijan Robinson.
Q: What if the Falcons trade back or pick up another second-round pick?
A: A trade down or acquisition of another second-round pick could open up more possibilities for the Falcons. However, their draft strategy remains focused on addressing the pass rush deficiency.
Q: Which players have the Falcons met with or worked out leading up to the draft?
A: The Falcons have met with several prospects, including but not limited to, Alabama QB Bryce Young, Georgia DT Jalen Carter, and Texas RB Bijan Robinson.
Q: What if the Falcons trade back or pick up another second-round pick?
A: A trade down or acquisition of another second-round pick could open up more possibilities for the Falcons. However, their draft strategy remains focused on addressing the pass rush deficiency.
Right now, our focus is on winning football games. And we do that by improving our roster.– Terry Fontenot, Falcons GM, in an interview with ESPN
Stay tuned to 247Sports for more Falcons’ 2025 NFL Draft coverage. Don’t forget to leave your comments and engage in conversations with our sports community.
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