Depending on who you ask, the Atlanta Falcons have been considered one of the offseason winners in the NFL.
With a glaring need to fix their long-standing pass-rushing issues, Atlanta made significant moves through both free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft to overhaul its edge defender group.
The first splash came in free agency with the signing of veteran Leonard Floyd, formerly of the San Francisco 49ers, who brings a proven ability to get after the quarterback.
Then came the draft-day double-dip: Atlanta selected Georgia’s Jalon Walker at No. 15 overall, followed by Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. later in the first round at No. 26. With three new high-impact names added to the edge rotation, the Falcons suddenly find themselves with plenty of options — and competition — heading into training camp.
Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder believes the final starting duo will likely feature Floyd and Walker.
“All three defenders are capable of putting pressure on the quarterback. Floyd has racked up 66.5 sacks during his nine-year career, including 19 over the last two years,” Holder wrote. “Meanwhile, Pearce had 19.5 sacks in three years at Tennessee, and Walker got to the quarterback 12.5 times during the same time period at Georgia.
“So, the starters will likely be determined by who plays the run better, which leans toward the veteran and No. 15 overall pick.”
Floyd has seen a dip in his run defense in the last three seasons, grading below 60 in that area, per Pro Football Focus. As for Pearce, Holder states that he's a "big work in progress," and that he was often held off the field in run situations at Tennessee.
Still, Walker may also have to stand and compete against Kaden Elliss, as both have similar skill sets as off-ball linebackers, able to rush the passer.
