The Atlanta Falcons have been making waves in the opening week of free agency, with some bold moves that are turning heads. From Tua Tagovailoa to Jahan Dotson, Samson Ebukam, and Christian Harris, the new regime is clearly not afraid to shake things up. General Manager Ian Cunningham deserves credit for keeping a tight grip on the purse strings while still bringing in quality talent.
However, it's not all smooth sailing. The departures of Kaden Elliss, Tyler Allgeier, David Onyemata, Dee Alford, and Arnold Ebiketie have left noticeable gaps. As the Falcons look toward the 2026 NFL Draft, Cunningham and Head Coach Kevin Stefanski will need to strategize to fill these holes, alongside addressing existing needs.
With free agency mostly wrapped up, let's dive into how Cunningham's first draft with the Falcons might unfold. No trades or gimmicks here, just a straightforward look at their five picks for 2026.
Round 2 | Pick 48: Keith Abney II - CB, Arizona State
Even without a first-round pick, Cunningham finds value in Keith Abney II. This cornerback is a playmaker, tying for eighth in the nation with eight passes defensed last year.
Pairing him with A.J. Terrell and Billy Bowman Jr. sets up a formidable trio for the Falcons' secondary.
Abney's background in track and speed skating, along with his physicality in man coverage, makes him a perfect fit for a defense eager to redefine itself.
Round 3 | Pick 79: Anthony Hill Jr. - LB, Texas
Replacing Elliss is no easy task, but Anthony Hill Jr. is up for it. Once considered a potential first-rounder, Hill's three seasons with the Texas Longhorns showcase his playmaking ability. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 238 pounds, Hill's athleticism and football IQ make him a great fit, especially with the Falcons' current linebackers nearing free agency.
Round 4 | Pick 114: Brennen Thompson - WR, Mississippi State
Falcons fans might breathe a sigh of relief with this pick. Brennen Thompson brings the speed needed to replace Darnell Mooney, clocking a 4.26-second 40-yard dash. While he needs to bulk up from his 164-pound frame, his potential as a deep threat is undeniable, adding depth behind Jahan Dotson and Olamide Zaccheus.
Round 6 | Pick 196: Zane Durant - DL, Penn State
Finally addressing the defensive line, Zane Durant comes in as a potential solution to the Falcons' struggles against the run. Despite being undersized, his athleticism and productivity-evidenced by 11 tackles for loss in 2024-make him a valuable pick in the sixth round.
Round 7 | Pick 231: Taylen Green - QB, Arkansas
In a surprising move, the Falcons take a flyer on quarterback Taylen Green. With Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa already in the fold, this pick is all about upside.
Green's unique physical profile, including a 4.36 40-yard dash and impressive jumping metrics, offers tantalizing potential. While such prospects are hit-or-miss, the seventh round is the perfect time for this kind of gamble.
As the Falcons navigate this offseason, these picks could be pivotal in shaping the team's future. With a mix of strategic free agency moves and a well-thought-out draft plan, Atlanta is positioning itself to make some noise in the upcoming season.