In just a couple of months, the Atlanta Falcons' new leadership team is gearing up for their first draft. With a keen eye on talent nationwide, they know there's a goldmine right in their backyard.
Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Ian Cunningham have been vocal about the impressive pipeline from the Georgia football program. Both new to Atlanta, they're no strangers to the powerhouse that is Athens, consistently producing top-tier talent.
Stefanski praised the program, saying, "Those players are tough. That's what Kirby's all about.
I'm excited to be at their Pro Day in March to see it firsthand. Georgia players bring physical and mental toughness."
Cunningham shared similar sentiments, noting, "They're usually pro-ready. What Coach Smart has done is remarkable. Drawing from his time at Alabama under Coach Saban, these players are well-coached, smart, disciplined, and tough."
Both Stefanski and Cunningham have firsthand experience with former Bulldogs. Stefanski coached Georgia's Nick Chubb for five seasons, during which Chubb earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2022. He also saw the Browns draft Georgia's Richard LeCounte in 2021.
Cunningham, during his time with the Chicago Bears, worked with Georgia's Roquan Smith and saw D'Andre Swift make a significant impact on the 2025 division-winning team.
With a fresh start in Atlanta, Georgia fans are hopeful the Falcons will keep their eyes on local talent. Last year, they picked Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker in the first round, marking the fourth Bulldog selection in as many years. The team has also benefited from the contributions of Georgia alumni like Leonard Floyd, Charlie Woerner, and Lorenzo Carter.
As they prepare for the draft, the Falcons hold the No. 48 overall pick in the second round, and fans are eager to see if more Bulldogs will join the Atlanta roster.