Falcons Add Speed, Defense and Local Talent in 2026 NFL Draft

The Atlanta Falcons came into the 2026 NFL Draft with clear needs and a sense of urgency — and by the end of it, they walked away with a class that brings speed, physicality, and versatility on both sides of the ball.

Atlanta made its biggest splash early on Day 2, selecting Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell in the second round (48th overall). The pick not only strengthens the secondary but adds a familiar name — Terrell is an Atlanta native and the younger brother of Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell Jr., creating a unique and exciting storyline for the defense.

Terrell built an impressive résumé at Clemson, appearing in 39 games over three seasons while totaling 125 tackles, 25 passes defensed, eight forced fumbles, four sacks, and three interceptions. His ability to create turnovers stands out immediately — leading all NCAA cornerbacks in forced fumbles during his career and setting Clemson’s single-season record with five in 2025. His 2025 campaign earned him second-team AP All-American honors, showcasing his impact as both a coverage defender and disruptive force.

Atlanta stayed aggressive in the third round, selecting wide receiver Zachariah Branch (79th overall), adding explosiveness to the offense and special teams. Branch brings game-breaking speed and versatility, having played at both Southern California and Georgia across his college career.

In 2025 at Georgia, Branch recorded 81 receptions for 811 yards and six touchdowns while also contributing as a return specialist with over 350 combined return yards. His playmaking ability was evident from the start of his college career, earning the Jet Award as a freshman — given to the nation’s top return specialist — after piling up over 700 return yards and two touchdowns.

As the draft moved into later rounds, Atlanta continued to build depth and target high-upside players.

In the fourth round, the Falcons selected linebacker Kendal Daniels (134th overall) after trading down with the Las Vegas Raiders. Daniels brings versatility and production, having recorded 293 tackles, 33.5 tackles for loss, and multiple impact plays across five collegiate seasons. His physical style and ability to impact both the run and pass game make him a valuable addition to the linebacker unit.

Day 3 saw Atlanta focus on depth and development, starting with Washington defensive tackle Anterio Thompson (208th overall). Thompson’s path through multiple programs shows resilience and growth, and his experience across different systems could translate into valuable rotational depth on the defensive line.

Shortly after, the Falcons added LSU linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. (215th overall), a pick that could prove to be one of the most intriguing of the class. Perkins brings high-end athleticism and a proven track record, totaling 220 tackles, 36 tackles for loss, and five interceptions during his college career. When healthy, he’s shown the ability to be a difference-maker, including a standout freshman campaign that earned him first-team All-SEC honors.

Atlanta closed out its draft by selecting offensive tackle Ethan Onianwa (231st overall) out of Ohio State. A seasoned lineman with experience at both right and left tackle, Onianwa adds valuable depth and flexibility to the offensive line. His durability and starting experience at Rice before transferring to Ohio State make him a strong developmental piece.

Overall, the Falcons’ 2026 draft class reflects a clear identity — fast, aggressive, and built around players who can create impact plays. From adding a hometown defensive standout in Avieon Terrell to bringing in explosive speed with Zachariah Branch and high-upside depth on Day 3, Atlanta addressed multiple needs while continuing to build for the future.

Now, the focus shifts to development, competition, and how quickly this group can contribute — because in Atlanta, the expectation isn’t just improvement… it’s results