ESPN’s most recent mock draft has the Atlanta Falcons making an implausible pick. Atlanta is expected to choose 22nd overall and draft edge rusher JT Tuimoloau from Ohio State. The pick is an obvious fit, as evidenced by Atlanta’s terrible pass-rushing statistics.
Number Atlanta was well aware of this entering into the summer, and chose to let Bud Dupree and Calais Campbell walk away without suitable replacements. They understood this coming into the 2024 NFL Draft and chose to use the 8th overall choice on a bench player while ignoring the position early on day two as well.
Atlanta investing a first-round pick on an edge rusher appears unrealistic. This comes after watching the team draft Kyle Pitts, Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Michael Penix Jr. during the previous four seasons. Every year, the edge rusher position ranked #1 or second on the priority list.
The Atlanta Falcons making the apparent selection isn’t on brand for an organization opposed to getting pass rush aid.
Despite the requirement, Atlanta disregards the position in favor of introducing a new weapon or a more intriguing story. Why might this strategy suddenly shift in the 2025 offseason? Relying on the Falcons to make the obvious decision is, at best, misguided.
Their recent history indicates that unless there is a leadership change or significant consequences, their stance to the situation will remain unchanged. Atlanta’s desire to add a pass rusher is not a new story, having dogged the team for much of the last decade.
Poor defensive units and an inability to generate constant pressure were common characteristics of Matt Ryan’s defenses. Since Ryan was forced out, the team has struggled to find a reliable pass rusher. Their only significant addition this offseason has been freshman Bralen Trice.
This is despite adding Kirk Cousins and aiming to make a playoff run. All of this makes selecting an edge rusher in next year’s first round seem unlikely. JT would be an excellent fit for Atlanta, but it doesn’t seem appropriate for an organization that continues to disregard the position.
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