Falcons’ new leadership team starts with only 5 picks in NFL draft

The Atlanta Falcons’ new leadership team of president of football Matt Ryan, general manager Ian Cunningham and coach Kevin Stefanski could enter the NFL draft in a mood to trade.

The Falcons have only five picks in the draft, including no first-rounder. Cunningham doesn’t like having so few picks and has vowed this will be the last draft the Falcons are in this position. He likely will be open to offers to trade down for additional picks.

The 2026 NFL Draft airs LIVE only on Channel 2 April 23-25. Watch WSB-TV Sports Zone: NFL Draft edition Thursday at 7 p.m. followed the first round at 8 p.m.

The Falcons’ first pick is No. 48 overall. Cunningham says he’s a firm believer in taking the best player available. Since wide receiver is perceived as a deep position in the draft, the Falcons could add another option for their tandem of left-handed quarterbacks, Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa.

“You can look at it as a challenge, I guess, but we look at it as an opportunity to add five really good players to this football team, if that’s what it ends up being,” Stefanski said at the start of offseason workouts last week. ”I think Ian and his staff have done an outstanding job to date. ... Five picks to me sounds like five good players to add to the roster.”

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Pick ‘em

The Falcons to the in last year’s draft to select edge rusher with the No. 26 selection. Pearce’s status with the Falcons is in doubt as he faces three felony charges after he on Feb. 7 after an incident involving his former girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson.