Sports
Ipswich comeback sends Southampton to play-offs as automatic race goes to final day
Ipswich's comeback draws with Southampton, sending the race for promotion to the final day!
Sky Sports1 min read
NFLFeature
Falcons post-draft depth chart: Projecting rookie roles in 2026
TL;DR
The Atlanta Falcons made strategic moves in the 2026 NFL Draft, acquiring key players like cornerback Avieon Terrell and wide receiver Zachariah Branch. Both rookies are expected to contribute significantly, with Terrell potentially starting and Branch competing for the slot receiver position.
Key points
- Falcons traded down in the 2026 NFL Draft for additional picks
- Avieon Terrell was selected in Round 2
- Zachariah Branch was picked in Round 3
- Terrell may not start immediately due to roster depth
- Branch's speed and special teams ability could lead to early playing time
Atlanta FalconsAvieon TerrellZachariah BranchKaden Daniels
The Atlanta Falcons attempted to do a lot with a little in the 2026 NFL Draft, even trading down in the fourth round to acquire an additional sixth-round pick. Falcons GM Ian Cunningham's best player available philosophy helped the team land cornerback Avieon Terrell in Round 2 followed by wide receiver Zachariah Branch in the third.
Terrell and Branch have long-term starter potential, regardless of whether or not they crack the starting lineup this season. Some of these decisions will likely come down to roster depth. Terrell has the ability to be a Day 1 contributor, but the Falcons have no reason to rush him into the starting lineup with Mike Hughes on the roster.
Branch, on the other hand, will likely battle Olamide Zacccheaus to be the starting slot receiver. The rookie's overall speed and special teams return ability should help him see the field sooner rather than later.
Look for fourth-round pick Kaden Daniels have a sub-package role on defense, although his biggest impact will likely come on special teams this season. The same can be said about Atlanta's sixth-round pick, linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. Both Daniels and Perkins could provide depth at inside linebacker behind Divine Deablo and Christian Harris.
As for sixth-round pick Anterio Thompson, we expect the former Washington standout to contribute as a rotational defensive lineman this year, providing depth behind starter Brandon Dorlus. Seventh-round pick Ethan Onianwa will serve as a backup guard/tackle, having played both positions in college.
Check out our post-draft Falcons depth chart projection below (rookies in bold).
Quarterback
Q&A
What roles are projected for Avieon Terrell and Zachariah Branch in 2026?
Avieon Terrell is expected to be a Day 1 contributor, while Zachariah Branch will likely compete for the starting slot receiver position.
How did the Falcons approach the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Falcons utilized a best player available strategy, trading down to acquire additional picks and focusing on filling key roster spots.
What impact will Kaden Daniels and Harold Perkins Jr. have on the Falcons' roster?
Kaden Daniels is projected to have a sub-package role on defense and contribute on special teams, while Harold Perkins Jr. is expected to provide depth at inside linebacker.
Who are the current starting players that rookies will compete against on the Falcons?
Rookies will compete against Mike Hughes for cornerback and Olamide Zaccheaus for the slot receiver position.
