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PFF pinpoints Falcons' greatest need going into 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
The Atlanta Falcons' biggest need heading into the 2026 NFL Draft is strengthening their interior defensive line, which has struggled since Grady Jarrett's departure. Pro Football Focus highlights this as a critical priority for the team.
The Atlanta Falcons had a tremendous defensive tackle starring up front for their defense for 10 years. Sadly, they were unable to surround Grady Jarrett with the talent they needed to contend after the 2017 season - and he eventually left last season for the Chicago Bears.
Now, Atlanta's interior defensive rotation is arguably one of the worst in the league - and glowing up this unit has to be one of their top priorities in the upcoming 2026 NFL draft.
In fact, according to Pro Football Focus this is Atlanta's single-greatest roster need going into the draft.
"The Falcons could pursue multiple positions on defense, but their interior is a weak point after David Onyemata left via free agency. Although returning Zach Harrison produced a 78.0 PFF pass-rush grade, he’s played only 854 snaps across his three-year career. Further, newcomer Da'Shawn Hand was ineffective with the Chargers last season with a 59.2 overall PFF grade. Atlanta could use a steady presence up the middle..."
The Falcons don't necessarily need to address this need immediately with their top pick - No. 48 overall in the second round. However, they probably can't afford to wait until Day 3 to select one, so fans should expect an iDL pick no later than Round 3, where Atlanta is slated to pick at No. 79 overall.
Who they will target to fill this hole is up for debate, with a handful of names rotating in Falcons-themed mock drafts. The most-popular prospects connected to Atlanta include Florida's Caleb Banks, Texas Tech's Lee Hunter and Christen Miller from Georgia.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons 2026 NFL draft needs: DT at top of list?
Q&A
What is the Atlanta Falcons' biggest roster need for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Falcons' greatest roster need is to improve their interior defensive line, which has been weak since Grady Jarrett left the team.
Why did the Falcons' interior defensive line become a priority for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The interior defensive line became a priority due to the departure of key players like Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata, leaving the team with a struggling rotation.
Who are the current players on the Falcons' interior defensive line?
The current players include Zach Harrison, who has limited experience, and Da'Shawn Hand, who had an ineffective season with the Chargers.
