Sporting News grades Falcons' 2026 NFL Draft class

The Atlanta Falcons are still paying the cost for last year's draft day trade with the Los Angeles Rams, but now that the 2026 NFL Draft has concluded, it's officially time to turn the page. However, since we are entering the offseason dead zone, there's probably time for a few more draft grades.

Thus far, the Falcons' have received mixed reviews for their six-player class. The team did not have a first-round pick, and considering the perceived lower-than-normal talent pool, it was somewhat impressive to see Atlanta come away with two fairly well-known prospects.

Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell fell into the team's lap in Round 2, and he now joins his big brother, A.J., in one of the NFL's best ascending secondaries. Terrell doesn't need to play right away, but his presence should only raise the level of competition.

The team added Georgia wideout Zachariah Branch in the third round and four more players on Day 3. Branch has a chance to start this season as the Falcons' primary slot receiver.

Another expert has weighed in on Atlanta's draft class. Vinnie Iyer of the Sporting News gave the Falcons a B-minus in his 2026 NFL Draft grades.

"The Falcons were smart to get Terrell to join his brother in the secondary, likely playing in the slot. Matt Ryan and GM Ian Cunningham took a chance on Branch being OK off the field to make a needed extra playmaker on the field," wrote Iyer.

The Tennessee Titans received the highest grade (A+) from Sporting News followed by the Las Vegas Raiders, and .