Falcons projected starting defense with player grades

The Atlanta Falcons have a new head coach and general manager, but they brought back defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich to build upon the progress he made last season. While the defense has plenty of talent, there are a few question marks.

The team said goodbye to versatile linebacker Kaden Elliss, who signed a three-year deal with the New Orleans Saints in free agency. The Falcons brought in former Texans linebacker Christian Harris to help replace Elliss, but it's unclear if he will start.

Troy Andersen is also in the mix to start at linebacker. The former second-round pick can do a lot of the things that Elliss did, but he hasn't been able to stay healthy over his four seasons in Atlanta. We currently have Harris penciled in, although this is a battle to watch in training camp.

The other major question mark is at the edge rusher position. James Pearce Jr. is still facing felony charges and while the team has said almost nothing about the situation, the Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist will likely face a suspension to begin the season.

Check out our projected starting lineup for the Falcons defense, including Pro Football Focus grades for each player below.

• DL Zach Harrison: 63.8
• DT Ruke Orhorhoro: 37.3
• DL Brandon Dorlus: 63.4
• EDGE Jalon Walker: 71.6
• LB Divine Deablo: 77.7
• LB Christian Harris: 54.8
• EDGE Samson Ebukam: 64.1
• CB A.J. Terrell: 57.7
• CB Mike Hughes: 58.6
• NB Billy Bowman Jr: 49.8
• S Jessie Bates III: 64.5
• S Xavier Watts: 72.4

The Falcons have added some competition at nickel with Darnay Holmes, but we think it's safe to assume Billy Bowman Jr. returns to his starting role if he's fully healthy to kick off the 2026 NFL season.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Projected starting lineup on defense