As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, people continue to speculate on what direction the Atlanta Falcons will take. It is evident that the team should focus their efforts on a rebuilding defense with numerous needs. However, this is the same front staff that drafted Michael Penix Jr. shortly after signing Kirk Cousins. Atlanta has been unexpected with their selection strategy, something fans should hope does not continue this year.
Whether it’s safety, cornerback, or edge rusher, the Falcons can’t afford to ignore their obvious defensive needs. It is worth noting that the team chose to welcome Texas tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. for a private workout.
Atlanta should prioritize their defensive issues above adding to the offensive line. Bringing in a replacement for right tackle Kaleb McGary is a typical move by Fontenot and the front office. Since the current government took hold, the squad has only selected attacking players in the first round. Kyle Pitts, Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Michael Penix Jr. are all impact selections who have yet to win.
This is because the Falcons continue to rely solely on their attack. As good as Robinson, London, and Penix have been, the squad cannot consider adding any offensive players. Atlanta’s goals should be simple: add draft selections in any trades that offer themselves, and then focus on drafting the best defensive player available.
The Atlanta defense had no chance of stopping Washington or Carolina in the playoffs. There was a noticeable lack of pass rush and secondary cohesion. These are issues the Falcons have elected not to fix with their underwhelming free agency approach.
This leaves the entire offseason dependent on your draft class and ability to identify impact defensive players. Atlanta has decided to look at any other position locks in another tough season, just as they did in 2024. Even in an offensive league, if your defense isn’t capable of making important stops, you won’t win anything significant. Something Fontenot and the Atlanta front office appear to be oblivious of despite four years of frustration.
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