Looking at the Falcons’ projected starting lineup on defense with PFF grades for each player
The Atlanta Falcons have high expectations for their offense this season, but defensively, there are more than a few question marks. After doing little to address this unit in free agency, the team used four of its five draft picks to upgrade the pass rush and secondary.
In the first round of the 2025 NFL, the Falcons added edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. — both of whom are expected to start for the team in 2025. Atlanta later stole Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts in the third round and defensive back Billy Bowman in Round 4.
While Watts and Bowman will have to overtake experienced veterans to crack the starting lineup, both players should still see the field this season. Check out the team’s projected starting lineups on defense with Pro Football Focus grades for each player.
PFF grades (2024) for projected starters on Falcons defense:DL Ruke Orhorhoro – 56.2DL David Onyemata – 66.2DL Morgan Fox – 51.5LB James Pearce Jr. – 86.9 (college)LB Kaden Elliss – 71.1LB Jalon Walker – 73.8 (college)LB Leonard Floyd – 53.5CB A.J. Terrell – 68.5CB Mike Hughes – 71.9NB Dee Alford – 58.2S Jessie Bates III – 80.2S Jordan Fuller – 53.8
Check out our Falcons projected offensive starting lineup with PFF grades for each player ahead of the 2025 NFL season.