PFSN’s 2026 NFL mock draft projects Atlanta to add Indiana cornerback, Florida center.
The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2025 offseason with several needs to fill on defense. However, the team’s options were limited due to backup quarterback Kirk Cousins’ monster contract. Without much salary cap space to spend in free agency, the Falcons went all in on the 2025 NFL draft.
After taking Georgia edge rusher Jalon Walker in the first round, the team traded a 2026 first-round pick to the Los Angeles Rams to move up for Tennessee defensive end James Pearce Jr. While Walker has been dealing with a hamstring injury, Pearce has been making waves on the field.
Both rookies figure to play major roles on defense this season, but Atlanta will have to navigate the 2026 draft without a Day 1 selection.
Pro Football Sports Network released a new seven-round mock draft for 2026 which projects the Falcons to take Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds in the second round (pick No. 42 overall).
Round 2: CB D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana
“The Atlanta Falcons don’t have a first-round pick in 2026, making their second-round pick that much more important,” wrote PFSN’s Jacob Infante. “In this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, they add an impact player for their secondary.”
The Falcons have one quality cornerback in A.J. Terrell, but there are question marks if we look down the depth chart. Mike Hughes signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the team in free agency and will look to build upon a solid 2025 season.
In Round 3 of PFSN’s mock draft, the Falcons took Florida center Jake Slaughter (pick No. 74 overall).
Round 3: C Jake Slaughter, Florida
“After only allowing one sack in 402 pass-blocking reps last year, Jake Slaughter enters the CFB season as one of the best interior linemen,” wrote Infante. “He’s an innovative and mobile center prospect with eventual starting upside.”
The Falcons re-signed veteran backup Ryan Neuzil to replace Drew Dalman, who left in free agency. Neuzil started eight games last season, but he is still relatively unproven. Many expected the team to draft a potential Dalman replacement in 2025, however, Atlanta focused heavily on defense instead.
PFSN’s mock had the team target Oregon wide receiver in the fourth round, Clemson defensive lineman Stephiylan Green in the sixth round and Michigan safety TJ Metcalf in the seventh round. Check out each projected Falcons pick in the 2026 mock below.
Round 2: CB D’Angelo Ponds, IndianaRound 3: C Jake Slaughter, FloridaRound 4: WR Evan Stewart, OregonRound 6: DT Stephiylan Green, ClemsonRound 7: S TJ Metcalf, Michigan