Updated March 4, 2026, 3:13 p.m. ET
The Atlanta Falcons have a new head coach, general manager and president of football, but we don’t expect the team to make any major moves when NFL free agency begins next week. With a strong core of talent and limited salary cap space, the Falcons’ roster should look largely the same in 2026.
The team used its franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts, which is likely the biggest move that we’ll see Atlanta make this offseason. Plus, the Falcons may have to let some key players walk in free agency, including linebacker Kaden Elliss, running back Tyler Allgeier and defensive tackle David Onyemata.
The wide receiver position is also expected to be a priority as the team lacks depth behind Drake London. NFL.com broke down each team’s biggest needs ahead of free agency, listing defensive tackle, linebacker and tight end as Atlanta’s top needs.
NFL.com identifies Falcons’ biggest needs in free agency
“The Falcons struggled mightily to stop the run last season, ranking 25th in EPA on rush attempts, per Next Gen Stats,” wrote Kevin Patra. “With several pending free agents, including David Onyemata, along the defensive line, ATL needs to add beef up front from starter and depth standpoints. Kaden Elliss heading toward the market enhances the run D issues. Even after using the franchise tag on Kyle Pitts, the Falcons need more in the TE room to effectively run Kevin Stefanski’s preferred scheme.”
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While it’s fair to say tight end depth is a concern, the Falcons are already investing over $20 million at the position between Pitts and Charlie Woerner. Perhaps the team would be better off adding a tight end in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Defensive tackle is obviously a need, however, the Falcons have two talented players in Brandon Dorlus and Ruke Orhorhoro who showed tremendous progress last season. However, they could use someone to fill the nose tackle role.
Losing Elliss would create a significant hole at linebacker. Divine Deablo played well last season, but the team has nobody else who can replicate Elliss’ versatility in Jeff Ulbrich’s scheme.
These are all legitimate needs, although it’s hard to say the wide receiver position falls behind any of the ones listed. The Falcons are expected to release KhaDarel Hodge, and there have been whispers that they could move on from Darnell Mooney as well.
If the Falcons are serious about setting up Michael Penix Jr. for success next season, they’re going to need more than two reliable pass-catchers. NFL free agency kicks off on March 11.
