The Atlanta Falcons are already reaping significant rewards from their aggressive move in the 2025 NFL Draft, where they traded up to select edge rusher James Pearce Jr. with the 26th overall pick. Pearce has quickly established himself as a dominant force, leading all rookies with an impressive eight sacks. His consistent impact is further highlighted by his streak of recording at least one sack in each of his last six games. The former Tennessee standout is emerging as a strong contender for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award, a testament to his immediate influence on the field.
While the Falcons are undoubtedly pleased with Pearce’s performance and likely have no regrets about the capital spent to acquire him, this strategic draft maneuver has left them without a first-round selection in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. This means Atlanta will be spectators during the often-hyped mock draft season for the 2026 class. However, some analysts are already looking ahead, providing early projections for the talent pool.
Early 2026 NFL Draft Projections for the Falcons
One such projection comes from PFSN analyst Alec Elijah, who recently released a comprehensive three-round mock draft. This early look offers insight into potential targets for the Falcons, who will be looking to address their needs through a more limited draft capital in the initial rounds. Elijah’s mock draft features two projected selections for Atlanta:
Second Round, Pick No. 41 Overall: KC Concepcion, Wide Receiver, Texas A&M
Elijah identifies a clear need for offensive firepower, particularly at the wide receiver position, stating, “Outside of Drake London, there is no consistent pass catcher in the receiver room, which calls for a new addition in the form of Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion.” Concepcion is lauded for his exceptional ability to generate yardage after the catch, a valuable asset that has seen him find the end zone consistently throughout his collegiate career at both Texas A&M and NC State. This season alone, Concepcion has showcased his playmaking skills with 57 receptions for 886 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. His impressive 15.5 yards per reception average could significantly open up the field for existing Falcons receivers like Drake London and Darnell Mooney in the 2026 season, creating a more dynamic and potent passing attack.
Third Round, Pick No. 73 Overall: Keith Abney II, Cornerback, Arizona State
The Falcons’ second projected pick in Elijah’s mock draft addresses the defensive side of the ball, specifically the cornerback position. Keith Abney II from Arizona State is tabbed as the 73rd overall selection. While Abney may not possess elite size, his coverage skills are undeniable, as he has demonstrated the ability to effectively shut down wide receivers of various physical attributes. His versatility is a key selling point, with proficiency in both man and zone coverage schemes, making him a valuable asset regardless of the defensive alignment. The article notes that Atlanta could benefit from another starting-caliber cornerback, especially with Billy Bowman Jr. solidified in the nickelback role. Abney’s skill set would make him a logical and impactful addition in the third round, bolstering the secondary’s depth and talent.
Strengthening the Defensive Backfield
The Falcons have demonstrated a commendable track record of developing their young defensive backs this season. Xavier Watts, a third-round pick, has emerged as a standout, leading all rookies with three interceptions. Billy Bowman Jr. had been performing exceptionally well before suffering a season-ending Achilles tear. The team also faced a setback when veteran Mike Hughes sustained an ankle injury during the Falcons’ victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, potentially leading to missed playing time. In Week 15, undrafted free agent Cobee Bryant stepped in for Hughes and largely held his own, showcasing resilience in a challenging situation. Nevertheless, the need for continuous reinforcement in the defensive backfield remains evident, as a strong secondary is crucial for sustained success in the NFL. The potential addition of a player like Abney II would further solidify this unit and provide valuable depth.