Bralen Trice’s knee feels great after missing Atlanta’s preseason opener against Detroit, and the Falcons rookie edge is staying positive about 2025 prospects. A third-rounder out of Washington, Trice battled a preseason ACL injury that sidelined his entire rookie year, but he’s talking up a clean slate and preseason ramping as the springboard to a bigger role on Atlanta’s defensive front.

At 6-4, 274 pounds, Trice flashed college productivity with 49 tackles and seven sacks in 2023 and has the athletic frame to drive pressure as Atlanta rebuilds its edge depth. The Falcons will monitor his knee through August, but if health stays intact, late-season fantasy managers could find a sneaky stash in a Falcons defensive line that needs internal electricity and depth behind the starters.

The Atlanta Falcons are looking forward to the return of rookie defensive lineman Bralen Trice, who missed his entire first season due to a torn ACL. Drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft from Washington, Trice was expected to bolster the Falcons' struggle in both pass rush and run defense during a challenging season. Along with fellow young players Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., Trice aims to make an immediate impact as he prepares for a full offseason at training camp.

Trice's absence was felt last season, as the Falcons dealt with a series of injuries that hindered their performance. The combination of youth and talent in this new group could signal a shift in dynamics for the Atlanta defense as they approach the new season. Fans and fantasy managers alike will be eager to see how Trice utilizes his skills on the field, especially as he joins a young and promising roster.

Expectations for the Atlanta Falcons' defense are shifting as edge rusher Bralen Trice and safety DeMarcco Hellams emerge as potential impact players for the 2025 season. Bralen Trice, a third-round pick in 2024, is expected to complement Arnold Ebiketie, who ended the last season strong. However, Trice’s lack of NFL experience raises concerns about his readiness for a starting role. Meanwhile, Hellams, who missed the previous season due to injury, faces the challenge of filling the shoes of the departed Justin Simmons, whose performance fell short of expectations. The coaching staff's confidence in these emerging players will be critical for Atlanta to address their defensive needs in the offseason.

The Atlanta Falcons are projected to select Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. with the 19th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, according to Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus. Despite recent drafts focusing on defensive linemen, the Falcons still lack a true edge rusher with speed capabilities.

Pearce is seen as a potential game-changer, showcasing elite burst and improved run defense. However, the Falcons' recent draft history raises questions about their ability to develop edge rushers, with past selections failing to make a significant impact.