The Atlanta Falcons are attempting to shift their fortunes by investing heavily in the edge rusher position, an area they've struggled with since 1999. The team hasn't had a reliable pass-rusher in years, relying on underwhelming draft and free-agent outcomes. Their recent bold strategy includes trading a first-round pick to draft two edge rushers—James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker—reinforcing the need to bolster their defense.

This aggressive approach comes after the acquisition of Michael Penix Jr. as their quarterback, who showed promise in limited action last season. The Falcons' offense, featuring talent like Bijan Robinson and Kyle Pitts, offers a strong foundation for growth, but the burden now rests on the defense to perform. If the new edge rushers can generate a pass rush, it could bring the Falcons back into playoff contention after seven years of absence.

The Atlanta Falcons face scrutiny once again, as their organizational dysfunction leads to significant penalties from the NFL. After a prank call incident involving college quarterback Shedeur Sanders, the Falcons were fined $250,000, and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich received a $100,000 fine for failing to secure confidential draft information. The prank, orchestrated by Ulbrich's son, was seen as a serious breach of conduct, prompting apologies from both Ulbrich and the Falcons organization.

In addition to this blunder, the Falcons have made questionable decisions in recent drafts. Last year, they controversially picked Michael Penix Jr. right after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive contract. This year, they traded away a future first-round pick to select defensive end James Pearce Jr. With a poor track record in recent drafts, the Falcons have raised alarms about their ability to build a competitive team.

The 2025 NFL Draft has concluded, but quarterback Kirk Cousins remains with the Atlanta Falcons despite being replaced by Michael Penix Jr. General Manager Terry Fontenot addressed Cousins' status, hinting at potential trades while emphasizing the need for patience. With a hefty contract of $27.5 million, Cousins is in a unique position, holding a no-trade clause. Meanwhile, teams across the league have defined starter situations, limiting Cousins' immediate trade prospects. However, injuries can change the landscape quickly, leading to a potential trade if a team needs a quarterback mid-season.

Kirk Cousins' tenure with the Atlanta Falcons began promisingly, but a series of misfortunes has led to uncertainty regarding his future. After signing a significant four-year, $180 million contract, he initially guided the Falcons to a 6-3 start, including a remarkable 509-yard passing game. However, a subsequent four-game losing streak, exacerbated by injuries and poor performance, saw him benched in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. Cousins' struggles were highlighted by eight interceptions and a failure to throw a touchdown during this decline.

The Falcons finished the season at 8-9, missing the playoffs. Moving forward, Cousins has expressed a desire to start for another team in 2025, but his hefty salary and no-trade clause complicate any potential moves. Falcons management appears content to retain him as a backup, particularly given his professionalism shown during the offseason program. Speculations about his future are rife, with discussions linking him to teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers if Aaron Rodgers does not make the leap there.

The Atlanta Falcons have made significant changes to their starting lineup following the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly on the defensive side. Key additions include rookie linebackers Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr., and Xavier Watts, who are expected to play critical roles. The offense remains largely intact, with Michael Penix Jr. set to lead after a promising rookie season, supported by Pro Bowl running back Bijan Robinson and emerging wideouts Drake London and Darnell Mooney.

Defensively, the Falcons are addressing gaps left by veterans Grady Jarrett and Eddie Goldman. Morgan Fox and David Onyemata will anchor the defensive line, while the linebacker corps sees a youth infusion with Walker and Pearce. The secondary, led by A.J. Terrell and Jessie Bates III, aims to capitalize on improved pass rush capabilities. The special teams also make a notable addition in return specialist Jamal Agnew, enhancing the team’s depth.