The 2025 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and while all eyes are on the Super Bowl, Atlanta Falcons fans are already looking ahead to the offseason. After a near miss at the playoffs in 2024, here are four key positions the Falcons should focus on as they continue to build a competitive roster.
Quarterback: A Future Star Under Center
The Atlanta Falcons made strides in 2024, particularly offensively with Michael Penix taking the reins under center. However, the question still remains: Is Penix the long-term solution at quarterback? With a promising but not yet elite performance, the Falcons may want to use the 2025 draft to secure a future franchise quarterback.
Quarterbacks like Caleb Williams (USC) and Drake Maye (North Carolina) have already made waves as top-tier prospects, and their potential could provide the Falcons with the stability and star power they need to finally contend in the NFC South. While Penix showed flashes of brilliance, adding another young, dynamic QB could spark healthy competition, and if either of these top-tier quarterbacks is available, the Falcons shouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger. A QB with a higher ceiling could elevate the team to the next level, complementing the impressive skill positions already in place.
Defensive Line: The Heart of a Resurgent Defense
While the offense showed promise, the Falcons’ defense still leaves much to be desired. They need a true game-changer on the defensive line. The 2024 season demonstrated how critical it is to generate pressure on the quarterback and stop the run, two areas where Atlanta faltered.
Players like Jalen Carter (Georgia) and Maason Smith (LSU) could provide the Falcons with the disruption they desperately need. A defensive tackle or edge rusher who can wreak havoc in the backfield would go a long way in turning the defense into one of the league’s most formidable units. By drafting an elite pass rusher, the Falcons can finally build a defense that can force turnovers and help their offense stay on the field longer.
Offensive Line: Protecting the Quarterback, Creating a Run Game
No team can succeed without solid play in the trenches. The Falcons need to continue building depth along the offensive line, especially with a potential quarterback change or improvement in the works. The offensive line has been somewhat inconsistent, and while there are some promising pieces in place, more work is needed to protect whoever lines up at quarterback in 2025.
A top-tier offensive tackle like Olumuyiwa Fashanu (Penn State) could be a game-changer here. The Falcons should prioritize securing a player who can protect the blind side, open up running lanes for their talented backfield, and provide stability in pass protection. With a more reliable line, the offense will have more time to execute, and the team’s overall production could skyrocket.
Wide Receiver: A Playmaker for the Future
The Falcons’ offense has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly when they utilized their running game and Michael Penix’s arm. However, a true game-breaking wide receiver could take the offense to new heights. The Falcons already have talented players like Drake London, but another dynamic playmaker on the outside would give the offense more versatility and unpredictability.
Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State) is one of the top receivers in the draft class and could be a perfect fit for the Falcons. He has the ability to stretch the field, make contested catches, and provide a reliable target for the quarterback. With a weapon like Harrison, the Falcons could finally round out their offense and give the NFC South a lot to worry about. A young, explosive receiver can bring balance to the offense and open up more opportunities in both the short and deep passing game.
