As we approach the start of the 2025 NFL offseason, the Atlanta Falcons find themselves in an interesting position. They have an offense with few weaknesses and a defense with major holes, including the usual question marks surrounding their pass rush.
The lack of pressure was apparent last season, and likely cost defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake his job. Jeff Ulbrich is set to take over in 2025, but the front office must provide him with the tools and talent to have success in his second stint with the team.
The Falcons have limited salary cap space so the 2025 NFL draft is their best chance to add the pass rusher they desperately need. We’re already seeing some of the top draft analysts release their first mocks of the year.
On Monday, ESPN’s Matt Miller dropped his first two-round mock draft in which he projects Atlanta to address its two biggest needs.
R1: EDGE Mykel Williams – Georgia
Williams is right in the team’s backyard at Georgia and flashes the power, speed and production that generally excites front offices. Georgia’s two games against Texas this past season showcased Williams at his best, as he registered four combined sacks in those matchups. But he had only one sack in the remaining nine games he played in. Williams is an upside player who could be a double- digit sack-getter with some development. — Matt Miller, ESPN
But what about the secondary? The Falcons have little depth outside of safety Jessie Bates and cornerback A.J. Terrell. With Mike Hughes, Dee Alford, Justin Simmons and Richie Grant set to hit free agency, the team must find at least a few contributors in the draft.
In the second round of Miller’s mock, he has the Falcons taking Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison.
R2: CB Benjamin Morrison – Notre Dame
A.J. Terrell has been great for the Falcons, but teams can avoid him if there’s not a reliable corner on the other side. Morrison had first-round grades before he suffered a hip injury in October and had nine interceptions combined in 2022-23. — Matt Miller, ESPN
Morrison would be an excellent choice in Round 2. If the Falcons can sign a veteran cornerback — such as Mike Hughes — for cheap, Morrison could eventually start opposite Terrell. Atlanta also has Clark Phillips III returning in 2025. The former Utah standout should be in line for a bigger role.
The team still needs some help at safety, unless the coaching staff views DeMarcco Hellams as a potential starter. Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot will likely have his hands full once again.
