The Atlanta Falcons‘ offseason coaching program is in full swing and the primary week of OTAs is formally within the books. While we anticipate important modifications to the starting lineups this season, all the pieces should first be earned. The staff introduced in a number of new faces on each side of the ball.
On defense, Atlanta chosen A.J. Terrell’s little brother, Avieon Terrell, within the second spherical of the 2026 NFL Draft. Terrell will be a part of a proficient Falcons secondary and compete for a starting job in 2026. The staff additionally mentioned goodbye to starting inside linebacker Kaden Elliss.
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We anticipate free-agent addition Christian Harris to switch Elliss this season, though Troy Anderson and fourth-round decide Kendal Daniels must be within the combine as effectively.
As for James Pearce Jr., he is anticipated to keep away from authorized troubles, though the NFL may nonetheless droop the Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist. Other than that, we do not anticipate any main modifications on defense.
Check out our starting lineup projection for the Falcons defense, together with Pro Football Focus grades for every player.
Falcons starting defense with PFF grades
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LB Christian Harris: 54.8
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EDGE James Pearce Jr.: 56.2
Defensively, the staff traded Ruke Orhorhoro to the Jacksonville Jaguars, buying Maason Smith in a uncommon player-for-player commerce. Since the Falcons did not add any potential Day 1 starters within the draft. Sixth-round decide Anterio Thompson ought to present depth behind Brandon Dorlus this season.
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While rookie Avieon Terrell must be within the combine for Atlanta’s starting nickel job, we expect he’ll start on the surface because the backup for Mike Hughes. However, Billy Bowman’s recovery from his Achilles harm might be an element.
Falcons particular groups with PFF grades
As you may see, the Falcons have two new starters, together with the NFL’s most correct kicker in Nick Folk. Atlanta additionally signed veteran punter Jake Bailey. Meanwhile, lengthy snapper Liam McCullough returns for an additional season. And whereas it is nonetheless very early, we have now two rookies slated in on the kick and punt return positions. Third-round decide Zachariah Branch is our starting punt returner and UDFA huge receiver Vinny Anthony is slated in because the staff’s kick returner.
This article initially appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons projected starting lineup on defense in 2026