3 Players the Falcons Must Avoid in 2026 NFL Draft

Atlanta has limited draft capital and must focus on its biggest roster needs.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:03pm

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The Atlanta Falcons face a challenging 2026 NFL Draft with only five total selections and no first-round pick. In this context, the team must approach the draft with discipline and avoid making 'luxury' picks that do not directly address their most pressing needs on the defensive line and pass rush.

Why it matters

The Falcons have already made notable free agent additions to bolster their defense, but still have critical holes to fill. With limited draft capital, they cannot afford to waste picks on players that do not directly strengthen the core of their roster.

The details

The Falcons' top priorities should be improving their defensive front and pass rush, rather than targeting positions like quarterback, running back, or wide receiver where they already have talent. Players like LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier, Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price, and Alabama WR Germie Bernard, while talented, do not align with Atlanta's most urgent roster needs.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26.

The players

Garrett Nussmeier

A quarterback prospect from LSU who could be tempting for the Falcons, but would not address their more pressing needs.

Jadarian Price

A running back prospect from Notre Dame who would provide depth, but not solve Atlanta's defensive issues.

Germie Bernard

A wide receiver prospect from Alabama who could enhance the Falcons' offense, but is not a priority given their limited draft capital.

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What they’re saying

“The quarterback position always has a certain allure, as discussions in the draft room become philosophical, and many argue that if a talented passer falls in the draft, a wise franchise should at least consider the opportunity.”

— Yago Antunes, Author

“Selecting a second-round running back in this situation would represent poor roster management, so it would be like buying a third refrigerator just because the kitchen looks a bit empty.”

— Yago Antunes, Author

“While selecting a receiver in the early rounds may not be indefensible in a broad sense, within the specific context of the Falcons, it feels like shopping for curtains when the foundation of the house still needs work.”

— Yago Antunes, Author

What’s next

The Falcons will look to address their defensive line and pass rush needs with their limited draft capital, focusing on players who can immediately strengthen the core of their roster.

The takeaway

The Falcons must resist the temptation of 'draft tourism' and stay disciplined in the 2026 NFL Draft, targeting players who directly address their most pressing roster needs on the defensive side of the ball.