Falcons Urged to Make Big Moves in NFL Draft

Atlanta has intriguing QB options, but may need more receiving weapons.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:13pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a football game in progress, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the Falcons' team colors of red, black, and white.The Falcons' draft strategy will be crucial in determining the team's offensive identity and supporting whichever quarterback emerges as the starter.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Falcons face an interesting quarterback situation heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, with both Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. vying for the starting role. While the team has some talented offensive pieces like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson, analysts believe the Falcons could benefit from adding more reliable receiving options to support whichever QB wins the job.

Why it matters

The Falcons' quarterback competition and potential draft needs will be a major storyline to watch this offseason, as the team looks to build a contending roster around its signal-caller of the future. Improving the receiving corps could be key to unlocking the full potential of Atlanta's offense.

The details

NFL.com's Gennaro Filice believes the Falcons should target pass catchers like Germie Bernard, Zachariah Branch, Antonio Williams, and Malachi Fields on Day 2 of the draft to give their starting QB more reliable targets beyond Drake London. The team's decision on who will be the starting quarterback - Tua Tagovailoa or Michael Penix Jr. - will also be a major factor, as Penix recovers from a knee injury and Tua gets the early reps.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April.

The players

Tua Tagovailoa

Quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons who is competing for the starting job.

Michael Penix Jr.

Quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons who is recovering from a knee injury and competing for the starting job.

Drake London

Wide receiver for the Atlanta Falcons.

Kyle Pitts

Tight end for the Atlanta Falcons.

Bijan Robinson

Running back for the Atlanta Falcons.

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What they’re saying

“Whether it's Michael Penix Jr. or Tua Tagovailoa, whoever starts next season under center for the Falcons needs a reliable receiver beyond Drake London. Bargain signings Jahan Dotson and Olamide Zaccheaus don't fit the bill.”

— Gennaro Filice, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Falcons will continue to evaluate their quarterback options and assess their draft needs in the coming months, with the 2026 NFL Draft set to take place in late April.

The takeaway

The Falcons face an intriguing offseason as they look to solidify their quarterback position and surround their signal-caller with more playmaking talent. Improving the receiving corps could be a key priority for the team in the draft, as they aim to build a contending roster for the 2026 season.