Falcons Land Bruising Penn State RB in New NFL.com Mock Draft

Atlanta finds perfect Tyler Allgeier replacement in latest mock draft

Mar. 23, 2026 at 10:05am

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In a new four-round mock draft from NFL.com writer Chad Reuter, the Atlanta Falcons are projected to select three Big Ten players, including Penn State running back Kaytron Allen as a replacement for the departed Tyler Allgeier.

Why it matters

The Falcons have only five total picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, so they need to make the most of their limited draft capital. Finding a physical, downhill runner like Allen to complement star back Bijan Robinson will be crucial for Atlanta's offense next season.

The details

In Round 2, the Falcons are projected to take Ohio State defensive lineman Kayden McDonald, a dominant run defender who would give the team a true nose tackle. In Round 3, they're expected to select Allen, who rushed for 1,303 yards and 15 touchdowns last season for Penn State. To close out the mock draft, Atlanta is slated to pick Michigan EDGE Jaishawn Barham in the fourth round.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off on April 23 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The players

Kayden McDonald

An Ohio State defensive lineman who is a dominant run defender and would give the Falcons a true nose tackle at 6-foot-3, 326 pounds.

Kaytron Allen

A Penn State running back who rushed for 1,303 yards and 15 touchdowns last season, averaging 6.2 yards per attempt. He is a powerful runner who could replace the departed Tyler Allgeier.

Jaishawn Barham

A Michigan EDGE defender who is stout against the run, though he has some work to do in the pass-rushing department.

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The takeaway

With limited draft capital, the Falcons need to make the most of their picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Finding a physical, downhill runner like Kaytron Allen to complement star back Bijan Robinson will be crucial for Atlanta's offense next season.