The 2026 NFL Draft is upon us, and the Atlanta Falcons are poised to make some strategic moves. With three picks remaining in the draft, the team has the opportunity to address key positions and strengthen their roster. While the first two picks of cornerback Avieon Terrell and wide receiver Zachariah Branch were well-received, the real intrigue lies in the potential targets on Day 3.
Personally, I think the Falcons should focus on bolstering their defense, particularly the linebacker position. With veterans Christian Harris and Channing Tindall already on board, the team could use a true replacement for Kaden Elliss. One player who stands out is LB Kaleb Elarms-Orr from TCU. His explosiveness and competitive toughness make him a strong contender, despite needing to improve his eye discipline and coverage skills. Elarms-Orr's athleticism and football character make him a valuable asset, especially as a special-teamer with the potential to become more.
Another position that demands attention is the edge player. Adding an edge player with disruptive upside and positional versatility is always a smart move. EDGE LT Overton from Alabama is an intriguing prospect. While he may not be the sum of his parts yet, his ability to fit different schemes and alignments makes him a promising Day 3 pick. Overton's potential is enticing, and his young age only adds to his draft projection.
The offensive line is another area that could benefit from some depth. OG Logan Taylor from Boston College is a versatile player who has experience at multiple positions. At 6-foot-6 and 314 pounds, Taylor has the size and length for the NFL. Although he may not be an elite athlete, his mentality and old-school playing style could make him a solid addition under Bill Callahan.
In the sixth and seventh rounds, the Falcons could look to strengthen their special teams units. S Bishop Fitzgerald from Southern California is an aggressive and instinctive player with on-ball production. He may not have ideal speed, but his ability to contribute on special teams and improve depth makes him a valuable pick. Similarly, OL J.C. Davis from Illinois has the potential to offer quality depth at either tackle or guard, with his strong blocking skills and smooth movements.
One detail that I find especially interesting is the potential for the Falcons to address their run defense. DT David Gusta from Kentucky stands out as a 6-foot-2, 308-pound nose tackle with quickness and body control. His former wrestling background adds to his impressive size and physicality. Gusta's ability to disrupt and his quickness make him a strong candidate for the NFL rotation.
In conclusion, the Atlanta Falcons have the opportunity to make some smart picks on Day 3. By focusing on key positions and addressing their needs, the team can strengthen their roster and improve their chances for success. From my perspective, the Falcons should prioritize defense, particularly the linebacker and edge player positions, while also adding depth to their offensive line and special teams units. The 2026 NFL Draft is an exciting time for the Falcons, and with the right picks, they can build a competitive team for years to come.
