Atlanta Falcons Make Unrealistic Decision in 2025 Mock Draft

ESPN’s latest mock draft shows the Atlanta Falcons making an unrealistic decision. Atlanta is projected to have the 22nd pick and select Ohio State edge rusher JT Tuimoloau. The pick is clearly a fit and was highlighted by looking at Atlanta’s poor rushing numbers.

Atlanta was fully aware of what was happening heading into this offseason and opted to let Bud Dupree and Calais Campbell walk without viable replacements. They knew this before the 2024 NFL Draft and opted to spend the 8th overall pick on a bench player and also ignore the position early on Day 2.

Atlanta may have been a stretch to spend a first-round pick on an edge rusher. That’s after watching the team select Kyle Pitts, Drake London, Bijan Robinson and Michael Penix Jr. over the last four seasons. Each year, the edge rusher position was either first or second on the priority list.

Despite the need, Atlanta is ignoring the position in favor of adding a new weapon or a more interesting story. Why would that approach suddenly change in the 2025 offseason? Counting on the Falcons to make the obvious decision is a mistake at best.

Their recent history shows that until there is a change in direction or major consequences, the approach to the position is unlikely to change. Atlanta’s desperation to add a pass rusher is not a new story and has followed the franchise for much of the last decade.

Matt Ryan-era defenses were often characterized by poor defensive units and an inability to consistently apply pressure. Since Ryan was forced out, the team has failed to find a player who can rush. Their only significant addition this offseason was rookie Bralen Trice.

And that’s despite adding Kirk Cousins ​​and trying to make the playoffs. All of this makes selecting an edge rusher in the first round next year unlikely. JT would be a great pick for Atlanta, but it doesn’t seem to fit the brand of an organization that continues to ignore the position.