The Atlanta Falcons' recent NFL Draft, especially their picks on Day 2 and 3, has sparked considerable discussion among football pundits. While some observers questioned the rationale behind certain selections, others, notably ESPN analyst Matt Miller, offered enthusiastic endorsements for specific draftees. This article explores the Falcons' strategic draft decisions, highlighting the potential of key players and their expected contributions to the team's roster, particularly focusing on how these later-round picks could surprise expectations and fill crucial roles.
On the second day of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Falcons earned favorable reviews for their choices, bringing in cornerback Avieon Terrell from Clemson and wide receiver Zachariah Branch from Georgia. However, the team's strategy shifted on Day 3, with selections that were considered less conventional by some. These included Oklahoma linebacker Kendal Daniels in the fourth round, followed by Washington defensive lineman Anterior Thompson and LSU linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. in the sixth. The Falcons concluded their draft class by adding Ohio State offensive lineman Ethan Onianwa in the seventh round.
The decision to draft two defensive backs who are projected to transition into linebacker roles drew some criticism, leading several analysts to downgrade the Falcons' overall draft performance. Despite this, Matt Miller from ESPN stood out with his positive assessment, particularly praising the team's picks on both Day 2 and Day 3. Miller included two Falcons players in his 'top 100 picks' list from the 2026 NFL Draft, emphasizing their potential despite their draft positions.
Among Miller's highly-rated picks was sixth-round selection Harold Perkins Jr., who secured the 87th spot on his list. Miller acknowledged Perkins' raw talent, noting his flashes of brilliance during his time at LSU, even if he never fully settled into a fixed position. Perkins' versatility, having played as a pass rusher, linebacker, and even slot defender, was highlighted. Miller expressed optimism that under Defensive Coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, Perkins would find a stable role as an off-ball linebacker, allowing his speed to be fully utilized. Miller projected Perkins' potential to reach the level of a player like Azeez Al-Shaair, indicating a high ceiling for the young linebacker.
The Falcons were actively seeking a versatile linebacker to fill the void left by veteran Kaden Elliss, who departed for the New Orleans Saints in free agency. With the additions of Daniels and Perkins, the team now possesses two promising candidates. While both are likely to begin their careers on special teams, they are expected to have ample opportunities to compete for defensive roles, demonstrating the potential value of these Day 3 selections. Matt Miller also showed significant appreciation for cornerback Avieon Terrell, ranking him as the 16th best pick in the entire draft, praising the pick for both his athletic ability and personal story, especially considering a pre-draft hamstring injury that might have caused a late slide in his draft stock.
The true impact of these draft selections will only become clear with time. However, given that the Falcons did not hold a first-round pick, the team's strategic approach to finding value in later rounds is noteworthy. The emphasis on versatile players like Perkins and Terrell, who possess high ceilings and the potential to grow into significant contributors, reflects a forward-thinking draft strategy designed to bolster the team's roster effectively.
