Falcons kick off the Kevin Stefanski era by adding defensive difference makers, grab a developmental QB in 2026 NFL mock draft
The latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft kicks of the Kevin Stafanski era with a bang.
The Atlanta Falcons are about to enter into a new era after hiring former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. While Stefanski has a nice resume despite being in a difficult situation in Cleveland, this Falcons team is one that is in a very interesting spot. With a major question at the quarterback position and a small amount of draft capital to work with, this is an organization that will need to get creative this offseason.
When it comes to the 2026 NFL Draft, the Falcons are going to be an interesting case study. With only four selections total right now, the team won’t have many opportunities to add impact talent, but they need to do their best to do so. In the latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft, adding talent on defense was the top priority, and that was mostly accomplished.
Despite the low capital, there’s little question that this Falcon defense got better. Just how much better is where the debate will begin.
Round 2, Pick 48: Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State
“Big Citrus” has the chance to become a fan favorite very early on in his NFL career. At around 6-3 and 325 pounds, Orange is an extremely difficult player to move at the point of attack. The box score will not always tell the full story of the impact that Orange has on the football field. The linebackers running free and fellow defensive linemen getting 1-on-1 opportunities will certainly appreciate Orange, however.
Round 3, Pick 79: Julian Neal, CB, Arkansas
At around 6-2 and 205 pounds, Neal is a really intriguing press-man cornerback with a big frame and impressive physicality. The former Fresno State standout went from a good player with the Bulldogs to an outstanding one in his lone season with the Razorbacks. With his skill set, there is a chance that Neal could also play some at safety and nickel for a defense. That versatility is extremely valuable.
Round 4, Pick 114: Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida
Many people had high expectations for Sapp heading into the 2025 season, but he wasn’t able to live up to it, collecting just 3.5 tackles for loss and one sack. At 6-3 and 273 pounds, Sapp brings a lot of overall power to the table, as well as some very underrated closing speed. There is a lot of development needed, but there are certainly some raw gifts to work with. Sapp should offer a solid floor as a run defender, even if he never reaches his upside as a pass rusher.
Round 7, Pick 231: Athan Kaliakmanis, QB, Rutgers
After struggling a ton as the quarterback for Minnesota previously, Kaliakmanis has shown a ton of improvement during his two seasons with Rutgers. He set career highs in passing yards (3,124), passing touchdowns (20), rushing touchdowns (4), and completion percentage (62.2) in 2025. While Kaliakmanis is a purely developmental quarterback right now, he does offer some fun upside at the position. His arm is very live, making Kaliakmanis a promising signal caller to at least get a long look at in a camp.
Atlanta Falcons News
The Atlanta Falcons jumpstart their organization to relevance by naming Kevin Stefanski their next head coach
The Atlanta Falcons have tabbed former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski as their next head man.
