Atlanta Falcons 7-Round Mock Draft: Big gamble in the first round, and the defensive line gets a makeover

It’s a new era for Atlanta Falcons football. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. showed some good signs last year as a rookie, and the offense looks like it has legitimate upside. The defense, on the other hand, is a unit that needs to retool and get a whole lot better. The 2025 NFL Draft class presents […]

Ryan Roberts National College Football Writer
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Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end Jack Sawyer (33) and defensive tackle Ty Hamilton (58) celebrate a tackle by defensive tackle Tyleik Williams (91) during the first half of the NCAA football game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

It’s a new era for Atlanta Falcons football. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. showed some good signs last year as a rookie, and the offense looks like it has legitimate upside. The defense, on the other hand, is a unit that needs to retool and get a whole lot better.

The 2025 NFL Draft class presents a huge opportunity for the Falcons to take this roster to the next level. Defense should be the priority early on, but there are a lot of options that should be available. In the most recent seven-round mock draft, Atlanta got much more talented.

Round 1, Pick 15: Shemar Stewart, EDGE Texas A&M

The Falcons would probably like a pass rusher that could make a more immediate impact, but there is no questioning the talent of Stewart. If developed properly, the former Aggie standout has a chance to be special. Stewart has the size and athleticism combination to make plays from multiple alignments.

Round 2, Pick 46: Tyleik Williams, DT Ohio State

Stewart is the ceiling, and Williams brings the floor. He is one of the most dominant run defenders in the 2025 class, and is almost immovable at the point of attack. Williams should become an instant standout on early downs quickly in his NFL career.

Round 4, Pick 118: Quincy Riley, CB Louisville

While Riley isn't the biggest cornerback of all time, he is fast and extremely explosive. He dealt with an injury in 2024 that limited him compared to the previous season. When healthy, Riley is a very talked cover man with upside to boot.

Round 7, Pick 218: Francisco Mauigoa, LB Miami

Mauigoa showed a ton of promise in 2023. The 2024 season was not nearly as good. Mauigoa does, however, have the size and explosiveness to compete on special teams as he develops.

Round 7, Pick 242: Bru McCoy, WR Tennessee

Injuries completely derailed McCoy’s career, but he still does bring a strong floor to the table. McCoy is one of the better route runners in the class and has a bigger frame. There is potential as a role player.