DRAFT BOARD: Atlanta Falcons Weigh James Pearce Uncertainty, TARGET Edge Early in the Draft
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In this episode of Locked On Falcons, hosts Aaron Freeman and Ross Jackson dive into the Atlanta Falcons' 2026 NFL Draft strategy, focusing on the team's potential moves at pick 48. With uncertainty surrounding James Pierce’s future and the Falcons’ need to bolster their front seven, guest Josh Kendall of The Athletic breaks down a 45-player draft board based on Dane Brugler’s The Beast. Kendall highlights edge rushers like Gaby Jackis and Keron Crawford as strong fits, suggesting a pick here could signal concern over Pierce’s availability. The conversation also explores the Falcons’ wide receiver depth, with Jeremy Bernard and Ted Hurst emerging as top targets for a needed number two option. While the team may delay addressing receivers, Kendall stresses it’s imperative to add a reliable playmaker. The discussion touches on tight end, offensive line, and even the possibility of a quarterback pick—though deemed unlikely at 48. The episode ends with reflections on fan fatigue after the loss of a first-round pick and a preview of upcoming mock draft analysis.
James Pierce’s future with the Falcons is highly uncertain, possibly missing the first 8 games or playing no more.
The Falcons may prioritize the front seven at pick 48, with Gaby Jackis and Keron Crawford as top edge rusher options.
A number two wide receiver is a critical need; Jeremy Bernard and Ted Hurst are top targets for a high-floor, high-impact addition.
Taking a tight end at 48 could signal skepticism about Kyle Pitts’ long-term role, not a decision to move on from him.
While a quarterback pick at 48 is unlikely, the Falcons should remain open to value in later rounds if a promising prospect slides.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
Welcome & Intro to the Draft Discussion
Hosts Ross Jackson and Aaron Freeman welcome listeners to Locked On Falcons, introduce the Everydayer Club, and set the stage for a deep dive into the 2026 draft board and Falcons' strategic priorities.
James Pierce’s Future & Front Seven Priority
“I'm under the impression that there is virtually zero chance James Pierce Jr. will play for the Atlanta Falcons for the first six and, I believe, eight games of the 2026 season.”
Edge Rusher Options & Gaby Jackis as Top Target
“He's a guy that is in kind of my bucket because I think you have, and we'll see what happens with James Pierce, but you have a lot of speed at that position right now. And getting a little bit more power in that room, I think will be a nice complimentary piece.”
Wide Receiver Strategy & Need for a Number Two
“I think it's imperative that they get a number two. If Jahan Dodson flourishes and we see guys do that, we see guys who have a slow three or four years. And then they sort of round into what everybody thought they were going to be. But you can't count on that.”
Tight End, Offensive Line, and Quarterback Possibilities
Kendall weighs in on the tight end and offensive line needs, suggesting a tight end pick at 48 could signal doubt about Kyle Pitts’ future. He also discusses the low likelihood of a quarterback pick at 48, though he leaves the door open for later-round value.
“I'm under the impression that there is virtually zero chance James Pierce Jr. will play for the Atlanta Falcons for the first six and, I believe, eight games of the 2026 season.”
“I think it's imperative that they get a number two. If Jahan Dodson flourishes and we see guys do that, we see guys who have a slow three or four years. And then they sort of round into what everybody thought they were going to be. But you can't count on that.”
“If they take a tight end at 48, a guy like Stowers or a Claire at 48, I'm going to think they're skeptical.”
Hosts
Guest
Josh Kendall
person
James Pierce
person
Aaron Freeman
person
Ross Jackson
person
Jeremy Bernard
person
Dane Brugler
person
Kyle Pitts
person
Gaby Jackis
person
The Athletic
organization
Ted Hurst
person
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