TRADE FRENZY: Could Atlanta Falcons TRADE AWAY Every Pick in BOLD Mock Draft?
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In this episode of the Locked On Falcons podcast, host Aaron Freeman breaks down a bold mock draft scenario where the Atlanta Falcons trade away all of their original draft picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, ultimately acquiring eight picks instead of their original five. The mock, created by The Athletic’s Josh Kendall, features multiple tradebacks—especially on Day 2—where the Falcons gain additional fourth and fifth-round picks, including two in 2027. Freeman evaluates each selection, praising the strategic depth of the mock, particularly the acquisition of versatile defensive back Jalen Stooks, speed-focused wide receivers Brennan Thompson and Chris Brazel, and defensive linemen Chris McClellan and LT Overton. He also discusses the controversial decision to draft quarterback Drew Aller in Round 5, weighing the roster implications and long-term development potential. While acknowledging the Falcons’ lack of picks at linebacker and tight end in the mock, Freeman concludes that this aggressive trading strategy aligns with general manager Ian Cunningham’s likely philosophy—maximizing draft capital and future flexibility. The episode ends with a preview of an upcoming interview with Jarvis Davis and a reminder to join the Everydayer Club for ad-free content and exclusive perks.
The Falcons could trade all original picks to increase their total draft count from 5 to 8 in 2026.
Trading back multiple times allows the Falcons to accumulate additional picks, including future 2027 selections.
Jalen Stooks is a versatile defensive back with safety potential, offering a strong upgrade over Billy Bowman.
Brennan Thompson and Chris Brazel provide elite speed and deep-threat capability, enhancing the Falcons' aerial attack.
Drafting Drew Aller at pick 171 is a high-risk, high-reward move that may signal uncertainty about Michael Penix’s readiness.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome & Club Announcement
Aaron Freeman welcomes listeners to the Locked On Falcons podcast and promotes the Everydayer Club, highlighting ad-free episodes, a members-only Discord, and exclusive merch.
Mock Draft Overview & Draft Capital Strategy
“I do think this was some smart trading on Josh's part as a sort of stand-in for Ian Cunningham. And I do think ultimately this is an Ian approved mock draft.”
Day 2 Trades & Jalen Stooks Selection
“He's a player that I've seen a lot of recent buzz on, particularly on Twitter where people are talking about he's a guy that is going to get picked a lot higher than maybe he's currently projected to go.”
Brennan Thompson & Chris Brazel: Speed at Wide Receiver
“You just kind of imagine an offense where you kind of have Thompson on the outside, Brazo on the outside, Drake London working in the slot on the inside. And you're just like, let's just run go balls, baby.”
Defensive Line & Draft Positioning
The Falcons select Chris McClellan and LT Overton, with Freeman discussing McClellan’s potential as a nose tackle and Overton’s tweener profile. He questions the need for another edge rusher given existing depth.
“There's a lot of roster gymnastics that don't necessarily know the Falcons. It's worthwhile for the Falcons to go through to draft a quarterback, especially for a guy that probably, you know, in Aller's case, at best probably has like a 25% chance of becoming a starter.”
“I do think this was some smart trading on Josh's part as a sort of stand-in for Ian Cunningham. And I do think ultimately this is an Ian approved mock draft.”
“I do think if Ian can get that number of this year's pick to eight and then also add to the pot in 2027 as well, you know, get that number from eight to nine or to possibly 10. I think he absolutely would call that a win in his book.”
Host
Guest
Aaron Freeman
person
2026 NFL Draft
other
Josh Kendall
person
Ian Cunningham
person
Jalen Stooks
person
Brennan Thompson
person
FanDuel
brand
Drew Aller
person
Chris Brazel
person
Michael Penix
person
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