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Following the 2025 NFL draft, the Atlanta Falcons offense will look nearly identical to last year's unit. However, the defense has undergone some major changes at key positions of need. The team added three potential long-term starters in Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr. and Xavier Watts.
All three rookies should play key roles this season, along with fourth-round pick Billy Bowman, but which players will start for the team in Week 1? Check out our latest Falcons post-draft starting lineup projections below.
The Falcons didn't make any surprise quarterback picks in this year's draft and Michael Penix Jr. will return as the team's QB1. Penix showed a good mix of poise and aggression during his rookie season. With a full offseason to prepare as the starter, the former top-10 pick could be in for a monster year.
Robinson is about as good as it gets at the running back position. The former Texas star made the Pro Bowl after an incredible 2024 campaign in Atlanta. Robinson is just as big of a threat in the passing game as he is in the running game, and he finished third in the NFL with 1,456 yards on the ground last season.
London recorded his first 1,000-yard season in 2024. Entering his fourth year, expect the former USC star to put up monster numbers with Penix throwing him the ball. The physical nature of London's game pairs well with Penix's aggressiveness, which was on display in the season finale.
Mooney nearly recorded his second 1,000-yard season in 2024 and his future is bright in Zac Robinson's offense. His ability to get separation helps open things up for London and the rest of the team's weapons. He should only be better during his second season in Atlanta.
McCloud had his ups and downs last season but still produced at a career level. The former 49ers wideout is the clear-cut No. 3 receiver entering the 2025 season. Agnew isn't a threat to take McCloud's spot at receiver, but he gives the team more depth in the slot.
The Falcons did not draft a tight end, so Pitts appears to be safe for 2025. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, the former top-five pick has a chance to re-establish himself before hitting free agency. Perhaps more consistent QB play will help Pitts regain his rookie form.
Woerner is a solid blocker and a valuable piece to Atlanta's running game. You won't hear his name called much as a receiver, but there's more to playing tight end than catching passes.
Matthews signed a two-year extension that keeps him in Atlanta through the 2028 season. The veteran left tackle has been a consistent anchor to the offensive line for most of his NFL career. That won't change as long as he's in Atlanta.
While Bergeron tends to be the forgotten man up front, he's developed into a quality left guard over his first two NFL seasons. He's a monster in the running game and is improving as a pass protector.
The Falcons did not add anyone to compete with Neuzil in the draft so it's his job to lose at center. The former undrafted free agent has developed nicely as an interior depth player and will finally get the chance to prove himself in a full time starting role.
Lindstrom is arguably the best right guard in the NFL and Atlanta's best offensive lineman. He made the Pro Bowl again last season and doesn't appear to be slowing down. It doesn't get much better than Lindstrom in the running game.
McGary, a former first-round pick, overcame some early career struggles to develop into a quality starter. He's dominant in the running game and while he still occasionally struggles in pass protection, McGary is a valuable part of the offensive line.
The Falcons didn't draft any interior defensive linemen in the draft, so I think a platoon of Morgan Fox, Ta'Quon Graham and Kentavius Street will help replace Grady Jarrett in 2025. Fox has starting experience, though, so I expect him to lead a heavy defensive line rotation as the Week 1 starter.
The veteran defensive lineman is a lock to start after the team did little in the 2025 NFL draft to upgrade the position group. Onyemata is still a quality interior defensive lineman but he'll have to step up this season to help make up for the losses of Jarrett and Eddie Goldman.
The 2024 second-round pick had an underwhelming rookie season but he didn't get much of a chance to prove himself. Orhorhoro could play a key role in 2025, likely as a starter in Jeff Ulbrich's defense. When he did get on the field last season, there was a lot to like.
I swapped out Arnold Ebiketie for first-round pick James Pearce Jr. here based on what the team gave up for the Volunteers edge rusher. Pearce is too talented to keep off the field. However, Ebiketie should still have a big role. With such a young team up front, I expect the team to rotate quite a bit as the young players get their feet wet.
Elliss' job is safe after the draft and he is set to return as the team's starting inside linebacker in 2025. The former New Orleans Saint has really come into his own over the last two seasons in Atlanta and should continue to ascend next year with better surrounding talent.
The battle between Troy Andersen and Divine Deablo has been settled with the selection of Walker in Round 1. I think the team ultimately views the Georgia standout as an edge rusher, but he'll probably line up all over this season due to his experience as both an off-ball linebacker and on the line of scrimmage.
Floyd isn't the team's long-term answer, but he's probably a lock to start this season. The veteran signed with Atlanta in free agency and he's recorded at least 8.5 sacks in the last five NFL seasons for three different teams. Floyd was brought in to bring down opposing quarterbacks, something he clearly does well.
Terrell had a nice season in 2024 and should continue to be a staple of the Falcons secondary again in 2025. The former first-round pick doesn't get a ton of interceptions, but he's someone who can neutralize the opponent's No. 1 wide receiver most weeks. His extension is looking more affordable as the cornerback market continues to grow.
Hughes played well for much of the season and was rewarded with a three-year, $18 million contract to remain in Atlanta. He's not exactly an elite No. 2 cornerback, but he's an affordable option who can hold his own. That's money well spent.
The Falcons drafted Billy Bowman and will have him work at the nickel spot. However, veteran Dee Alford is still in line to start. The former undrafted free agent has appeared in 48 games over the last three seasons with 16 starts. We also expect Clark Phillips to play an expanded role this season.
Jessie Bates is one of the best playmaking safeties in the NFL and should continue to be next season now that Atlanta has added Fuller. He played well despite a lack of pressure from Atlanta's front seven last season. Fuller seems like a better fit next to Bates, which bodes well for the secondary next season.
This one was tough. I think third-round pick Xavier Watts is clearly in the team's long-term plans at safety, but the Falcons signed Fuller as a replacement for Justin Simmons in free agency. Considering Fuller's familiarity with head coach Raheem Morris from their time together in Los Angeles, we're penciling him in as the other starter next to Jessie Bates for Week 1. Watts should still see the field plenty this season.
Agnew is a former All-Pro return specialist, who's handled kick and punt return duties for much of his career. He can also contribute as a receiver, but will primarily be featured on special teams. Not only does he fill a need with Avery Williams signing with the Eagles, but Agnew has experience playing for Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams in Detroit.
Koo had an up-and-down season in 2024 as he fought through an injury. Considering the veteran kicker has been remarkably consistent throughout his time in Atlanta, it's a safe bet that he will bounce back in 2025. However, the team did sign Lenny Krieg to add some competition in training camp.
Pinion is one of the more underrated punters in the NFL. If you don't hear his name, that just means he's doing his job.
McCullough was the first player Atlanta re-signed in free agency. The veteran quietly does his job, which is all you can ask for out of any long snapper.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons post-draft starting lineup projections for 2025 NFL season
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All three rookies should play key roles this season, along with fourth-round pick Billy Bowman, but which players will start for the team in Week 1? Check out our latest Falcons post-draft starting lineup projections below.
QB: Michael Penix Jr.
The Falcons didn't make any surprise quarterback picks in this year's draft and Michael Penix Jr. will return as the team's QB1. Penix showed a good mix of poise and aggression during his rookie season. With a full offseason to prepare as the starter, the former top-10 pick could be in for a monster year.
RB: Bijan Robinson
Robinson is about as good as it gets at the running back position. The former Texas star made the Pro Bowl after an incredible 2024 campaign in Atlanta. Robinson is just as big of a threat in the passing game as he is in the running game, and he finished third in the NFL with 1,456 yards on the ground last season.
WR: Drake London
London recorded his first 1,000-yard season in 2024. Entering his fourth year, expect the former USC star to put up monster numbers with Penix throwing him the ball. The physical nature of London's game pairs well with Penix's aggressiveness, which was on display in the season finale.
WR: Darnell Mooney
Mooney nearly recorded his second 1,000-yard season in 2024 and his future is bright in Zac Robinson's offense. His ability to get separation helps open things up for London and the rest of the team's weapons. He should only be better during his second season in Atlanta.
WR: Ray-Ray McCloud
McCloud had his ups and downs last season but still produced at a career level. The former 49ers wideout is the clear-cut No. 3 receiver entering the 2025 season. Agnew isn't a threat to take McCloud's spot at receiver, but he gives the team more depth in the slot.
TE: Kyle Pitts
The Falcons did not draft a tight end, so Pitts appears to be safe for 2025. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, the former top-five pick has a chance to re-establish himself before hitting free agency. Perhaps more consistent QB play will help Pitts regain his rookie form.
TE: Charlie Woerner
Woerner is a solid blocker and a valuable piece to Atlanta's running game. You won't hear his name called much as a receiver, but there's more to playing tight end than catching passes.
LT: Jake Matthews
Matthews signed a two-year extension that keeps him in Atlanta through the 2028 season. The veteran left tackle has been a consistent anchor to the offensive line for most of his NFL career. That won't change as long as he's in Atlanta.
LG: Matthew Bergeron
While Bergeron tends to be the forgotten man up front, he's developed into a quality left guard over his first two NFL seasons. He's a monster in the running game and is improving as a pass protector.
C: Ryan Neuzil* (tendered)
The Falcons did not add anyone to compete with Neuzil in the draft so it's his job to lose at center. The former undrafted free agent has developed nicely as an interior depth player and will finally get the chance to prove himself in a full time starting role.
RG: Chris Lindstrom
Lindstrom is arguably the best right guard in the NFL and Atlanta's best offensive lineman. He made the Pro Bowl again last season and doesn't appear to be slowing down. It doesn't get much better than Lindstrom in the running game.
RT: Kaleb McGary
McGary, a former first-round pick, overcame some early career struggles to develop into a quality starter. He's dominant in the running game and while he still occasionally struggles in pass protection, McGary is a valuable part of the offensive line.
DL: Morgan Fox
The Falcons didn't draft any interior defensive linemen in the draft, so I think a platoon of Morgan Fox, Ta'Quon Graham and Kentavius Street will help replace Grady Jarrett in 2025. Fox has starting experience, though, so I expect him to lead a heavy defensive line rotation as the Week 1 starter.
DL: David Onyemata
The veteran defensive lineman is a lock to start after the team did little in the 2025 NFL draft to upgrade the position group. Onyemata is still a quality interior defensive lineman but he'll have to step up this season to help make up for the losses of Jarrett and Eddie Goldman.
DL: Ruke Orhorhoro
The 2024 second-round pick had an underwhelming rookie season but he didn't get much of a chance to prove himself. Orhorhoro could play a key role in 2025, likely as a starter in Jeff Ulbrich's defense. When he did get on the field last season, there was a lot to like.
OLB: James Pearce Jr. (rookie)
I swapped out Arnold Ebiketie for first-round pick James Pearce Jr. here based on what the team gave up for the Volunteers edge rusher. Pearce is too talented to keep off the field. However, Ebiketie should still have a big role. With such a young team up front, I expect the team to rotate quite a bit as the young players get their feet wet.
ILB: Kaden Elliss
Elliss' job is safe after the draft and he is set to return as the team's starting inside linebacker in 2025. The former New Orleans Saint has really come into his own over the last two seasons in Atlanta and should continue to ascend next year with better surrounding talent.
LB: Jalon Walker (rookie)
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The battle between Troy Andersen and Divine Deablo has been settled with the selection of Walker in Round 1. I think the team ultimately views the Georgia standout as an edge rusher, but he'll probably line up all over this season due to his experience as both an off-ball linebacker and on the line of scrimmage.
OLB: Leonard Floyd
Floyd isn't the team's long-term answer, but he's probably a lock to start this season. The veteran signed with Atlanta in free agency and he's recorded at least 8.5 sacks in the last five NFL seasons for three different teams. Floyd was brought in to bring down opposing quarterbacks, something he clearly does well.
CB: A.J. Terrell
Terrell had a nice season in 2024 and should continue to be a staple of the Falcons secondary again in 2025. The former first-round pick doesn't get a ton of interceptions, but he's someone who can neutralize the opponent's No. 1 wide receiver most weeks. His extension is looking more affordable as the cornerback market continues to grow.
CB: Mike Hughes
Hughes played well for much of the season and was rewarded with a three-year, $18 million contract to remain in Atlanta. He's not exactly an elite No. 2 cornerback, but he's an affordable option who can hold his own. That's money well spent.
Nickel CB: Dee Alford
The Falcons drafted Billy Bowman and will have him work at the nickel spot. However, veteran Dee Alford is still in line to start. The former undrafted free agent has appeared in 48 games over the last three seasons with 16 starts. We also expect Clark Phillips to play an expanded role this season.
FS: Jessie Bates III
Jessie Bates is one of the best playmaking safeties in the NFL and should continue to be next season now that Atlanta has added Fuller. He played well despite a lack of pressure from Atlanta's front seven last season. Fuller seems like a better fit next to Bates, which bodes well for the secondary next season.
SS: Jordan Fuller
This one was tough. I think third-round pick Xavier Watts is clearly in the team's long-term plans at safety, but the Falcons signed Fuller as a replacement for Justin Simmons in free agency. Considering Fuller's familiarity with head coach Raheem Morris from their time together in Los Angeles, we're penciling him in as the other starter next to Jessie Bates for Week 1. Watts should still see the field plenty this season.
KR/PR: Jamal Agnew
Agnew is a former All-Pro return specialist, who's handled kick and punt return duties for much of his career. He can also contribute as a receiver, but will primarily be featured on special teams. Not only does he fill a need with Avery Williams signing with the Eagles, but Agnew has experience playing for Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams in Detroit.
K: Younghoe Koo
Koo had an up-and-down season in 2024 as he fought through an injury. Considering the veteran kicker has been remarkably consistent throughout his time in Atlanta, it's a safe bet that he will bounce back in 2025. However, the team did sign Lenny Krieg to add some competition in training camp.
P: Bradley Pinion
Pinion is one of the more underrated punters in the NFL. If you don't hear his name, that just means he's doing his job.
LS: Liam McCullough
McCullough was the first player Atlanta re-signed in free agency. The veteran quietly does his job, which is all you can ask for out of any long snapper.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons post-draft starting lineup projections for 2025 NFL season
Continue reading...
