CBS Sports' Chris Trappaso had the Atlanta Falcons passing on a quarterback at No. 8 overall in his 2024 NFL Re-Draft.

Fortunately for Atlanta, Penix showed enough promise to overshadow the shortcomings of the team’s 2024 class. NFL.com released its 2024 draft grades for all 32 teams and the Falcons landed in the bottom third of the league with a “C” grade:

The Falcons were on the verge of making the playoffs last season. What do they need to get them over the hump?

It’s been five years since the Falcons last drafted a defensive player in the first round but that’s likely to change in 2025. With needs at cornerback, linebacker, safety and possibly defensive tackle, most of the top defensive prospects should be on the table for general manager Terry Fontenot.

Atlanta Falcons will enter the 2025 NFL Draft looking for top defensive talent. Who are the ideal fits for the team. NFL Mocks explores the best fits with the first two selections in the NFL draft.