NFL analyst identifies Falcons’ most promising building block

After years of struggling to generate a competent pass rush, the Atlanta Falcons finally found the right formula under defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich in 2025. The Falcons finished second in the NFL with a franchise-record 57 sacks last season.

This was a massive step up for a defense that finished 31st in the league with just 31 sacks in 2024. So, what changed? There were several factors, including the improvement of second-year defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus, but the team’s rookie duo of Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. was arguably the biggest difference.

Advertisement

Pearce led all rookies with 10.5 sacks, while Walker’s 5.5 sacks were the second-most of anyone in the 2025 NFL Draft class. While Pearce generated most of the headlines, Walker is the more complete player. The former Georgia Bulldog has the versatility to play multiple spots along the front seven.

Bleacher Report listed each team’s “most promising building block” ahead of the 2026 NFL season. Walker was B/R’s choice for the Falcons.

“The Atlanta Falcons have a trio of exciting skill players in Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson,” wrote B/R’s Kristopher Knox. “However, two of them have made the Pro Bowl, while London—who made last year’s list—recently received a contract extension. So, we’ll pivot to the defensive side of the ball and second-year linebacker Jalon Walker. The Georgia product impressed as a rookie, tallying 36 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and nine QB hits.”

The Falcons attempted to play the former off-ball linebacker in more of a true edge role last season, but with Kaden Elliss departing in free agency, Walker is expected to pick up the slack on Ulbrich’s defense.

Advertisement

“While he was largely used as an edge-rusher last season, the Falcons envision him being more of an all-around defender in the mold of former standout Kaden Elliss in Year 2,” added Knox. “Expect Walker to continue growing into a prominent role as one of Atlanta’s top defenders.”

With Pearce expected to be suspended for the start of the season, it will be interesting to see where Walker lines up in Week 1. Ultimately, the former Georgia standout’s versatility will only help Atlanta’s defense in 2026.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: NFL analyst identifies Falcons’ most promising building block