ATLANTA FALCONS
Round 1 (No. 8 overall) — Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington: The Falcons just signed veteran QB Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract in free agency. However, if not for the four season-ending injuries (one to each of his shoulders and two torn ACLs) he suffered while at Indiana University, Penix would likely have been picked even earlier. While at UW, Penix threw for more than 9,500 yards with 67 TDs and 19 INTs. His left arm may be the most electric in this draft. Penix (6-2, 216) was a first-team All-American.
Round 2 (35, from Cardinals) — Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson: He had nine sacks and 16 tackles for loss over the past two years for the Tigers. Orhorhoro could succeed Grady Jarrett in a year while playing behind him and David Onyemata in the interim for a defense that needs to generate more pressure.
Round 3 (74) — Bralen Trice, DE, Washington: He had 18 sacks and 28½ TFLs in three years with the Huskies, production that would be welcome given Atlanta’s perennial deficiency there.
Round 4 (109) — Brandon Dorlus, DT, Oregon: Dorlus, who was named first-team All-Pac-12 in 2023, is a disruptive pass rusher who has the proven versatility to play anywhere along the defensive line.
Round 5 (143) — JD Bertrand, LB, Notre Dame: Bertrand led the Fighting Irish in tackles over the past three seasons and was a Campbell Trophy finalist in college. His instincts, motor, and preparation will offer rotational value.
Round 6 (186, from Vikings through Cardinals) — Jase McClellan, RB, Alabama: Atlanta’s running back room is getting more and with multiple more productive running backs on the roster already, this feels like a reach.
Round 6 (187) — Casey Washington, WR, Illinois: Washington’s a speedy deep threat with ideal athleticism at prototypical size. He needs time to develop compared to other prospects on the board at the position.
Round 6 (197, from Browns) — Zion Logue, DT, Georgia: Logue is one of the taller (6-6) DT prospects in recent history but he lacks the wingspan you’d expect at that height. His power is limited to straight-line explosion.