Grading The Falcons Picks

26th Pick: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

This was a good pick, the only thing that hurts this grade is the fact that the Falcons gave up a valuable pick in 2026 to trade up here. Trading a first round pick for next year's draft to jump into a late first round is not usual.

The pick itself is very good, as the Falcons utilized both first round picks to select defensive linemen and have now settled the defensive line for the season.

Grade: C+

96th pick: Safety Xavier Watts, Notre Dame

A steal in the 3rd round, as Watts was a very good player for the Fighting Irish. 13 interceptions in his last two seasons with one pick six and being a two-time all-American. This pick is very good for the Falcons as they have brought in a potential starter in the secondary to complement Jesse Bates.

Grade: A

118th pick: Safety Billy Bowman Jr., Oklahoma

This pick was very big in terms of depth, as they now have good secondary depth. Bowman was impressive in the combine running a 4.42 40-yard dash and also had 17 bench press reps. It is not the flashiest pick but one that the Falcons needed to make in order to make sure their secondary could function next season.

Grade: B+

218th pick: Offensive Tackle Jack Nelson, Wisconsin

As the offensive line ages with players like Jake Matthews getting older and not playing like a pro bowler, this pick was a good one to make after the Falcons went fully defense for the first four. This pick is not one that will jump out, but they now have good depth in case of injuries or bad play.

Grade: B

The Falcons had a very good draft and overall, they will get a B+ for this draft. The grade would be much higher if they gave up less for the Pearce pick.