During the 2024 NFL draft, the Atlanta Falcons made headlines by selecting Jalon Walker at No. 15 and trading up to acquire James Pearce Jr. at No. 26. This move reflected their urgency to strengthen their pass rush, having given up significant future assets including their 2026 first-round pick in the process. The aggressive strategy displayed by General Manager Terry Fontenot illustrates the team's commitment to improving their defensive line and capitalizing on top collegiate talent from the SEC.
All of a sudden, the pass-rush-starved Falcons had drafted two of the SEC's best players at getting to the quarterback.
Atlanta had to send its first-round pick in 2026 to the Rams, plus a second-rounder and seventh-rounder in this draft, to move up to grab Pearce.
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