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Jun 8, 2026 1:50 AM
The Falcons have a real chance to surprise the NFL in 2026. With Drake London extended, a talented defense returning, and Jeff Ulbrich expecting a breakout from Jalon Walker, Atlanta's playoff hopes may come down to one question: getting the quarterback decision right.
The Atlanta Falcons have a prime opportunity to surprise the entire league in 2026.
It would be fair to think that a franchise that hasn't made the postseason since 2017 would have a hard time breaking the drought with a regime change in both the coaching staff and front office, but plenty of things are trending in that direction.
After last week's big news of signing star wide receiver Drake London to a massive contract extension, the offense seems to be in a good spot heading into the season, as long as they make the right decision regarding their quarterback battle between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr.
If the offense can meet its expectations, it should be in great shape to make the postseason and potentially win the NFC South title, mainly because the defense should take a step forward in year two under Jeff Ulbrich.
The Falcons, who already had an impressive defense in 2025, could take another step forward under Ulbrich in year two. Last year, they finished second in the league with 57 total sacks and were one of the top teams in the NFL against the run. The team allowed 326 total yards per game, finishing in the middle of the pack, showing there's still room for improvement, something Ulbrich will be itching to find.
One player that Ulbrich believes is poised to take a big step forward is Edge rusher Jalon Walker. In an interview earlier this offseason, the Falcons defensive coordinator expressed his excitement for the former first-round pick. "He's going to make huge strides this year in every way. From a pass-rush perspective, a pure end perspective, but then also we're going to start to utilize his versatility off the ball and all the stuff he can do."
In his rookie season, Walker picked up 5.5 sacks across 15 games. With the question marks surrounding the availability of James Pearce Jr. (at least early in the season), it could naturally lead to the former Georgia Bulldog into a bigger role. One that Ulbrich thinks he could thrive in.
The Falcons will return for OTA offseason workouts this week, June 8th, 9th, and 11th, before mandatory minicamp begins June 16-18.
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