The Atlanta Falcons are happy with their 2025 NFL draft haul, but analysts around the league seem to be split. Whenever a team makes a bold move, as the Falcons did by trading up for Tennessee edge James Pearce Jr.

Some criticism of Atlanta's draft class seems to be a classic example of NFL analysts valuing draft selections more than actual prospects. Draft picks are only worth anything if they eventual become good players. The Falcons believe they gave up a future first-round selection for a first-round prospect that fills an immediate need.

The Atlanta Falcons entered the 2025 NFL Draft with five picks over the three-day draft, and added to their defense with each of their first four selections. In the first round Thursday, the Falcons selected Georgia edge rusher Jalon Walker with the No.