Falcons find pass-rush help in ESPN’s new 2025 NFL mock draft

The Atlanta Falcons have plenty of work to do during the offseason, but they’ve already gotten started by hiring a new defensive coordinator. Jeff Ulbrich will take over the defense after spending the last four seasons with the New York Jets.

Ulbrich could have his hands full fixing a Falcons defense that ranked in the bottom third of the NFL in both points and yards allowed per game. Finding a way to generate more pressure will be one of Ulbrich’s biggest challenges. Atlanta ranked 31st in the league with 31 sacks last season.

While the team made strides in this area over the final few games, Matthew Judon and Lorenzo Carter will be free agents in 2025. Arnold Ebiketie had a decent year but the team still needs additional help or the pass rush will likely be a problem again next season.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. released his first mock draft of the year on Wednesday. Kiper projected Atlanta to draft Texas A&M defensive end Shemar Stewart with pick No. 15 overall:

Expect to hear this name a lot more as we get into predraft events. Stewart still has some development ahead, but his athletic traits at 6-6, 290 pounds could push him up the board this spring. Atlanta was 31st in sacks (31) and 27th in pass rush win rate (34.1%) this season, and it hasn’t done nearly enough to clean up that weakness.

The Matthew Judon trade in August was a step in the right direction, but he added just 5.5 sacks this season and is a free agent. Stewart didn’t rack up sacks in college — 1.5 in 2024 — but he has the potential to break out in a big way in the pros.  — Mel Kiper, ESPN

As Kiper points out, Stewart doesn’t have the sack numbers of a typical top-15 pick. Last season, the Aggies standout recorded 33 hurries and four QB hits. However, it was Stewart’s third straight year with two or fewer sacks.

With his combination of size (6-3, 290 lbs), pressure rate, and athleticism, Stewart should improve in this area at the next level. He’s also a stout run defender, recording a PFF grade of 88.2 against the run last season.

The Falcons will get third-round pick Bralen Trice back in 2025 after his year was cut short due to an injury he suffered during the preseason. Atlanta also needs some secondary help with Mike Hughes, Justin Simmons and Dee Alford set to become free agents.