Falcons To Interview Only Defensive Players at NFL Combine, Sent No Offensive Coaches

It would appear that the Atlanta Falcons intend to take a defensive approach to the 2025 NFL draft.

According to Tori McElhaney of the team's website, "The Falcons only traveled a select group of defensive assistants to the NFL Scouting Combine. None of the offensive assistants made the trip. What's more, the team has 45 official interviews scheduled with player prospects throughout the week. According to reports, all 45 of those interviews are with defensive players. So, if you're into the reading of tea leaves, this is the nugget for you."

The Falcons only sent quarterbacks coach T.J. Yates to the combine last year alongside head coach Raheem Morris, per McElhaney, which foreshadowed the team's selection of Michael Penix Jr. in the first round. So the team's decision to send defensive assistants, and stick to interviews with defensive players, also feels like a statement of intent.

If the Falcons went heavy on defensive players at the NFL draft, it would make sense. The team is pretty set at the skill positions on offense, with Michael Penix Jr. at quarterback, Bijan Robinson at running back, Drake London and Darnell Mooney at wideout and Kyle Pitts at tight end. Outside of center Drew Dalman, who could leave this offseason as a free agent, the starting offensive line will return.

But the defense has a number of free agents (Matthew Judon, Justin Simmons, Mike Hughes, Lorenzo Carter) who may depart, while longtime interior stalwart Grady Jarrett could be a cap casualty.

The Falcons ranked 23rd in yardage (345.2 YPG) and points (24.9 PPG) allowed in 2024. They were 31st in sacks and desperately need to upgrade their edge-rushers, and this just so happens to be a strong draft for interior defensive lineman, pass-rushers and defensive backs.

And now they are only sending defensive coaches to the combine and only interviewing defensive players?

You do the math.