How will Atlanta’s rookies fare in 2026?
The Atlanta Falcons added a whole new batch of rookies who will look to make an impact this season. Despite not having a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the team will be counting on its six-player class to contribute. In fact, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a few undrafted free agents make the 53-man roster in 2026.
So, what kind of contributions should fans expect from Atlanta’s draft class? While it’s purely speculation at this point, ESPN’s Mike Clay projected the full 2026 regular season stats for each team, including the Falcons. Over the next few days, we will be focusing on different aspects of Clay’s breakdown.
Today, we are taking a look at ESPN’s statistical projections for the Falcons’ 2026 draft class. From Avieon Terrell to Harold Perkins Jr., check out Atlanta’s rookie projections below.
Avieon Terrell: ESPN rookie projection
Terrell is slated as the Falcons’ fourth cornerback on the Clay’s depth chart. The second-round pick out of Clemson is projected for 25 tackles and 0.5 interceptions this season.
- Stats: 25 tackles, 0.5 interceptions (317 snaps)
Zachariah Branch: ESPN rookie projection
Branch is projected to record 21 catches for 252 receiving guards and one touchdown this season, but Clay thinks the former Georgia standout will play a key role on special teams (1,108 combined kick and punt return yards).
- Stats: 21 catches, 252 receiving yards, 1 TD; 34 kick returns, 874 yards; 23 punt returns, 234 yards
Kendal Daniels: ESPN rookie projection
Daniels, the fourth-round pick out of Oklahoma, is not expected to play a huge role on defense as a rookie. Clay has the safety-turned linebacker playing 128 snaps and recording 17 tackles this season.
- Stats: 17 tackles (128 snaps)
Anterio Thompson: ESPN rookie projection
Harold Perkins Jr.: ESPN rookie projection
ESPN is not projecting sixth-round pick Harold Perkins Jr. to play a major role this season. Clay has the former LSU linebacker recording seven tackles and playing just 53 snaps.
- Stats: 7 tackles (53 snaps)
Ethan Onianwa: ESPN rookie projection
The Falcons’ seventh-round pick, offensive lineman Ethn Onianwa out of Ohio State, is not projected to play any snaps this season, per ESPN’s Mike Clay.
The Falcons are off today but will return on Tuesday for their next round of OTAs. Check out highlights from the team’s first week of OTAs, as shared by the team’s YouTube channel.
