Jalon Walker

ANALYSIS
The Falcons committed to their defense in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting both Walker and James Pearce in the first round. Walker missed two games in October due to a groin injury and played well in his return with 4.0 sacks over his next four outings. However, he logged one tackle or less in six of the last seven games of the season, and that lack of production may have been due to a quad injury he sustained in early December. Still, Walker finished second among rookies in sacks behind Pearce (10.5), and Atlanta can feel some confidence in their defense moving forward with their two young pass rushers.

ANALYSIS
Walker is a near-lock to go in the first round and could even land inside the top 10 selections. He doesn't have a clear position heading into the draft, as he was used as both an edge and more traditional linebacker during his college career at Georgia. Regardless of his exact usage, Walker's athleticism and burst should allow him to get after the quarterback often in the NFL. The Browns currently own the second pick, likely too high to select Walker, though he could be an option if the team opts to trade down from No. 2 or up from No. 33.