The NFC South is arguably the worst division in the NFL this season and the Atlanta Falcons‘ current draft position is proof of just how bad it is.
Last week, the Falcons led the division with a 6-6 record and were slated for the 19th overall pick. After losing to the Buccaneers in Week 14, Atlanta dropped down to pick No. 11 in the 2024 draft order.
In our latest seven-round mock projection, we have the Falcons landing an elite edge rusher and a potential franchise QB with their first two picks. Check out all seven rounds of our latest Falcons mock draft below.
Round 1, Pick No. 11: EDGE Jared Verse - FSU
The Falcons have a good defensive line when healthy, but their three best players are over 30 and it’s time to plan for the future. Jared Verse returned to school in 2023 and had another monster season. The FSU edge rusher had 11 sacks, 14 QB hits and 35 total hurries for the undefeated Seminoles. Verse would be a great fit to replace someone like Calais Campbell if the veteran DL retires this offseason.
Round 2, Pick 43: QB J.J. McCarthy - Michigan
It’s debatable whether or not McCarthy will be available in the second round if he enters the draft, but he’s got NFL QB written all over him. He’s a playmaker with good mobility and accuracy on the run. McCarthy has passed for 2,630 yards, 19 touchdowns and four interceptions while completing nearly 75 percent of his pass attempts. The Michigan QB has a PFF grade of 90.7 this season.
Round 3, Pick 75: S Javon Bullard - Georgia
The Falcons secondary has taken some major steps forward this season, but Richie Grant has struggled. It’s probably too early to give up on the former second-round pick, but Javon Bullard is one potential option for Atlanta. The Georgia defensive back has experience playing both safety spots and the nickel position. He’s good in coverage, solid against the run and versatile enough to back up multiple spots as a rookie.
Round 4, Pick 111: DL Michael Hall Jr. - OSU
The Ohio State interior lineman is a perfect developmental prospect to sit behind David Onyemata and Grady Jarrett. The Falcons could ease him into the defensive rotation. Hall finished the 2023 season with 19 QB hurries, two sacks and a PFF pass-rushing grade of 85.2.