The Atlanta Falcons are missing from the opening night of the 2026 NFL Draft due to a major trade made during 2025. The previous front office moved their 2026 first-round selection to the Los Angeles Rams to move up and secure pass rusher James Pearce Jr.
This aggressive decision was a tough move that has left the current leadership without a top-tier asset to start the draft. When taking a deep look at which teams don’t have a first round pick for 2026, the Falcons sacrificed their future flexibility for immediate defensive help.
Because of that trade, Atlanta will not make its first selection until the second round, where it holds the 48th overall pick. The Rams now benefit from that deal, as they will use the Falcons’ original slot, the 13th pick in the 2026 Draft order, to further strengthen their own roster.
Can the Falcons get a first round pick next season?
The Falcons definitely have the path to acquire a first-round pick in 2027 since they currently own all their future natural selections. Unlike this year, they haven’t traded away any 2027 capital, giving the new front office a clean slate to build the roster.
#Falcons HC Kevin Stefanski on Brian Robinson Jr.:
— The Coachspeak Index (@CoachspeakIndex) April 8, 2026
“I think a really, really talented football player, who I think matches exceptionally with what we want to do with him and Bijan [Robinson] — the skill set and how they marry each other, how they complement each other. We want… pic.twitter.com/CqFPKY75ZX
If the Falcons want to add an extra first-rounder next season, they could look to trade veteran players for draft assets during the season. General Manager Ian Cunningham has expressed a desire to have more “swings at the plate,” suggesting he may be active in the trade market.
Another possibility is trading back during the 2026 draft to acquire future 2027 capital from a team looking to move up now. By moving down from their current second-round spot, the Falcons could stockpile assets that eventually turn into a 2027 first-round pick.
