Georgia EDGE with 14 career sacks labeled 'perfect prospect' for Falcons

For teams like the Atlanta Falcons, the offseason brings a bittersweet focus on rebuilding through the NFL Draft. While playoff contenders continue their quest for the Lombardi Trophy, Falcons fans turn their attention to the endless stream of mock drafts and speculation about how the team can finally break their seven-year playoff drought.

Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently shared their take on the “perfect” prospect for every NFL team. For the Falcons, PFF zeroed in on Georgia defensive lineman Mykel Williams, citing Atlanta’s glaring need to improve their pass rush.

“The Falcons generated pressure on only 28.9% of their defensive plays in 2024, which ranked No. 31 in the league. The defender that generated the most pressures for the Falcons in 2024 was Kaden Elliss, who is more of a true off-the-ball linebacker than an edge defender, so they could use some more pressures from their defensive line moving forward.”

The struggles on defense have been a persistent theme for the Falcons in recent years, with their inability to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks being a primary issue. Since drafting Vic Beasley in 2015, Atlanta has avoided selecting a first-round pass rusher, a trend many believe must end in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Enter Mykel Williams, a 6-foot-5 defensive standout from Georgia. PFF highlighted Williams’ versatility and athleticism as key attributes that could make him a game-changer for Atlanta’s defense.

“Mykel Williams is a tall 6-foot-5 defender who is so athletic that he can play multiple positions along the line and rush standing up or down in a stance. Williams is already a stout run defender who posted run defense grades over 80.0 in the last two seasons. Williams is still developing as a pass-rusher and in 2024, Williams recorded five sacks, six QB hits and 15 hurries.”

Adding Williams would provide the Falcons with a dynamic presence along the defensive line, addressing their most pressing need. His ability to impact both the run and pass game would give Atlanta a foundational piece to build upon. Paired with the likes of last year's rookie Bralen Trice and veteran Grady Jarrett anchoring the interior, Williams could elevate a unit desperate for improvement.

While the Falcons have a history of prioritizing offensive talent in the draft, this may be the year they finally pivot to defense. If they do, Mykel Williams could be the perfect choice to end their pass-rushing woes and, perhaps, begin a new chapter of success for Atlanta.