Proposed Falcons move adds 58-sack veteran to guide first round rookie duo

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris made it clear after last season that something had to change with the team’s pass rush.

That’s why Atlanta made a bold move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting not one but two edge rushers—Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr.—in the first round.

“I get beat up all year about not getting sacks, and that’s got to change,” Morris told reporters after the 2025 NFL Draft. “The only way you can change that is to change that. That was part of our process, very intentional, going out and trying to fix the edge room.”

While some analysts criticized the aggressive approach, including Bleacher Report’s Gabe Davenport, who called it one of the worst moves of the offseason, there’s no denying the Falcons are in a better spot than they were a year ago.

Last season, Atlanta attempted to patch up its pass-rushing issues by trading for veteran Matthew Judon from the New England Patriots. That move, along with several Day 3 draft picks on the defensive line, failed to pay off.

MORE: Matthew Judon calls out Falcons’ defensive staff for misusing him in 2024

That’s why some believe the Falcons still need help—particularly in the form of experience. Last Word on Sports' David Latham suggested Atlanta pursue veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, formerly of the Carolina Panthers.

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“The Atlanta Falcons had one of the NFL’s worst pass rushes last year and addressed that need with first-round picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce,” Latham wrote. “While these two have the potential to be a lethal duo for years on end, the team could use someone with more experience. Stealing Jadeveon Clowney from the division rival Carolina Panthers will give the team a short-term starter who can help Walker and Pearce adapt to life in the NFL.”

Clowney, entering his age-32 season, was released by the Panthers due to cap constraints. He led Carolina with 5.5 sacks last season and added 80 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and eight quarterback hits.

While Atlanta’s defensive line room is now much deeper than in recent years, adding Clowney could offer more than production—it could provide mentorship. He would serve as a valuable veteran voice for both this year’s top draft picks and holdover players from last season who are still developing.