The Atlanta Falcons must find a way to shore up their defense this offseason and the NFL draft is their best chance to do so. It appears the team has already begun meeting with prospects from the 2025 class.
According to Draft Network’s Justin Melo, the Falcons were among the 13 teams to meet with Ole Miss linebacker Chris Paul Jr. at the Shrine Bowl. Paul Jr. is one of the top linebacker prospects in this year’s class.
The Rebels standout is coming off a solid 2024 season, recording 86 tackles (48 solo), 3.5 sacks and an interception. Paul is ranked No. 65 on Pro Football Focus’ 2025 big board. He earned a PFF grade of 87.2 last season.
List of meetings for @OleMissFB LB Chris Paul Jr. @PoohPaul4 at @ShrineBowl.
• Falcons
• Packers
• Jaguars
• Steelers
• Cowboys
• Commanders
• Seahawks
• Rams
• Chiefs
• Panthers
• 49ers
• Cardinals
• LionsDetails via @TheDraftNetwork:https://t.co/Q8678egAhL
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) February 12, 2025
The Falcons have several needs on defense and adding a versatile linebacker like Paul could help compensate for the potential losses of Nate Landman and Lorenzo Carter in free agency.
The Falcons will likely focus on revamping their defense in the early rounds of the 2025 NFL draft. In a new mock from ESPN’s Field Yates, Atlanta uses pick No. 15 on Marshall EDGE Mike Green.