​The Atlanta Falcons’ defense made a remarkable leap under defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich last season. While they finished in the middle of the pack in several important defensive categories, their pass rush surged dramatically. A year after ranking 31st in the NFL in sacks, Atlanta vaulted to second in 2025. The Falcons collected a franchise-record 57 sacks, trailing only the Philadelphia Eagles, and the most encouraging aspect of their resurgence was the contribution from the younger players on the roster.
Rookies James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker combined for 16 sacks, and second-year defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus posted a career-high 8.5 sacks. Looking ahead, Atlanta still needs interior help on the defensive line, but Dorlus has become an undeniable bright spot. ESPN’s Ben Solak tabbed the former fourth-round pick as Atlanta’s breakout candidate for 2026. “Much of Dorlus’ sack production came as cleanup after edge rushers forced the quarterback to step up, but he effectively used his length and flexibility to shed blocks late and track plays from the edge,” Solak wrote. “He is particularly effective as a looper or crasher in blitz packages, showing a knack for staying lean as he moves through the line of scrimmage.”
The Falcons needed an interior defensive lineman to step up after releasing what had been a franchise cornerstone in Grady Jarrett, and Dorlus answered that call. Solak noted that Dorlus remains more of a tween/athlete than a pure fit on the interior, but 2025 offered a clear glimpse of the ceiling we didn’t fully see in 2024. Continuing to build continuity within Ulbrich’s scheme will be crucial for his ongoing development.
Atlanta also bolstered its depth by trading for Jaguars defensive lineman Maason Smith, who can contribute at the nose tackle position. There’s an expectation that veteran LaCale London will take on an even larger role this season. The Falcons’ secondary is already rigorous, bordering on elite, and if the front seven can keep climbing, this defense could be a force to be reckoned with.
In addition to the on-field progress, the narrative around the Falcons has focused on how they managed to turn things around so quickly and the strategic moves that positioned them for sustained success. The combination of young, disruptive pass-rushers and a more cohesive front seven has Atlanta poised to continue pressuring opposing offenses, while the secondary provides the cover to back it up. If this unit can maintain its trajectory, the Falcons’ defense could be a cornerstone of their continued ascent in the league.