Falcons' Cunningham Navigates Draft with Slim Picks

0:00On April 20th, Atlanta Falcons' new general manager, Ian Cunningham, is gearing up for his first NFL draft without a first round pick after trading it to the Rams last year. That selection lands at 13th overall tonight, so the Falcons are staying sharp by simulating the clock there. Their next real shot comes Friday at 48th overall in the second round, halfway through with just five picks total across later rounds. The drama ties back to Ed rusher James Perst Jr., the guy they grabbed with that extra first rounder. He led rookies with 10 and a half sacks last season, but now faces three felony charges from a February domestic incident with his ex-girlfriend. Hearings this week could lead to a May 4th trial, and he skipped the offseason program so far. Cunningham and new coach Kevin Stofanski kept a cool on-person status, calling it status quo for now. The Falcons have missed playoffs for a stray years, and this clouds their linebacker depth big time. Needs stack up at linebacker, defensive tackle, and wide receiver, hitting a franchise are already low on draft ammo.

1:05They're eyeing trades to jump into the first round or higher in the second, maybe packaging future picks like the Bears did under Cunningham before. Even franchise tag tied in Kyle Pitts could draw calls, they'll listen to offers without committing. Creativity is key with slim current capital. Draftknights full of what ifs for Atlanta, from Pierce's fate, to bold moves that reshape the roster. Cunningham's hype to wheel and deal, keeping fans locked in as picks fly. Stay locked in with NFL news today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with The Story.