Falcons Snag Terrell, Branch in NFL Draft

0:00On April 25, Falcons finally swung big on day two of the NFL draft, snagging cornerback Avion Terrell at pick 48 and wide receiver. Zachariah Branch at 79, general manager Ian Cunningham couldn't hide his grin after landing these two steels, both guys who many thought would go way earlier. Avion Terrell, the Clemson standout and little brother to Falcons all pro, AJ Terrell, brings that family fire to lock down the secondary. He started 31 game straight, let his team and passes defended the last two years and holds the program record with eight forced fumbles. Now he's battling Mike Hughes for that second corner spot, making this unit one of the league's deepest with safety's Jesse Bates and Xavier Watts holding it down. Meanwhile, the defensive line gets a boost from that recent trade for Mason Smith, who's expected to step up big as a three technique disruptor right away. They skipped other tackles available, showing trust in Smith alongside Deshan Han and Chris Williams

1:00to fix last year's week run defense. Over a receiver, branches elite speed and toughness add slot magic and return threat, pairing perfect with new additions like Jahan Dotson for real. Flexibility. Fans and analysts are buzzing about how Cunningham maximized value, passing on trades because these picks were too good to pass up. He referenced his Chicago days turning five picks into 11, but stuck with just these gems despite limited ammo. Day three brings picks at 122, 215 and 231, so expect the Falcons to hunt needs like more line depth or maybe trade. Back for extras, fireworks could still pop as they build this squad. I'm Corey with the story and you've been listening to NFL news today, AI powered football coverage.