Skip to main content
Sunday, November 15, 2026Nov 15
Subscribe
All Sections
Search
More

Atlanta Falcons face major decision with No. 4 pick

AP file photo by Andy Clayton-King / The Atlanta Falcons could use the No. 4 overall pick in this year's NFL draft to select former North Dakota State standout Trey Lance, pictured, or another quarterback, but they might go in another direction with plenty of needs on the roster beyond a backup or future replacement for Matt Ryan.
AP file photo by Andy Clayton-King / The Atlanta Falcons could use the No. 4 overall pick in this year's NFL draft to select former North Dakota State standout Trey Lance, pictured, or another quarterback, but they might go in another direction with plenty of needs on the roster beyond a backup or future replacement for Matt Ryan.

By PAUL NEWBERRY / The Associated Press 5 min read

ATLANTA – The Atlanta Falcons have their highest pick in the NFL draft since they selected Matt Ryan out of Boston College at No. 3 in 2008.

Will they follow the same path by choosing a potential franchise quarterback Thursday night?

Coming off a dismal 4-12 season and now led by a new coach (Arthur Smith) and a new general manager (Terry Fontenot), the Falcons are one of the most intriguing teams in the draft with the fourth overall spot.

A dazzling class of quarterbacks, led by projected No. 1 pick Trevor Lawrence, has left Atlanta with a decision that could affect the direction of the franchise for the next decade or longer.

Do they pick the 35-year-old Ryan’s eventual successor – likely Trey Lance or Justin Fields – even though that player is probably going to spend at least a season or two on the bench? Do they pick someone who can help right away, such as tight end Kyle Pitts? Do they trade down to acquire extra picks that can be used to rebuild a roster ravaged by the salary cap?