The Atlanta Falcons are happy with their 2025 NFL draft haul, but analysts around the league seem to be split. Whenever a team makes a bold move, as the Falcons did by trading up for Tennessee edge James Pearce Jr.

Some criticism of Atlanta's draft class seems to be a classic example of NFL analysts valuing draft selections more than actual prospects. Draft picks are only worth anything if they eventual become good players. The Falcons believe they gave up a future first-round selection for a first-round prospect that fills an immediate need.

ATLANTA -- The 2025 NFL draft (8 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, ESPN App) began Thursday and is being held in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Atlanta Falcons bolster their defense in Round 1 with Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker at No. 15, then traded with the Rams to land James Pearce Jr. at No. 26.