The Atlanta Falcons Could Tank Their Way Into the 2027 Draft, and Nobody's Talking About It
The tanking problem that plagued the NBA last season? Yeah, it's showing up in the NFL now, and the Atlanta Falcons might be the next franchise to join the party. With elite prospects like Arch Manning and Dante Moore headed to the 2027 draft, teams are already eyeing the bottom of the standings. The New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Arizona Cardinals have been getting all the attention as potential tank candidates, but there's another NFC team that could slide right into that conversation.
The Falcons' QB Problem Is a Disaster Waiting to Happen
Here's the thing: the Falcons aren't openly trying to tank. They shouldn't be. But their quarterback situation is so murky that they might end up there anyway. According to Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox, Atlanta is one of the NFL teams "most likely to tank" ahead of next year's draft. The reasoning is simple and brutal. Kirk Cousins is gone, now with the Raiders. Tua Tagovailoa hasn't played particularly well since the 2023 season. Michael Penix Jr., their 2024 first-round pick, is recovering from a torn ACL. That's not a quarterback room. That's a house of cards.
🎲 Want to Make Tonight's Game More Interesting?
Kalshi lets you trade on real sports outcomes — not just spreads. It's the only federally regulated prediction market in the US, and it's available right here in Washington state.
New users get a FREE $10 just for signing up — no deposit required to claim it.
👉 Claim Your Free $10 at KalshiOne Reliable Arm Away From Relevance
Knox's take is clear: if the Falcons somehow get above-average quarterback play, they could actually compete for a playoff spot. But that's a massive if. The team finished 8-9 last season, just like the Carolina Panthers who won the NFC South. That's the baseline. Without solid QB play, Knox thinks potential targets like USC's Jayden Maiava, Notre Dame's C.J. Carr, or LaNorris Sellers could be waiting for Kevin Stefanski's team in the 2027 draft. The Falcons might not bottom out quite like the Jets, Cardinals, or Dolphins could, but they're positioned to be right in the mix for a high pick. And that's exactly where tank conversations start.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Team Already.
View X conversation →DFS Pick'em
📋 Chalkboard: 100% Deposit Match Up to $100 + a Free Square on Your First Entry
Use code ONTAP to lock in this offer.
👉 Double your first deposit on ChalkboardSponsored. Must be 18+. Terms apply.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.