Forget where the Atlanta Falcons are in the NFC South standings.
Instead, right now the focus should be on next year's NFL Draft, where the Falcons will have a chance to plug some of their biggest roster holes.
At the moment, Atlanta is on pace for the 12th overall pick. Chad Reuter at NFL.com sees their major needs as offensive tackle, edge, interior offensive line, safety and quarterback.
"Safety Jessie Bates, who is in the final year of his contract, figures to have suitors on the free-agent market. Xavier Watts might need a new partner in the defensive backfield in 2027."
We'll say it as many times as it takes. Letting Jessie Bates walk after this season is over would be an utterly insane move by Atlanta's front office. The Falcons will need
his cap hit to be significantly lower next season, but that's easily achieved with a contract extension.
Interior offensive line also feels off-target. Chris Lindstrom and Matt Bergeron are one of the league's best guard duos and Ryan Neuzil is a passable starting center. Quarterback might be a major need as well, but that depends how the rest of the season goes with Michael Penix Jr. - they will definitely want a better backup than Tua Tagovailoa, though.
With James Pearce Jr. returning this week and Jalon Walker set to return next season, edge should not be a major concern - especially given how well Atlanta's backups have played so far.
Offensive tackle should be their No. 1 priority, though. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor has disappointed in place of the retired Kaleb McGary, and not just his poor run blocking. Taylor's penchant for penalties keeps killing promising drives, and right now taking him out of the starting lineup might be addition by subtraction. The Falcons also have to prepare for the inevitable day when Jake Matthews eventually retires.
They don't necessarily have to use a first-round pick - and should explore free agent options, first. However they want to go about it, finding a new franchise right tackle does have to be at the top of the list going into the new league year.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: 2027 NFL Draft Order: Where Falcons stand after week 8
