Steven T. from Ripley, New York
One of the big talking points following the draft was our UDFA's. How many UDFA's do you see having a shot at making the cut to 53?
Love this question, Steven, because you're exactly right that there was a lot made about this specific UDFA class for the Falcons in 2025. I actually thought it was one of the most notable of any grouping across the league based on 1) the talent exhibited from the bunch, but also 2) the potential that a couple make the team itself.
I still really like the look and play of Joshua Simon, the tight end out of South Carolina. He caught my eye on the first day of rookie minicamp, and I have continued to appreciate his size (standing at 6-foot-4, 240 pounds) since. He could be an asset in both the run and pass game. He has good hands, but also can take on the physicality needed in outside zone blocking. Yes, you already feel pretty good about Kyle Pitts and Charlie Woerner, but Simon is a piece of depth that I don't think hurts your roster by keeping a spot open for him to slot into in the even something happens to Pitts or Woerner. I see a young player with a lot of upside.
Defensively, I think you still have to pinpoint Cobee Bryant. He was one of the most talked about UDFAs of the entire class. Many were surprised the Kansas cornerback went undrafted all together, and I think it was a big plus that the Falcons were the ones that were able to get him on an off-season roster. The issue with Bryant, though, is the depth the Falcons already have at defensive back, particularly. They brought back a lot of bodies who have already been in this building — think Kevin King, Natrone Brooks, Lamar Jackson. They also already have their starters and role players penciled in — think A.J. Terrell, Mike Hughes and either Dee Alford, Clark Phillips III or Billy Bowman Jr. at nickel. Is there even room for Bryant on this active roster? I lean towards no, but considering the notoriety he had after the draft, perhaps the Falcons find a way to save him from being picked up by another team following a cut. Worth thinking about.