The Atlanta Falcons' presence at Georgia football’s pro day turned a lot of heads—and for good reason. Historically, the team hasn’t exactly been known for drafting Bulldogs players, a fact that’s left many fans scratching their heads. Georgia consistently produces some of the best talent in the NFL, with multiple national championships in recent years, yet the Falcons have largely overlooked their own backyard. This long-standing trend has sparked frustration among both Atlanta and Georgia fan bases, leading many to wonder if this year’s pro day appearance was anything more than just showing face.
Regardless of the Falcons' intentions, one player who wasn’t afraid to weigh in was former Bulldogs defensive lineman and 2025 NFL Draft prospect Warren Brinson. When asked about Atlanta’s reluctance to pick Georgia players, Brinson didn’t hold back.
“I haven’t (spoken with anyone from the Falcons),” Brinson admitted. “I don’t know what’s going on with the Falcons, man. I don’t think they take Georgia players (laughs). They just released Grady Jarrett, so they’ve got to replenish somewhere, and hopefully, they come an hour southeast to get some guys. Maybe Jalon Walker, maybe Mykel Williams, you never know.”
That last part—about Atlanta needing reinforcements—isn’t just a joke. The Falcons’ struggles in recent years are well-documented, and their draft choices haven’t always panned out. Since 1966, they’ve only selected 13 Georgia players in the NFL Draft—a surprisingly low number for a franchise so close to a powerhouse program. Given the Bulldogs' reputation as one of the strongest pipelines to the league, it’s fair to wonder why Atlanta hasn’t tapped into that talent pool more often.
If history is any indication, fans shouldn’t hold their breath. But the pressure is mounting. The Falcons' front office, led by new head coach Raheem Morris, was notably present at the pro day, and that alone has fueled speculation. Are they finally ready to break their anti-UGA trend, or was this just another courtesy visit with no real intention of drafting Bulldogs players?
Meanwhile, Brinson himself is generating buzz as a mid-to-late-round draft prospect, and several projections have him landing with different teams across the league. Whether or not Atlanta is one of them remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure—Bulldogs players will be well-represented in the 2025 draft class.
With the NFL Draft right around the corner in April, all eyes will be on Atlanta’s decisions. Will they finally acknowledge the talent in their own backyard? Will they take a chance on one of Georgia’s many draft-ready stars? Or will they continue to overlook the Bulldogs, much to the dismay of their fanbase?
One thing’s for sure—this ongoing Falcons-UGA storyline isn’t losing steam anytime soon. Whether they like it or not, the Falcons’ choices this year could either strengthen or shatter the belief that they simply don’t draft Georgia players. And with so many elite prospects available, passing up on them yet again might just add more fuel to an already heated debate.
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