Atlanta Falcons Rookie Pass Rushers Shine in 2025 Training Camp

Discover how the Atlanta Falcons' rookie pass rushers, Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., are making waves in the 2025 NFL training camp.

Training camps have kicked off around the NFL, and our team reporters are on the ground each day following all the action. The Atlanta Falcons' camp is taking place in Flowery Branch, Georgia, and Falcons reporter Marc Raimondi has the latest intel on standouts, highlights, position battles, depth chart movement, cut decisions and of course the quarterback room.

Rookie Class Impresses

There was big praise for the Falcons rookie class on arrival day. Pro Bowl right guard Chris Lindstrom said the rookies "blew my doors off" in terms of preparation and how they worked during the spring. Veteran linebacker Kaden Elliss said the "sky is the limit" for No. 15 overall pick Jalon Walker, who will start the season mainly as an edge rusher. Elliss said Walker, who played both at an inside linebacker and edge at Georgia, could excel at either position, if not a hybrid of both.

"I'm excited for him," Elliss said. "I understand why they drafted him. I see the explosiveness and, man, he's always got a smile on him."

Early Expectations

Walker and No. 26 overall pick James Pearce Jr., another edge rusher, are expected to play early and often for a Falcons team that has struggled in recent years at getting to the quarterback. The Falcons will begin practice Thursday and there are no expected holdouts. Tight end Kyle Pitts, who is in a contract year, was seen Wednesday morning arriving after missing the spring with an injury.

Training Camp Highlights

Training camps are crucial for teams to evaluate their rosters and make necessary adjustments. The Falcons are no exception, with a focus on improving their pass rush and integrating new talent into their defensive schemes. The performance of rookies like Walker and Pearce Jr. will be closely watched as they aim to make an immediate impact.

Stay Updated

Be sure to keep checking back for more information until the first full week of the preseason begins on Aug. 7. Camp updates for all 32 teams will provide a comprehensive look at the latest developments across the league.

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