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Atlanta focuses on young defenders to fill gaps in 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 9:27 PM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Atlanta focuses on young defenders to fill gaps in 2026 season

Summary

The Atlanta Falcons are looking to their young defensive players to step up in 2026 following the departures of veterans Kaden Elliss and David Onyemata. Elliss led the team with 105 tackles in 2025 while Onyemata provided crucial stability in the interior line. Young talents such as Jalon Walker and Brandon Dorlus showed promise last season, with Dorlus recording 8.5 sacks. The Falcons believe their revamped defense has potential but must prove they can match the production of the veterans they replaced. Safety Jessie Bates III and cornerback A.J. Terrell remain key figures on the defense as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Kaden Elliss and David Onyemata left significant gaps on defense
•Jalon Walker, Xavier Watts, and Brandon Dorlus are key young players
•Elliss recorded 105 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2025
•Dorlus had 8.5 sacks in 2025, fostering breakout potential
•Jessie Bates III and A.J. Terrell are leading veterans in the defense

Latest Updates

9:27 PMYahoo Sports — Atlanta’s defensive ceiling depends on young playmakers stepping up

What they're saying

"
The Falcons are confident their defense will take a step forward in 2026, but replacing veteran leaders Kaden Elliss and David Onyemata won’t be easy. While Atlanta boasts an exciting group of young defenders, proven production is leaving the building. Can rising stars like Jalon Walker, Xavier Watts, and Brandon Dorlus fill the void, or will the loss of experienced playmakers be felt more than expected? Here’s why the Falcons’ defensive outlook remains one of the biggest storylines heading into
— Yahoo Sports

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