ESPN names Brandon Dorlus as Falcons' breakout candidate for 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 8, 2026, 4:01 PM
Last updated Jul 8, 2026
ESPN has selected Brandon Dorlus, a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons, as a breakout candidate for the 2026 NFL season. Dorlus, a former fourth-round pick, contributed to the team's defensive improvement last year, which saw the Falcons record a franchise-high 57 sacks. With the departure of Grady Jarrett, Dorlus emerged as a key player, complemented by a robust secondary. The Falcons added Maason Smith to bolster their defensive line, aiming to enhance their already improving pass rush under coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.
- •Dorlus recorded a career-high 8.5 sacks last season.
- •The Falcons ranked second in the NFL with 57 total sacks.
- •Brandon Dorlus is viewed as critical for filling the void left by Grady Jarrett.
- •Atlanta's secondary is considered to be close to elite.
- •Maason Smith's acquisition aims to strengthen the defensive line.
- 4:01 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN names Falcons' breakout candidate for 2026 NFL season
"Falcons defensive lineman listed as breakout candidate by ESPN
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