Falcons adjust defensive end rotation for season opener against Steelers

The Atlanta Falcons will enter their September 13 regular season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers without two key edge rushers. Jalon Walker is sidelined for the season following an ACL tear, while James Pearce Jr. remains unavailable due to an eight-game suspension. To manage the personnel loss, the team signed veteran Za’Darius Smith and expects increased playing time for Cameron Thomas and Brandon Dorlus at defensive end. While the edge rotation remains in flux, the Steelers face a challenge against an interior defensive line featuring D’Shawn Hand and newly acquired Gervon Dexter Sr. This matchup presents an opportunity for the Steelers' offensive line, which features Troy Fautanu in his first start at left tackle, to test its chemistry against a depleted pass-rushing corps. Both teams continue preparing for the Week 1 contest at the start of the 2026 season.

• 10:53 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers will face depleted Falcons pass rush Week 1