The Falcons have released the first “unofficial” depth chart of 2026 ahead of Friday’s preseason tilt with the Denver Broncos. There aren’t any huge surprises on it, especially after Stefanski shared his plans for the starters in this week’s matchup during media availability on Wednesday.
There aren’t any huge surprises, but a few things of note:
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Michael Penix Jr. and Jawaan Taylor are both noted on the depth chart as “injured” and do not appear in their respective positions’ depth charts right now.
Cash Jones has been really fun to watch in camp, so I was a bit surprised to see him so low on the running backs depth chart, but it is pretty stacked. I’m hoping he can carve out a spot for himself regardless.
Ethan Onianwa has been getting reps with the first team in practices, so I’m also mildly surprised he’s at the bottom of the depth chart at right tackle, especially since Michael Jerrell seemed to be getting fewer reps this week. Right tackle is absolutely a spot I’m keeping a close eye on this Friday against the Broncos.
James Pearce Jr. landing in the third spot on his section of the DE depth chart is also mildly surprising given his performance last season, but obviously it’s much less so given that a six-game minimum suspension is expected to be handed down sooner rather than later. In general, the NFL tries to get those decisions to teams before roster cuts so they can plan accordingly. I double checked out of curiosity, and with the first unofficial depth chart of 2025, Pearce was listed second behind Leonard Floyd at the position.
That’s a really fascinating group of potential kick and punt returners. I’m eager to see how that goes this preseason.
Here’s the full unofficial depth chart. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
