PFF grades the Falcons' 2026 NFL free agency class

The Atlanta Falcons went into the 2026 NFL free agency period on a tight budget and still managed to come away with a decent haul. The team brought in a handful of veteran defenders, signed a starting-caliber quarterback and upgraded depth at multiple spots. Those around the league have focused almost exclusively on the Tua Tagovailoa signing, which is understandable considering his contract situation.

Due to the offset language from his prior deal with the Miami Dolphins, Tagovailoa was restricted to signing for the veteran minimum. This was great news for an Atlanta team that's still paying Kirk Cousins over $22 million in dead money this season. Whether or not Tagovailoa starts for the Falcons in 2026, he fills a need for a veteran quarterback while costing roughly $1.

2 million. The Pro Football Focus free agency team grades came out this week, and the Falcons received a respectable "B-minus" for their 2026 free agent haul. PFF free agency grades: Falcons earn B- "Tagovailoa was not good in 2025, but the cost is important in this deal," wrote PFF's Gordon McGuinness .

"Due to the nature of his release from the Miami Dolphins, the Falcons don't have to spend big here, and the potential upside is huge. Tagovailoa earned PFF overall grades of 81. 9 and 86.