Falcons plan for the future in ESPN's new 2026 NFL mock draft

The Atlanta Falcons have one of the better offensive lines in the NFL, but they have gotten slightly long in the tooth at the offensive tackle position. Jake Matthews has been one of the league's most underrated left tackles for over a decade. While the 34-year-old is still playing good football, the team needs to be prepared for the future.

Considering the amount of surprise retirements by offensive linemen over the last few seasons, it might be a good time to invest in a long-term replacement. ESPN's Field Yates released a new 2026 NFL mock draft which projected the Falcons to take Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor in the second round (pick No. 48 overall).

Falcons take OT Max Iheanachor in ESPN's mock draft "It's plausible that Iheanachor is also gone way before this selection, as he has major upside due to only five years of football experience," wrote Yates . "He showed steady annual improvement at Arizona State and has excellent traits, including an 83¼-inch wingspan. Atlanta's starting tackles are rock solid, but LT Jake Matthews is 34 and RT Kaleb McGary is 31.

" Iheanachor played exclusively at right tackle, but some scouts believe he has the traits to play left tackle in the NFL. The Arizona State standout did not allow a sack last season. Iheanachor is currently ranked No.