The Atlanta Falcons are in an interesting situation approaching the 2026 season, having a quarterback competition, a new head coach, and a roster that has a wide-open competition for a handful of roles. With this in mind, it is fun to look ahead and consider which overlooked players might have a surprise impact or fight their way into roster spots with a chance to contribute.
Atlanta's lack of established pieces offers more entertainment in training camp and the preseason, as positions are up for grabs and final roster spots are far from decided. Leading us to look at three pieces who could have a surprise 2026 impact and are worth keeping a close eye on as training camp begins and we trudge closer to the season.
1. Cash Jones
For those who watched Jones at Georgia, there isn't any questioning the explosive ability or what the playmaker could unlock at the next level. Atlanta is giving the running back a chance to make the roster by moving Jones to receiver in hopes of unlocking his explosive ability as a depth piece and occasional speed threat. It wouldn't be shocking to see the pass catcher make a real run at making the roster and carving out a surprise role.
There simply is far too much speed and ability as a receiver to ignore. Atlanta badly needs surprise weapons to emerge behind Drake London at the position, and Jones is a chance for the team to find just that.
2. Azeez Ojulari
The pass rusher is coming off his worst season, failing to make an impact with the Philadelphia Eagles. Still, there is reason to believe last season was the outlier, and Ojulari is going to become a surprise rotational option, replacing the lost production of Leonard Floyd. Ojulari had 6.0 sacks in the 2024 season and 8.0 in 2021, both of these productive years coming with a New York Giants roster that was far from stocked with talent.
For the Falcons, you've got two exciting young pass rushers in James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker. Still, there is reason to believe Ojulari is going to force his way into the team's rotation and put together a surprising run that proves last year's struggles were simply a blip in what has otherwise been a solid career.
3. Austin Hooper
The veteran tight end reunited with his former team in the offseason to become the primary backup behind Kyle Pitts. With Charlie Woerner rostered as well, it has been a bit overlooked just how productive Hooper has a chance to be in Atlanta's lineup. No matter who the starting quarterback is, there is going to be a surprisingly productive season from Hooper.
One that turns back the clock and provides a veteran security blanket for an offense searching for reliable targets. No question, signing Hooper is a move that is going to age far better than many fans realize.
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