The Falcons drafted Xavier Watts in the third round (96th overall) out of Notre Dame, and he has been a steal of a pickup. In six professional games, he has recorded 37 total tackles (23 solo, 14 assisted), four passes defended and two interceptions. He was named the NFC Defensive Rookie of the Month for his stellar play.

With Cousins making his first start and London out, it adds pressure on running back Bijan Robinson, who the Falcons could rely on heavily in the running and passing games. Tight end Kyle Pitts has caught 30 passes for 285 yards and a touchdown as well.

Cousins, who signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons last year in free agency, hasn't started a game since Week 15 of the 2024 season. The Falcons got off to a 6-3 start with Cousins under center last season, but things fell apart during the second half.

The Atlanta Falcons take on the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football, and ESPN's weekly panel of analysts is unanimous in their pick of a winner.

ESPN's Mina Kimes praises the Falcons defensive rise, spotlighting their pass-rush, linebackers and the impact on their 3-2 record.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Matt Bowen broke down the top 25 trade candidates ahead of the deadline and two Falcons players were listed among them. One of the players mentioned was edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie. The former second-round pick is in the final year of his contract and the team invested heavily at the edge position in the draft.

Kirk Cousins is “highly likely” to make his first start for the Falcons on Sunday since getting benched in a December 2024 game.

The Chicago Bears have been named as a trade fit by ESPN for Atlanta Falcons edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie, who's drawing trade interest.