In Atlanta, the rebuild isn’t just about throwing deep—it’s about digging deeper. New head coach. New quarterback. And now, a new identity in the making. While Michael Penix Jr. takes center stage in the Falcons’ offensive makeover, the front office is quietly shifting focus back to the other side of the ball. Because in the NFC South, flashy plays won’t get you far without a defense that hits back. And right now, Raheem Morris and his team seem ready to bet on one of the most athletic cornerbacks in the draft.
While Raheem Morris’ Atlanta Falcons continue to manage the quarterback transition involving Kirk Cousins and rookie Michael Penix Jr., the front office may be gearing up for a key defensive acquisition. According to team insiders, Atlanta is eyeing Iowa State cornerback Darien Porter—a collegiate standout with elite athletic traits but no professional experience yet. Adding him, however, may not be straightforward. The Falcons could need to trade up in the second round to secure him.
Falcons insider account Rise Up Penix, followed by the team’s official handle on X, reported: “The Falcons met with Iowa State cornerback Darien Porter, per Ryan Talbot.” The report reflects Atlanta’s dual-pronged offseason strategy—reinforcing the defense while building out the offense around Penix Jr. With the No. 15 overall pick in hand, the Falcons are reportedly targeting Porter, whose combine metrics and on-field potential have caught the attention of multiple teams.
The #Falcons met with Iowa State cornerback Darien Porter, per Ryan Talbot.
Porter is 6’3” with a 99th percentile athletic score and could be selected on Day 2.
Porter allowed a passer rating of just 4.3 last season and snagged 3 INTs with no touchdowns allowed. pic.twitter.com/jw29OagkPk
— Rise Up Penix (@RiseUpReader) April 21, 2025
Porter, a 6’3″ cornerback from Iowa State, emerged as one of the most athletic defensive backs in the 2024 class. During his senior year, he recorded 18 total tackles—12 of them solo—and grabbed three interceptions while allowing zero touchdowns in coverage. He also posted a passer rating against of just 4.3, among the lowest in the country. At the 2025 NFL Combine, Porter left a strong impression on scouts. He ranked in the 99th percentile for athleticism, registering a 93 score in movement testing. Though his overall prospect score was 79, ranking fifth among CBs, his explosive metrics and length have NFL front offices intrigued.
However, the Falcons aren’t alone. The Cincinnati Bengals, led by Joe Burrow, are also in the mix for Porter. With long-term concerns at cornerback, Cincinnati may compete aggressively for the Iowa State product. Whether Atlanta can beat them to the punch—or whether a trade-up becomes necessary—remains to be seen.
Raheem Morris’ TE Kyle Pitts wants to move on
While the Falcons consider reshaping their secondary, another roster shake-up may be on the way—this time on offense. According to multiple sources, tight end Kyle Pitts is now on the trade radar. Drafted fourth overall in 2021, Pitts is currently on his fifth-year option after completing a four-year, $32.91 million rookie deal. While still just 24 years old, Pitts’ future with the Falcons has grown uncertain. The team is reportedly weighing offers, with interest coming from at least two franchises—the New York Jets and the Los Angeles Rams.
Jun 3, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris shown during Falcons OTA at the Falcons Training facility. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Pitts had 47 receptions for 607 yards and four touchdowns during the 2024 season. While his numbers haven’t matched his rookie campaign—when he logged over 1,000 yards—he has shown flashes of elite talent. Notably, he posted a two-touchdown game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 27, despite limited targets.
The Rams’ interest reportedly stems from their preparation for the eventual departure of veteran wide receiver Davante Adams, who is expected to retire after the 2025 season. The Jets, on the other hand, are looking to add a dynamic pass catcher to support new quarterback Justin Fields.
Whether the Falcons pursue draft capital or a veteran in exchange for Pitts remains to be seen. For now, both he and Darien Porter represent high-stakes roster decisions as Atlanta reshapes its identity heading into 2025.
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