The Atlanta Falcons announced on Apr. 25 that they have selected LSU linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. with the 215th pick in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Perkins is the second linebacker chosen by the Falcons on Day 3, following Kendal Daniels who was picked earlier in the fourth round. Perkins, a standout at LSU, recorded a total of 17 sacks and 220 tackles during his college career, despite missing most of the 2024 season due to injury. He also earned several honors including Freshman All-American and multiple All-SEC team selections.
Expert opinions highlight both Perkins’ strengths and areas for development. Dane Brugler from The Athletic said, “Perkins is impressive with sideline-to-sideline range, twitchy burst and speed to close… Overall, Perkins is a complicated NFL prospect. His explosive athleticism jumps off the tape, but he has a tweener skill set and comes with concerns about position fit at the next level.” NFL Draft Buzz commented: “What Perkins does offer is rare speed at the linebacker position and enough pass-rush skill to be a weapon on designed pressures… His ability to line up on the edge, in the box, and over slot receivers gives coordinators options.” Matt Holder from Bleacher Report added: “Hybrid linebackers have become more popular in the NFL, and Harold Perkins fits the description to a tee. LSU used him all over its defense… thus helping develop a versatile skill set.”
Perkins brings versatility as he played multiple roles for LSU’s defense including hybrid Star linebacker in their base formation. He ran an impressive 4.45-second forty-yard dash—ranking high among his peers—and will join other linebackers competing for playing time under defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.
The Atlanta Falcons compete in the National Football League’s NFC South division according to their official website. The team began as an expansion franchise in 1965 according to their official website and is based in Atlanta, Georgia according to their official website. The franchise reached Super Bowl appearances twice—in both 1998 and again in 2016 according to their official website. Freddie the Falcon serves as mascot for Atlanta’s team according to their official website.
Looking ahead, observers will watch how quickly Perkins adapts within Atlanta’s defensive schemes given his unique blend of speed and versatility.