Falcons announce Jalon Walker will miss 2026 season after ACL tear

Atlanta Falcons officials reported that outside linebacker Jalon Walker tore his ACL during a pass-rush drill at training camp, forcing him to miss the 2026 season. Walker, selected with the 15th overall pick after a standout career at the University of Georgia, contributed 36 tackles, 5.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a recovery in his rookie campaign, helping the Falcons rise to the second-highest sack total in the NFL.

The injury occurred after Walker was unable to bear weight on his left leg and was taken off the field. The team now looks to a group of edge rushers—including Samson Ebukam, Azeez Ojulari, Cameron Thomas, Bralen Trice and Keshawn Banks—to fill the void, while James Pearce Jr. may miss time due to a pending suspension. DeAngelo Malone was also placed on the reserve/PUP list. Walker had expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season after training locally at the Falcons facility and the University of Georgia.