PLAYMAKERS: Three UNDERRATED Prospects Who Can TRANSFORM Atlanta Falcons Draft

Locked On Falcons - Daily Podcast On The Atlanta Falcons27mApril 8, 2026

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “PLAYMAKERS: Three UNDERRATED Prospects Who Can TRANSFORM Atlanta Falcons Draft” inside PodZeus.

AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of Locked On Falcons, hosts Aaron Freeman and Treshawn Diaz dive into the 2026 NFL Draft with a focus on three under-the-radar prospects who could significantly impact the Atlanta Falcons' roster. The conversation centers on wide receiver Skylar Bell from Connecticut, linebacker Jake Golday from Cincinnati, and offensive lineman Ted Hearst, all of whom are presented as potential high-value picks in the mid-to-late rounds. Treshawn emphasizes the importance of drafting players who can contribute immediately—especially in the second and third rounds—and highlights the need for a reliable special teams contributor from Day Three. The discussion also explores the Falcons' free agency moves, the implications of Kyle Pitts signing his franchise tender, and whether he’ll remain a long-term asset in Atlanta. Treshawn suggests Pitts may be more valuable as a trade chip than a long-term starter due to his high salary, while acknowledging his current value as a playmaker. The episode concludes with a forward-looking outlook on Ian Cunningham’s draft strategy, which appears to prioritize flexibility over strict need-based selections.

Key Takeaways
1

Skylar Bell, a 24-year-old wide receiver from Connecticut, is a high-upside, explosive option who could elevate Atlanta’s passing game if drafted in Round 3.

2

Jake Golday, a versatile linebacker from Cincinnati, offers strong coverage ability and blitzer potential, making him a perfect fit for the Falcons' evolving linebacker corps.

3

Ted Hearst, a local offensive lineman from Georgia State, is a value pick who could contribute in the third round and help strengthen the Falcons' offensive line depth.

4

A successful 2026 draft class should include at least one immediate contributor in Rounds 2–3 and a reliable special teams player from Day Three.

5

Kyle Pitts’ franchise tender signals a short-term commitment; he may be more valuable as a trade asset than a long-term starter due to his $15M+ cap hit.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome & Sponsor Intro: The Everydayer Club

Aaron Freeman welcomes listeners to the Locked On Falcons podcast and promotes The Everydayer Club, highlighting benefits like ad-free episodes, members-only Discord access, and exclusive merch.

1:40
3 min

Introducing Treshawn Diaz & Draft Focus

Aaron introduces Treshawn Diaz of The Falcoholic and sets the stage for a deep dive into under-the-radar draft prospects, emphasizing fresh takes beyond the usual top 10 names.

5:00
5 min

Skylar Bell: The Explosive WR Prospect

He's somebody that I think would be the most explosive receiver on the roster if he was drafted.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

Jake Golday: The Versatile LB Solution

He's somebody that I think gives you a little bit more insurance, makes you feel a little bit better about if something were to happen.

Highlight
15:00
5 min

Ted Hearst & Draft Strategy Vision

I need someone from day three to contribute to the special teams unit for all four years.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I don't think Pitts is gonna be here long term... this is probably going to be the last year.
Treshawn Diaz40:20
Viral: 90.0
He's somebody that I think would be the most explosive receiver on the roster if he was drafted.
Treshawn Diaz3:34
Viral: 85.0
He's somebody that I think gives you a little bit more insurance, makes you feel a little bit better about if something were to happen.
Treshawn Diaz5:26
Viral: 80.0
Speakers

Host

Aaron Freeman

Guest

Treshawn Diaz
Topics Discussed
2026 NFL Draft Prospects95%Kyle Pitts Contract & Future92%Linebacker Depth & Versatility90%Draft Strategy & BPA88%Wide Receiver Needs85%Free Agency Impact on Draft82%Special Teams Contributors80%Offensive Line Development75%
People & Brands

Atlanta Falcons

other

45xPositive

Treshawn Diaz

person

35xPositive

Aaron Freeman

person

20xNeutral

Kyle Pitts

person

18xMixed

Ian Cunningham

person

15xPositive

Jake Golday

person

12xPositive

Skylar Bell

person

8xPositive

Ted Hearst

person

6xPositive

Locked On Podcast Network

organization

6xPositive

Cade Nellis

person

5xNeutral

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “PLAYMAKERS: Three UNDERRATED Prospects Who Can TRANSFORM Atlanta Falcons Draft” inside PodZeus.

Start discovering podcast insights today

Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.

No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime