FLOWERY BRANCH — With their final pick in the NFL draft, the Falcons decided to attempt to fortify their offensive line by taking Wisconsin offensive tackle Jack Nelson on Saturday.

Nelson was selected with the 218th pick overall. That pick was acquired in deal that sent quarterback Taylor Heinicke to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Nelson, who’s 6-foot-7 and 314 pounds, started 12 games at left tackle for the Badgers last season.

His father, Todd, played offensive line at Wisconsin and was drafted in the 12th round by the then-Phoenix Cardinals in 1989.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. leaves the field after the game. The Carolina Panthers defeated the Atlanta Falcons in overtime 30-27, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025.  (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Featured

Travelers wait in Concourse F, the international terminal, at Hartsfield-Jackson airport in Atlanta on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. (Arvin Temkar / AJC)

Credit: arvin.temkar@ajc.com