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Harold Perkins Jr.
LB · ATL

Harold Perkins Jr.

Position LB
Team ATL
Bye Week —
PPR Rank —

Harold Perkins Jr.

NFL player. Position: LB. Team: ATL.

Quick Facts

  • Position: LB
  • Team: ATL (Atlanta Falcons)
  • College: LSU
  • Draft: 2026, Round 6
  • Background: Former first-round prospect; 2024 ACL injury derailed stock

2026 Outlook

Harold Perkins Jr. was once viewed as a future first-round draft pick at LSU before suffering a torn ACL in 2024 that significantly derailed his stock. The Atlanta Falcons selected him as a potential steal in the sixth round. Perkins landed in a perfect environment to recapture his form—the Falcons retained Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinator despite regime change, and Perkins is a picture-perfect fit for the traditional Kaden Elliss role, which requires elite athleticism. Don't be shocked if Perkins eventually plays opposite Divine Deablo in the Falcons' defense. His combination of talent and favorable scheme fit could lead to a strong rookie year (per One Rookie From Every NFL Draft Round Forcing Tough Depth Chart Decisions Already).

Post-draft scouting noted that Perkins has struggled with explosiveness since his ACL injury in 2024, and his tackling technique needs work. However, he has good coverage skills and projects as an outstanding special teams contributor while he rebuilds strength (per 10 best available players for Bears on Day 3 of 2026 NFL Draft).

In training camp, Perkins is competing as the early favorite for reserve linebacker reps—his versatility and pedigree appeal to the new regime despite depth at the position (per Falcons training camp 2026: 3 roster battles to watch on defense - Yahoo Sports).

Draft analyst noted Perkins remains talented despite injury concerns: very productive at LSU over two years (147 tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 13 sacks), and still posted solid 2025 stats upon return from ACL (56 tackles, 8 TFLs, 4 sacks). Analysts see upside worth betting on in his second year back from injury. (per Chicago Bears 2026 NFL Re-Draft: What Ryan Poles, Ben Johnson Should Have Done)

Week 3 early impact: Perkins drafted by Atlanta in Round 6 as a fall candidate has validated the Falcons' faith in his recovery. Through three weeks, has played 93 snaps while utilized in coverage by coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, generating elite pass coverage efficiency. Allowed just 35 receiving yards and 5.8 yards per catch on 75 coverage snaps—outperforming many late-round defensive backs. Athleticism showing despite injury recovery, positioning him as a potential long-term Falcons asset if health holds. (per 10 NFL Rookies Already Making Their Draft-Day Value Impossible to Ignore - Sports Illustrated).

Role / Depth Chart

Competing for the Kaden Elliss off-ball linebacker role in the Falcons' defense. Long-term potential as a starter opposite Divine Deablo.

Injury Status

2024 torn ACL at LSU. Returned to play in 2025 and appears healthy entering 2026 season.

Recent News

Open Questions

Sources