The Atlanta Falcons may have only made six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they made up for it in a big way on the undrafted free agent market. The team agreed to terms with 16 undrafted free agents, and the list reveals a clear priority: wide receiver.

Five of the Falcons' 16 UDFA signings are wideouts, making up nearly a third of the class. After breaking down the profiles of Vinny Anthony and Keelan Marion, we now turn our attention to a local product: Georgia Tech's Malik Rutherford.

Rutherford spent his entire college career with the Yellow Jackets, hauling in 182 receptions for 2,014 yards and 10 touchdowns across five seasons (2021-2025). While he didn't see much action as a return specialist, he did handle a few kickoffs. At 5-foot-9, he projects as a slot receiver at the next level—a role where the Falcons could use some depth.

Last season, Rutherford posted 46 catches for 523 yards and three scores. If he can make a strong impression during training camp, this local standout could carve out a role in Atlanta's offense.

What's more impressive? Rutherford finished his collegiate career ranked second in Georgia Tech history in receptions, trailing only Kelly Campbell (195 catches, 1998-2001) and sitting ahead of College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson (178 catches, 2004-2006).

While his athletic testing didn't blow scouts away—he posted a 2.26 Relative Athletic Score—his game speed tells a different story. During a 2024 matchup against Florida State, Rutherford was clocked at 20.5 miles per hour, showing he has the burst to compete at the NFL level.

With the Falcons looking to bolster their receiving corps, Rutherford's combination of production and local ties makes him an intriguing name to watch this summer.