Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles Proceed with NFL Draft Plans Amid Ongoing Tampering Investigation

The NFL has confirmed that despite ongoing investigations into alleged tampering, the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles will retain all their draft picks for this year's event in Detroit. The investigations center around the signings of free agents Kirk Cousins and Saquon Barkley, with accusations of impermissible contact with the players.

Cousins secured a lucrative four-year deal potentially worth $180 million with the Falcons after failing to reach an extension with the Minnesota Vikings, while Barkley agreed to a three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Eagles following stalled negotiations with the New York Giants.

While both teams face potential sanctions, including the loss of draft picks, any penalties will not impact this year's draft. The Falcons and Eagles each hold eight picks in the draft, with the Falcons holding the No. 8 overall selection and the Eagles holding the No. 22 overall selection.

Despite the NFL's usual practice of concluding investigations before the draft, this year's situation appears to be different. Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot expressed gratitude for the league's communication but provided no further updates on the investigation.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank denied any wrongdoing, stating, "We obviously don't believe we tampered." However, public remarks from Cousins and Barkley's ex-coach have drawn attention to the allegations.

Both teams remain focused on preparing for the draft, with Fontenot emphasizing the need to "control what you can control" and gearing up for the upcoming selections.