Atlanta Falcons may turn to trade market to solve their biggest need

Now that the Atlanta Falcons have added Kirk Cousins and a few more playmakers, the biggest remaining need is fixing Raheem Morris’ defense. Boasting the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Falcons are in a strong position to get one of the best prospects available. Plus, as mentioned, with their QB locked in for at least the next two seasons, there’s no need to add another in the first round.

This means the Falcons can focus on taking another player that would better align with their needs. However, wouldn’t it be better if the Falcons had even more freedom to take the best overall player available instead of selecting a specific position?

Last year the Falcons ranked near the bottom of the league (21st), averaging 2.5 sacks per game. They haven’t added anyone to the front seven or anyone on defense that will fix their lack of a pass rush in 2024. Aside from changing head coaches, the Falcons, so far, are relying on improvement from within. But that may be a bad plan for a team with their eyes on the playoffs.

While the NFL Draft offers a great opportunity to land a future star, you can’t count on a rookie to make an immediate impact. But turning to proven players? That’s a different story.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Falcons could turn to the trade market to fill their need for another edge rusher instead, and they’re already being linked to Philadelphia’s Haason Reddick.

“The expectation leaguewide is that he (Haason Reddick) is moved at some point. The Eagles went and spent on Bryce Huff, they re-signed Josh Sweat, so they have their two pass rushers. Reddick appears to be the odd man out. He does want a new deal, but this is a premier guy that should have value. He wants a new contract, plus the draft capital that it’s going to take to get him. Arizona could be a team to watch because Jonathan Gannon was with him two years ago in Philly. They had good production together. Arizona needs pass rushers. Atlanta to an extent, so there should be teams in the mix.”
Jeremy Fowler on Atlanta Falcons/Haason Reddick trade market

Reddick is known to be on the trade block after the Eagles brought Brandon Graham back, paid Josh Sweat, and signed Bryce Huff to a $51 million contract. Despite coming off back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons, the 29-year-old isn’t likely to command a top draft pick in return. A Day 2 selection should get it done.

While adding Reddick shouldn’t prevent the Falcons from selecting another pass-rusher at No. 8 overall, his presence would reduce the need to draft one right away. This would allow more flexibility should they receive a strong offer to trade down from eight. Otherwise, pairing both the pass-rushers together would be a great way to ensure the front seven takes a major step forward in 2024.