The trade deadline is just a week away, and the Falcons should have a much clearer sense of direction after Sunday’s road matchup against the red-hot Patriots. With a loss, Atlanta would fall to 3-5 on the year, followed by another daunting matchup against the Colts, who currently own the best record in football. That would effectively crush their playoff hopes and likely turn them into sellers at the deadline.
In that scenario, pass rusher Arnold Ebiketie is a name to watch, as ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports multiple teams have expressed interest. And, unsurprisingly, national outlets continue to push Kirk Cousins trade speculation — despite his dreadful showing against the Dolphins.
Potential for moderate activity, either in or out. The Falcons have received trade interest in pass rusher Arnold Ebiketie. Drumming up interest in quarterback Kirk Cousins could be tough due to a scarcity of available jobs. But could Atlanta explore a linebacker add with Divine Deablo on injured reserve or seek out a third receiver option? — Fowler
If the Falcons do end up selling, another obvious name to watch is Kyle Pitts. The former 4th overall pick is in the final year of his contract and amid a resurgent campaign, hauling in 39 balls for 344 yards and a touchdown through seven games. There will surely be a lot of calls about his availability over the next few days.
But with an upset win on Sunday, which would be pretty on brand with how this rollercoaster season has transpired, the Falcons probably will be looking to buy, especially with coaches and front office members fighting for their jobs. In that scenario, there are a number of areas that could be upgraded, none more obvious than right tackle.
Offensive tackle. Elijah Wilkinson was signed to be a depth guard and is stretched as a starting tackle. With an 82.3% pass block win rate, the veteran ranks 65th among 70 qualifying tackles. — Schatz
Wilkinson was never meant to be a starting tackle. Injuries to Kaleb McGary and Storm Norton forced him into that role. Credit to him for holding his own early in the season, but the last two games have exposed his limitations. The Falcons could look to upgrade the position, though Norton’s return from IR could prompt them to slide him back into the lineup instead.
Wide receiver is another area that may need addressing following the release of Ray-Ray McCloud last week.
Chiefs receiver Tyquan Thornton. He had a productive September filling in for absent receivers, but he has fallen back down the depth chart. Meanwhile, Atlanta released speedy WR3 and return man Ray-Ray McCloud III. For a team that lives in three-receiver sets, that No. 3 spot needs filling. Thornton has the right skills for the job. — Solak
The needs don’t really stop there either if the Falcons were to become buyers next week. With Divine Deablo out for the foreseeable future after suffering a fractured arm versus the 49ers, Atlanta desperately needs to find a starting caliber linebacker. They could also use a run stopper the size of a Mack Truck in the center of their defensive line, and more help in the secondary is always welcomed, even if it’s probably the least of their worries at the moment.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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