The Falcons report to training camp next week, but I’m still holding out hope that Atlanta will make a significant addition to the defense, whether that be in the secondary or the pass rush.
But what about a blockbuster trade to bolster the offense even more? The biggest name on the market is Brandon Aiyuk, who recently requested a trade from the 49ers, and Josh Kendall of The Athletic proposed an interesting package for his services.
The Falcons beat reporter suggested a trade of Zach Harrison and a 2025 first-round pick for the All-Pro pass catcher; here’s what Kendall had to say about the prospect of a trade coming to fruition.
The Falcons could be sneakily aggressive participants if there is a real Aiyuk trade opportunity. Atlanta’s brass has shown the desire to be all-in under first-year coach Raheem Morris. Plus, the Falcons were outbid for edge rusher Montez Sweat last year only to watch Sweat turn around the Chicago Bears pass rush, and Atlanta’s unproven wide receiving corps could use a boost. So they would seem happy to offer up their 2025 first-rounder plus a young player. The problem is finding a young player who they can spare and would help San Francisco. Atlanta isn’t deep enough at any position (except quarterback, we know), so any quality player it gives up will hurt. Linebacker Nate Landman would give the 49ers insurance and quality depth while Dre Greenlaw continues his ACL rehab. But the 22-year-old Harrison is a more tempting offer, and 81-year-old Arthur Blank feels like he’s operating with a sense of urgency at the moment.
The Falcons have a more than respectable receiving core, headlined by Kyle Pitts and Drake London. The pair of top 10 picks haven’t sniffed the level of production that they’re capable of because poor quarterback play has plagued Atlanta. Something similar could be said about Darnell Mooney too.
With Pitts, London, and Mooney, Kirk Cousins should have plenty of intriguing options to distribute the ball to, but I’ll never argue with adding an elite talent like Ayiuk. However, the cost must also be considered.
Zach Harrison isn’t some budding superstar pass rusher, but the Falcons don’t need to be making a position of weakness even weaker. Moreover, a first-round pick is nothing to scoff at. More than anything, the Falcons have to consider the financial ramifications of the trade.
Brandon Aiyuk wants to be moved because the 49ers are unwilling to meet his contractual demands, which probably sit around $28-ish million per year. Atlanta probably isn’t in a position to pay him either with so much cap tied up in the quarterback position.
Now, if the Falcons just drafted Michael Penix Jr., his rookie contract would make a deal for Aiyuk possible, but as the team currently stands, it doesn’t seem feasible. It’s still fun to imagine, though.
