Aside from their surprisingly sharp pair of Day 3 linebackers, the Atlanta Falcons haven't gotten much from their 2026 rookie class yet.
There's still plenty of time for the other picks to grow into their respective games, but part of the problem is that the Falcons didn't have that all-important asset that is a first-round pick last year, having surrendered theirs as part of the trade up for James Pearce.
At this year's NFL trade deadline, the worst thing that the Falcons could do is trade another first - especially since they're not looking so hot right now.
The Athletic's beat reporter Josh Kendall agrees and advises the team to stand pat at the deadline next week.
"The Falcons have lost three of their last four games, most recently in embarrassing
fashion in Tampa, Fla., but they aren’t out of the division race. In fact, they’re only a half-game out of first place in the NFC South. Atlanta’s new president of football Matt Ryan, general manager Ian Cunningham and coach Kevin Stefanski would love to provide some proof of concept by stealing a playoff spot this year, so it doesn’t make sense to deal any player of value they have. At the same time, they are far from true contenders in the conference, and Cunningham is going to be very protective of future draft picks, so there’s just no money with which to buy anything."
This is mostly right and it would be a mistake to part with any of their Day 1 or Day 2 draft picks for 2027. However, the Falcons do still need to add a legitimate WR3 - and doing so shouldn't cost them more than a fifth-rounder.
A lot of potential No. 3 targets are floating around out there, including Calvin Ridley, Kayshon Boutte and Jauan Jennings.
On the higher end there are options like George Pickens and Garrett Wilson, but they would likely cost too much to acquire. Going Into the deadline the Falcons should keep their options open but realistic, as well.
However, it shouldn't come as a surprise if Atlanta does not make a move. The front office likely sees rookie Zachariah Branch as the logical option for that role in the long run, however, he's currently dealing with a hamstring injury. The Falcons may not be looking to give up any draft capital right now, even at a reasonable price.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Insider advises Falcons to stand pat at NFL trade deadline
