Tony Gonzalez Trade, Falcons Soar Higher!

Well, it's official...Tony Gonzalez is a Falcon. The Falcons traded the Chiefs their second rounder in 2010 for the perennial pro-bowler. Both teams come out winners in the deal, with the Falcons getting the immediate benefit. Let's take a look at both sides and the impact the trade will have.

The Kansas City Chiefs are in rebuilding mode and can definitely use more draft picks. Even though the pick is next year it will still help the Chiefs. The loss of Gonzalez on the field as their TE will definitely be felt but how much is yet to be seen.

One thing is for certain: Gonzalez is a class act, and even though he wanted to be traded, he didn't (and wouldn't have) cause the Chiefs trouble like other crybabies in the league. However, when a player isn't happy, his production on the field usually declines (a la Randy Moss in Oakland, Chad Johnson in Cincy).

The Falcons definitely came out good on the deal. Gonzalez is another weapon for Matt Ryan on offense and will also help with the run game. The addition of Gonzalez will make teams think twice about stacking the box against Atlanta (or blitz for that matter) this season.

The Falcons are giving up a second round pick which may seem steep. However, the pick is in 2010 and also frees up another pick for the Falcons to draft defense this year. With this year's draft, Atlanta should be able to stock the defense and there shouldn't be many holes to fill in 2010. With a stocked roster, a second round draft choice next year may not matter that much to the team.

Gonzalez should also benefit from the trade. He wanted to be traded to a contender, and if the Falcons can shore up the defense, the Falcons look to be one next season. I bet Matt Ryan is grinning about now and can't wait to get on the field with Gonzalez.

Gonzalez should be a security blanket for the young Ryan. Defensive coordinators will have some late nights scheming and game planning for the Falcons offense this season. This is a deal that seems to make everyone happy and is definitely going to immediately help the Falcons.