2012 Falcons Offseason: Possible Trade Scenarios That Could Re-Shape the Team

The Falcons are going to be very unlikely to make a trade this offseason for a few reasons. One of them is the overall lack of ammunition to trade by not having a lot of great trade options and very few picks. However, a couple of interesting options can be explored through trade. So here are the options that are available.

In - DeSean Jackson, Wide Receiver

DeSean Jackson could be a scary addition to the Falcons offense. He fits in with Dirk Koetter’s new four verticals scheme and could be an excellent screen receiver to catch and run behind Julio and Roddy. He would likely cost the second round pick that the Falcons have in addition to a huge contract. The biggest question is whether he is worth it or not, which many will say that he isn’t worth it, as he isn’t what you want off-the-field. Dimitroff likely would not even entertain this option.

In - Mario Williams, Defensive End

Mario Williams is a beast pass rusher. He would cost a fortune to bring in both cap-wise and pick-wise. But he could be a difference maker. One thought here could be a franchise and trade of Abraham and next year’s first for Williams. Then it would have a huge contract for Mario coming out of it. This is one that makes a good bit more sense than the Jackson trade. The Falcons do need a true pass rusher, and this is probably the most likely target as far as a traded for player.

Out - Michael Turner, Running Back

Michael Turner presents an interesting scenario. He’s top five in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns over the past four years and has been worth every penny of his contract. However, he has fallen off considerably. Turner needs a better line in front of him to get better, but he isn’t the pounder or the burner he once was. He could get value in the form of a solid offensive tackle or guard to bring more depth. The Falcons could then use a draft pick for a running back and re-sign Snelling.

Out - Sam Baker, Offensive Tackle

Sam Baker is a terrible excuse for an NFL offensive lineman. He’s been horrible in pass protection for four years now, but has been an excellent run blocker. He’s one of those guys that could be on the trade block because getting right of Sam Baker means saving $2 million and getting a fifth to seventh round value for him. He also has to earn his starting spot back in Atlanta. An extra depth pick for a guy who is likely to be cut is more than worth it.

Up - Trading a couple of picks for another player they decide is irresistible

Just like last year, it would not shock me to see Atlanta trade next year’s first rounder for a first rounder this year. There are quite a few good pass rushers, but the guy that could be the difference maker is Coby Fleener. He’s one of the guys in the draft that could fit the Tony Gonzalez role when Gonzo is gone.

Down - in the draft to pick up some picks

This is the absolute most likely scenario. Dimitroff knows the team has needs. It wouldn’t shock come draft day to see the Falcons trade down in the second round or even early third and pick up a fourth round pick if they don’t see anyone worth the pick. The Falcons have more needs than just depth this year and could easily see that and get a lot of mid-tier guys with Pro Bowl potential like TE LaDarius Green or LT Nate Potter.