Falcons Trade Rumors: Latest News, Reports and Speculation

The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly interested in moving up in the 2015 NFL draft in an effort to land a defensive playmaker.

Continue for updates.

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Falcons Interested in Trading Up; Could Trade Back for Offensive Lineman

Wednesday, April 28

Ian Rapoport of NFL.com reported that while there are rumors regarding Atlanta trading up for a pass-rusher, "Most teams I talk to think they trade back & take an O-lineman."

On April 27th, Albert Breer of NFL Network noted Monday that the Falcons are “inquiring on trading up” for an “impact defender.”

Considering the Falcons were 32nd in total defense, 27th in scoring defense and 30th in sacks last season, this makes sense. The only way they will reach the 2015 playoffs is with an improved effort on defense, even with offensive players such as Matt Ryan and Julio Jones on the other side of the ball.

On Tuesday, April 28, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reported that the player most likely to see Atlanta trading up would be Leonard Williams.

However, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal Constitution recently reported that “it shouldn’t be a surprise that the Falcons will consider trading up to try and land Florida defensive end Dante Fowler Jr., who was recruited by head coach Dan Quinn and played two seasons for him in Gainesville, Florida.”

Atlanta general manager Thomas Dimitroff made a trade in each of his first seven drafts with the team, so this concept is nothing new to him.

This draft is loaded with potential difference-makers along the defensive line, including Dante Fowler Jr., Leonard Williams, Vic Beasley, Randy Gregory, Shane Ray and Bud Dupree. Atlanta has plenty of options available if it is interested in trading up to grab someone.

If Fowler really is the pick, Atlanta will receive a defensive asset who is versatile enough to play defensive line or linebacker with an explosive first step and impressive pursuit. Someone with that skill set can certainly challenge for immediate playing time as a rookie.