The Falcons shocked a lot of fans a couple of weeks before the start of the season when they traded for Matthew Judon and signed Justin Simmons.
Typically, it’s not Atlanta making the blockbuster acquisitions, but as we’ve seen, Terry Fontenot may be a bit more inclined than in the past. Whether it’s Raheem Morris, Kirk Cousins or even Arthur Blank, the Falcons are in a different state than in years past.
There’s no reason to expect this kind of aggressive approach to suddenly end either. If the Falcons feel an available player will make them better, I imagine they’ll seriously consider the acquisition.
Even though the NFL trade deadline isn’t until November, it’s never too early to start talking about potential targets. A lot can change from now until the deadline, like injuries, so there’s no telling what the Falcons may be looking for; however, right now, it seems rather obvious.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, it’s a cornerback — Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones to be exact.
The Patriots have looked a bit more competitive than expected so far, but they certainly could fade. And if so, Jones is a player teams were circling in the offseason. Those seeking a cornerback could kick the tires once again, as Jones has 11 tackles this season and is only two years removed from a four-interception season.
Potential landing spot: Atlanta Falcons. A.J. Terrell is a star, but the Falcons could still stand to upgrade the spot opposite him. Atlanta is 19th in interception rate (1.9% of opponent dropbacks). The Chiefs, Ravens and Steelers would all love to add Jones, too.
Through two games, Mike Hughes has proven more than serviceable opposite of A.J. Terrell. The Falcons have started a new corner every single year since drafting Terrell some years ago, and Hughes wasn’t expected to be the long-term answer.
To this point, he’s been excellent, but the tests haven’t been incredibly difficult. The Eagles and Steelers don’t exactly strike fear into opposing cornerbacks, but the Chiefs are a different story. We will learn a lot about Hughes, and the Falcons secondary this Sunday.
I wouldn’t count out targeting a cornerback at the trade deadline, but the pass rush has been a bigger weakness through Week 2. Trading for another pass rusher could be the better option because it doesn’t seem Arnold Ebiketie is ever going to take that big step in his development, and Lorenzo Carter is what he is.
A guy like Haason Reddick would be ideal. He can win one-on-ones regularly, which isn’t Matthew Judon’s forte. The Falcons haven’t been able to get consistent pressure on quarterbacks unless they simulate pressure, bring extra defenders, or use twists and stunts.
The Falcons will hopefully be in postseason contention at the time of the trade deadline, and there are areas to upgrade still. Injuries can also arise and force the team’s hand, so we will monitor these situations going forward.
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