With multiple reports surfacing that Atlanta is looking to move up in the draft, there began a swirl of rumors surrounding the Falcons — Ian Rappoport and Dane Brugler gave us a little insight into what the team may be thinking.
An ATL trade up for CB CJ Henderson is something to watch for… https://t.co/w8xZvQDMjB
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) April 15, 2020
Regardless of if the Falcons make a move for Henderson, Kinlaw, Simmons, or maybe even a dark horse like Okudah — it appears they are evaluating every option. Let’s dive into some teams Atlanta could be looking to jump in the 2020 Draft.
Oakland Raiders (Pick 12)
This is the latest I could see Atlanta moving up. By trading with Oakland, they would be jumping San Francisco (holding Indianapolis’ pick) to acquire Javon Kinlaw if he is still around. San Francisco could be looking to replace DeForest Buckner who they traded for this pick.
New York Jets (Pick 11)
Making a trade with the Jets could be Atlanta looking to move up for C.J. Henderson. Oakland had an atrocious pass defense in 2019, and he’s primed to be a target for John Gruden. However, after taking Clelin Ferrell 4th overall last year — you never know what Gruden has up his sleeve. New York also needs a cornerback and could be eyeing Henderson, but they may favor other options later in the draft and be willing to move back.
Cleveland Browns (Pick 10)
The Browns are primed to trade back, especially if there’s a run on offensive tackles before their pick. They could have their eyes on Boise State’s Ezra Cleveland, picking up some extra draft capital in the process. Depending on how many quarterbacks are taken in the top 10, Atlanta might be able to snag an elite prospect with this pick.
Arizona Cardinals (Pick 8)
Depending on draft day moves for QBs and OTs (which I think there will be a substantial run for), Atlanta has a chance to steal someone here. Derrick Brown or Isaiah Simmons might be this season’s Josh Allen. Allen was pushed down the board last season, and Jacksonville selected a player that had no business being outside the top three. This is probably Atlanta’s sweet spot.
Detroit Lions (Pick 3… Maybe)
Here’s the ultimate blockbuster. A deal with the Lions would be a Julio Jones-Esque trade, a couple of first-rounders, and some other selections, but that is what it would cost in this year’s draft. So many teams are trying to move up for a QB, so if Detroit falls to pick 5/6/7 in a trade with Los Angeles… it could still be a worthwhile trade. The Lions should have their eyes on Jeff Okudah to pair with old friend Desmond Trufant. Okudah would be a dream pick for Atlanta, and if the team does move up to three…. Washington could make a very, very big mistake, passing on a certain Buckeye and make TD look like a genius. I highly doubt this will happen, however, given the number of needs the Falcons have.
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