Atlanta Falcons Eye Cornerbacks as Trade Deadline Approaches
The NFL’s trade deadline, set for November 4th, is fast approaching, and the Atlanta Falcons find themselves in a strategic position to bolster their roster. Sitting at a balanced 3-3, the Falcons face a favorable matchup against the Miami Dolphins this week, which could propel them to a promising 4-4 record by the time the deadline arrives. As the clock ticks down, the Falcons are rumored to be in pursuit of several cornerbacks who could enhance their defensive capabilities.
Potential Trade Targets
ESPN has identified the Falcons as a prime candidate for three cornerbacks, all of whom could bring significant value to the team. The players mentioned as potential acquisitions include:
Riq Woolen (Seattle Seahawks)
Michael Carter II (New York Jets)
Roger McCreary (Tennessee Titans)
Each of these cornerbacks presents a unique skill set that could significantly improve Atlanta’s defense.
Riq Woolen’s Availability
The Falcons have been linked to Riq Woolen, a standout cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks. As the Seahawks eye a playoff run with a solid 5-2 record, the question arises: why would they consider trading Woolen? Reports suggest that Woolen may not align with the defensive scheme of head coach Mike Macdonald, leading multiple league executives to label him as a strong trade candidate.
One executive noted, “They’ve been wanting to move him for a while. He doesn’t fit what [Mike Macdonald] wants to do,” indicating that while Woolen possesses valuable man-coverage traits, his fit within the Seahawks’ system is questionable. Despite this, trading a player of Woolen’s caliber, especially with Devon Witherspoon’s ongoing health issues, poses a significant challenge for Seattle.
Carter’s Shot at a Fresh Start
Michael Carter II, currently with the New York Jets, has long been rumored to be on the Falcons’ radar. His previous ties to former Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich only add to the speculation. Although a trade didn’t materialize earlier in the offseason, ESPN now gives Carter a 45% chance of being moved, with the Eagles and Falcons identified as the best fits. While his tape may lack explosive plays, Carter’s strengths include play strength, competitive spirit, and a willingness to defend against the run, making him a versatile asset for Atlanta.
McCreary’s Future with the Titans
Another intriguing option for the Falcons is Roger McCreary of the Tennessee Titans. As a starter in the final year of his contract, McCreary finds himself in a precarious position with a team that is not in contention for the playoffs. ESPN suggests a 35% likelihood of his departure, with the Packers and Cardinals also in the mix. McCreary’s physicality and ability to disrupt plays make him an attractive target for Atlanta, especially as they seek to shore up their secondary.
Draft Capital Concerns
However, the Falcons face a significant hurdle in their pursuit of these cornerbacks: a limited stockpile of draft picks for the 2026 NFL Draft. Currently, they possess only five picks—one each in the second, third, fourth, sixth, and seventh rounds. This stands in stark contrast to teams like the New England Patriots, who have a wealth of ten picks. The Falcons’ lack of capital could complicate negotiations and require creative strategies to secure the players they desire.
Addressing Defensive Needs
The Falcons are in urgent need of depth at cornerback, particularly with A.J. Terrell’s recent injury issues. While Dee Alford has filled in admirably, there are concerns about his performance, especially with injuries impacting other defensive players. The addition of a new cornerback could not only strengthen the secondary but also provide essential support to the defensive unit as they approach the critical moments of the season.
Looking Ahead
As the trade deadline approaches, the Falcons’ front office, led by Terry Fontenot, is actively exploring options to enhance the team’s depth and performance. With the right moves, Atlanta could significantly improve their defensive lineup and set themselves up for a successful second half of the season.
