Atlanta Falcons Have An Opportunity For A Big Splash This Offseason

Atlanta Falcons Step 2: Add Another Weapon, Tee Higgins

Another rumor circulating is that Tee Higgins could be on the trade block. With Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase extension looming, the Bengals may not be able to keep Higgins. Instead of letting him walk, they may follow the lead of other teams around the league and deal him for a pick. A team to watch if that happens is the Atlanta Falcons.

A.J. Brown was the last receiver to be moved in a deal like this. In three seasons with Tennessee, Brown had two 1,000-yard seasons, totaling 2,995 yards, and 24 touchdowns. Over Higgins’ first three seasons, he has two 1,000-yard seasons, totaling 3,028 yards, and 19 touchdowns. Philadelphia moved the No. 19 pick last year for Higgins.

Statistically, Brown and Higgins are very similar, so trade compensation should be similar as well. Holding the No. 8 pick, Atlanta is a bit higher than what they might be willing to give up for Higgins, but that doesn’t mean Cincinnati couldn’t offer something else in return in addition to Higgins if it means landing a Top 10 pick.

Another comparison could be Marquise Brown going to Arizona last year. Baltimore traded Brown and a third-round compensatory pick to Arizona for the No. 23 pick. Over three seasons, Brown totaled 2,361 yards and just one 1,000-yard season with 21 touchdowns.

Taking into account both the A.J. Brown and Marquise Brown trades, it appears that Atlanta should easily be able to receive a pick in return in addition to Higgins. Given when the Bengals pick in the second, No. 61, it would make sense that Atlanta could trade No. 8 for Higgins and that pick.

The reality of the 2023 NFL Draft is that the class is underwhelming compared to expectations. There isn’t a top tier wide receiver this year. If Atlanta wants to add a playmaker, a trade of this nature is their best bet. Adding Higgins to the mix of Drake London and Kyle Pitts with Lamar Jackson makes this a very dangerous offense to face.