The NFL trade deadline is just a few weeks away, and the expectation around the league is that it will be an active one.

“In a copycat league where teams constantly are striving to improve, general managers already have begun exploring additional trades, and based on recent years, there could be at least another dozen to come,” league sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

For the first time in a while, the Atlanta Falcons find themselves in a position where they can justify being one of the most aggressive buyers at the trade deadline. Their Monday night win over the Bills proved they’re legitimate playoff contenders, featuring a completely revamped defense and a roster loaded with offensive stars. However, there are still clear areas for improvement, especially with injuries beginning to pile up at certain positions.

Falcons Trade Deadline Needs

Offensive Tackle

At this point, this appears to be less of a need than it did at the start of the season. Jake Matthews’ ankle injury against the Bills doesn’t appear to be serious, Elijah Wilkinson has been more than serviceable at right tackle in place of Kaleb McGary, and backup swing tackle Storm Norton is expected to return later this season. Still, adding insurance at the position should at least be considered.

Wide Receiver

Darnell Mooney hasn’t been healthy all season — appearing in just three games and recording seven catches for 79 yards — and it’s really exposed the Falcons’ lack of depth at wide receiver. Getting him back to full strength would be a major boost for the offense, but adding another receiver, specifically someone who excels against man coverage, would make life much easier for Michael Penix Jr.

Kicker

You don’t often see trades for kickers, but if there’s a struggling team willing to part with a reliable one, the Falcons should pursue the opportunity aggressively. Atlanta’s kicking woes have already cost them a game, and eventually, it could cost them a postseason spot.

Defensive Line / Pass Rush

The Falcons’ defensive line and pass rush have been the biggest revelations of the 2025 season, transforming from arguably the worst in the league to one of the best. There’s plenty of young talent, and everyone is contributing. However, the best teams are never satisfied — just look at how the Eagles have built their defensive front. The Falcons should be checking in on any defensive linemen or pass rushers who become available.

Cornerback

This is another area that’s performed far better than expected. A.J. Terrell continues to prove why he’s among the league’s elite corners, rookie Billy Bowman Jr. has injected energy into the secondary, and Dee Alford is having a tremendous bounce-back year. Still, adding depth at such a vital position is never a bad thing, especially if it is a player that is under contract for multiple years.

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