The Atlanta Falcons have a significant vulnerability, while the Las Vegas Raiders are due for a reset. A trade that could benefit both teams
The Atlanta Falcons and Las Vegas Raiders are trending in opposite directions after the season’s first month. The Falcons have won three of their first four games, leading the NFC South, while the Raiders have dropped two of their last three, including a disheartening home loss to the Carolina Panthers. Raiders coach Antonio Pierce hinted at internal problems, referring to “business decisions” in the aftermath .
Despite the Falcons’ early success, their pass rush is a major concern. With only five sacks, they rank last in the NFL and are on pace to record just 17 sacks this season, a sharp decline from the 42 they achieved last year. Only Carolina has fewer quarterback pressures, which could hurt Atlanta when facing elite quarterbacks in critical games.
On the Raiders’ side, the team seems to need a reset. Star receiver Davante Adams appears to be on the brink of forcing an exit, and he may not be the only one. The possibility of Maxx Crosby, their standout pass rusher, pushing for a trade has been floated. The idea of pairing Crosby with Atlanta’s defensive front, which already includes Matt Judon, Grady Jarrett, and David Onyemata, could elevate the Falcons to legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
However, making such a move would come at a significant cost, perhaps two future first-round picks. The Raiders, struggling with quarterback play, might prefer drafting their next franchise QB instead of trading Crosby. They had their eyes on Michael Penix Jr. before Atlanta selected him in the 2024 draft. Penix, seen as a future star, is currently sitting behind Kirk Cousins on the Falcons’ depth chart, leaving some to wonder if a trade involving him and Crosby is a possibility.
While a deal is unlikely given how much Atlanta has invested in Penix, and the Raiders’ hesitation to part with Crosby, the potential impact on both teams’ futures is worth considering as the Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches. Will Atlanta take the swing, or will both teams hold their cards? Only time will tell.
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