The Atlanta Falcons have no shortage of young talent on their roster, from dynamic playmakers on offense to rising stars on defense. But while fans and analysts alike recognize the potential of this core group, a key question remains: What would it actually cost another team to trade for one of Atlanta’s top players?
That’s exactly what ESPN’s Bill Barnwell explored in a recent breakdown, where he assigned hypothetical trade values to notable players across the NFL, including several high-profile Falcons. His analysis goes beyond just raw stats, factoring in age, contract status, scheme fit, and long-term upside to show how the league views Atlanta’s most important assets.
Drake London: A Rising Star With Untapped Upside
GettyFalcons Drake London Is on the Verge of Something Big
Leading the pack is wide receiver Drake London, who Bill Barnwell believes would command “one first-round pick and more” if made available in a trade.
“It was difficult to evaluate London in the context of Arthur Smith’s offense,” Bill Barnwell notes, pointing out that the 2022 No. 8 overall pick was often marginalized in a run-heavy scheme. But that changed under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson in 2024. London broke out with 100 receptions, 1,271 yards, and nine touchdowns, thriving even as Atlanta cycled through quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr.
He ended the year strong with back-to-back performances of 106 and 187 yards, both with rookie Michael Penix Jr. under center, a stretch that hints at even more explosive potential.
Now 24 years old and extension-eligible, London could be eyeing a deal in the range of Garrett Wilson’s four-year, $130 million extension with the New York Jets. “There’s still some untapped upside here that might make London underpaid even after that extension,” Bill Barnwell added, noting that while Wilson may be slightly ahead developmentally, London still offers tremendous value.
Michael Penix Jr. & Others: First-Round Value With Questions
GettyThe Future of Atlanta?
Several other Falcons were also valued at one first-round pick, including quarterback Michael Penix Jr., running back Bijan Robinson, edge rusher Jalon Walker, and cornerback A.J. Terrell.
Penix is an intriguing case. The 2024 No. 8 overall pick made just three starts last season, leaving much of his NFL projection unanswered. “At this point, we just don’t know much about what Penix will be,” Bill Barnwell said.
While his upside as a passer is clear, concerns around his age (Penix is already 25 years old, the same age as 2021 draftee Trey Lance) could lower his trade value.
“If he turns out to be a great quarterback, that won’t matter,” Bill Barnwell added. “But teams might not be as aggressive in trading for a more marginal starter who will be in his late 20s by the time he’s eligible for an extension.”
Running back Bijan Robinson remains one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers known for his explosive speed and versatility, making him a valuable asset despite some injury concerns.
Cornerback A.J. Terrell has developed into a reliable starter in Atlanta’s secondary, showcasing strong coverage skills and physicality, and is viewed as a key piece in the team’s defensive future.
And edge rusher Jalon Walker is worth a first-round pick because, well, he was the Falcons 2025 first-round pick.
For the Falcons, these valuations underscore the importance of capitalizing on their young core while it remains affordable. Atlanta has the pieces to build something long-term.
London’s emergence as a true WR1 in a modernized offense paired with Penix’s potential as the franchise quarterback sits at the heart of Atlanta’s long-term vision. As the Falcons look to rebound from a disappointing 2024, these young stars are the foundation of whatever success comes next.
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