As we rapidly approach the deadline for final roster cuts, the Falcons face several pivotal questions along their offensive line. Their depth has taken such a hit that several analysts have suggested they explore both the free agent and trade markets.
With RT Kaleb McGary likely heading for the injured reserve list, Atlanta seems to have lost Michael Penix Jr.‘s blindside protector for a significant amount of time. As if that weren’t bad enough news, OT Storm Norton could miss six to eight weeks due to ankle surgery.
With just under two weeks until Week 1, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell proposed an intriguing trade to send the Falcons a Super Bowl champion replacement to aide their significantly injured offensive line.
Falcons and Chiefs Would Swap Third-Year Players in Trade
At this point in the offseason, the Falcons are running out of options to replace McGary and Norton. I’ve covered two of those options recently, including a potential trade for Evan Neal and signing of La’el Collins.
Even though the trade deadline is still about 10 weeks away, there aren’t many offensive linemen avalable at this point. But, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell put together a proposal that would send Chiefs OT Wanya Morris to Atlanta in exchange for CB Clark Phillips III and a 2027 sixth-round pick.
As a note, Barnwell’s proposal shows the Chiefs sending their 2027 sixth-round pick to the Falcons. But, later in the article, it appears that Barnwell meant to include the pick as going to the Chiefs.
As Barnwell noted, the Falcons’ injuries have opened up “a major hole” on the right side of their offensive line. Offensive linemen are among the most important players for every single team in the league, but it’s especially important for a young, southpaw quarterback to have their blindside protected.
Even though the Chiefs eventually benched Morris for Weeks 14 through 17, Barnwell wrote that he “is a more valuable player than it might seem.” Morris experienced some sophomore struggles last season, allowing Patrick Mahomes to be sacked five times.
But, as a former third-round pick, Morris is set for combined cap hits of just under $3.2 million over the next two seasons. That’s a fantastic value for an emergency option at offensive tackle. Especially if it only costs you a backup corner and a sixth-round pick in the trade.
“In a market in which Dan Moore and current Chiefs lineman Jaylon Moore received $15 million or more per season in free agency, Morris would have meaningful value if he were on the open market,” Barnwell wrote.
Barnwell Warns Against Sending Away Even More Future Draft Capital
Last season, the Chiefs dealt with some glaring holes along their offensive line, especially during their blowout Super Bowl loss. So, this trade might not be as likely as some Falcons fans would hope. But, after Kansas City made the decision to bench Morris, they may be more willing to listen to trade offers.
For the Chiefs, as important as their offensive line depth is, they could also use help in their defensive backfield. Clark Phillips III could benefit from a change of scenery and Super Bowl championship pedigree in Kansas City.
He appeared in 16 games last season, but only started two of them. As well as he played in coverage, Barnwell noted that “he has some concerns as a tackler.” Phillips recorded 35 tackles across just over 400 defensive snaps. But, his missed tackle rate jumped from 10% to above 14%, which could signal a lingering tackling issue.
Even though Phillips is currently dealing with a rib injury, Barnwell believes he could serve as a fourth cornerback with the Chiefs.
As for the Falcons, Barnwell noted that general manager Terry Fontenot may not be interested in trading away even more draft capital. But, I believe it could be worth it to fill in a crucial spot for Penix’s first season as the starter.
As of now, the Falcons do not have a first- or fifth-round pick in next year’s draft. But, I think this year is too important for Penix’s development to rely on their current depth options at tackle.
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