The NFL trade deadline was Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 4 p.m. Some teams made moves, while others, including the Atlanta Falcons, opted to stand pat. There was speculation that the team might part ways with backup quarterback Kirk Cousins, but that didn’t come to pass. ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported that the Falcons “value” Cousins as a backup and could keep him in that role for the foreseeable future.
The Falcons have roster needs at wide receiver, offensive line, and cornerback, yet they didn’t appear to act urgently at the deadline since no trades occurred. Still, they made some roster additions after the deadline passed.
What Moves Did The Falcons Make?
The Falcons announced signing offensive tackle Andrew Stueber to the 53-man roster to add depth to the offensive line after left guard Matthew Bergeron suffered an ankle injury that forced him out of the Week 9 game against the New England Patriots.
Right guard Chris Lindstrom also was injured against the Patriots in Week 9, dealing with a foot/lower-body injury late in the game and not returning.
The team signed former Washington Commanders free-agent kicker Zane Gonzalez on Tuesday after a workout to ensure their special teams play is up to par. Gonzalez replaced Parker Romo, who missed a late-game point-after attempt against the Patriots that would have tied the game at 24; the Falcons ultimately lost 24-23.
They also signed long snapper Zach Triner to the practice squad after releasing kicker Ben Sauls.
What Does This Mean For the Falcons Going Forward?
The Falcons addressed the offensive line, which is a priority. The line has had communication issues and other instances where lapses caused them to fail to convert on multiple drives. With injuries affecting the line, adding depth was a positive move.
The running game needs improvement. With the extra offensive line help, running back Bijan Robinson could get more opportunities; he has only 12 carries for 46 yards so far.
The secondary has also dealt with injuries, and not adding another cornerback via trade could be a deterrent. However, if the team can get healthy, it can improve throughout the rest of the season.
The pass rush is set, with rookie edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. making an impact. A major factor for the Falcons is winning close games, and the moves they made give them a better chance to do so. Still, opposing teams may gain a slight advantage based on how Atlanta added to its roster after the trade deadline.
Atlanta has a 72.5 (C-) grade and No. 19 ranking in PFSN Offensive Impact metric, while the defense holds a 73.5 (C) grade and No. 18 ranking on PFSN’s DEFi leaderboard.
The Falcons will face the Indianapolis Colts in Berlin, Germany, on Sunday. They enter the game with a 3-5 record and in third place in the NFC South.