NFL analyst suggests Falcons trade for Browns pass rusher

The Atlanta Falcons can’t seem to figure out their pass-rush woes, but it’s tough to complain when they keep finding ways to win football games.

Not only is the team 5-3, Atlanta is 4-0 against the NFC South. In order to really become a contender, though, the team may need to make a move for another pass rusher.

Despite trading for former Patriots outside linebacker Matthew Judon, the Falcons remain dead last in sacks with six total after eight games.

This is why Yahoo NFL analyst Frank Schwab believes Atlanta should trade for Browns defensive end Za’Darius Smith at the 2024 trade deadline on November 5:

The Falcons traded for Matthew Judon, and still rank near the bottom of the NFL with [six] sacks. Maybe another trade would do the trick. Smith has five sacks this season and the Browns, at 2-6, shouldn’t be talking themselves into being in the playoff race. Smith could help a Falcons team that seems well on its way to winning the NFC South after sweeping the Buccaneers. — Frank Schwab, Yahoo Sports

Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, has as many sacks (6) as the Falcons’ entire defense entering Week 9. The former fourth-round pick has made steady progress throughout his career, developing into one of the NFL’s top pass rushers.

Since entering the league in 2015, Smith has recorded 65 sacks, 162 QB hits, 81 tackles for loss and 10 forced fumbles. The Browns upset the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8, but that shouldn’t prevent them from being sellers at the trade deadline.

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said the team is always looking to improve. While it’s entirely possible that the team will make a move, there’s no guarantee it will be for a difference-maker like Smith.

The 32-year-old would give Atlanta two quality pass rushers, increasing the team’s chances of making a deep playoff run.