Take a deep breath Atlanta Falcons fans, the Seattle Seahawks are denying the Michael Bennett trade rumor

The Atlanta Falcons were linked to Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett earlier today. He reportedly wanted to be traded to the Falcons, the new home of defensive coordinator turned head coach, Dan Quinn. It was shocking news met with excitement by a franchise underwhelmed by a fairly bland free agency period.

But alas, it appears this rumor may not have legs, because for what it's worth, the Seahawks are denying they know anything about it.

The Seahawks have denied a report by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that Seattle defensive end Michael Bennett has requested a trade to the Atlanta Falcons.

ESPN Adam Schefter was told by Seahawks officials that they have no knowledge of the Bennett trade request. The report, by Dallas Cowboys beat writer Clarence Hill, also said Bennett wants a new contract.

I wouldn't be surprised if the Seahawks denied the rumor, at least initially. It only weakens their bargaining position to admit that Bennett wants to be traded. That said, Clarence Hill is standing by his sources.

"I was working the Greg Hard deal ... I trust the people that I got the information from. Certainly I don't cover the Seahawks and I wasn't necessarily trying to break news on the Seahawks. It sort of just fell in my lap, and I trust the people I deal with ... I wouldn't tweet anything out that I don't believe in."

My guess? This isn't a fabricated. The Seahawks have a genuine interest in Greg Hardy. It would appear that they're concerned about potentially replacing Bennett. And to that effect, Bennett hasn't come out denying the possibility. That's not what you'd expect from a guy that just signed a new four year deal last off-season.

Your thoughts?