Could the Falcons trade down from their 31st pick?

This could finally be the year the Falcons do it: trade down from their first round pick and add more picks. There’s a lot working for Thomas Dimitroff this year that makes it possible.

First, the Falcons are finally in a valuable draft position. Last year, they had the 17th overall pick, which is really only interesting if a team is trying to jump whoever picks at 18. This year, the Falcons have one of the cheapest draft picks where teams can still get a fifth-year option. Last year there was some movement at 26 and 28, and I expect some teams looking to trade back up to give the Falcons a call.

The fifth-year is very valuable, and prevents teams from handing out an Andy Dalton or Colin Kaepernick contract before they know what type of player they have. You certainly don’t want to Kirk Cousins the situation.

Second, the Falcons don’t have a long list of glaring needs. They need a starter at guard, they should add another pass rusher, and then we are just looking at depth. The Falcons could easily trade back, go best player available, and improve the roster the best way possible. They don’t need to come away from this draft with four or five starters.

Third, this draft is reportedly very deep at multiple positions the team could use. I’ve seen analysts say this draft is deep at defensive line, tight end, and defensive back. The team could hit on a few of these positions later in the draft, and don’t need to pay a premium by addressing them with their first round pick.

As I see it, there should be some motivated trade partners and the Falcons have the luxury of trading back.