The Falcons reportedly want to trade Julio Jones and several teams were mentioned as trade partners — but which is the best option for Atlanta to deal with?
Early in the offseason, the possibility that the Atlanta Falcons could trade wide receiver Julio Jones came about. However, due to the structure and size of the veteran superstar’s contract, any trade would have to take place after June 1. So as that date approaches, it makes sense that the rumors are starting to circulate once again, this time around with a bit more traction.
On Thursday, Jeff Schultz of The Athletic (subscription required) reported that the Falcons indeed want to trade Jones, noting that just because they want to doesn’t mean it will happen. Moreover, this isn’t exactly breaking news. Atlanta has been interested in trading Julio Jones for some time in light of their rough salary cap situation.
However, when discussing a potential trade partner Atlanta could work with, though the implication was there could be other teams involved, six teams were mentioned outright: the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Chargers, New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee Titans.
Again, that doesn’t mean another NFL team couldn’t come in and make a play to trade with the Falcons for Jones — teams like the Packers and Raiders immediately jump to mind. But looking at those six possible Julio Jones trade partners, we’re ranking them from worst-to-best in terms of fit and how easily a deal could be struck.
6. Tennessee Titans
In terms of the on-field fit, you’d be hard-pressed to find a team that needs Julio Jones more than the Tennessee Titans as they head into 2021.
Yes, the franchise has young A.J. Brown on their roster who, through two seasons, has more than proven that he can be a high-end target in a productive offense. At the same time, however, the departures of Corey Davis and Jonnu Smith in free agency, though necessary, have left Tennessee in a tough spot as it pertains to pass-catchers.
The Titans did sign Josh Reynolds in free agency but he’s never proven to be capable of carrying a No. 2 wide receiver load. And the rest of the depth chart at the position falls into a similar vein of not being proven commodities. Jones, of course, is just about as proven as they come if he can stay healthy and on the field.
Since the cost for the post-30 Jones should be somewhat modest and Atlanta may also be inclined to eat some of his salary, the Titans should be interested. The only thing holding them back is that, of the six teams linked to Jones, they are by far in the worst situation with the salary cap. With that said, if they can restructure some deals, Tennessee could still make a trade work.