Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke’s performances were directly linked to Arthur Smith’s dismissal, and if the team fails to address the quarterback situation properly this time, it could lead to the next coach’s downfall.
When it comes to potential quarterback options in the professional player pool, Justin Fields stands out as the only viable choice with enough potential to develop into a franchise quarterback.
The Falcons should avoid short-term fixes like Russell Wilson, Kirk Cousins, or Baker Mayfield and instead focus on younger prospects. Ideally, the team should find a solution through the draft, with top candidates being Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Jayden Daniels. In my opinion, the preferred order among them is Maye, Williams, and then Daniels. However, trading up for any of these prospects, especially the top one, would require a significant deal.
In a recent mock draft from The Athletic, the Falcons make a bold move, trading with the Bears to secure the 1st overall pick and selecting the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, Caleb Williams. While the proposed trade of two first-round and two second-round picks to move up from the 8th overall pick might seem ambitious, the author expresses willingness to make such a deal without hesitation.
Despite the perceived high cost, the author considers a couple of firsts and seconds for a franchise quarterback a reasonable investment. Comparing it to the likely price for the 1st overall pick, the author suggests a more realistic deal for the Falcons would involve three first-round picks, a couple of second-rounders, and Kyle Pitts. Despite the significant trade assets involved, the author expresses a strong inclination to make the deal without hesitation.
The overarching message is clear: Without securing a talented quarterback, winning a Super Bowl remains a distant prospect for the Falcons.
