The Atlanta Falcons should trade for DeMarcus Walker

Entering the 2019 season, the Atlanta Falcons have one of the more complete rosters in the NFL. One of the areas the Falcons still lack depth and talent is up front with pass rushers.

Prior to 2015, the Atlanta Falcons lacked talent and depth on the offensive line. After Kyle Shanahan was hired as offensive coordinator, the Falcons were forced to revamp their offensive line with the scheme change and one of the acquisitions Dimitroff made during this time was Andy Levitre.

Dimitroff traded a sixth round pick to the Titans in order to land Levitre just before the 2015 season kicked off. He ended up as the Falcons starting left guard from 2015-2018 and was a solid starter until injuries affected him the last couple of seasons.

Fast-forward to today. Thomas Dimitroff needs to make a similar move, except this time, the trade needs to be for a pass rusher.

Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Walker would be a fantastic trade for the Atlanta Falcons.

In college, Walker was one of the premier defensive ends at Florida State. During the 2015 season, Walker racked up nine sacks and improved that number his senior year with sixteen.

Florida State ran a 4-3 defense that Walker thrived in. His role was also very unique, as he would move inside and rush the passer over the guards as a way to mix up Florida State’s defense.

The Denver Broncos run a 3-4 defense and DeMarcus Walker is not a fit in this scheme. Walker is light for a 3-4 defense end and is not agile enough to be a 3-4 outside linebacker. He has not progressed as many thought he would have because of this.

Walker would thrive in the Atlanta Falcons defensive scheme. The defensive line has question marks with Vic Beasley, Adrian Clayborn, and Ra’shede Hageman being relied on this season.

A change of scenery is usually beneficial for players and Walker would be no different. Look nor further than Dante Fowler and Eric Ebron. Both players were considered busts, however, when they were traded to the Rams and Colts respectively, they started playing at a level that neither had before.

The Falcons do not have a lot of cap space for the 2019 season. Trading for a player like Walker who is still on his rookie deal is best-case scenario for them. Walker can be a fantastic rotational piece on the defensive line in pass rushing situations as he can play both inside and out.

The Atlanta Falcons would be smart to offer a fifth or sixth round pick for him as the former second round pick has not been productive but has potential.