Atlanta Falcons need this trade bust to step up in week six

Six weeks into the season there should be no questions the Atlanta Falcons have lost their trade for receiver Bryan Edwards so far. Edwards hasn’t had any impact on the team spending most of the season injured or failing to make plays.

The most memorable play of the Atlanta Falcons season that involved Edwards was Mariota’s ill-advised throw to attempt to complete the comeback against the Rams. Targeting Edwards who was guarded by Jalen Ramsey ended with a memorable interception that ended Atlanta’s comeback hopes.

Edwards has two catches for a total of 12-receiving yards on the season and has been outgained offensively by almost every pass catcher or running back that has played a snap. This speaks to the resounding lack of impact a receiver that was expected to be the second option has had so far this season.

Atlanta acquired Edwards after a season that saw him finish the year with 571-receiving yards and catching three touchdowns in an impressive season. The Raiders had too many options at the position and decided to move on from a player that would be their fifth option.

While a small part of Edwards’ struggles can be blamed on Mariota the biggest issues have been his health and inability to find quick separation when he is on the field. If Atlanta is going to continue to surprise teams and hold games close Edwards is going to have to be one of the players that steps up with Cordarrelle Patterson on the shelf.

We watched last season twice when Derek Carr badly needed plays Edwards stepped up and had a huge game. He is a capable playmaker that Atlanta needs to find a way to get going and take some of the pressure off rookie receiver Drake London.  For now, however, there is no denying what a huge bust the trade has been for Atlanta so far.