The Atlanta Falcons are in good shape entering Week 8 of the 2024 NFL season, but there’s one clear issue the team must address in order to secure a postseason berth.
For years, the Falcons’ pass rush has been a problem, particularly their lack of sacks. In 2024, the team is ranked last in the NFL with six sacks in seven games. Even the lowly Carolina Panthers have more sacks than the Falcons.
Despite trading for Matthew Judon in August, the team has not consistently been able to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Judon and defensive lineman Grady Jarrett are tied for the team lead in sacks with 1.5 each.
Could Atlanta make another move for an edge rusher ahead of the 2024 NFL trade deadline? Tyler Dragon of USA TODAY Sports suggested the Falcons trade for Dolphins edge Emmanuel Ogbah:
The Falcons have an NFL-low six sacks this season. Atlanta traded for Matthew Judon in August. However, Judon’s generated just 1.5 sacks. Judon’s seen his fair share of chip blocks and an occasional double teams. The Falcons can assist Judon by adding another veteran pass rusher opposite him. — Tyler Dragon, USA TODAY Sports
Ogbah, 30, has more sacks (2.0) than any player currently on the roster. The veteran edge rusher also has 18 tackles and five QB hits this season. Over his first nine NFL seasons, Ogbah has 44.5 sacks and 106 QB hits.
Atlanta has plenty of depth at defensive tackle, but besides Judon, the edge rushers have been underwhelming. Arnold Ebiketie has yet to become the difference maker the team drafted him to be in the second round of the 2022 draft.
DeAngelo Malone gets almost no playing time, and Lorenzo Carter, who suffered a concussion, is now on the injured reserve list. With rookie defensive end Bralen Trice also on injured reserve, it does make sense to upgrade the position.
James Smith-Williams will have to hold down the fort until general manager Terry Fontenot makes his next move.
