NFL Atlanta Falcons

5 Players Atlanta Falcons Could Trade By Deadline

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By @Brandon_Rant

5 Players Atlanta Falcons Could Trade By Deadline

5 Players Atlanta Falcons Could Trade By Deadline
Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Falcons seem to be headed for another disappointing season. The team sits at 2-5 with no real hope that things will get much better. They were built to put up points and stop the run, but are doing neither. The offensive line is in shambles, giving Matt Ryan no time to operate. It's just about time to start looking ahead to 2015. With that said, here are five players the Falcons could trade to begin setting up the offseason.

5. Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson, Atlanta Falcons RB
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

5. Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson, Atlanta Falcons RB
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

The Steven Jackson signing was questionable at best before 2013, and now almost halfway though 2014 the verdict is that it was a waste of money. Jackson looks like a shell of his former self, and the Falcons' offense doesn't best suit his skill set. There may be a team willing to part with a late-round pick to build some quality depth to their team. If the Falcons find someone willing to do that, they should jump on it.

4. Osi Umenyiora

Osi Umenyiora, Atlanta Falcons DE
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

4. Osi Umenyiora

Osi Umenyiora, Atlanta Falcons DE
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Another failed signing, Umenyiora has not produced in the Falcons' defense the last two seasons. Either the "designated pass rusher" role doesn't suit him or he just has nothing left in the tank. There may be a scheme or fit out there that another team would better be able to utilize him or injuries could force a need for some other teams. Either way, a late-round pick again would be a win and allow the Falcons to play more of their youngsters

3. Jacquizz Rodgers

Jacquizz Rodgers, Atlanta Falcons RB
Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports

3. Jacquizz Rodgers

Jacquizz Rodgers, Atlanta Falcons RB
Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports

Rodgers is a decent back with some ability. Problem is, the Falcons drafted another, potentially better version of him in Devonta Freeman. Rodgers will probably never be an every down back in the NFL, but he is a great change of pace back and a solid No. 2 guy. He could bring some value back for the Falcons and provide quality depth and carries to another team. Plus, it would open up more touches for Freeman and Antone Smith.

2. Devin Hester

Devin Hester, Atlanta Falcons WR
Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

2. Devin Hester

Devin Hester, Atlanta Falcons WR
Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Hester has not only provided the spark to the return game, but he's also been a productive offensive player for Atlanta. He's made some great catches and shown he may have been under-utilized in Chicago. Showcasing that value this season could make him a good pickup for a contending team needing to add a threat to its return game and a solid fourth receiver. The Falcons just signed Hester, but he's more valuable in a trade than on the field.

1. Roddy White

Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons WR
Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

1. Roddy White

Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons WR
Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

By far the most valuable piece the Falcons have to trade is Roddy White. He's under contract through the 2017 season, he's affordable and he's still a great receiver. White could be the spark a contending team needs to get to the next level. The Falcons may not want to do this, but White could bring the most back in return, and they need depth at too many other positions. Julio Jones makes White expendable, and the Falcons should consider it.

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