Falcons quiet as trade deadline approaches

Oct 27, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez (88) makes a catch during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

After a gutting loss in Arizona on Sunday, the rumor mill picked back up surrounding the Atlanta Falcons and the trade market. The NFL’s trade deadline occurs today (Tuesday) at 4:00 pm ET, and that also brings a little bit of scrutiny toward the team. However, if reports are true, it will likely come and go without much fanfare.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter echoes sentiments that we’ve heard from both head coach Mike Smith and general manager Thomas Dimitroff tearing down any notion that Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez would be on the move. Earlier in the month, we dismissed this notion on the basis that the season was far from over, but even at 2-5, the message hasn’t changed for the Falcons.

On one hand, it would be the only play for the Falcons to denounce the possibility of dealing Gonzalez, even if they trying to make that move behind the scenes, but in this case, I fully believe what is being stated publicly. Tony doesn’t seem to be the kind of guy who would “demand” a trade, and while his former team (Kansas City) could desperately use his services, the Falcons seemingly don’t want to give any indication that they are “blowing it up” after a woeful 7-game stretch.

Stay tuned as the deadline approaches, but all signs point to silence.