Roddy White Frustrated with Role, Potential Trade Brewing?

Roddy White has been an integral part of the Atlanta Falcons organization for the last decade.

The 33-year-old receiver owns Falcons’ records in most career receiving yards, most receptions and most 1000 yard seasons amongst others. Over the past couple of weeks, reports from around the shield stated that Roddy White is unhappy with his current role on the 4-0 Atlanta Falcons. After a streak of 30 consecutive games with a reception, Roddy White did not record a catch against the New York Giants or the Dallas Cowboys.

Now that Julio Jones is the de facto #1 receiver, Leonard Hankerson has asserted himself as a significant option for Matt Ryan on offense and Devonta Freeman has rejunevated a virtually extinct running game, Roddy White is now more of a role player.

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Last week, Roddy White stated that he just wants to win and wants to help the team any way he can; but earlier this week, an ESPN report painted a picture that White had become disallusioned with his role with the Falcons, and may want out. The report went so far as to claim that some teams have inquired about Roddy White, and if the Atlanta Falcons would be willing to trade the veteran.

Given that Roddy White is in the twilight of his career, and that he is perhaps unhappy with his role, would the Falcons actually trade Roddy White? The answer is no, of course. D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal Constitution interviewed White on Tuesday following the ESPN report, and clarified his remarks. Roddy White stated,

"“I’m here for one thing and that’s to win…This is nothing to get mad over, I can’t control no plays that are being called in the huddle. All I can do is run the routes I’m supposed to run on the play and do my job. That’s all I can do.“"

Reading between the lines, it does sound as if Roddy White is somewhat unhappy, but knows that his desire to win is tantamount to any selfish want to get the ball. Also, if the Falcons were to trade White, what would they net in return? Not much. His veteran presence in the locker room and his presence on the field are more valuable than any 6th round pick Atlanta might get in return.

Head Coach Dan Quinn also chimed in following the report, and spoke with Roddy White about his role on the team. Quinn stated,

"“He’s somebody that we think the world of and think a ton of. The [opportunities] will be there, although they weren’t in some of the games. We certainly think that they will be moving forward.“"

What Quinn said is the crux of this whole ordeal: the opportunities have not presented themselves yet. The Atlanta Falcons are one of the best offensive teams in the league and have a plethora of weapons. Roddy White is still an effective receiver and route runner.

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