Aside from the obvious injuries at right tackle, the biggest Atlanta Falcons offensive question is how they will start the season at the receiver position. Darnell Mooney has been dealing with an injury, leaving Ray-Ray McCloud and Drake London as the only established options. While Mooney's status remains uncertain, there is one clear path the Falcons could take to erase all concerns and complete what appears to be a loaded offense.
Carolina Panthers veteran receiver Adam Thielen is expected to be traded this season, in what is the final year of his deal. The Panthers' pass catcher doesn't fit the team's timeline and should be dealt to a hopeful contender. With this in mind, the Falcons have the perfect answer if the Panthers are willing to deal within the division. It would reunite Thielen with his long-time quarterback and current backup, Kirk Cousins.
Looking at potential packages, you have to weigh both the fact that the Falcons share a division with the Panthers and the expiring deal. Outside of Atlanta, it seems a reasonable price is a sixth-round pick. However, due to the divisional concerns, the Falcons give up a selection a round earlier to convince Carolina to get the deal done.
Falcons Are the Perfect Surprise Landing Spot for Veteran WR Adam Thielen
The Falcons, when fully healthy, would have London, Mooney, Kyle Pitts, McCloud, and Thielen as the primary weapons for Michael Penix Jr. It is a move that further pushes Atlanta's chips to the center of the table and attempts to take advantage of a wide-open NFC South.
Atlanta is already making a difficult transition at quarterback with Penix having only started three games in his rookie season. Adding the experience of Thielen would give the young QB a security blanket to look to in key situations. It is the exact role that the former Minnesota Viking played during his time with Kirk Cousins. With bigger threats grabbing attention, Thielen is so often able to find the open space and make a play in the biggest moments.
Even as the receiver continues to age, there is still incredible value in adding his potential in exchange for a late-round pick. Compare Thielen's potential value to the average 5th-rounder in recent league history, and your chances of getting an impact player are far better opting to spend the pick on the receiver. Something the Falcons must consider as they prepare to make final roster decisions.