Falcons could make bold trade for Penn State’s Abdul Carter in 2025 NFL Draft
The Atlanta Falcons currently hold the No. 15 overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. While quality players will be available at that position, the team might consider an aggressive move up the draft board.
Adding an elite pass rusher should be Atlanta’s top priority.
Nick Suss of The Tennessean has proposed a blockbuster trade that would send the Falcons to the No. 2 overall pick to select Penn State standout Abdul Carter.
In the suggested deal, Atlanta would trade pick No. 15, pick No. 118, a 2026 first-round pick, a 2026 third-round pick, and quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for picks No. 2 and No. 179.
This type of trade would dramatically reshape the 2025 draft landscape.
Carter would be a significant addition for the Falcons’ defense. While this trade scenario seems unlikely, it could make sense for Cleveland if they’re looking to move back and target a quarterback like Jaxson Dart.
During the 2024 college football season at Penn State, Carter recorded 68 total tackles, 12 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four defended passes. Many analysts believe he has the potential to become a generational pass-rushing talent.
As the Falcons aim to return to contention in the NFC, such a move would accelerate their timeline. They would essentially mortgage much of their 2026 NFL Draft, but Carter’s talent could justify the cost.
For the Browns, this deal would help them recoup draft capital following the Deshaun Watson trade. While they wouldn’t get top prospects like Shedeur Sanders, Carter, or Travis Hunter, they could still add a significant piece at No. 15. Cousins would provide them with a reliable bridge quarterback option.
