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Falcons GM comments on Maason Smith trade, role on defense
TL;DR
The Atlanta Falcons traded Ruke Orhorhoro to the Jacksonville Jaguars for defensive tackle Maason Smith. General manager Ian Cunningham discussed Smith's potential role in the team's defense during a press conference.
Key points
- Atlanta Falcons traded Ruke Orhorhoro to the Jaguars
- Falcons acquired Maason Smith in exchange
- General manager Ian Cunningham discussed Smith's role
- Dexter Lawrence was traded to the Bengals for the 10th pick
- Falcons lacked assets for a deal for Lawrence
Atlanta FalconsJacksonville JaguarsNew York GiantsCincinnati Bengals
The Atlanta Falcons made a big move to trade for a new defensive tackle this weekend. Unfortunately, they didn't have the assets to make a deal for Dexter Lawrence, who went from the New York Giants to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 10th overall pick in the draft.
Instead, the Falcons made an under-the-radar trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars, sending over defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro in exchange for another defensive tackle, Maason Smith.
It's easy to see why Atlanta ditched Orhorhoro, who has underperformed for a second-round pick. However, it's less clear why they wanted Smith and exactly how he fits into Jeff Ulbrich's defense.
General manager Ian Cunningham shed some light on that in today's pre-draft press conference with new head coach Kevin Stefanski.
"I've evaluated him for awhile, since his time at LSU," Cunningham said of Smith. "Obviously, everybody knows the measurables, but he's a player who can play nose tackle and 3-tech for us. We really are excited about him in an attacking front and being able to get up field. He's strong, he's physical. We're excited about his upside and getting him with coach Ulbrich."
Q&A
Why did the Atlanta Falcons trade Ruke Orhorhoro for Maason Smith?
The Falcons traded Orhorhoro due to his underperformance and sought to acquire Smith to strengthen their defensive lineup.
What did Ian Cunningham say about Maason Smith's role on the Falcons' defense?
Ian Cunningham provided insights on Smith's fit within Jeff Ulbrich's defensive scheme during a pre-draft press conference.
What was the trade deal involving Dexter Lawrence and how did it affect the Falcons?
Dexter Lawrence was traded from the New York Giants to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 10th overall pick, which limited the Falcons' options in acquiring a top defensive tackle.
