When the Atlanta Falcons reworked Matt Ryan‘s deal last week, many assumed the team was sticking by the veteran quarterback for another year at the very least. That may not be the case, though.
According to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Falcons have emerged as a sleeper to acquire Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Falcons owner Arthur Blank is fond of Deshaun Watson from the days when the former Gainesville (Ga) High quarterback worked multiple years as a Falcons’ ball boy and developed a relationship with Blank's family. https://t.co/EypxrnF9ma
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2022
Watson didn’t play last season after being accused of sexual misconduct by two dozen women. After Watson was not criminally charged by a court in Houston, the trade market for the former first-round pick has picked back up.
The Falcons weren’t believed to be involved in Watson trade talks, but it would make some sense to try and acquire the Gainesville, Georgia native.
Ryan is 36 years old and while he can still play at a high level, rebuilding around him may not be a realistic option with the lack of talent on the roster.