The Atlanta Falcons made two significant moves ahead of the NFL Trade Deadline, trading All-Pro safety Jessie Bates on Monday and starting center Ryan Neuzil on Tuesday. With Atlanta still in the hunt for the NFC South title, the timing of the moves raises questions about the team's direction. NFL analyst Mark Schlereth believes the message is clear: the Falcons are prioritizing assets and positioning themselves for next season.
Mark Schlereth: Falcons actions indicate where things are heading
TAMPA, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 1: Jessie Bates III #3 of the Atlanta Falcons strips the ball from Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers resulting in a touchback during the first half of the game at Raymond James Stadium on November 1, 2026 in Tampa, Florida.
Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images
dt_original: None
show_updated: None
---
By Abe Gordon,
Abe Gordon
See Full Bio
Follow:
Midday Show w/ Andy & Randy
See Full Bio
Follow:
Nov 11, 2026, 01:38 PM ET
