We have known that a Julio Jones trade was on the table for about a month now. The Atlanta Falcons “leaked” this news to three different outlets to report it prior to the 2021 NFL Draft. Now, the Falcons again came out today to say they are still seeking a trade partner for the All-Pro wide receiver.
Every team not named the Tampa Bay Buccaneers should be making a play for Julio, though we know that will not happen. The contract is a lot to take on, which already limits teams. Other front offices are incapable of improving their team (looking at you, Packers ), so they also don’t have a legitimate shot. However, there are teams that are certainly interested and able to bring in Julio.
So, with that in mind, these are three teams who should trade for Julio Jones. They are also three teams in position to do so.
3 Teams Who Should Seek a Julio Jones Trade
Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts did not make many changes this offseason. They did, however, make a change at the most important position, trading for Carson Wentz to be their new quarterback. They clearly are hoping he returns to MVP-like form, but the Colts have done little to help him out. The offensive line is worse, with the retirement of Anthony Castonzo. They also have not addressed wide receiver, aside from re-signing the aging T.Y. Hilton.
The Colts defense is clearly solid, and the offense is the reason this team is being held back from competing in the AFC. A Julio Jones trade immediately improves this team, and defenses in the AFC would then need to worry about containing Julio, which is never a good time.
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers continue to have cap space . Reuniting Julio with his former offensive coordinator, who also happens to be among the best offensive minds in football, would be incredibly dangerous. Julio lined up alongside Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle is a problem, and Kyle Shanahan certainly knows that. This is an obvious trade for John Lynch to check on.
The Falcons also know they aren’t competing right now, so giving an NFC team one of the best wide receivers of all time isn’t a massive issue. Julio doesn’t have many great seasons left, so taking draft picks away from another NFC team may actually be the wisest move for the Falcons long term.
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots made many moves this offseason, including signing two tight ends to big contracts. Can you imagine a red zone offense that features Julio, Hunter Henry, Jonnu Smith and Cam Newton all on the field? This also gives Newton three massive receiving weapons to throw to, so hopefully the fact that he’s as accurate throwing the ball as Bill Belichick can be hidden a little. After reloading this offseason, a Julio Jones trade will again put the Patriots on the radar of competing.