For teams seeking some under-the-radar help on the edge, Atlanta could have an answer to their needs. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler passed along today that Falcons linebacker Arnold Ebiketie is generating trade interest.
In fact, the former second-round pick has been a trade target since the preseason, although the Falcons haven’t shown any desire to trade him up to this point. Fowler notes that Atlanta’s front office will listen to offers on any players, leading the reporter to believe Ebiketie could be had for the right price.
Ebiketie appeared to be a foundational piece as recently as last season. The Penn State product collected 12 sacks between the 2023 and 2024 seasons, and he added another 24 QB hits and nine tackles for loss over that span. Pro Football Focus graded him 46th among 119 qualifying edge defenders for his performance last season.
As the Falcons prioritized youth on defense in 2025, Ebiketie has seen a lesser role behind the likes of James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker. Ebiketie has yet to record a sack this season while compiling 21 stops. PFF currently ranks him 52nd among 119 qualifiers, with his score being partially propped up by his coverage grade.
The 26-year-old is set to hit free agency following the season, so even if the Falcons do intend to keep him around for a second contract, a trade partner probably wouldn’t be required to give up a haul for the pass rusher. For teams that are unable to pry away some of the more popular pass-rush names on the market, Ebiketie may end up being a logical fallback option.