​If the Atlanta Falcons decide to make one more move before the 2026 NFL season kicks off, they should consider adding another wide receiver to a corps led by Drake London, with several unproven options behind him. Even with a free-agent approach, several marquee names remain on the market, including Stefon Diggs, Deebo Samuel, and five-time All-Pro Tyreek Hill, who previously teamed with Tua Tagovailoa with the Miami Dolphins.
If the big-name free agents prove too pricey, Atlanta could pivot to trading for a reliable WR2. On that front, Kayshon Boutte of the New England Patriots has emerged as a potential target, with reports that he has requested a trade, per CBS Sports. The situation in New England is notable because Boutte would be joining a broader market in which teams are actively reshaping their receiving corps. In recent months, several rosters have shown a willingness to move pieces that might otherwise be considered long-term fits in a wideout room.
Boutte’s desire for a move is not surprising given the circumstances surrounding the Patriots’ receiving group and the opportunities that could open up elsewhere. ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted on his podcast last month that Boutte “has been interested in a trade,” suggesting that this summer could feature action on that front. Boutte, listed at 5-foot-11 and 197 pounds, entered the league as a sixth-round pick in 2023 out of LSU, where he racked up 1,781 yards and 16 touchdowns in 27 games. His rookie season saw limited playing time, but his production has climbed over the past two seasons, averaging roughly 38 receptions, 570 yards, and about 4.5 touchdowns per year. Those numbers, while not eye-popping, are strong for a third option and could be even more valuable in a role that provides him with more targets and a larger role in Atlanta. With more opportunities, Boutte could increase his output substantially.
The Falcons would clearly be weighing a handful of trade scenarios if they decide to go in this direction. Another potential candidate is Brandon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers, a player who has drawn interest as a possible trade piece in various trade discussions. Other possibilities include Keon Coleman of the Buffalo Bills and Jerry Jeudy of the Cleveland Browns, each of whom could present the Falcons with a different mix of upside and cost.
Ultimately, Atlanta’s decision will hinge on how they assess their current depth chart and the value they place on adding a proven contributor versus developing a younger, high-upside player. London’s role as the clear top target would remain intact, but pairing him with another versatile receiver who can win against press coverage and create separation could significantly elevate the Falcons’ passing attack. If Atlanta pursues a mid-tier veteran via trade, Boutte represents one of the more intriguing options given his draft pedigree, recent production trajectory, and the potential fit in a Falcons offense that could benefit from a more dynamic set of targets beyond London.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire and discusses the potential impact of a Patriots WR trade target on Atlanta’s roster, highlighting Boutte’s interest in a move and the broader market for wide receivers this offseason.