Falcons Roundtable: Jessie Bates Trade, Ian Cunningham's Deadline and Chiefs Predictions

The Atlanta Falcons are looking to get back in the win column and keep their postseason hopes alive after losing their international game this past week against the Cincinnati Bengals. 

They now turn their attention to the Kansas City Chiefs, following a busy trade deadline for the Falcons new front office. On this week's Falcons Roundtable, the staff discusses the trades made at the deadline and how important this week's game is to getting back in the playoff picture. 

Michael Brauner: How much time do you have? The defense is not what we thought it was and Jessie Bates is now gone, the offense can't seem to find its identity and Michael Penix may not be the guy. It could get ugly the rest of the way if nothing changes.

Christian Rauh: We've seen flashes of what Atlanta can accomplish, but they haven't been able to put together a complete performance. At some point, the Falcons have to stop making the same mistakes every week. 

Michael Brauner: At the end of the day, as much as it stinks, this was absolutely the right decision. Getting legitimate draft capital in return for a safety who is getting older and on an expiring contract is always the right move, even if it hurts now.

Christian Rauh: I don't love the decision to move on from Bates, but I understand it. The Falcons clearly have their eyes on the future, and getting draft capital back makes sense. However, replacing a player of his caliber isn't going to be easy, especially for a defense that already has plenty of questions. They did get some great value for him, though.

Michael Brauner: B+. There weren't many moves to be made, buying was out of the question, and they got real value for the guys they traded. 

Christian Rauh: B. It's clear he understands where this franchise currently stands and isn't afraid to make difficult decisions. Moving established starters isn't always popular, but Atlanta needs to build for the future.

Michael Brauner: This is not the same Chiefs offense from years ago. This is a unit who wants to run the ball and impose their will. Slow down Kenneth Walker, something few have done to this point, means slowing down this offense.

Christian Rauh: It starts with getting pressure on Mahomes without allowing him to extend plays. Atlanta can't afford to give him time to sit in the pocket and pick apart the secondary. 

Michael Brauner: .It is as must win as must win gets. Going into the bye week at 3-7 and losing three straight is pretty much season over. The NFC South is bad enough that perhaps they would still be alive, but on the brink. It's tough to have faith right now. Chiefs 27, Falcons 16

Christian Rauh: Absolutely. At 3-6, the Falcons don't have much room for error if they want to remain in the playoff conversation. Unfortunately, I haven't seen enough consistency from Atlanta to believe they can knock off Kansas City. Chiefs 31, Falcons 17