Don't Sweat It? Former Falcons Trade Target Could Loom Large in Week 17

The Atlanta Falcons almost traded for now-Chicago Bears edge rusher Montez Sweat. The impact he's had on the Windy City defense could come back to hurt Atlanta in Week 17.

Fans optimistic about the Atlanta Falcons (7-8) likely had a slow-starting Chicago Bears squad circled as a win on the schedule. Instead, with playoff hopes handing in the balance, Atlanta will visit the Windy City as 2.5-point underdogs.

Chicago’s “rise” to 6-9 boils down to two reasons: the ascension of quarterback Justin Fields and the trade for former Washington Commanders edge rusher Montez Sweat.

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The former may be auditioning for a chance to be the Falcons' starting quarterback. The latter, however, already had his chance to wreak havoc on the NFC South. Atlanta was reportedly interested in adding Sweat to help make a playoff push, but the Bears won out, and with it, reshaped their defense.

Since Week 11, the impact Sweat has had on this defense has been remarkable. After ranking 27th in expected points added per play from the first 10 weeks of the season, Chicago’s mark is the best in football.

Sweat is considered by some to be a “force multiplier” whose presence impacts the game more than his skill set would suggest. His athleticism is impossible to ignore, frees up a relatively unimpressive pass rush, and protects the secondary. Unsurprisingly, he leads both Washington and Chicago in sacks (6.0 and 6.5, respectively).

Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke can expect to be pressured early and often on Sunday. That doesn’t bode well for Atlanta’s chances. This season, Heinicke has 21 attempts under pressure, with just eight completions and 71 yards. He’s been sacked on six of 31 dropbacks.

In turn, head coach Arthur Smith will likely lean on the run game as he has frequently this season and emphasize quicker passes. It may be another week of a back-heavy passing attack. Atlanta featured rookie running back Bijan Robinson saw 10 targets in Week 16’s win over the Indianapolis Colts, catching seven of them for 50 yards.

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The Falcons’ ability to take Sweat out of the game may be their best chance to not regret getting outbid at the trade deadline.

Kickoff for Week 17’s action is at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.