Impact of Tony Gonzalez to Atlanta

The Falcons acquisition of Tony Gonzalez is a significant move in the grand scheme of things, but the only impact it will have on this weekend is by shaking up a few mock drafts.

Many draftniks had the Falcons selecting Brandon Pettigrew in the 1st round, but in reality that was never a realistic option. The Falcons knew they needed a tight end, but they wanted one that could make a serious impact as a receiver - hence the acquisition of Gonzalez. While at Boston College, Matt Ryan's favorite target was tight end Ryan Purvis. Yet, in Atlanta in 2008 he Falcons simply didn't have anyone capable of making an impact in the passing game. Ben Hartsock is an above average blocking tight end, but offers little as a receiver.

Pettigrew is an adequate receiver, but his impact at the next level will be as a blocker. Had the Gonzalez trade not worked out the Falcons likely would have targeted a player such as Jared Cook or Shawn Nelson in the 2nd or 3rd round.