Report: Atlanta Falcons Willing to Accept Less Than First-Round Pick in Return for Julio Jones

For weeks, the Atlanta Falcons have had an asking price of a first-round pick in return for their disgruntled receiver Julio Jones.

However, that may not be the case now. As we approach June 1st, the date upon which teams will not lose compensatory picks for any player additions, Atlanta's asking price has lowered, but with one caveat: the team trading for Jones has to be willing to take on all of his salary.

Peter King of NBC Sports reported Sunday that the Falcons have been looking for trade situations under which the team would not be responsible for any of the $38 million in guaranteed money remaining on Jones' deal.

With the 49ers being one of the potential suitors that does not currently have a first-round pick, news that the Falcons would accept a second-round selection in return for Jones could put them back in the race for the star receiver.

"I was told a while ago by a source I trust that the Falcons would accept a hard second-round pick in 2022 (no condition on Jones' playing time) with no responsibility to pay Jones any of the $38 million he has coming," wrote King in his latest Football Morning in America column. "That seems like the most logical outcome, and my guess is a hard second-rounder is already on the table from some team."

The 49ers have simmered as a potential trade candidate due to their lack of cap space and lack of immediate need at the position, while other suitors for Jones, like the Seahawks, have recently emerged.

Jones is on the books for $15.3 million this season, and $11.513 million for next season and the following season. Earlier this week, Jones was called by Shannon Sharpe during a broadcast of FS1's Undisputed and expressed his desire to play elsewhere next season. At this moment, it is unknown whether Jones knew he was on live television at the time.

Following that exchange, Ian Rapoport confirmed that Jones issued a trade request months ago to the new Falcons management, and the team began listening to offers, although its asking price was a first-round pick at the time.

• Rohan Chakravarthi
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  Rohan Chakravarthi
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