The Atlanta Falcons are trading defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for defensive tackle Maason Smith, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
The transaction involves a rare swap of two high-level defensive prospects from the same draft class. Orhorhoro was selected by the Falcons in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Clemson, taken with the 35th overall pick. He was highly regarded for his interior pass-rushing upside and physical tools during the pre-draft process.
In exchange, the Jaguars are moving Maason Smith, who was also a second-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. Smith, a former standout at LSU, was taken 48th overall by Jacksonville. Both players were considered centerpiece additions to their respective defensive lines earlier this spring, making the player-for-player trade a significant adjustment for both rosters.
While player-for-player trades are infrequent in the NFL, a swap involving two players drafted in the same round of the same year is even more unique. Both the Falcons and Jaguars appear to be looking for a different fit on the interior of their defensive fronts as they finalize their depth charts.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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