Falcons trade DT Ruke Orhorhoro to Jaguars for DT Maason Smith

The Atlanta Falcons have traded defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro to the Jacksonville Jaguars for defensive tackle Maason Smith.

The swap gives each team a player who fits its immediate roster plan. Both clubs are in the early stages of offseason roster construction, and the move could affect future free‑agent decisions.

Both players were selected in the 2024 NFL Draft’s second round. Orhorhoro, a 2024 second‑round pick ^[1] out of Texas A&M, posted 14 tackles, two sacks, and forced one fumble in 12 games last season. Smith, also a 2024 second‑rounder ^[1] from LSU, recorded 18 tackles, one sack, and three quarterback pressures before a mid‑season knee injury limited him to eight games.

The agreement, confirmed by both clubs on Friday, sends Orhorhoro to Jacksonville and brings Smith to Atlanta — a move that aligns with each franchise’s defensive line depth chart, and provides immediate depth without sacrificing future draft capital.

Atlanta, which ranked 30th in rush yards allowed last season, hopes Smith’s 6‑foot‑5, 330‑pound frame will shore up interior resistance against power runs. The coaching staff said the addition gives the Falcons a more versatile rotation.

Jacksonville, which placed 28th in sacks last year, sees Orhorhoro’s athleticism as a way to enhance interior pressure while maintaining run‑stopping duties.

The trade does not involve draft picks, indicating both sides valued the immediate player swap over future assets. Analysts said swapping second‑round selections is uncommon, suggesting each team believes the other’s player better fits its scheme.

The deal was reported on Friday, April 17, 2026. The transaction was reported on Friday, April 17, 2026, by multiple outlets ^[2] and is expected to be finalized after standard league review.

The NFL’s trade deadline is weeks away, and both teams will have additional time to evaluate the impact of the swap during OTAs and training camp. If the players perform as projected, the trade could be cited as a catalyst for each club’s defensive turnaround.

**What this means** The exchange of Orhorhoro and Smith illustrates how teams can address specific roster gaps by trading comparable draft assets rather than pursuing free‑agency options. For the Falcons, the addition of a larger interior presence may help curb a struggling run defense, while the Jaguars gain a more athletic tackle to boost pass‑rush production. Both moves could shape each franchise’s approach to the upcoming draft and free‑agent market.