ESPN News is reporting the Atlanta Falcons have agreed in principle to send backup quarterback Matt Schaub to the Houston Texans in exchange for two second round picks, one this year and one in 2008. The teams will also swap first round picks, bumping the Falcons up from No. 10 to No. 8. The deal is still contingent on whether or not Schaub signs an offer sheet with Houston, but it appears the trade will go through.
The deal seemingly signals the end for David Carr, who the Texans likely will continue to shop. If Carr were dealt, Schaub would compete with Sage Rosenfels for the starting job. Despite only having two career starts, Schaub is a quality player who has been highly sought after by teams such as the Jets and Vikings. He doesn’t have the strongest arm, but is very accurate and even a bit mobile. Given his potential, he may be worth the compensation. Anyone who saw him play against the Patriots in ’05 (298 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs) would certainly agree he’s ready to compete for a starting role.
Atlanta fans that aren’t sold on Michael Vick are going to curse this move, but they have to realize that the team has so much invested in him. Plus, Schaub will be an unrestricted free agent next season, so if the Falcons didn’t get compensation for him now, he was likely to walk in ‘08. The Falcons have a lot of holes and there’s a reason why they’re drafting so high this year. In the end, getting two second round picks, plus moving up two spots in the first round in exchange for a former third rounder is a pretty good deal.
