Three Disruptive Plays Against the 49ers Make Maason Smith’s Falcons Trade with Jaguars Look Even Better

Smith makes his impact felt

Smith posted two tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit and a forced fumble in Sunday’s victory over San Francisco. His pressure and turnover contributions helped Atlanta against an offense that had not lost before the matchup.

The performance was a substantial addition to Smith’s early-season numbers. After recording four tackles in the first six games, he now has nine tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit and one forced fumble.

A rare player swap

Atlanta acquired Smith in an offseason deal that sent Ruke Orhorhoro, a 2024 second-round pick, to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The exchange was unusual because it involved one player for another, and both were from the same position, draft round and draft year. Smith said he was pleased to see the team’s efforts come together, describing the result as feeling good.

Turnovers were a priority

The Falcons entered the game focused on winning the turnover margin, aware that San Francisco’s defense was also effective at forcing takeaways. Atlanta’s defense met that challenge against the 49ers.

Smith credited the defense with attacking the ball while following its plan. He said the team understood how well the opponent worked to force turnovers.

A platform for what comes next

Smith’s performance offers Atlanta a possible building block as it seeks more consistency along the defensive line. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and help create takeaways may matter as the team tries to climb the standings.

The Falcons now turn to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 8. Smith said the win should provide momentum and a chance to keep improving, rather than mark an endpoint.