Thomas Dimitroff has pulled off a trade in each of his six drafts since being named Atlanta Falcons general manager in 2008.
In the hours leading up to the 2014 NFL Draft, he's once again laying the groundwork for a potential blockbuster.
How to watch the NFL draft
With the 2014 NFL Draft officially underway, find out how to catch all the action from Radio City Music Hall on NFL Network. **More ...**
Dimitroff told NFL Media's Rich Hollenberg on Thursday afternoon that he's engaging in active discussions with other teams and a trade is in play.
As Hollenberg astutely points out, general managers Les Snead of the Rams (No. 2 overall) and David Caldwell of the Jaguars (No. 3 overall) were formerly Dimitroff lieutenants in Atlanta. The Falcons' boss is also on good terms with new Browns GM Ray Farmer.
While previous attention has been on the possibility of a trade-up for Jadeveon Clowney at the top of the draft, it now appears Dimitroff's relationship with Farmer might pay dividends.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, it's more likely that the Falcons would target Buffalo linebacker Khalil Mack if he's still on the board when the Browns pick at No. 4 overall.
If the pre-draft trade rumors are any indication, Dimitroff is placing a higher priority on pass rushers than pass protectors early in the first round.
The "Around The League Podcast" is now available on iTunes! Click here to listen and subscribe.
