The Atlanta Falcons are 1-6, cap-strapped in 2020, and have already begun parting ways with some of their own. However, that doesn't mean that they are interested in trading their young Pro-Bowl tight end, Austin Hooper, before his contract runs out after the 2019 season.

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Falcons do not intend on trading Hooper before the October 29 trade deadline on Tuesday. They have received interest for him, but Atlanta likely views him as an integral part of their future—even if they will have to play cap-space gymnastics to retain him.

Hooper, 24, has been a bright spot for the Falcons in 2019. In seven games, the Stanford product has 46 receptions for 526 yards and four touchdowns. In 2018, he went to the Pro-Bowl for recording 71 receptions for 660 yards and four touchdowns. He is more than on-pace to go back to Orlando.

Hooper should reel in a hefty payday in 2020 free agency if the Falcons do not franchise tag him. As a young tight end with production to his name, Atlanta or any of the other 31 NFL teams may entice him to sign to a deal worth over $10 million per season. If he does not stay in Atlanta, the Falcons should be able to haul in a high compensatory pick.

The Falcons are expected to make moves at the trade deadline. Names like Vic Beasley, Desmond Trufant and De'Vondre Campbell could pop up in Twitter notifications with the word “breaking.” Being a struggling team in a tough division, Atlanta could look to build for the future by punting away the season.