Perhaps it is with the realization that quarterback Matt Ryan needs to take the next step in his development that the Atlanta Falcons have set out to get him a shiny new toy.

Just like a young kid, wanting that toy and receiving it could be two different things.

Sports Illustrated’s Peter King reports that the Falcons have explored movin’ on up in the first round of Thursday’s draft, way up. Per his report, the Falcons would like to get into the top 10 in order to have a shot to draft either Alabama’s Julio Jones or Georgia’s A.J. Green, easily the two highest-graded receivers in the draft and quite possibly the only two that will be chosen in the first round.

Is it smoke? Who knows. But it sure makes sense to get Ryan another target other than Roddy White downfield. Tight end Tony Gonzalez could be entering his final season and the Falcons need more big plays. Even getting to 10 might not ensure them a shot at the receivers they covet. Plus, saddled with the 27th overall pick, the Falcons would have to pay big to move up that high in the draft. A package could require multiple picks this year and a first-rounder in 2012.

Who knows? Maybe the Falcons could have some interest in Pitt’s Jonathan Baldwin at No. 27.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune