The Falcons saw two starters along the line of scrimmage depart this offseason, both critical to Atlanta. Grady Jarrett was shockingly released and subsequently signed with the Bears, and it wasn’t long after that Drew Dalman also inked a deal with Chicago.
So far, the team hasn’t done anything of note to replace either lineman. Of course, the Falcons did sign Morgan Fox and placed a right of first refusal tender on Ryan Neuzil, which means they have the right to match any contract offer he receives.
For Jarrett, it seems it will be a by-committee approach with Fox, Ruke Orhorhoro, Kentavius Street, David Onyemata, and Zach Harrison occupying the interior. Jarrett certainly wasn’t playing at an extremely high level, but it’s still discouraging to see that group.
For Dalman, it seems it will be Neuzil. Raheem Morris told members of the media that the Falcons are comfortable with the undrafted free agent, but he will have to compete to win the starting gig.
Neuzil is on the cusp of establishing himself as a starter in this league. It’s a great story. He was fine in Dalman’s absence last year, certainly worse in the run game compared to Dalman, but he held his own in pass protection, which was a weakness in Dalman’s game.
The Falcons would be wise to bring in competition. Pinching pennies on the offensive line, with what is essentially a rookie quarterback in Michael Penix Jr., isn’t the wisest allocation of resources.
A draft prospect that could come in and start Week 1 is Jared Wilson, a Georgia product. He was only a one-year starter in Athens, but the Bulldogs center has all the tools to be a long-term starter in Atlanta, and he should be available on Day 2 of the NFL Draft.
