Falcons Offensive Line Ranked 5th
In a positional preview around the NFL, Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently took a stab at ranking the offensive lines of every team. Atlanta returns both guards and tackles to coincide with a significant upgrade at center through the off-season acquisition of Alex Mack. With these components the individuals at PFF rewarded the Falcons with the highest rated offensive line in the NFC South and 5th best in the league.
The upgrade to Mack at center was much needed to help solidify an already improving offensive line. Knowing that improvement was necessary, the Falcons spared no expense inking the three-time Pro Bowl center to a 5-year, $45 million dollar deal during the off-season. Mack will be the highest paid center in the NFL for 2016 and becomes the anchor for a group that could become one of the best in the league by seasons’ end.
Returning tackles Jake Matthews and Ryan Schraeder will help in protecting the edge and opening up the outside for Devonta Freeman and company. Atlanta’s first round pick from 2014 has improved each of the last two seasons and should be poised for a breakout performance this year. Opposite him is Schraeder, arguably the best tackle in all of football. Schraeder joined the Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2013 and has blossomed into an impact player up front. Both the Falcons and Schraeder are hoping for a repeat All-Pro season from their right tackle in 2016.
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Both guards now have a season in Atlanta under their belts and after helping to boost the run game should look to have an even bigger impact during their second season. Andy Levitre and Chris Chester will have to get comfortable with the man in the middle, Mack, but once these three learn to work together all signs point to them becoming a dominate force in the NFL.
Coach Dan Quinn has the offensive line heading in the right direction for the immediate future and both quarterback, Matt Ryan, and running back Devonta Freeman should benefit greatly.
Click here to view the full PFF rankings for every teams’ offensive line.
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