The Atlanta Falcons are clearly questioning the status of their offensive line heading into training camp. Over the past few seasons, injuries on the line have been the ultimate downfall for the team causing the run game and Matt Ryan to struggle heavily. This offseason got worse as players like Mike Johnson left and Lamar Holmes and Joe Hawley prepare to start the year still suffering from injuries. As a result, the Falcons are beginning to look at what is left on the free agent market.
According to ESPN.com, the Atlanta Falcons brought in former St. Louis Rams free agent tackle Jake Long for a workout. The former No.1 overall pick has been sitting on the market since the offseason with little interest in his talents. The Falcons need depth at the tackle position and could try and sign Long on a small contract to potentially get a big reward. Right now, the Falcons have Jake Matthews as the starter, but he is coming off an injury as well. Matthews appeared healthy in mini-camp, but the Falcons are hesitant to place their faith in the surgically repaired foot.
This is not the first player the Falcons have eyed on the market heading into training camp. According to NFL.com, the Falcons are a potential landing spot for Evan Mathis as the Pro Bowler awaits a contract from a team. Mathis was released by the Philadelphia Eagles after his contract demands caused him to hold out of offseason workouts. Mathis is a clear upgrade for any offensive line especially the Falcons. It is unclear exactly what kind of contract Mathis is demanding at the moment, but the Falcons have cap space to burn which could be used for the veteran.
The Falcons need to have a good offensive line this season or they could easily repeat the struggles of the past two years. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan told the media that he expects the run game to be a big focus of the offense in 2015. With Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman battling it out to start, the only way they have success is if the line is healthy and dominant. Right now it is very questionable that the Falcons have that kind of line in place.