The Falcons offensive line is one of the better units in football, and it returns four of five starters from a year ago as well as second-round pick Matthew Bergeron to step in at left guard. It’s got all the makings for another great unit in 2023; however, the depth leaves a lot to be desired.
Two injuries, in particular, have devasted this group — Matt Hennessy and Ethan Greenidge.
The former was a swing interior lineman, capable of stepping in at either guard or center. Hennessy suffered a season-ending knee injury a couple of weeks ago, but it was only until recently that we found out he would be out for the year. Sometime before that, Greenidge, who was expected to be the team’s swing tackle, suffered the same fate.
Now, the Falcons are hoping Ryan Nuezil and Jalen Mayfield can assume those roles — not exactly inspiring options. However, there’s still time to improve the depth of the offensive line. When rosters are finalized, several worthwhile players will emerge. Colby Gossett is a fringe roster guy in Cleveland that the Browns could cut and who the Falcons would love to have back in Atlanta.
In the meantime, the club made a free agent addition in the form of undrafted free agent Trevor Reid, who ironically enough Jake had the Falcons landing in one of his mock drafts.
I had the Falcons spending a 7th round pick on him, so they get the best of both worlds I guess https://t.co/dRz3HXB7LB pic.twitter.com/xtbR0LazSU
— jxke. 🧸 (@cantguardjake) August 17, 2023
A product of Louisville, Reid spent time with current Falcons offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford and will have a shot to make the roster as a reserve tackle.
He’ll compete with Mayfield, Josh Miles, Barry Wesley, and Tyler Vrabel for one, maybe two spots. It seems it’s an uphill battle, though. Mayfield and Miles are leading the position battle, but I’d wager the future swing tackle is currently sitting on another team’s roster. If not, the Falcons better hope a starter doesn’t get injured.
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