With training camp set to begin on Thursday, the Atlanta Falcons will look to continue their success in the backfield, which ranked third in the league for average rush yards per game (159.9) during the 2022 season.
A critical reason for the Falcons' elite rushing attack last season was the offensive line, which was powered by the off-field leadership of offensive tackle Jake Matthews.
"It's a tight-knit group," offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford said last season. "They have a very strong relationship with each other.The more cohesive you are with one another up front, the better you'll play, and Jake [Matthews] is a big reason for that with the things that he tries to do within the group to get them together a lot."
The good news for the Falcons is that they welcome back all five starters from last season, which should continue to develop their strong chemistry.
Additionally, the Falcons drafted running back Bijan Robinson with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, who amassed 3,410 yards and 33 touchdowns during his three seasons at Texas. Robinson now forms an outstanding duo with second-year running back Tyler Allgeier, who delivered an impressive performance during his rookie season, concluding the year with 1,035 yards and three touchdowns while maintaining an average of 4.9 yards per carry. As the Falcons' rushing attack will likely be the offense's focal point, the offensive line must do its part in providing both players with enough room to excel.
The offensive line also becomes crucial in safeguarding quarterback Desmond Ridder. As Ridder enters his first full season as the team's starting signal caller, the offensive line must focus on minimizing hits on him. By doing so, they hope to protect Ridder's confidence and ensure a smooth transition in his early career.
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