ATL Standard

In 2024, the Atlanta Falcons maintained consistency in their offensive line, retaining both position coach Dwayne Ledford and all starters from the previous year. The lineup included tackle Jake Matthews, guard Matthew Bergeron, center Drew Dalman, guard Chris Lindstrom, and tackle Kaleb McGary. This continuity was unusual in the league.

An injury to Dalman during Week 3 against the Kansas City Chiefs led to his placement on injured reserve for eight games. Ryan Neuzil stepped up as his replacement but was already familiar with the team from the previous season. Neuzil worked exclusively with quarterback Kirk Cousins while Dalman adapted to a change when rookie Michael Penix Jr. took over in Week 16.

The Falcons achieved a top-10 run offense for the third consecutive season with 2,219 rushing yards and ranked fifth in passing yards at 4,068. They scored 28 touchdowns overall: eight rushing and 20 passing. The offensive line allowed only 32 sacks, tying them for seventh fewest in the NFL, and incurred just 99 penalties overall.

Chris Lindstrom received significant recognition post-season, earning Pro Bowl honors as well as spots on both NFLPA All-Pro first-team and AP All-Pro second-team lists.

Looking ahead to 2025, there are uncertainties regarding who will be the starting center as both Dalman and Neuzil enter free agency. Dalman is an unrestricted free agent able to negotiate with any team, while Neuzil's restricted status gives the Falcons some leverage.

Dalman's history with Atlanta dates back to his selection in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Despite not being a starter initially, he became a regular fixture by his second season. He expressed positive sentiments about his tenure: "It's been an awesome experience, and I hope it continues and all that," he said.

Neuzil joined as an undrafted rookie in 2021 and has gradually increased his involvement with eight starts in 2024 marking a career high. Both players have shown they can fulfill the center role moving forward; however, Atlanta may explore other options through free agency or the draft.

The decision remains open-ended but given past success from maintaining roster consistency between seasons, bringing both players back could be beneficial for Atlanta.