Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan likes what he sees from his rookie offensive linemen.
More specifically, Ryan told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's D. Orlando Ledbetter (via Pro Football Talk's Josh Alpe) he “was fired up” when the Falcons drafted Chris Lindstrom and Kaleb McGary.
I've been impressed with both of those guys' attitudes. They move really well. It's been good to see. I'm excited about it.
I really believe the longer I play, more and more games are won on the front side of the ball on both sides. Offensive and defensive line is (critical).
You don't have a chance if you don't play well there. I was fired up when they made those moves.
Atlanta made Lindstrom the 14th overall selection of the 2019 NFL Draft last month. Seventeen picks later, the Falcons plucked McGary from the draft pool.
The Falcons also resorted to free agency to beef up their offensive line in front of Matt Ryan. They signed left guard James Carpenter to a four-year, $21 million deal. They also signed right guard Jamon Brown to a three-year, $18.75 million contract, per Ledbetter.
Pro Football Focus ranked the Falcons' offensive line 12th in the NFL last season. They lost left tackle Andry Levitre to a torn triceps injury in September of 2018. He eventually retired this month. For his part, right tackle Ryan Schraeder's performance dwindled significantly in 2018.
The Falcons wound up with a 7-9 record in 2018. They missed the postseason for the first time in three years. Matt Ryan and Co. hope a rejuvenated offensive line can help Atlanta reclaim lost glory in the 2019 NFL season.