3 Left Guard Free Agents the Atlanta Falcons should consider signing

It is perfectly clear to anyone who watched the Atlanta Falcons in 2021, that their offensive line is a major issue that needs improving. Most importantly, left guard Jalen Mayfield cannot start for the team next season. A rookie third round pick out of Michigan, Mayfield was sprung into the starting line up for week one, after an injury to Josh Andrews just before the season opener. Mayfield was the worst starting guard in the whole NFL last year. Week after week, he was shown to be completely out of his depth. If he was a house pet, he would of been put out of his misery. I have identified three players that would improve the left guard position for the Atlanta Falcons. This would allow Terry Fontenot to use the draft to shore up other holes on the roster. 

Connor Williams: The former 50th overall draft pick in 2018 has started 51 out of 57 games during his time with the Dallas Cowboys. He has improved each year he has played in the NFL, ranking as PFF's 11th ranked guard in 2021. Accomplished in both the run and pass game, Williams would be my number one target to fix our left guard issue. He was responsible for allowing just one sack in 2021. Williams is yet to turn 25, so his best years are still ahead of him. The Dallas Cowboys are currently $21 million over the cap, so they might reluctantly have to let him go. He should be available on a pretty team friendly deal, that works for a Falcons team with limited cap space. His estimated contract $6 or 7 million per year according to PFF.com.

Andrew Norwell: Norwell's bread and butter is in pass protection. He could be an effective stopgap for a season or two. The Falcons allowed a league high 130 quarterback hits which was 16 higher then the next worst team. Norwell's play has declined since he earned all pro status playing for the Carolina Panthers in 2018, but he is still an above average starter. He earned a 73.5 pass blocking grade from PFF compared to Mayfield's league worst 27.6. Norwell allowed three sacks last season, eight less than Mayfield. 

Alex Cappa: Having an effective running game is essential, if Arthur Smith is to properly run his offense. Whilst, Jalen Mayfield was actually decent at run blocking, Cappa is much better then him. Signing Alex Cappa would not only weaken division rivals Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it would drastically improve the Falcons ability to protect Matt Ryan. Cappa is an above average starter who has potential to still improve. He has gotten each year in the NFL. He was PFF's 18th ranked guard in 2021.

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Let me know would you sign any of these guys in the comments below. Alternatively, would you rather avoid guard in free agency completely and take one in the draft?

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