The Atlanta Falcons offensive line is going to have a new look come Week 1, but there could be more changes than expected when the season kicks off.
The known adjustment for the line is Matt Hennessy taking over at center for Alex Mack. But more concerning is the situation with Kaleb McGary being injured and the right tackle spot being up for grabs. Matt Gono is also currently sidelined.
Initially Arthur Smith had moved rookie Jalen Mayfield from backup guard to starting right tackle, but just two weeks into training camp it was practice squad veteran Willie Beavers taking the snaps with the first team.
Whether it's rewarding Beavers or a statement on Mayfield's readiness to start, it's a real concern just a month out from the start of the season.
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With McGary's status and timeline being kept a secret so far, the offensive line, if it wasn't already, has become the biggest issue on that side of the ball heading into the season
John and Hugh talk about the offensive line and the situation the Falcons find themselves in.
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"If you're going to run the ball you need the offensive line to be in sync. You're trying to put in a new offense, trying to focus on the running game, and you're trying to do it with McGary and Gono is street clothes," says John Fricke. "You got a practice squad guy at right tackle and you have to work this out here with a center that has only played a couple of games. The biggest I'm looking for this preseason is how the offensive line comes together."