Atlanta Falcons may eye an athletic Georgia OL prospect to fill Drew Dalman’s spot

The Atlanta Falcons are facing a key offseason decision as starting center Drew Dalman prepares to enter free agency. While they’d prefer to keep him, financial constraints may force them to look elsewhere. Whether through the draft, where Georgia’s Jared Wilson stands out, or a low-cost free agent like Ryan Neuzil, Atlanta must find the right fit to anchor their offensive line in 2025.


One intriguing option is Georgia Bulldogs standout Jared Wilson. The young lineman turned heads at the NFL Scouting Combine, showcasing elite athleticism. According to Relative Athletic Score (RAS) creator Kent Lee Platte, Wilson earned an eye-popping 9.98 RAS out of 10, the second-highest rating for a center since 1987. Given the Falcons' tendency to prioritize athletic linemen, Wilson could be a natural fit.
Recent history supports this approach. In 2023, Atlanta made waves by trading up in the second round to draft left guard Matthew Bergeron. Though the pick was met with skepticism, Bergeron has since solidified himself as a quality starter. If the Falcons opt to replace Dalman through the draft, Wilson presents an exciting possibility.
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While the draft offers potential, the Falcons may explore more cost-effective free-agent options. One internal candidate is reserve lineman Ryan Neuzil, who admirably stepped up when Dalman was sidelined with an ankle injury in 2024. At 27, Neuzil is also entering free agency but would command a significantly lower price tag than Dalman.
With free agency officially opening on March 12 at 4 p.m. ET, Atlanta faces a pivotal decision. Will they invest in a promising rookie like Wilson, re-sign Neuzil as a budget-friendly option, or find another veteran to fill the gap? The Falcons can’t afford to let the center position become a liability as they look to build around their new quarterback. Whether they opt for a top-tier rookie, a reliable veteran, or a budget-friendly in-house solution, securing the right player will be essential in protecting their quarterback and maintaining stability on the offensive line. The next few weeks will be pivotal in determining the direction of Atlanta’s offensive front.