Top Ten Atlanta Falcons Players Under 25

2. Jake Matthews

Aug 23, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Jake Matthews (70) blocks against Tennessee Titans defensive end Kamerion Wimbley (95) during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Titans defeated the Falcons 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Ahh yes, the first round pick of the Atlanta Falcons last season.

Atlanta Falcons fans have much to be excited about in Matthews, who will provide quarterback Matt Ryan with plenty of protection next season and years to come.” AtlantaFalcons.com

Matthews had his ups and downs his rookie season, but the franchise left tackle did quite well overall. In fact, he just made the All-Rookie team by Gil Brandt, and it’s pretty obvious number 70 will be with the team for years and years to come.

The Atlanta Falcons former 6th overall pick, however suffered several injuries last season. He suffered a high-ankle sprain in the season opener, and also exited the last game of the season with a Lisfranc injury. But through these injuries he never complained, and just kept playing when he could.

Even on Monday Night Football, Matthews went against his cousin LB Clay Matthews and only allowed one sack to one of the best pass-rushers in the game. And in “Hard Knocks,” he even managed to block J.J. Watt on a one-on-one drill.

The future looks bright at left tackle.