3 Largest 2023 Atlanta Falcons scheduled cap hits

Nov 27, 2022; Landover, Maryland, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota (1) passes the ball against the Washington Commanders at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2022; Landover, Maryland, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota (1) passes the ball against the Washington Commanders at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Falcons
Nov 10, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London (5) celebrates with fullback Keith Smith (40) and offensive tackle Jake Matthews (70) after scoring a touchdown in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Jake Matthews’ $35 million projected cap hit

One of the most interesting stories in the Atlanta Falcons 2022 season was the drastic improvement of the Atlanta offensive line. Matthews has long been a consistent starter but had little help around him the previous two seasons.

The emergence of Chris Lindstrom and Kaleb McGary pushed the Atlanta offensive line back into respectability. Arguably the biggest move for the Falcons was taking Jalen Mayfield out of the starting lineup and giving a capable pass blocker a chance. Mayfield and the Atlanta pass blocking allowed Matt Ryan to lead the league in quarterback hits a year ago before taking a huge step forward this season.

Part of this is the amount of times Atlanta gets the ball out quickly or puts the ball in the hands of the running back. Add in the mobility of Mariota and Ridder the line was clearly given a great amount of help in both production and scheme. Matthews continues to be a capable starter and has earned the cap hit both with his play and willingness to change his contract helping the Falcons make a push to win.

Next. 5 Ways Desmond Ridder must improve. dark