It’s no secret that the Falcons have a huge whole at Left Guard with the departure of Justin Blalock. The Falcons have done little to address this void, but it looks like their patience may pay off. Washington Redskins Guard Chris Chester was cut this morning, and he could be the man the Falcons need. I’m not about to say this guy is a good lineman. He’s average at best. But average is a huge upgrade for this roster right now. I’m not sold on Mike Person as our starting Left Guard. He is yet to start an NFL game and has been released by 4 teams since his career began in 2011. Chester was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens out of Oklahoma in the Second Round back in 2006, and has been with the Redskins since 2011. Last season, Chester graded out as Pro Football Focus’ 33rd best Guard in the NFL, though he was more effective as a pass blocker than a run blocker. The Redskins have addressed the Guard position in recent drafts, and they felt it was time to move on from Chester. The move also saved them $4 million. The fact remains that the Falcons really don’t have any viable starting options as of now. Chester was a starter under Kyle Shanahan’s offense as a Right Guard from 2011-13, and has familiarity in his Zone Blocking Scheme. He will likely be able to switch Guard positions (he’s even spent time as a tight end in the NFL) and won’t come with a hefty price tag, so why not give him a chance to at least battle it out in training camp? Another rough year in the trenches for Falcons fans could be unbearable to watch, and we need all the help we can get.
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