The Atlanta Falcons have managed to improve their salary cap situation significantly this offseason. After releasing veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, the team freed up over $16 million in cap space. To further bolster their financial flexibility, they extended left tackle Jake Matthews' contract, which now includes a hefty cap hit for the latter years but provides an $8.5 million relief in 2025. Similarly, guard Chris Lindstrom saw his cap hit decrease by $10 million after the team restructured his deal, converting part of his salary into a signing bonus. Currently, the Falcons are left with $10.6 million in cap space, a notable change from their previous position, allowing them to make strategic moves in the upcoming draft or even facilitate trades.

The Atlanta Falcons are making strategic moves to address their salary cap limitations as NFL free agency approaches. General manager Terry Fontenot is executing roster adjustments after finalizing a two-year, $45 million extension with left tackle Jake Matthews, who has been a cornerstone since being drafted sixth overall in 2014. Matthews' new deal, which includes $38 million in guaranteed money, allows the Falcons to convert part of his salary into a signing bonus, potentially saving up to $11 million against the cap.

This restructuring is crucial as the Falcons aim to navigate the impending free agency period starting March 10. Notably, with the additional cap space, they could retain center Drew Dalman, a key player on the offensive line who is also a free agent target.

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming free agency period, the Atlanta Falcons have secured their left tackle Jake Matthews with a two-year extension worth $45 million, including $38 million guaranteed. This extension places Matthews among the highest-paid left tackles in the league, ranking fifth with an average annual value of $22.5 million. Matthews, who was selected sixth overall in the 2014 NFL Draft, is the longest-tenured player on the Falcons roster, having started 179 games since his rookie year.

The Falcons' offensive line ranked 11th in the league last season, providing solid protection for quarterback Michael Penix Jr. However, the team will need to address the center position as Drew Dalman is set to enter free agency. Matthews' extension suggests he is likely to finish his career in Atlanta, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the franchise.

PFF's NFL Week 18 Team of the Week has been unveiled, featuring standout players recognized for their remarkable performances based on grades and snap counts. The list includes notable names such as Joe Milton III from the New England Patriots, who excelled in his first career start, and Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons, who closed the season with a spectacular rushing game.

On the defensive side, Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys shone brightly, showcasing his skills with an impressive grade and multiple sacks. The Carolina Panthers offensive line also received accolades for their performance, contributing significantly to their success in the final game of the season.

Desmond Ridder, originally drafted by the Atlanta Falcons, is now with the Las Vegas Raiders due to injuries among the team's quarterbacks. After a challenging season with the Falcons, where he started 13 games with a 6-7 record, Ridder has a chance for redemption against his former team in an upcoming Monday Night Football game.

Raiders coach Antonio Pierce has praised Ridder's competitive spirit and sees this as a significant opportunity for him. Ridder's past struggles with the Falcons, including costly interceptions, are behind him as he focuses on his new role.