Drew Dalman has been the Falcons’ starting center for the past three seasons. However, with his rookie contract expiring in March, he could potentially leave in free agency.
Dalman hopes to stay with the team for 2025 and beyond. The 26-year-old wants to re-sign, as reported by D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. However, securing a new deal could be costly for the Falcons due to Dalman’s strong performance since becoming the starting center.
After playing just 68 offensive snaps as a rookie, the former fourth-round pick became Atlanta’s starting center. Dalman played the full 2022 season, earning a 65.9 PFF grade, which ranked 14th among qualified centers. However, his performance has improved over the past two seasons. In 2023, the Stanford product earned the third-highest PFF grade at the position, followed by the fourth-best mark this past season.
Dalman managed to achieve those strong performances despite missing three games in 2023 and being limited to just nine contests this season due to an ankle injury. While his injury history could impact his value in free agency, his age and role in a strong Falcons offensive line could still make him a desirable option on the market this spring. Atlanta is currently projected to be over the cap for 2025, and with a decision looming on quarterback Kirk Cousins, the team’s financial strategy will be crucial. That choice will significantly influence their ability to compete for top centers, four of whom currently earn at least $12 million per year.
Atlanta’s other starting offensive linemen—left tackle Jake Matthews, left guard Matthew Bergeron, right guard Chris Lindstrom, and right tackle Kaleb McGary—are all under contract through at least 2025. Although Matthews and McGary no longer have guaranteed salary on their deals, the Falcons could still maintain continuity at four positions even if Dalman departs. Ryan Neuzil filled in for Dalman in 2024, but he is set to become a restricted free agent.
Several veteran centers are set to hit free agency this year, but Dalman’s age—similar to the Packers’ Josh Myers—could make him an appealing long-term investment for teams in March. It remains to be seen whether the Falcons will secure a deal with him before then or shift their focus to other positions.
