Falcons UDFA takes over at center with Ryan Neuzil sidelined

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The Atlanta Falcons have had one of the better offensive lines in the NFL for the last five seasons, but some cracks in the foundation are starting to show. While the team waited until Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft to take guard Ethan Onianwa, Atlanta signed three more promising offensive line prospects after the draft.

Former Miami Hurricanes center James Brockermeyer was among the team's 14 undrafted free agent signings, and he's already making a strong case for a roster spot. According to SI's Garrett Chapman, Brockermeyer took all of the center snaps at Wednesday's OTAs.

Chapman also shared a quote from new Falcons offensive line coach Bill Callahan praising Brockermeyer's performance in place of starter Ryan Neuzil.

"I'm really proud of the job he did today," Callahan said of Brockermeyer. "He had to step up and step in and take over the controls. He did a great job. He was like the air traffic controller today, so he landed all the planes safely, which was great."

Brockermeyer is a well-rounded center who excels in pass protection. Based on the Falcons' injury history at quarterback, they need all the help they can get in that department.

So, why was Brockermeyer in for Ryan Neuzil? Well, that part remains unclear. Neuzil was not dressed for Wednesday's OTAs, which may have simply been a veteran rest day of some sort. Either way, the Falcons need to begin preparing for the future of their offensive line.

Neuzil will be a free agent after the season. Right tackle Kaleb McGary retired at the start of the offseason, which prompted the team to sign Jawaan Taylor to a one-year deal. Over at left tackle, Jake Matthews is 34 years old, and while he's still going strong, it would be wise to invest in a replacement.

Chris Lindstrom is arguably the best right guard in football, and Matthew Bergeron is one of NFL's most underrated left guards. Bergeron will be a free agent after the 2026 season, though, and likely won't be cheap to re-sign.

Don't be surprised if the Falcons target an offensive lineman in the first round of the 2027 NFL Draft.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons UDFA James Brockermeyer replaces Ryan Neuzil at OTAs

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