The Atlanta Falcons obviously are looking into all options to improve the offensive line.
As ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported Tuesday, the Falcons brought in 2008 first-overall pick Jake Long for a physical and workout. He did not immediately sign with the team. And ESPN's Dan Graziano reported Long is in New York Wednesday for another visit with the New York Giants.
That doesn't automatically take the Falcons out of the mix, if they are at all interested. But it's not a good sign when a player leaves town.
The Falcons need depth at offensive tackle, with starting left tackle Jake Matthews' status for training camp unclear coming off foot surgery to repair a torn Lisfranc ligament. Matthews was limited during the offseason but felt confident about being fully ready for training camp. Ryan Schraeder appears to have locked down a starting spot at right tackle but behind him and Matthews, there isn't much to rave about.
Lamar Holmes appears destined to start camp on the physically unable to perform list (PUP) after breaking his foot during minicamp. Holmes, who was demoted from first-team left tackle during minicamp while replacing Matthews, will be on the roster bubble once he gets healthy.
Veteran Tyler Polumbus, who started 42 games at right tackle for the Washington Redskins, didn't really impress upon joining the Falcons this offseason. He ended minicamp playing some left tackle, but he might not give the Falcons the added insurance they desired at the position.
So what about Long? He turned 30 in May and is coming off a second consecutive ACL surgery. He started all 16 games in each of his first three seasons with the Miami Dolphins. Then Long missed 16 games the last four seasons with both the Dolphins and St. Louis Rams. He is probably viewed more as a backup than a starter at this point in his career.
The Falcons need lineman capable of getting out and running to block in offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's outside-zone blocking scheme. If Long's knee issues keep him from doing such, there's no reason to sign him.
Here is one team's report on Long prior to the start of the 2014 season:
"Tough and aggressive. One of the better run-blocking left tackles in the league. His pass protection has declined as he struggles to mirror quicker speed rushers. ... Injuries are taking a toll on Long, who is best suited as a right tackle to handle power as he struggles with speed and especially quick inside moves. But he still has the size, feel, and toughness to hold up as a starter, but is declining.''
That report was before Long tore the ACL in his right knee again last season.
The Falcons begin training camp Friday, so we'll see if they make a move. If not, they might have to turn to rookies Jake Rodgers and Matt Huffer for depth at tackle.
