Former University of Georgia offensive lineman Tyler Catalina will get a chance to leave a strong impression on the Atlanta Falcons after being invited to the team's local pro day.
The event is scheduled for this Wednesday.
"I'm excited for the opportunity that the Atlanta Falcons organization has provided me," Catalina told ESPN. "This is a tremendous opportunity to showcase my talents, and I look forward to getting in there, competing, and showing the coaching staff what I can do."
Catalina spent some time with Falcons offensive line coach Chris Morgan following Georgia's pro day a few weeks ago. The 6-foot-6, 330-pound Catalina also met with the Panthers, Broncos, Packers, Steelers, Chiefs, and Cowboys.
Catalina, a graduate transfer from Rhode Island, started 12 games at left tackle for the Bulldogs last season. At Rhode Island, Catalina started 21 games at left tackle and 12 games at right tackle.
In the NFL, Catalina is projected to play either guard or right tackle. He could earn a late-round draft selection or at least generate enough interest to become a preferred free-agent signing, if he goes undrafted.
The Falcons need help at guard after veteran starting right guard Chris Chester announced his retirement. The three internal candidates for the job are Ben Garland, Wes Schweitzer, and newcomer Hugh Thornton.
Although the Falcons are set with Jake Matthews and Ryan Schraeder at the starting tackles, swing tackle Tom Compton signed with the Chicago Bears, leaving a backup void.
