Falcons rookie lineman has rough day in season opener

The Falcons dropped their fourth straight season opener on Sunday, a 32-6 loss to the Eagles, and while the team struggled in many areas, the offense managed just six points on two early field goals.

There were dropped passes by Calvin Ridley and other receivers, Matt Ryan surely made some questionable decisions, and the defense proved a new scheme doesn’t suddenly make you more talented. Rookie lineman Jalen Mayfield got the start at left guard in place of injured OL Josh Andrews and it was an extremely rough day for the team’s third-round pick out of Michigan.

pretty much sums it up pic.twitter.com/qbhXKBjg8l

— kelsey (@kelseytaysutton) September 12, 2021

Obviously, struggles should have been expected, but the team may have overlooked how tough of a transition it would for Mayfield, a former tackle, to be thrown out there at left guard in Week 1.

Tasked with matching up against Javon Hargrave and Fletcher Cox, Mayfield was in a no-win situation and gave up a ton of pressure up the middle. Hopefully Mayfield learns from this experience and doesn’t let it define his time with the Falcons.

Considering Arthur Smith’s offensive line background, he should be able to coach Mayfield up after his rocky debut. The rookie won’t have it much easier in Week 2 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.