The Falcons are counting on first-rounder Jake Matthews being pro-ready, and the string of pass-rushers he’s worked against already would test any tackle.
With recent practices with the Texans putting him face-to-face with J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney, he’s also worked against Tennessee’s Derrick Morgan and Miami’s Cameron Wake, which should have him prepared.
“I really learned a lot and I think I grew,” Matthews said, via D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “I did a lot of good things. That has been one of the best parts practicing against the Titans and the Texans. You get to go against different players with different styles and techniques.”
Watt got the better of him at times, but Matthews was glad the lessons are coming now.
“He’s a helluva player,” Matthews said. “He’s really good. That’s was something that I needed because I want to go up against the best players so that I can be the best player that I can be. He was going to show me just how tough it can be in the league so that was good.”
Matthews has all the potential to carry on the family name. But the Falcons need him to step up now, as part of their offseason mandate to get tougher on both lines.