The Falcons offensive line might not be any better in 2019 than it was in 2018. It is definitely going to be bigger, though. On Tuesday, it was reported the team intends to sign both James Carpenter and Jamon Brown, free agent guards who project as the team’s starters for next season.
Carpenter comes from the Jets and brings a massive 6-foot-5, 321 pound frame to left guard. He should offer a modest upgrade over Andy Levitre, even when he was healthy. Brown just spent half a season with the Giants after burning out with the Rams. He checks in at 6-foot-3, 340 pounds and should start at right guard.
We don’t have all the details yet, but the parameters of their respective deals have now been reported. According to Ian Rapoport at NFL Network, Carpenter’s contract is worth $21 million over four years. Brown’s is for $18.75 million over three.
All together, it’s a huge investment in a position that was highly problematic for Atlanta’s offense last season.
If both Carpenter and Brown work out as long-time starters and help keep Matt Ryan clean, then these numbers are reasonable enough. If either one fails, it will represent another minor stain on what’s become a spotty record for the Falcons front office and how they’ve built this particular unit. If both fail, they’ll need to reevaluate everything regarding interior offensive linemen.
