The Atlanta Falcons traded up in the second round of the 2023 draft to select Syracuse offensive lineman Matthew Bergeron, but the rookie won’t be handed anything this season.
During a Wednesday press conference, Falcons head coach Arthur Smith said veteran Matt Hennessy would work with the first team at left guard to begin camp. Don’t rule out Bergeron just yet, though.
Smith said he likes having the open competition at left guard, per team reporter Tori McElhaney.
Arthur Smith said he likes having the open competition at left guard, but did say Matt Hennessy will be the guy working with the first team.
— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) July 26, 2023
The Falcons let veteran Elijah Wilkinson walk in free agency this offseason and he eventually signed with the Cardinals. Wilkinson started nine games for Atlanta in 2022.
Hennessy would have been the logical successor had the team not drafted Bergeron. Nonetheless, this isn’t a surprise by any means since it’s only the first day of practice. Hennessy has more experience, starting three games last year and serving as a versatile backup interior lineman for three seasons.
In 2021, Atlanta was forced to start rookie Jalen Mayfield at left guard and it did not pan out well. Keep your eye on this position battle as camp progresses.
Hennessy reportedly had a good showing on Day 1, according to ESPN’s Michael Rothstein:
I would not say that about left guard. Hennessy can play.
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) July 26, 2023