The Atlanta Falcons will have a new full-time starter at one of the most important positions on the offensive line. After four seasons with the team, their starting center, Drew Dalman, signed with the Chicago Bears for a lofty $14 million per year. Dalman was a key contributor over the past three seasons, with 40 starts to his name.
The Atlanta Falcons former UDFA will step into a big role
The expectation is for Ryan Neuzil to take over as the starting center in 2025. Neuzil has been Drew Dalman’s backup over the past two seasons, starting 12 games during that span. The former undrafted free agent saw the most playing time in 2024, starting eight consecutive games from Weeks 4-11 while giving up ten pressures, two QB hits, and one sack, according to PFF.
Also Read: Atlanta Falcons: Placed Offensive Starter on Injured Reserve Ahead of Week 4
Atlanta Falcons make 2-year commitment to new starter
According to Adam Schefter, the Falcons have signed Ryan Neuzil to a multi-year contract extension. As Schefter points out, the deal is for two years and is worth $9.5 million with $6.25 million guaranteed. Neuzil will be under contract through 2027 since he is currently on the restricted free agent tender.
Falcons and restricted free agent center Ryan Neuzil reached agreement on a two-year, $9.5 million deal that includes $6.25 million guaranteed, per agents Drew Rosenhaus and Kyle Lincoln. pic.twitter.com/Gy115wb4u1
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 29, 2025
Fans react to the news
Win win deal
— 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙥 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙥 𝙍𝙪𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙩 (@ChopChopRupert) May 29, 2025
Good low cost deal for Atlanta. Hope Neuzil balls out next year!
— Andrew D (@AD_FlightPath) May 29, 2025
Oline ready @RoverRod1
— BANKHEAD2BUCKHEAD (@Barrow_J) May 29, 2025
Not a bad deal!
— Jer Bear (@NorthGAJerBear) May 29, 2025
Heck of a value! #Falcons secured their guy at a deal!
— ATL Sports Zone (@ATLSportsZone) May 29, 2025
let’s Go Ryan …Rise Up
— Xomoneyman (@xomoneyman24) May 29, 2025
Great deal
— himmy nuetron (@getslimedout1) May 29, 2025
Falcons were 6-1 with Neuzil as their starting center last year, compared to 3-7 with Dalman
— PeteWheelerMuse (@PeteWheelerMuse) May 29, 2025
Good for Neuzil. You are the starting center, please hold up.
— AJ Evans (@AJEvans73484531) May 29, 2025
