Grades For the First Round of the 2014 NFL Draft
Aug 23, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Jake Matthews (70) blocks against Tennessee Titans defensive end Kamerion Wimbley (95) during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Titans defeated the Falcons 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
JAKE MATTHEWS. D+. <p>The Atlanta Falcons need to protect quarterback Matt Ryan so they got left tackle Jake Matthews No. 6 overall in 2014. As bad as Sam Baker was at the position the year before, it was a bad sign that Matthews didn’t beat him out. Matthews started out on the right side and until Baker was lost for the season to injury.</p> <p>Matthews would then show why he wasn’t able to beat Baker out as he didn’t look any better. Much of that was because of an injury to his foot and the main thing left tackles need is their feet. So Matthews took care of the problem by having lisfranc surgery to get himself back healthy for the beginning of next year.</p> <p>Football is in his bloodline so at some point soon, Matthews is going to get it all worked out. Barring any type of setbacks, he had the surgery early enough to be back in time for training camp. I’m expecting big things from but for the year 2014, injuries considered but not excuses, it’s not a fail but the marks are low.</p>. LT. Atlanta Falcons
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