Atlanta Falcons: Chris Lindstrom showing consistent improvement

The Atlanta Falcons used two first-round picks on offensive linemen in the 2019 NFL Draft, and right guard Chris Lindstrom has been steadily improving.

The Atlanta Falcons are less than two days away from playing against the Denver Broncos in the 2019 Hall of Fame Game in Canton, OH, and one player in focus is first-round draft choice Chris Lindstrom.

Lindstrom is no guarantee to play in this game just based on the fact that he’s going to be so important to Atlanta this season, especially with the Falcons having four more preseason games after this one, but why not let the rookie get his feet wet?

The Broncos have not eliminated the possibility that their first-round pick — tight end Noah Fantasias — will play in this game, so perhaps both Lindstrom and fellow Falcons first-rounder Kaleb McGary will get a series or even a quarter.

Lindstrom, in particular, has been flashing at Falcons camp, and is showing signs of consistent improvement according to his head coach, Dan Quinn.

Quinn noted Lindstrom’s intensity on a play-by-play basis as one of his standout traits, and it’s certainly something that’s going to help the Falcons in 2019.

Lindstrom coming out of Boston College was considered one of the ‘safe’ prospects in the 2019 class, but not many felt like he was going to be a top 15 selection. At this point, that no longer matters. All that matters is Lindstrom’s performance and how much he can impact the Falcons right away.

We saw last year the Indianapolis Colts took a lot of flak for drafting Quenton Nelson sixth overall. Look how that worked out. Nelson ended up making the Pro Bowl and completely solidified the Colts’ offensive line. Lindstrom is not playing next to a proven stud at tackle like Nelson was/is with the Colts, but next to center Alex Mack, Lindstrom will be able to do some damage.

The video footage above also shows some nice reps — along with some tough ones — in pass protection for Lindstrom, who is a perfect fit for an outside zone scheme.

This guy can move, and he’s powerful on the move.

The Falcons are hoping Devonta Freeman can be back and healthy this season with Tevin Coleman departed for the San Francisco 49ers, and that Lindstrom can help pave the way for he and the rest of Atlanta’s backs.

Most importantly, the Falcons need guys to help keep Matt Ryan clean while he throws to the elite trio of Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, and Mohamed Sanu.

It appears he’s well on his way to not only locking down a starting job, but making a big impact in year one. Hopefully we get the chance to see him on Thursday.