The Atlanta Falcons became painfully one-dimensional on offense over the last few seasons. While the running game has been among the best in the NFL, the passing attack has been mostly putrid since 2022.
Without a starting-caliber quarterback on the roster, the Falcons leaned heavily on that ground attack under former head coach Arthur Smith. Smith’s offenses may have been predictable, but he deserves credit for developing Atlanta’s offensive line into a top-tier unit.
Chris Lindstrom and Kaleb McGary thrived in Smith’s run-heavy system and both players were paid handsomely as a result. Lindstrom has begun to rack up accolades in recent years, making the Pro Bowl and All-Pro Second team in 2023.
On top of being a Pro Football Focus legend, Lindstrom is one the highest-rated offensive linemen in EA Sports’ new “Madden NFL 25” video game. The Falcons right guard earned an overall rating of 94:
Battle-tested in the trenches đź’Ş pic.twitter.com/4tjsEQo6iz
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) July 31, 2024
Lindstrom was the sixth-highest-rated offensive lineman, but it would have been tough for him to be ranked any higher considering some of the other linemen on the list. Here’s a look at Madden NFL 25’s five highest-rated linemen:
- Trent Williams (49ers): 99 OVR
- Zack Martin (Cowboys): 97 OVR
- Penei Sewell (Lions): 96 OVR
- Lane Johnson (Eagles): 95 OVR
- Tyron Smith (Jets): 95 OVR
Sewell is the only player you could argue Lindstrom should be ranked ahead of, but even that’s debatable considering how well Detroit’s young right tackle has played over his first three seasons. Either way, the Falcons are happy to have Lindstrom leading their offensive line in 2024.
[lawrence-auto-related count=5 category=1360]