Locked On NFL – Daily Podcast On The National Football League Falcons sign CHAMPION OL after BIG retirement, Dexter Lawrence TRADE TALK & CJ Stroud EXPECTATIONS
Apr 9, 2026
Spencer German, NFL analyst who breaks down rosters and quarterbacks, joins the conversation. They cover Atlanta signing a championship offensive lineman after a surprise retirement. Trade chatter around Dexter Lawrence and what it would mean for the Giants. High expectations for CJ Stroud and what a breakout season could look like for the Texans.
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Falcons Replace McGarry Fast With Jawan Taylor
- The Falcons lost right tackle Caleb McGarry to a surprise retirement and quickly signed veteran Jawan Taylor to a one-year deal.
- Spencer German and Kevin Oestreicher note Taylor brings better pass protection but is penalty-prone compared to McGarry's strong run blocking.
Taylor Is Pass Protector Who Brings Penalty Risk
- Jawan Taylor provides improved pass protection but brings a significant penalty risk that likely makes him a stopgap at right tackle.
- PFF shows Taylor was flagged once every 58 snaps over three seasons versus McGarry once every 267 snaps, forcing Atlanta to eye a draft solution.
Falcons Are Close But Quarterback Is The Decider
- The Falcons roster feels close to competing but success hinges on quarterback play and coaching stability under Kevin Stefanski.
- Spencer says Stefanski's structure may favor Tua and that Michael Penix faces an uphill battle to be the long-term answer.