Should Falcons Cut 'Draft Mistake' Jalen Mayfield?

The Atlanta Falcons are entering an exciting new chapter in the franchise's history, centered around a strong secondary and young offense, but could it be time to move on from offensive lineman Jalen Mayfield?

In a recent article by FanSided, Mayfield was listed as a player that should be cut during this offseason.

“There are better backup options on the roster and it is clear it is time to move on from one of the few draft mistakes this regime has made,” FanSided said.

Mayfield was selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft after impressing as a tackle at the University of Michigan.

In 2021 the former Wolverine was thrust into Atlanta's starting role at left guard following an injury to Josh Andrews, who was expected to start.

He started 16 games for the Falcons at left guard, but the former Wolverine wasn't ready for such a large role, and it showed, based on his 48.7 player grade from Pro Football Focus.

Unfortunately for Mayfield, 2022 didn't go any better. He missed the entire season due to a back injury, and in his absence, the team's offensive line established itself as one of the NFL's premier units. 

Finally, the straw that may have broken the back of Mayfield's Atlanta tenure is the Falcons' drafting Matthew Bergeron in the second round of this year's draft. 

Considering how the offensive line seemingly has its starters cemented following last season's strong display, the organization's decision to use an early draft pick on offensive line depth makes Mayfield's role on the team uncertain at best going forward.

Heading into next season, Atlanta's future looks bright in a wide-open NFC South, but unfortunately for Mayfield, the odds he's on the roster to experience the team's success in 2023 don't look promising.