The Atlanta Falcons gravitated toward Michael Penix Jr. leading the offense moving forward. Now they’ll ensure he’s got protection on the field through a $45 million deal ahead of NFL free agency. Veteran left tackle Jake Matthews is re-signing with the franchise,

Matthews, 33, was set to count $21.7 million against the 2025 cap, but the extension will diminish his cap hit ahead of free agency.

Mike Garafolo of NFL Media reports that the Falcons have agreed to a two-year extension with LT Jake Matthews worth $45 million. Matthews had two years remaining on his current deal which included base salaries of $15,