Falcons List Jake Matthews Questionable for 200th Start

The Atlanta Falcons are evaluating offensive tackle Jake Matthews after a groin injury left his status uncertain for the team’s matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, with the veteran seeking his 200th consecutive start. Matthews is officially questionable after entering the week with the NFL’s longest active streak of consecutive starts at 199.

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Matthews was a full participant in Friday’s practice after playing only 11 snaps before leaving the Falcons’ 45-24 win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 4. His availability will determine whether Atlanta’s left tackle streak continues.

Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski said Matthews has improved while the team monitors his recovery before kickoff.

"Jake is getting better," said Kevin Stefanski, Falcons head coach.

Stefanski said the team plans to use the remaining evaluation period before deciding whether Matthews will play. The coach also noted that the decision will focus on the team’s needs.

"I want to use these next 50 or so hours to see how he responds to his work, and we’ll see how it goes," said Kevin Stefanski, Falcons head coach.

Stefanski later addressed the importance of Matthews’ starting streak while maintaining that the team would prioritize the best outcome for Atlanta.

"We’ll do what’s best for the team," said Kevin Stefanski, Falcons head coach.

The Falcons coach added that Matthews’ milestone is meaningful but will not override football decisions.

"I know the streak and that type of thing, and that’s something to celebrate. But at the same time, we’ll do what’s best for the team," said Kevin Stefanski, Falcons head coach.

Backup tackle Michael Jerrell filled in for Matthews against the Saints and told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution he took his normal first-team reps during preparation. The Falcons also listed linebacker Yasir Abdullah as out with a hamstring injury, while Divine Deablo, Samson Ebukam and Za’Darius Smith remained questionable.