Contract Details
Drew Dalman has secured a three-year agreement worth $42 million, with $28 million guaranteed. The deal makes him the second highest-paid center in the league, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Career Evolution
Drafted in the fourth round in 2021, Dalman quickly established himself on the field. Initially serving as a backup center and contributing on special teams, he eventually earned the starting role by defeating strong competition. Since 2022, he has anchored the offensive line, starting 40 consecutive games and participating in every offensive snap during his first complete season as a starter.
Performance Profile
Over the past four seasons, Dalman has played in 57 games, consistently demonstrating reliability and resilience. Despite missing eight contests in 2024 and three in 2023 due to ankle injuries, he maintained a high level of play. His performance metrics include an overall grade of 78.8, positioning him among the nation’s top centers. Notably, his proficiency in run blocking earned him a high ranking, and his contributions in pass protection reflected steady consistency, as evidenced by his minimal sack count and few penalties over 554 snaps.
Implications for Atlanta
Dalman’s departure leaves a significant gap in the center of Atlanta’s offensive line. His four-year tenure in the team was marked by experience, stability, and impressive on-field leadership. The loss of such a key contributor means the team will now face the challenge of finding a replacement capable of upholding the high standards he set, sparking intensive internal discussions as the franchise navigates its free agency period.