NFL Rumors: Atlanta Falcons attempting to ‘lock up’ center Joe Hawley before deadline
By Brad Rowland
Earlier in the day on Tuesday, the Atlanta Falcons chose to “improve from within” by signing long-time defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux, and in the midst of other rumors, the team is reportedly negotiating with another in-house contributor. This time, though, it is along the offensive line with center Joe Hawley.
#Falcons are trying to lock up C Joe Hawley, but there's interest out there for him. May go right up to 4 pm.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 11, 2014
Adam Caplan reports that the team is in negotiations with the 25-year-old Hawley to keep him in Atlanta long-term, and while it may seem like a “fringe” move, it could be important to Atlanta’s ability to build their offensive line. The 6-foot-3, 297-pound Hawley has been a versatile cog for the Falcons, playing at both center and guard over the past four seasons, and while he was simply a backup option earlier in his career, Hawley made 7 starts this season after supplanting incumbent Peter Konz.
Hawley’s value on the open market is up for debate, but the Falcons know that they have (at the very least) a solid utility man who knows their offensive system, and that is an undervalued commodity at times. Look for Hawley to remain in Atlanta on a modest deal, but one that includes a solid raise for the young center.