Falcons’ Iron Man Jake Matthews Determined to Keep Streak Alive
Atlanta Falcons left tackle Jake Matthews nearly saw his impressive consecutive games streak come to an end this season — but injury wasn’t going to stop him from suiting up.
Matthews has started 184 straight games since entering the league in 2014, never missing a single one. That streak was in jeopardy during the Falcons’ Week 6 win over the Buffalo Bills, when he suffered a high ankle sprain just before halftime. Despite being listed as questionable throughout the week, Matthews played on Sunday, thanks to a specially designed brace shown during the NBC broadcast.
“Structurally, everything was fine. I just had to push through it,” Matthews said after the game. “They set me up with a brace to prevent further damage. It was bulky, but I had to find a way to play. I needed to be out there.”
And he didn’t just play — he excelled. Matthews was graded as the Falcons’ top offensive lineman by Pro Football Focus, earning a 72.6 overall grade and an elite 87.4 pass-blocking mark, the best of any player in the game. While the 49ers managed pressure on quarterback Michael Penix Jr., most of it came from the right side, with right guard Chris Lindstrom and right tackle Elijah Wilkinson allowing 10 pressures and two sacks.
Matthews’ presence is vital to Atlanta’s playoff hopes. So far this season, he has allowed just 14 pressures and two sacks in five and a half games — impressive numbers for any lineman, let alone one playing through injury.
After the game, Matthews expressed gratitude to the Falcons’ medical staff for helping him stay on the field. “Feeling good, man,” he said. “Thankful for everyone who helped me get ready.”
For Matthews, playing isn’t a choice — it’s a part of who he is. Battling through a painful high ankle sprain highlights his grit, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his team. His determination to be out there, competing and protecting his quarterback, is exactly why he’s earned his “Iron Man” nickname — and why he remains one of the NFL’s most reliable players.
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