Justin

Blalock

Blalock inked a six-year deal ahead of the 2011 season and has two years left on that contract. He’s still playing at an above-average level and was inarguably Atlanta’s top offensive lineman this past season. Blalock just turned 30 years old. Interior linemen age better than other positions on the field.

The 31-year-old will hang up his cleats after failing to generate much interest during free agency. Blalock started 125 games over eight seasons, all with Atlanta. PFF graded him 26th out of 78 qualified guards last season.

The Rams are in the market for three offensive linemen, with all three of Jake Long, Scott Wells, and Joe Barksdale free agents. Blalock turned 31 in December. He’s annually above-average in pass pro. The Lions are also in on Blalock.

Unless someone unexpected jumps into the mix, it looks like Blalock’s decision will come down to Detroit or St. Louis. Blalock has spent the last eight seasons with Atlanta, starting 125 of a possible 128 games.

The visit reportedly went well, but Blalock will visit the Rams at least before making his decision. The Titans are also reportedly interested. As reliable as they come, Blalock has started all but three games during his eight-year career.

There’s no telling what “checking in” means on Blalock’s behalf, but perhaps it’s an indication Blalock would like to play for Tennessee. He could be a cheaper alternative to overpaid LG Andy Levitre opposite Chance Warmack.

The Falcons cut Blalock in February because he doesn’t fit new OC Kyle Shanahan’s zone scheme. A power-blocking mauler, Blalock would be better suited to clear holes in St. Louis. He turned 31 years old this past December.

The Rams spent the No. 10 overall pick on Todd Gurley. The problem is they have no one to block for him, an annual problem in the Jeff Fisher era. Perhaps they’ll go aggressively after the reliable Blalock after the draft.

Blalock, a Texas alum and the strongest player at the NFL Combine, is expected to be the Falcons’ new starting left guard.

Trainers were looking at Blalock’s lower leg. He appeared to be getting re-taped on the sidelines and may be heading back in.