An Atlanta Falcons Progress Report: Garrett Reynolds

What to make of Garrett Reynolds?

Offensive linemen are tricky to judge until they play consistently, because you can't point to numbers. You've got to watch them, and if they rarely see game action, it's virtually impossible to pass judgment on their abilities. It's much easier to take a look at a guy like Dominique Franks at a position like cornerback and try to figure out how he'll do in the future.

That doesn't meant we can't look at Reynolds, though. Hit the jump for more.

Mount Reynolds is a promising prospect at tackle, make no mistake. His athleticism and pass protection were the two biggest hurdles he had to clear when he arrived in 2009, but with two seasons worth of practice and training under his belt, it's logical to think he's improved in those areas.

The proof is lacking, though. Like Lawrence Sidbury, who didn't get on the field at all in 2010, Reynolds didn't play a snap on offense in 2010 after playing parts of four games the season before. The Falcons are big fans of sitting their projects until they're ready to contribute, so that could be what's happening with Reynolds. Tyson Clabo also played well and proved sturdy in 2010.

Ultimately, Reynolds may be little more than a handy reserve option. He's big and a mauler in the run game, which makes him an ideal fit for a backup right tackle. He's certainly not going anywhere.

Then again, it's also possible he could be groomed for the starting right tackle job down the road. I do believe Reynolds has the physical tools to compete for a starting job in the near future. If free agency ever gets off the ground, Clabo might be gone. I can't imagine the Falcons would hand the reins at right tackle over to a guy who didn't record a snap in 2010, but stranger things have happened.

What I lack is evidence. Your take?