Dalman has been the Falcons’ starting center for the past four seasons and is now set to hit free agency. There is strong interest in him from other teams to start at center, with the Bears emerging as a strong suitor. The Bears have already added to their offensive line this offseason, looking to build blocking with Ben Johnson now at the helm. Expect the 26-year-old Dalman to receive a high-end deal for the center position, with the Bears in strong pursuit.

Dalman has a chance to return this week, having practiced in a limited capacity through Wednesday and Thursday. The 5-3 Falcons are in first place in the NFC South. The talented run-blocker’s presence would be a boon for the Falcons’ Week 9 rushing attack.

Dalman landed on injured reserve after injuring his ankle against the Chiefs in Week 3. Dalman can be a liability in pass protection but maintains a high level of play as a run blocker, earning an 84.5 PFF run-blocking grade in 3-of-4 NFL seasons. Dalman can be activated to the game-day roster at any time, within his 21-day practice window. His return bodes positively for the Falcons’ run game.