Atlanta Falcons center Joe Hawley returns as top center

FLOWERY BRANCH (TNS) — Falcons center Joe Hawley, who’s trying to battle back from knee surgery, has spent most of his time working with the first-team offensive line in training camp.

“It’s my job and I’m going to lead those guys out there,” said Hawley on Wednesday.

Hawley, who was the opening day starting center last season, has recovered from reconstructive knee surgery. He suffered a double (ACL and MCL) ligament injury in the fourth game of last season against Minnesota on Sept. 28.

Hawley participated in some of the drills during the offseason, but didn’t take any snaps in 11-on-11 plays from scrimmage. He back in the mix and was quickly re-inserted as the No. 1 center over James Stone, who worked at right guard.

“I’m feeling great,” Hawley said. “I’m just feeling so good to get back out there with the guys and compete. I can’t wait to get some more reps and gradually build it up.”

Hawley believes that Falcons are headed in a new direction.

“It’s not really about turning it around,” Hawley said. “It’s about starting fresh. The leadership that we’ve got in Dan Quinn, I think that everybody is buying in 100 percent. There’s a lot of energy.

“Even with the first meeting that we had, my blood started pumping. I’m really excited about starting this year.”

While Hawley’s performance has been good news, the Falcons have more good news on left tackle Jake Matthews.

Matthews, who had offseason foot surgery after his rookie season, has not missed anytime over the first six days of training camp.

He reports that his foot surgery is holding up well.

“It’s been good,” Matthews said. “It’s doing well. The training staff has done a really good job staying on top of it. I’m feeling really good.”