The Atlanta Falcons started the process of retaining their own free agents by signing defensive lineman Cliff Matthews and fullback Patrick DiMarco to two-year contract extensions.

They are both minimum-salary deals, and the contracts don't guarantee them a spot on the team. But new coach Dan Quinn obviously saw something in both. Plus Matthews and DiMarco have earned praise from special teams coordinator Keith Armstrong for their work on special teams.

Here is how their extensions break down:

MATTHEWS

Years of experience: 4

Signing bonus: none

Base salaries: $745,000 (2015); $760,000 (2015)

Cap number: $745,000 (2015); $760,000 (2015)

Escalator: Can earn $100,000 toward 2016 base salary

DIMARCO

Years of experience: 3

Signing bonus: $75,000

Base salaries: $660,000 (2015); 760,000 (2016)

Cap number: $697,500 (2015); $797,500 (2016)

Escalator: Can earn $150,000 toward 2016 base salary