NFL Draft: Devin Funchess can be solution for Atlanta Falcons

Sep 20, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Devin Funchess (1) is hit by Utah Utes defensive back Eric Rowe (18) in the first quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Weaknesses

Regardless of whether he lines up as a receiver or a tight end, Funchess needs to improve his blocking. As well as this, he needs to work on his route-running ability.

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He will need to improve in these areas to be able to transition successfully to the NFL.

Perhaps the biggest concern with Funchess is the amount of dropped catches he has had. Zierlein wrote that he has been tagged with 20 dropped passes over the past three seasons, and this simply cannot translate into the NFL if he is to find success.

Many draft analysts have questioned his pass-catching ability.

"“Funchess dropped a number of passes against Michigan State that could have gone for big plays. He showed a lack of ability to win contested catches, and that is concerning for a receiver who isn’t a true speed threat. Funchess also struggled to get off of the Spartans’ press coverage. Adding strength for tight end to improve his blocking would be the best path for Funchess to pursue as a prospect,” writes Walter Cherepinsky of WalterFootball.com."

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