Falcons Post-Week 1 Fantasy Outlook

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Sep 11, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman (26) carries the ball in the third quarter of their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the Georgia Dome. The Buccaneers won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Tevin Coleman

Breakout Performance: Tevin Coleman (8 carries, 22 rushing yards, 5 catches, 95 receiving yards: 11.70 points)

Tevin Coleman was maybe the most impressive player for the Falcons in week 1. The rushing was nothing to write home about (2.75 yards per carry); the performance in the passing game, on the other hand, was extremely impressive.

Coleman really helped Matt Ryan out through the air – with catches of 16 yards, 21 yards, 16 yards (again), and 47 yards. The former third-round pick out of Indiana led the Falcons in both rushing yards and receiving yards.

Coleman is certainly more than just a mere change of pace number 2 running back. He thoroughly outperformed Devonta Freeman – 13 touches for 117 total yards against Freeman’s 15 touches for 40 total yards. The fact that he didn’t fumble the ball is also a huge plus.

Analysis: Coleman is owned in just 42.8% of NFL.com fantasy leagues: if he’s a free agent in your league, pick him up. Kyle Shanahan really likes the former 3rd rounder because of his breakaway speed (which was on display in this game), and will give him more touches than the average backup RB gets.

I would be hesitant to suggest starting him against the Raiders next week, because of Freeman’s presence as a starter, but nobody would fault you if you started him as an emergency flex. Just tamper expectations for now.

If Coleman can continue playing like he did today, then he will cut even more into Freeman’s touches. Stash Tevin, and monitor this running back battle going forward.

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