“Turbo” Taylor Gabriel’s stock is rising for the Atlanta Falcons
By Sinjin Snope
The speedy receiver has burst onto the scene this season with his spectacular play. How did no one notice Taylor Gabriel until now?
“Turbo” is a unique word.
“Turbo” is usually synonymous with cars, engines or cartoon snails. A word that by definition means; accelerated or “souped-up”. Anything associated with “turbo” is fast, like really fast. As far as the NFL is concerned, “turbo” is now commonly associated with a young, Atlanta Falcons’ wide receiver.
“Turbo” Taylor Gabriel has made his presence known around the league.
“Who is this kid that was cut by the Browns?”
I first took notice to Gabriel in the Atlanta Falcons’ Week 8 contest against the Green Bay Packers. Taylor’s 47-yard touchdown catch that day was as intriguing as it was exciting. It was a play that positively affected the outcome of the game, but also served as an eye-opener. I asked myself: “Who is this kid that was cut by the Browns?”
Since then, “Turbo” Taylor Gabriel has posted 18 catches for 329 yards and 5 total touchdowns.
Gabriel is 3rd on the Falcons in receiving yards and tied with Julio Jones for the team lead in touchdown receptions. With the playoffs right around the corner, Gabriel is becoming a player that opposing coaches need to scout and plan for. His versatility and speed takes an already high-octane offense to another level.
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Recently, Gabriel stated that he has played with a chip on his shoulder since coming into the NFL from the small college, Abilene Christian. That chip is very noticeable when you see him fly down the sidelines. He is making a name for himself in this league and is already a huge contributor to this special Atlanta Falcons’ season.
Not too shabby for a guy the win-less Cleveland Browns decided wasn’t good enough coming out of Training Camp.
The Falcons have longed for a receiver with Gabriel’s ability to blow the top off a defense. Julio Jones can do a lot, but we found out last year that he cannot win games all by himself. He may be one of the best receivers to ever grace a football field, but he’s still not Superman. Successful passing offenses require balance; a mix of speed, possession, and big-play receivers.
Balance is what “Turbo Taylor” brings to the table each week.