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Atlanta Falcons 2017 Positional Breakdown Series: Running Backs

By Raekwon Gilbert

Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the New England Patriotsduring Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the New England Patriotsduring Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman (26) carries the ball against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman (26) carries the ball against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /

The Matchup Nightmare

2nd String: Tevin Coleman, Age 24

Last season marked a new beginning for Tevin Coleman and his usage within the offense. After dealing with injuries and ball security issues during his rookie season, Coleman started to find his own niche within the Falcons’ offense with the help of former offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan by creating different matchups in the passing game.

Coleman developed a skillful talent of being able to create separation away from defenders where he dominated against slower linebackers and smaller defensive backs in open space. In the running attack, Coleman improved his ball security issues and served as a valuable third-down option that gave the offense the advantage of spreading out the defense by moving Coleman around the formation.

After a somewhat mixed result filled rookie season, Coleman proved to the NFL that he is one of the most dangerous playmakers with the ball in his by finishing the 2016 season with a combined 11 touchdowns (8 rushing, 3 receiving) despite missing three games.

Though the Falcons’ acquired rookie back Brian Hill from Wyoming to help add a more pound-bruising threat to the backfield, Coleman should still be able to handle a substantial amount of reps coming out of the backfield and maybe with a little creativity as a slot receiver.

2017 Stats Prediction:

107 Rushing attempts – 492 Rushing yards (4.6 average) 6 Rushing touchdowns

42 Receptions – 486 Receiving yards (11.6 average) 5 Receiving touchdowns