Falcons utility man Feleipe Franks must make an impact to make final roster

One of the biggest stories for the Atlanta Falcons throughout camp was the impressive play from quarterback turned tight-end Feleipe Franks. This is in part due to the fact Franks was performing well and the fact that Falcons fans and media know they are likely in for a long season. Franks was a fun story to distract from the losing that is sure to come for a roster still a year away from contending.

Franks failed to make a play at tight end in Atlanta’s first preseason game with his most memorable moment coming on a dropped deep pass from Desmond Ridder. Whether it is at tight end or quarterback Franks needs to make plays on Monday night against the Jets to cement his roster spot.

While there is value in Franks being able to play two positions it is hard to keep him on the roster if that value isn’t going to translate into production. In fairness to Franks, he did catch one pass against the Lions though it was a forgettable five-yard gain.

Feleipe Franks needs to prove he can make the plays he failed to make last season. In limited chances, last season Franks struggled in a utility role and looked lost when he had the ball in his hands.

He is an elite athlete who has the ability to make this roster if he can put together a memorable moment or two at either position. It would be surprising not to see Franks earn some reps at quarterback tonight to continue to develop him at the position.

While Franks is far from the most exciting player on the field for the Falcons tonight he is one fans should be watching closely. With the value, he brings he needs to do very little to be a lock for this roster and give Arthur Smith the positional flexibility he loves.