Atlanta Falcons: Who To Pay, Tevin Coleman or Grady Jarrett?
Case for Coleman
The NFL and the casual fan base has found ways and opportunities to disregard the running back position. In speaking of the Falcons, the RB2 role is notably important in this scheme. Coleman’s talent has been on true display the past two seasons as he has eclipsed over 900 scrimmage yards in each of the past two seasons and 19 total touchdowns in that same time frame.
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Coleman’s versatility is where the Falcons truly get a boost, as he possesses the ability to line up in the slot and with his size and speed, the fourth-year back is a dangerous weapon with his route running ability.
His presence proved to be even more vital after a Freeman suffered a concussion mid-season. He filled in for Freeman in week 10 against and produced 83 yards and a rushing touchdown. His second start of the season came in week 12 against Tampa Bay and arguably generated his best game of the season with 97 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Coleman has proved to be a building block for the Falcons offense, even with his role as the backup running back. A legitimate debate could be made for Coleman being the best #2 running back in the entire NFL.
For the Falcons, keeping a mostly young offense together includes having not just one threat at running back, but two. Coleman can very well be that answer.