Devonta Freeman goes to Atlanta Falcons
Devonta Freeman (8) smiles as he models the new uniforms during the spring game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
The Atlanta Falcons were always in the market for a running back in the middle rounds of the 2014 NFL Draft, and they landed their guy today by selecting Florida State Seminoles product Devonta Freeman, who is arguably the best all-around back in this year’s class. He and West Virginia Mountaineers RB Charles Sims, who was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers yesterday, are held in high regard for their ability to impact the passing game as receivers and blockers.
Freeman has an uncanny ability to pass protect for a rookie running back, and that will be a huge addition for the Falcons offense, as Matt Ryan can use all the help he can get after getting shelled last year. Jake Matthews was obviously the huge addition to the Falcons line, and they desperately needed a blue-chip tackle prospect like him.
Of course, Freeman’s biggest impact on the team will be as a No. 2 back behind Steven Jackson, who is an injury waiting to happen at this point in his career (unfortunately). Freeman reminds me of Doug Martin a little bit, because he is a solid, decisive rusher with a good all-around skill-set. That skill-set allowed him to separate himself from the other talented backs at FSU, and he should have a solid career as an RB2 in this league.