BALLER MOVE: Target ~150
CURRENT ADP: ~170
ANALYSIS: The Atlanta Falcons chose to re-sign Taylor Gabriel this last offseason without much hesitation. The former undrafted player from Abilene Christian, who completed his third NFL season, tied Julio Jones for the team lead in touchdown receptions with six. The 5’8, 167 lb receiver averaged 42.7 yards on his touchdown receptions, the second-highest among receivers with five or more touchdown catches and second only to Brandin Cooks (44.1).
Although the departure of offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan is a concern for the entire offense, it’s highly likely that the team attempts to maintain as much continuity as possible in the transition to 2017. Gabriel’s range of outcomes is what makes him particularly enticing in Atlanta, as he could operate as the No. 3 wide receiver in a similar manner to last season at worst or become a workhorse target hoarder with the duo of Julio Jones and Mohammed Sanu drawing coverage at best.
With the ball, Gabriel is a threat to score at all times. I believe that he will avoid fluctuating levels of production in 2017 and provide immense upside for those who take a chance on him. However, Gabriel should be worth the investment in the later rounds of drafts.
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