:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59052585/usa_today_10299096.0.jpg)
It’s no secret that the Atlanta Falcons have a number of offensive weapons that makes them one of the better units in the league. From the dynamic combination of Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu to the one-two punch at running back in Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman, the Falcons have a very nice set of skill-position players that is a formidable unit.
An argument can be made that something is missing. With the free agency departure of receiver Taylor Gabriel, the team could be looking for a versatile deep threat that can take advantage of the talent around him and expand a productive offense. For today, let’s take a look at a potential prospect who could be an excellent addition to the Falcons offense.
Keke Coutee Scouting Report
Height: 5’11
Weight: 180 lbs
Games watched: vs. Oklahoma (2016), vs. Kansas State (2016) vs. Houston (2017), vs. Arizona State (2017), vs. Texas (2017)
Strengths
With the ball in his hands Coutee is a positive play waiting to occur. His deep speed is matched by very few, if any, defenders in this class or otherwise.
His speed and athleticism was on display during the combine recently with a 4.43 40-yard dash, a 6.93 3-cone drill, and a 34.5-inch vertical jump. Coutee earned second-team All Big 12 honors this past season after posting career-highs in receptions (93), yards (1,405) and touchdowns (10). During his sophomore 2016 season, Coutee posted 890 yards and averaged 16.2 yards per catch with seven touchdowns. Coutee is able to create separation with ease thanks to his speed and quickness in small spaces.
Texas Tech found ways to get the ball to their electric receiver as he lined up in backfield at running back, in the slot, and the X- and Z- receiver positions. He also exhibits reliable concentration as a hands catcher.
Weaknesses
It is also obvious when watching his tape that his frame is small and lanky. Defenders who create contact on Coutee often win those one-on-one battles. So his play strength at the NFL level will need to improve if he’s going to be effective. Route-running will need improvement. Contested catches are not necessarily his forte, as well.
The scouting community has questioned if Coutee is a product of a scheme at Texas Tech or if he is a dependable playmaker, which is a legitimate question.
Conclusion
If you recall back to my in-season Falcons mock draft back in October, it appeared to me that the writing was on the wall for a Taylor Gabriel departure. Lo and behold, here we are.
Coutee has similar traits as Gabriel and is slightly bigger than Gabriel. His presence in the Falcons offense will provide defenses with a pure speedster and another weapon that defenses will truly have to account for. In the open field, Coutee is as dangerous as they come, and you have to believe that lining up next to Jones and others will make the transition for Coutee a little easier.
He is currently holding a draft range in the 3rd and possible early 4th, which is probably where Atlanta will look to spend a draft pick on a receiver if they’re inclined to. There is no doubt that Coutee could be an asset in this offense. Patience is needed but it probably won’t take long for Coutee to prove that the patience will pay off.