The Falcons Have a Well Rounded Tight End Corps

By: Hunter Hamberlin

Until recently, the Falcons’ tight ends have not generated much buzz. To their defense, Tony Gonzalez set a high standard. However, the Dirty Birds’ tight end corps is actually solid.

Jacob Tamme, Austin Hooper, Levine Toilolo, Joshua Perkins, and DJ Tialavea all combined for 11 touchdowns last season. Austin Hooper led the tight ends with four touchdowns—three during the regular season and one in the Super Bowl. Jacob Tamme was right behind Hooper with three touchdowns, even though he injured his shoulder in Week 8. Usually a blocking tight end, Levine Toilolo reached the endzone twice in 2016. Joshua Perkins and DJ Tialavea both scored one touchdown.

11 touchdowns is not an impressive number of touchdowns between five players, but considering this team has arguably the best offensive supporting staff at their disposal…it is impressive.

Jacob Tamme was to Austin Hooper what Dwight Freeney was to Vic Beasley. Tamme set a great example for Austin Hooper to learn from. Ironically, the development of Austin Hooper could be a good reason why Atlanta has not  resigned Tamme.

Toilolo is a good as they come as it pertains to being a blocking tight end. He could become more of a redzone threat in 2017. Regarding Perkins and Tialavea, they both show potential, but have had little playing time to really gauge their overall talent. 

Joining the tight end group is fifth round selection Eric Saubert from Drake University. He has the size, athleticism, and speed to become a solid tight end in the NFL. However, according to Bleacher Report, he needs to work on his catching and “has to learn to play to his size.” Saubert has much to learn, but should fit in well in Atlanta.

Consistency is key in football, and the tight end corps of the Falcons is as consistent as they come.  

Hunter Hamberlin: @Chips_Ahoy94