Summer Sleeper: Atlanta Falcons

George Kritikos Posted On August 20, 2014

falcons

With fantasy season right around the corner, we’re continuing our annual series focusing on a few sleepers from all 32 teams in the NFL. You can find all of the Summer Sleeper articles here.

These sleepers all have varying levels of “sleeperness,” but all merit a little more talking about here in the Premium Content section. Some of these players are deep dynasty sleepers who could merit a spot on your bench in a deep league, while others are players who may contribute a little faster than the deep prospects, but deserve more attention than they may be getting. By definition, a sleeper could mean something a little different to everyone, but we’re simply doing the best job we can to unearth one player from each team who fits the category in some way, shape or form.

We’ll never insult you with a comprehensive list of “sleepers” which include such such dynasty mainstay names as Toby Gerhart, Christine Michael or Cordarrelle Patterson. You’re all too good for that.

While many of these players will undoubtedly fizzle, there’s more value in looking more closely at these deeper prospects and players. We invite you to keep an open mind and either or re-assess your value on those who may be rostered in your league or consider adding a few of these deeper prospects we focus on this Summer who are free agents in your league – after all, some are destined to pan out, too.

Feel free to add your own comments about our choice for the designated sleeper, or nominate one of your own!

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Bernard Reedy, WR

The Atlanta Falcons have a lot to like for fantasy purposes, particularly in the passing game. In addition to young phenom Julio Jones, there is a veteran presence at wide receiver with Roddy White, Harry Douglas, and new acquisition Devin Hester littering the depth chart ranks. Running back is showcasing the decline of Steven Jackson while introducing the world to rookie Devonta Freeman, not exactly a sleeper type to most. Tight end is in a bit of upheaval but I wouldn’t call Levine Toilolo an upside play outside of a three to four tight end league.

That leaves very little left to look at in terms of sleeper, but there is some opportunity and talent at the backend of the wide receiver ranks. With several young players fighting it out for roster spots, I think there is one receiver that not only holds the advantage, but the potential to be a contributor in the next few years.

Bernard Reedy was an undrafted free agent this year from the University of Toledo after having a successful, but not standout, college career. While there is concern about his height (listed at 5’8” to 5’9”), having 4.39 speed will help. Being picked up by Atlanta, Reedy has shown an aptitude for the big play and has serious return skills, improving his likelihood of sticking with the team.

In training camp, Reedy is flashing many of those same skills from college. He also caught a fortunate break as Drew Davis, his key competition for the number five spot, suffered a foot injury that will sideline him until the beginning of the regular season. This gives Reedy the chance to get in extra time during the preseason and potentially avoid the practice squad in favor of the 53-man roster.

Going into this season, Bernard Reedy is doing everything possible to make the roster. That being said, his upside in his rookie season will be minimal to none without the receiving core getting ravaged by injuries. Going further out, Reedy has a chance to become a good slot weapon for the team as the Falcons will likely use more four receiver sets post-Tony Gonzalez and may even get a shot returning kicks. There is Dexter McCluster-like upside here if used right, which can be especially valuable for those who score return yardage. This is the type of deep flyer you stash at the end of your bench in deep dynasty leagues and hope he gets an opportunity to contribute.

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