Atlanta made some big changes to its roster during the offseason, replacing both starting tight end Austin Hooper and running back Devonta Freeman.
The Falcons signed Gurley to a team-friendly contract after his surprising release from the Rams. Meanwhile, Hurst was acquired from the Ravens via trade after Atlanta lost Hooper in free agency.
According to quarterback Matt Ryan, the team’s replacements are fitting in nicely. Ryan said that both players are picking up the offense quickly and look to be great schematic fits within the Falcons’ offense.
Gurley could potentially thrive in Atlanta’s zone rushing attack if he’s fully healthy this season. The team averaged just 85.1 yards per game on the ground in 2019.
For Hurst, the third-year TE has even more to prove. Drafted in the first round back 2018, his skill-set didn’t quite fit the Ravens’ run-first offense.
Hurst isn’t known for his blocking, but is set up for success in Atlanta where he won’t be asked to do much other than catch passes and take pressure off of wide receivers Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley.
We will see just how well these new Falcons fit in when the season begins. The team certainly has a leg up on the rest of the NFL, though, with zero players opting out before yesterday’s deadline.
