Fantasy football impact of Atlanta Falcons signing UDFA TE Jared Pinkney

The Atlanta Falcons lost Austin Hooper to the Cleveland Browns this offseason and have continued to stock up on tight ends. They signed Vanderbilt’s Jared Pinkney following the 2020 NFL Draft.

Pinkney say a huge drop in production between 2018 and 2019. He tallied 50 receptions for 774 yards and seven scores in 2018, but followed up with only 20 reception for 233 yards and two scores the following season.

Scouting Report

Pinkney has all the physical tools to be a quality tight end. He has a 6’4” frame with long arms and plenty of strength to go with it. Pinkney is lacking in the speed department but is able to work the seams effectively.

He can add yardage after the catch, but needs to fine-tune his route-running and play with better physicality against clingy coverage. He can handle move-blocking duties in space, but doesn’t appear to have enough grit and strength to help in-line. He should become a productive pass-catcher with TE2 traits and talent. — NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein

Fantasy football impact

The Falcons acquired Hayden Hurst from the Baltimore Ravens via trade after Hooper. He is the presumed starter, but former DC Defenders tight end Khari Lee is also in the mix alongside Jaeden Graham and Carson Meier. Pinkney might not have TE1 upside, but he could be a serviceable TE2 if he beats out the other tight ends on Atlanta’s roster. He’s not worth a draft pick in season-long fantasy.