Zachariah Branch has clear path to Falcons offensive role as rookie

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Zachariah Branch might not have a well-rounded wide receiver skillset.

But as an Atlanta Falcons rookie, he might not need one.

The Falcons' offensive leaders are well defined. Bijan Robinson is the running back. Drake London is the top wideout. Kyle Pitts is the tight end.

Anyone who can figure out how to operate around those guys will have a chance.

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Branch, with his speed and ability to do special things with the ball in his hands, could definitely seize a role.

"The Kevin Stefanski/Tommy Rees offense likes to throw screens and quick hitters to its receivers, and neither London nor Pitts are great yards-after-catch options," ESPN's Ben Solak wrote in a new article on Tuesday. "Branch was a tricky scout, as his 5-foot-10, 180-pound size is far too small to make him an every-down player in the NFL. But he can shine in a catered role that doesn't have too much volume and gives him plenty of space. That's the job available to him, should he show out in camp above veteran additions Olamide Zaccheaus and Jahan Dotson."

Zaccheaus is a sleeper in this offense, too, and is likely the biggest threat to Branch being relevant as a rookie.

But if Branch can break through, he'll likely have a few 'wow' plays through the course of his rookie season that reveal why there's some long-term excitement surrounding him.

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It also seems like it could help Branch if Tua Tagovailoa beats out Michael Penix for the starting job. Tagovailoa's short-range accuracy could help Branch maximize the opportunities that are given to him.

No, Branch is not Tyreek Hill, but some of those short passes Tua made work with Hill in Miami could have at least some overlap with Branch targets in Atlanta.