The Atlanta Falcons are thriving after three games as they continue to get production from unexpected names. Leonard Hankerson has developed into Matt Ryan's second favorite target outside of Julio Jones while Jacob Tamme is giving the team some needed stability at the tight end position. However, injuries are a factor this year and Tamme is no exception. After suffering a concussion in the win over the Dallas Cowboys, the tight end could be out Week 4.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Tamme is undergoing the NFL's concussion protocol and his status for Week 4 is up in the air right now. Tamme had just one catch for eight yards before exiting the game. The tight end came to the team after two years in Denver and signed a two-year, $4 million contract. He has been a productive player so far, but if he is unable to play, Levine Toilolo will take over.
"Honestly, I don't think anyone covered me," Toilolo said, via AJC.com. "So, that was best look we could have (received). It was like playing pitch-and-catch. Anytime that the ball comes your way, even if it's a run play to your side, you take great pride in trying to help the team out. Whenever you get that chance, it's great to be able to help out the team."
Toilolo has shown improvement this season especially in blocking which is why he is getting more passes thrown his way. In his first two seasons with the team, the tight end was marred by dropped passes in the red zone but seems to be at a turning point this year. It also helps that fullback Patrick DiMarco is looking strong this season and has stepped into the tight end role at times. He was critical against the Cowboys and will be moving forward.
The absence of Tamme could see Roddy White break his catchless streak which has reached two games now. The wide receiver has been a starter in all three games, but is seeing his targets go to Hankerson or Tamme. Even Nick Williams had a catch in Week 3 over the veteran. Ryan stressed that it is simply the way it goes sometimes and that White is still a very big part of the offensive plan. With Tamme potentially out, White could get a few more looks in Week 4 which would be welcomed by the receiver.