The Falcons have announced that they have signed wide receiver Mohamed Sanu. The team had confirmed that Sanu would visit the Falcons on Thursday, and it must have gone well because they've given him a five-year deal worth $32.5 million with $14 million fully guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Sanu played a complementary role during his four seasons in Cincinnati, but his versatility and athleticism make him an intriguing offensive weapon.
Mohamed Sanu signs 5-year, $32.5 million deal with the Falcons
The Falcons have a void at wide receiver after parting ways with veteran Roddy White, and they hope Sanu can fill that role.
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After setting career highs with 56 catches and 790 receiving yards in 2014, Sanu's production took a steep hit last season. He caught 33 passes for 394 yards and failed to grab a touchdown despite playing in all 17 games (including the playoffs). Sanu's role in the Bengals' offense diminished as the season wore on; he had fewer than 30 receiving yards in each of the final 11 games and was targeted more than three times just twice over the final two months.
Despite those disappointing numbers in 2015, there is a lot to like about Sanu. He is a talented pass-catcher and reliable route-runner who can play on the outside or in the slot, and he’s also is a legitimate threat to do damage as a runner on sweeps and reverses. On top of that, he can be used in the wildcat formation and has shown remarkable accuracy as a passer. He’s completed all five of his career passing attempts, including two that have gone for touchdowns.
Sanu’s real value is hard to figure out because he was clearly the third or fourth option in Cincinnati for much of his career. Still, he’s flashed the potential to be a dynamic playmaker, and at just 26 years old he clearly has time to develop into a top-tier wideout if given the opportunity.
The Falcons needed to add another viable receiving target for Matt Ryan with Roddy White hitting the open market after being cut by the team, and Sanu seems to be a good fit. With Julio Jones on the field with him, all Sanu has to be is a capable No. 2 receiver.
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