Coleman rushed for a career-high 628 yards and five touchdowns last season. He also runs routes like a receiver, according to quarterback Matt Ryan. A nightmare for linebackers to cover, Coleman caught 27 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns.
Coleman, as he heads into the final year of his rookie contract, plans to build on the fine start to his career.
“For me, I just want to stay consistent in everything I do,” Coleman said. “Keep doing what I’m doing. For the offense, of course, we want to be the best offense. We want to definitely finish, keep the ball and make plays.”
The Falcons have added new wrinkles to the offense this offseason and some include the fast and powerful Coleman.
“They want to use me more,” Coleman said. “Line me up out wide and stuff like that. It’s going to be pretty cool.”
The Falcons left no stone unturned in the offseason. Coleman has things to work on, too.
“Just not cutting on my inside leg,” Coleman said. “Sometimes I cut with my inside leg. I need to use my outside leg.”
Falcons coach Dan Quinn is expecting big things from Coleman.
“We’ve tried really to get (really) involved with our running backs in the passing game as well,” Quinn said. “I thought he made a big jump last year with (former running backs coach) Keith Carter with his pass protection. That part really came to life.”
Coleman’s workload has increased each season. He had 89 touches (rushes and catches) as a rookie followed by 149 and 163 the next seasons.
“Now, we want to make sure that we’re really featuring him and Devonta (Freeman) in as many ways as we can,” Quinn said. “So, whether if it’s outside or leaving them in the backfield. The amount of catches and touches that we can get for those guys ... we know how explosive they are.”
Coleman has hit off with new running backs coach Bernie Parmalee.
“He’s cool,” Coleman said. “He’s amazing. He’s a good coach. I’m looking forward to working with him.”
The Falcons signed Freeman to a six-year, $43 million contract last season. Coleman has a base salary of $791,268 for the 2018 season and if the Falcons can’t work out an extension, he’ll become a free agent.
Teams rarely have two running backs with hefty contracts, although Carolina did it with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Williams signed a five-year, $43 million deal in 2011. Stewart signed a five-year $36.5 million in 2013. The two were on the roster together from 2008-14.
Coleman is aware of his situation and knows a big payday is looming from him and the twins.