Niles Paul: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation Surrounding Free-Agent TE

After spending the first four years of his career in Washington, tight end Niles Paul picked a good time to hit free agency. The 25-year-old is coming off of a career year with 39 catches for 507 yards and should command a solid contract.    

Continue for updates. 

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Falcons Likely to Express Interest in Paul

Tuesday, March 3

Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reported the Atlanta Falcons are likely to express interest in Paul. He added the following details:

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It's a safe bet the Falcons will express interest in tight end Niles Paul, if Paul is not re-signed before then. The 6-foot-1, 245-pound Paul is one of several tight ends headed for free agency who has played in Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's scheme. The others include Jordan Cameron of the Cleveland Browns and Owen Daniels of the Baltimore Ravens. Cameron has had concussion issues, while Daniels will turn 33 during the 2015 season.

Paul, who turns 26 in August, wouldn't be a flashy pickup, but the Falcons aren't expected to invest heavily in a top tight end, such as Denver's Julius Thomas. However, Paul, a former fifth-round draft pick who just completed his fourth NFL season, would be more than capable of playing his role.

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Paul's breakout season largely came as the result of injuries to Jordan Reed, who only appeared in 11 games with two starts.    

Sometimes, though, all a player needs is an opportunity. There are limitations to Paul's game that detract from his value. He's never been a starter for an entire season in the NFL. Last year, despite appearing in all 16 games, the former Nebraska star only started seven times. 

Washington also faces a conundrum with Scot McCloughan taking over as general manager. He has no ties to any of the players from the previous regime, so Paul's tape will have to be enough to impress the new leader. 

Rich Tandler of Comcast SportsNet Washington did note that Paul may not fit the mold of what McCloughan looks for in a tight end:

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McCloughan has expressed a preference for bigger players, not only on the line but in most positions on the field. Paul is a converted wide receiver and while he’s put on some pounds in the weight room since the position change after his rookie 2011 season he’s still on the small side for his position at 6-1, 241. And we could see how important special teams are to McCloughan. Paul has been one of the team’s leaders on the kicking units and if he doesn’t return he’d have to be replaced in that role.

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Rick Snider of The Washington Post speculated at the end of the regular season that Paul may want a bigger deal than Washington is willing to make:

Despite being on the small side for a tight end, Paul does have big-play capabilities with seven of his 39 catches going for at least 20 yards. His 13.0 yards per reception ranked fourth among all qualified tight ends in 2014, per ESPN.com.

More teams understand the value of having a quality tight end in the middle of the field who can serve as a safety net for the quarterback. Paul has shown at times he can be that player, while adding a different dimension downfield. 

Given the market for tight ends this offseason, Paul doesn't figure to be at the top of anyone's wish list due to limited exposure. He has age and upside on his side, which could help turn him into one of the bigger bargains this offseason.