ASU Football: Demario Richard signed by Atlanta Falcons

Former ASU football running back Demario Richard was signed as a free agent by the Atlanta Falcons at the conclusion of the 2018  NFL Draft.

It’s time for Demario Richard to prove himself again.

Richard was signed by the Atlanta Falcons following the conclusion of the final rounds of the 2018 NFL Draft,  joining former Sun Devil defensive end JoJo Wicker as a priority free agent signee.

The specifics of Richard’s contract are currently unknown.

Richard announced the decision via his Twitter page:

In Atlanta, Richard joins a team that finished with a 10-6 regular season record. The team defeated the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Wild Card game before falling to the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round.

The Falcons’ depth chart currently consists of three running backs on the roster. Here’s the depth chart the team held in 2017:

1. Devonta Freeman

2. Tevin Coleman

3. Terron Ward

Richard’s skillset emphasizes a power running game that will help the Falcons in goal line and short yardage situations. Last season, the team ranked 23rd in the NFL in red zone touchdown percentage, an area that Richard will be able to contribute with immediately if given the opportunity.

Following the departure of offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, the Falcons experienced a significant drop in offensive prowess from their NFC championship season in 2016.

With Richard behind the line of scrimmage, head coach Dan Quinn will pick up a ball carrier that could take off pressure from Freeman carrying the load on offense. Richard spent a majority of his Sun Devil career sharing carries with Kalen Ballage, an a situation that he could thrive in again.

Next: 2018 NFL Draft Profile: Running back Demario Richard

The Falcons’ training camp opens on July 15, where Richard will have a chance to try to make an NFL roster.