Few players did more for the Falcons last year than Devonta Freeman.
But they’re hoping to make him do less this year.
Falcons running backs coach Bobby Turner told D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution the goal was to keep Freeman fresher, and give Tevin Coleman more of an opportunity to contribute.
“It’s about growth,” Turner said. “Free had a good year, but I’m expecting even a better year. Well, you’re saying, how can it be better? It can be even better with less carries or less catches because I’d obviously like to get Tevin more involved and that also keeps Free fresher.”
Freeman had 1,634 yards from scrimmage and 14 combined touchdowns last year, so you’d think they’d want to put the ball in his hands as often as possible. But the hope is likely as much about wear and tear and developing Coleman, the third-rounder who was starting before he was injured, allowing Freeman to Wally Pipp him.
But Turner said he hopes having both of them available will help they entire offense.
“We want them competing,” Turner said. “They are very similar. They both are competitive. They both can catch the football. They both have run instincts. When it comes down to it, the one difference is the flat out long speed of Tevin Coleman.”
Of course, getting Coleman to hold onto the ball would also help, as he needs to prove himself trustworthy after some fumbling issues.