Falcons safety Coleman misses second practice

Flowery Branch — Falcons safety Erik Coleman missed a second day of practice with a quadriceps contusion on Thursday.

Coleman, who suffered the injury against San Diego, is a key cog in the defensive unit and played a starring role shutting down the New Orleans passing attack for most of the game in the Falcons’ 34-20 victory on Nov. 9.

The Saints attempted to throw a bomb on the first play of the game to Devery Henderson, but Coleman intercepted the pass.

If Coleman is not able to play on Sunday against the Saints, rookie Thomas DeCoud, who has played primarily on special teams, would start.

DeCoud, a rookie and third-round pick from California, received Coleman’s reps with the No. 1 unit on Wednesday and Thursday, the heavy practice days in the NFL.

“Thomas had done a nice job on special teams,” Falcons head coach Mike Smith said. “He has showed his athleticism on the cover teams for sure. He’s getting an opportunity to get a lot of snaps these last two days because of Erik not being able to practice.”

The Saints have the NFL’s top-ranked offense, amassing 405.3 yards per game.

“He has a good understanding of what we want to do on the back end (of the defense),” Smith said. “He just lacks experience.”

DeCoud is the third of the Falcons third-round picks and was taken 98th overall. Cornerback Chevis Jackson (68th) and wide receiver Harry Douglas (84th) were also taken in the third round.

DeCoud feels he’s up to the challenge if he has to face the Saints quarterback Drew Brees and their vaunted passing attack.

“I’m making calls out there,” DeCoud said. “I’m feeling good about the game plan. I’m going to be ready if I’m needed on Sunday.”