Falcons’ Coleman plans to play against Saints

Flowery Branch — Falcons starting free safety Erik Coleman, who sustained a quadriceps contusion against San Diego, returned to practice on Friday.

“I felt good about being out there practicing,” Coleman said. “I’m excited about being out there on Sunday.”

Coleman sustained the injury while breaking up a pass intended for San Diego’s Malcom Floyd. The play stopped the Chargers’ last drive.

Coleman didn’t practice on Wednesday and Thursday, the big game-plan days in the NFL. He’s planning on being ready for Sunday’s game against the Saints if he doesn’t experience any setbacks.

“They are a great team at home,” Coleman said. “Drew Brees and his crew are on point every week. We have a big challenge in front of us.”

Coleman played a starring role in the Falcons’ 34-20 victory over the Saints on Nov. 9. He intercepted a deep pass intended for Devery Henderson on the first play of the game.

It will be important for the Falcons to have Coleman back against the Saints, who have the No. 1 offense (405.3 yards per game) and passing offense (316.9) in the league.

Running back Reggie Bush didn’t play in the last game because of a knee injury. He returned last week against Tampa Bay and will have an expanded role against the Falcons, according to New Orleans coach Sean Payton.

“Bush can make a 2-yard pass go 80 at any given time,” Coleman said. “It’s going to be important that all of us are aware of where he is and that we all get to the ball.”