Falcons rookie running back Tevin Coleman, the team’s third-round draft pick, is expected to make his debut against the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, according to head coach Dan Quinn.
“At this point, Tevin is a little closer than Devonta (Freeman) just from the week of practice,” Quinn said on Thursday. “So, I’m certainly hoping that will be a break for him. He’s had a really good week.”
When asked directly if Coleman was playing, Quinn said, “Yeah. Unless there is some type of setback over the next couple of days. I anticipate him being ready to rock.”
Coleman suffered a hamstring injury on Aug. 5.
Coleman, 5-11, 210 pounds, played in 33 games at Indiana and rushed for 3,219 yards on 452 carries.
He rushed for 2,036 yards last season as he became the third player in Big Ten history to accomplish that feat along with Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon III and Penn State’s Larry Johnson.
Before the injujry, Coleman was battling Freeman for the starting running back position.
Freeman is recovering, too.
“(He’s) into the practice now,” Quinn said. “We’re getting close, but I’m not sure if we’re ready, ready.”
Safety William Moore (calf), running back Antone Smith (hamstring), center/guard Peter Konz (knee), wide receiver Roddy White (elbow surgery) were declared out for the game by Quinn.
He noted that cornerback Desmond Trufant (shoulder) practiced this week, but would likely be out as well.
Rookie linebacker Derek Akunne (foot) also likely will not play.
Defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman, who’s coming back from a concussion, is expected to play.
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