Running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman, who are both coming back from hamstring injuries, will be game-time decisions, Falcons coach Dan Quinn said on Thursday.
Both returned to practice on Monday after suffering their injuries on Aug. 5 and 6. They have been used sparingly in practice.
“We’ll take them in to the pre-game tomorrow and see,” Quinn said. “They’ve made good progress. I don’t know if one is ahead of another. They are both kind of in the same spot.”
Freeman and Coleman appear more likely to play in the third exhibition game against Miami on Saturday, Aug. 29.
“I like where we are heading, but we are just going to take it up through tomorrow and make a decision,” Quinn said. “They both have got some practice work at least and they are back out here which is a big thing. Just getting them back acclimated and getting them going again.”
Also, veteran running back Antone Smith, who suffered a hamstring in the game against the Titans last Friday, didn’t practice all week and is likely out of the game.
If Freeman and Coleman do not play, the Falcons will start Terron Ward, an undrafted rookie free agent from Oregon State, who started against the Titans.
The Falcons also have running backs Jerome Smith, Evan Royster and Michael Ford available.
“A couple of guys have made a big impact on special teams,” Quinn said. “We are looking to see what Michael can do on teams. Jerome as well. Those guys will have the opportunity to come through. They are answering the bell which I like to see.”
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