Injury report: Freeman close to returning

Falcons running back Devonta Freeman, who’s in the concussion protocol, is close to returning.

Freeman did not play against the Steelers, but talked with head coach Dan Quinn.

“He is looking up for sure,” Quinn said. “I talked to him this morning and he’s excited to see the guys play. He is disappointed he’s not here. He asked what the meeting was like last night, just wanting to know everything. He is that just that kind of teammate. It really bothers him that he isn’t here with his teammates.”

Quinn shot down some television speculation that Matt Schaub injured his hand.

“Injury-wise, we came through,” Quinn said.

However, wide receiver Josh Magee (undisclosed injury), wide receiver Julio Jones (foot), wide receiver Taylor Gabriel (lower leg), linebacker Jermaine Grace (hamstring), tight end Levine Toilolo (undisclosed) and defensive end Martin Ifedi (ankle) did not play against the Steelers.

Also, tackle Austin Pasztor, who was signed on Saturday, did not play.

About the Author

On the hot seat for Falcons: Special teams haven’t been very special

After basically costing the team the game against the Jets, Atlanta's special teams units will be on the hot seat when they face the Seahawks Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

X-factor Sunday: Can the Falcons run the ball vs. Seattle’s stout defense?

Seattle has the No. 2-ranked run defense in the NFL. The Seahawks, who defeated Minnesota 26-0 on Sunday, are coming off their first shutout since 2015.