FLOWERY BRANCH — The Falcons (6-5) could receive a double boost when they face Tampa Bay (5-6) with the return of running back Devonta Freeman and return specialist Devin Hester.
Freeman is expected to clear the league concussion protocol program by the middle of the week, according to Falcons coach Dan Quinn.
“We anticipate getting Free back,” Quinn said. “He was able to participate in all of the meetings and do all of the stuff today. We’re heading into the week anticipating full action with him.”
Hester, who hasn’t played this season because of a turf toe injury, is eligible to be activated for Sunday’s game.
“We want to really take a look at him at practice and then we’ll make a decision toward the end of the week,” Quinn said. “Is he able to come of the list and be on the regular (roster).”
Quinn said they want to see if he can really put some pressure on the toe and run. “Can he get up on it and go,” Quinn said. “He’s really such a unique player and has the speed. He’s got to make that transition to see if it can happen fully.”
Hester has been practicing with the team for the past two weeks, fielding kicks and punts.
Hester, formerly of the Chicago Bears, played 2014 with the Falcons.
Last season, he played in 16 games with one start, and had 38 catches for 504 yards and two touchdowns. Hester also led the NFL in yards per punt with 13.3, number of kickoff/punt returns (63), and combined kick and punt yards with 1,368 yards.
Eric Weems has been returning kicks and punt this season for the Falcons.
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