Here are a few things to know on Thursday:
1. Falcons, Freeman agree on five-year, $41.25 million contract
After several months of contract negotiations, the Atlanta Falcons agreed to terms with running back Devonta Freeman on Wednesday morning. The fourth-year running back out of FSU will be the highest paid running back in the NFL under his five-year, $41.25 million contract extension. More details on the AJC.com.
2. Braves swept by Phillies
A 3-2 loss on Wednesday night brings the Atlanta Braves' season record against the Philadelphia Phillies to 2-11. Danny Santana hit a two-run single in the seventh inning, scoring the Braves only two runs of the game. Sean Newcomb allowed five hits and three runs with one walk and six strikeouts. The Braves have Thursday off and will travel to St. Louis to begin a three-game series against the Cardinals on Friday at 8:15 p.m.
3. Falcons play first preseason game against Dolphins
The Falcons will face off for the first exhibition game of the season against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night at 7 p.m. from Miami Gardens' Hard Rock Stadium. For information on what channel the game will be broadcast on, visit the AJC.com.
4. Paul Johnson gives practice No. 6 a negative review
Ken Sugiura reported Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson wasn't pleased with the Yellow Jackets' practice on Wednesday. Johnson called the practice "sloppy" and said the team has "a long way to go."
5. Dansby Swanson talks about his two weeks at Gwinnett
After being recalled to Atlanta for Wednesday night's game against the Phillies, Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson spoke with media about his experience at Gwinnett over the past two weeks, playing second base and his mindset after being demoted.
