The Atlanta Falcons have met their downfall the last two seasons because of injuries. In past seasons the offensive line and wide receiver group have been riddled with issues that have caused the team's momentum to halt. This year the franchise is hoping for different results with a slew of new players and a coaching staff in place. However, training camp is proving to be much of the same as depth in the running back position is getting thin.
With Kyle Shanahan now manning the offense, the Falcons plan on putting an emphasis on the run game in 2015 in order to keep things balanced. After dropping Steven Jackson and Jacquizz Rodgers, Devonta Freeman moved into the starting spot while the newly drafted Tevin Coleman was expected to challenge him for carries. However, both players are now sidelined with injuries.
According to head coach Dan Quinn via the Atlanta Journal Constitution, both Coleman and Freeman are dealing with hamstring strains that could leave them out for two to four weeks in training camp. This is not what Falcons' fans want to hear as the season prepares to get underway. Quinn told the media that he is hopeful the two players can have a quick turnaround, especially Freeman who is expected to be the starter.
"Hopefully it's a quick turnaround and he can get back," Quinn said, via AJC.com. "He's such a passionate competitor. You could see how disappointed he was not to be able to finish the day. He is an absolute competitor and just every day he brings it. He stands for a lot of stuff I love about our team, his attitude, intensity and toughness and wanting to compete. All those are traits we look for and he brings them every day."
With both Coleman and Freeman on the sidelines, the run game is down to Antone Smith who re-signed in free agency and Terron Ward who joins as an undrafted free agent. Smith was a breakout star of 2014 before breaking his leg. The running back led the team in touchdowns at the time and is returning to form quickly in training camp.
"This is running back heaven right here," Smith said, via the Atlanta Falcons team website. "I mean, coach Shanahan has the attitude that he wants to run the ball. Movement on the front line is what makes it work. We're going to have some big holes out there. They brought the right (O-linemen) in."
Ward is trying to be the next breakout star for the Falcons. After a few impressive days at practice, the rookie is getting compared to a young Michael Turner. Of course it is too early to tell whether he can sustain the momentum, but at least for the next two weeks he will be given every chance to earn a role on the roster.
