Atlanta Falcons: Devonta Freeman tops team grades after bye week

Oct 15, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) before a game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Running backs

Devonta Freeman

If you would have told me that second-year back Devonta Freeman was going to be the NFL’s leading rusher by midseason I probably wouldn’t believe you. Now there is no doubt in my mind that he will be a Pro Bowl player by the end of the season.

After dealing with injuries in the beginning of the season and the great debut of rookie running back Tevin Coleman, many fans including myself thought that the season would be balanced one-two punch with Coleman leading the way. I was wrong. Freeman emerged as lead back and has 721 yards on the ground and nube touchdowns. I think it’s safe to say that Freeman is the back of the future.

Grade: A

Tevin Coleman

Tevin Coleman had an outstanding debut performance against the Eagles with 20 carries and 80 yards. So far he is having a good year for a first-year back with 42 carries, 183 yards rushing and one touchdown. He’s adjusting to the game and it’s evident that he’s literally a “straight ahead runner” and relies on athletic ability to make plays. It will be something real special when he starts to reach his full potential and make the Falcons backfield even more scarier.

Grade: B-

Patrick DiMarco

The fullback position is slowly being taken away from the game of football and its shame. Well, no one has told Patrick DiMarco, who is undoubtedly the best fullback the league. Devonta Freeman is widely known for praising his offensive line for the work they do but DiMarco does just as much, if not more, than his teammates.

It doesn’t matter whether he’s blocking or running routes, he always making a positive impact on the offense when he’s on the field.

Grade: A+

Next: Wide receivers