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Atlanta Falcons: Ranking the running backs in the NFC South

By Freddie Boston

Nov 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) runs against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Colts defeated the Falcons 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) runs against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Colts defeated the Falcons 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) runs against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Colts defeated the Falcons 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) runs against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Colts defeated the Falcons 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Devonta Freeman

2015 stats: 1,639 all-purpose yards, 14 touchdowns

Devonta Freeman’s rise took the NFL by storm last year. He started the year behind rookie Tevin Coleman on the depth chart, but a ribs injury to Coleman suffered in Week 2 opened the door for Freeman, who never looked back.

In his first NFL start — a Week 3 win against the Cowboys — Freeman rushed for 141 yards and three touchdowns. Could he back it up? Sure he could a week later with three more touchdowns against the Texans. By the time Coleman returned from injury, Freeman had locked down the starting gig.

Freeman’s ability as both a runner and pass catcher made him one of the most dangerous weapons in the entire league, and he finished with an impressive 1,639 all-purpose yards with 14 touchdowns.

While Coleman’s role will likely increase slightly in 2016, Freeman will still see the bulk of the carries in Atlanta. Freeman is tough enough to run between the tackles, but also has the speed to hurt defenses in the open field.

Next: Falcons secondary had a terrific minicamp

Freeman has become one of the best running backs in the league. Can he build on his success in 2016?

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