Atlanta Falcons: Can Freeman’s absence help Brian Hill recover?

Atlanta Falcons star running back Devonta Freeman is in the concussion protocol and will miss the second preseason game, could that help rookie Brian Hill redeem himself?

The Atlanta Falcons are without their number one running back for the time being as Devonta Freeman finds himself in the concussion protocol following an injury he suffered in practice. The team has already said he will miss their preseason Week 2 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers as he recovers.

As of this point it isn’t anything to get too worried about as long as Freeman’s issues don’t continue to linger. As for this coming Sunday’s game, it could actually be a benefit for one of the other running backs on the team who needs a clean slate following a terrible debut game.

Fifth-round pick Brian Hill out of Wyoming was a beast his final two seasons in college and came in with a good bit of excitement for that reason. When he finally did get on the field against the Miami Dolphins this past week, he didn’t impress.

Hill came in late in the game and had ten yards on nine rushes. It was a let-down for the fans who were hoping for a power back, but it can be forgotten with a decent game on Sunday.

With Freeman on the sidelines, Hill has a better chance to get into the game earlier. That would be a positive for him as he could wind up with better blockers in front of him. It’s no secret the Falcons offensive line lacks depth, so being out there with a stronger cast could help him.

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It could also hurt him. If Hill does get on the field with a better supporting cast and continues to struggle, it may make it harder for him to make the final roster considering Freeman and Tevin Coleman are locks and Terron Ward impressed in the opening game.