Devonta Freeman’s health situation is serious
Atlanta Falcons defeated the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, but not before losing their starting running back.
Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman sustained a concussion against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. He was forced to leave the game, underwent a concussion test, and did not return to the field. Despite his absence, the Falcons still won the game. But how long will they have to be without Freeman?
ESPN reports that Freeman could be out multiple games.
While it's unlikely Falcons RB Devonta Freeman will play Monday night at Seattle due to his second concussion of the season, it also would not be surprising to see it turn into a multi-game absence, either.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 13, 2017
This is Freeman’s second concussion this year and his third as a professional football player. He received a concussion in a preseason game back in August and another one in 2015. With the looming possibility of a fourth concussion, at some point, Freeman and his camp will have to determine how much more he wants to endure. Freeman himself had this to say to his Twitter followers on Monday:
Thanks everyone for the words of encouragement. Health is my priority.
— Devonta Freeman (@devontafreeman) November 13, 2017
The news of Freeman’s concussion goes beyond the football field. It should be realized that a player’s health trumps any and all team success. Atlanta will need to monitor Freeman’s situation closely and should not look to expedite the healing process, regardless of the impact it may have on the team’s overall performance.
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Without Freeman, however, the Falcons showed that they can produce at a high level.
On Sunday, Atlanta’s offense looked like their 2016 selves, even without Freeman. Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan passed for 215-yards and posted two touchdowns. Atlanta’s wide receivers also stepped up in Freeman’s absence. Falcons receiver Taylor Gabriel totaled three receptions for 58-yards, Julio Jones racked up six catches for 57-yards, and tight end Austin Hooper logged six receptions for 49-yards.
Atlanta running back Tevin Coleman took over for Freeman. Coleman was exceptional as he totaled 20 carries for his season high of 83-yards and one touchdown.
The Falcons proved that they can hold down the fort in Freeman’s absence. But they are about to encounter an even bigger challenge in Week 11, as they take on the Seattle Seahawks in Seattle.
If he can’t play, can the Freeman-less Falcons go into Seattle and win? If so, such a win would be a silver lining amidst an unfortunate injury to Atlanta’s best running back.
Next: Your Atlanta Falcons vs Dallas Cowboys game recap
More to come as the story develops and updates are received.