When the Falcons kick off the season in Week 1, our lean is that Devonta Freeman will be the starting running back. The other likeliest option, and the favorite in some circles, is rookie Tevin Coleman.
But both of those backs are dealing with hamstring injuries, so another back will get a chance to shine. Perhaps Antone Smith, whose big-play ability we regularly point out. Smith has touched the ball only 43 times the last two years, but has scored 7 TDs -- all from at least 38 yards away.
Another possibility is an undrafted rookie, Terron Ward; he handled the first-team work after Freeman went down. Atlanta could also look to bring in another back if either the Freeman or Coleman injuries linger (though probably not a big name like Chris Johnson; no indication the hamstrings are serious).
In any case, it's a reminder that it doesn't take much, particularly at running back, for a nobody to become somebody awfully quickly. Most likely we'll see Freeman or maybe Coleman out there getting the most work in Week 1. But we'll see what tomorrow brings.
--Andy Richardson
