A lot of fantasy owners love Devonta Freeman, a late-round fantasy selection last year who helped a lot of teams win titles. But we've been preaching caution with him this season, based on his lesser second half, and now the team is also indicating a reduced workload.
Note that Turner made that quote in the context of thinking Freeman could have an even better season this year -- fewer carries, but greater effectiveness.
There's also the reality that Coleman hasn't proven much yet. He fumbled 3 times in his limited action a year ago, and then got hurt. So it might be optimistic thinking he can carve out a time share. Turner also says he wants the players competing, so talking up Coleman could just be a way to push Freeman.
Bottom line, though, Turner's words suggest the team knows Freeman wore down in the second half of last season. Using Coleman more is a way to offset that, while also making it harder for Freeman to put up the kind of numbers he managed for most of last season. He'll probably be selected a little early in most leagues.
--Andy Richardson