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Running back Devonta Freeman had a lighter workload for the Atlanta Falcons in Week 13. He rushed 12 times for 74 yards and caught one pass for seven yards in the loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He missed two games after suffering a concussion in Week 10 against the Dallas Cowboys, and the Falcons brought him back into the lineup slowly. Teammate Tevin Coleman shared the backfield responsibilities with Freeman in the contest Sunday.
The Falcons expect Freeman to be able to handle a lot more work in the offense Thursday night against the division-rival New Orleans Saints. Freeman plays well against the Saints, averaging 124 yards rushing in two games last season. So far this season, the Saints have allowed the ninth-fewest rushing yards to RBs but have given up the eighth-most receiving yards to pass-catching backs.
Fantasy impact: The Falcons are happy to have their workhorse back. Freeman averaged over six yards per carry in his return to the field Sunday against one of the best rushing defenses in the NFL. It will be a much easier matchup against the Saints Thursday night. Now that he is fully healthy, Freeman should be in your lineup throughout the playoffs.