Devonta Freeman injury: Dynamic back expected to be out vs. Vikings, Tevin Coleman will draw start

It's an unexpectedly busy Thanksgiving for the Atlanta Falcons, who are preparing to take on the Minnesota Vikings without Devonta Freeman.

Quinn: Devonta Freeman won't practice today. We are preparing that he won't play Sunday. #MINvsATL

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) November 26, 2015

Quinn: I know what Tevin Coleman is made of and we know he's capable of being a reliable back. We aren't backing off him. #MINvsATL

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) November 26, 2015

This is obviously not great news for the Falcons, even if it's not exactly a surprise. Freeman was concussed early last Sunday against the Colts, and going through the protocol means he's unlikely to be available until Week 13. Since he's such a tough, physical runner who has excelled in this scheme, the Vikings have to be happy he won't play, but the Falcons' ground game (and passing game, where Freeman is a legitimate threat) both take a hit.

For Coleman's part, he'll be hoping for some redemption this weekend. He's an extremely talented back the coaching staff clearly believes in, but he's been a merely decent runner thus far this year, hasn't been much of a factor in the passing game, and has two costly fumbles to his name. If there was ever a time to prove he can carry the load, it would be right now against a tough Minnesota defensive front. His game-changing speed could be hugely helpful, if the line can block effectively and he can uncork a couple of long runs en route to a career day. His long-term future with the team is bright, either way.

In other quick injury news, Leonard Hankerson sat out practice Thursday, and also seems doubtful to play. Justin Hardy is the likeliest beneficiary in terms of targets if Hank Time is out.

Here's hoping Freeman will be back soon, and here's hoping Coleman has a big day in him.