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Devonta Freeman is out, Duke Riley is in for Sunday’s game against the Bucs

Nothing unexpected, but confirmed nonetheless.

Atlanta Falcons v Carolina Panthers Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

The Falcons will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers a little short-handed again on Sunday, with running back Devonta Freeman officially ruled out.

Freeman has missed most of the last two games due to a concussion suffered early in the game against the Dallas Cowboys. Tevin Coleman and Terron Ward have played well in his absence, but this offense is clearly better when Devonta is a part of the mix. He did begin practicing this week, so there’s a shot he’ll be back very soon.

Additionally, rookie linebacker Duke Riley will return after missing several weeks. Players like Sean Weatherspoon and Kemal Ishmael have filled his role in recent weeks and have played relatively well in his absence. It will be interesting to see how many snaps the rookie will get, given his struggles earlier in the season.

Finally, backup tackle Ty Sambrailo has also been ruled it with a hamstring injury. Austin Pasztor will be the likely backup tackle in his place.

Your thoughts on the injury news?