Rookie Running Back Class of 2014 Showing Quality & Quantity

Devonta Freeman  –  Atlanta Falcons

5’8, 206lbs  –  Florida State University

4th Round, 103rd Overall

Devonta Freeman was the other half of a dynamic FSU backfield in 2013 alongside Jameis Winston.  In his final season as a Seminole, Freeman rushed 173 times for 1,016 yards (5.9 YPC) and 14 TD’s.  Freeman slipped into the 4th Round of the 2014 NFL Draft because many scouts believed that he lacked ideal size and speed while rushing for inflated stats behind an elite O-Line in college, but he can make up for much of that with his physical running style and impressive lower-body strength at the next level.  Between back injuries and a splitting carries through much of his FSU career, Freeman joins the Atlanta Falcons with plenty of tread left on his tires.

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Through 7 games in 2014, Freeman has yet to be used heavily in the running game, with Jacquizz Rodgers and Antone Smith also sharing carries behind starter Steven Jackson.  The rookie has been playing ahead of Smith as of late, though, and leads the backfield in both targets and receptions.  Freeman may be more of a long-term project for the Falcons, but with Steven Jackson nearing retirement, he could have an opportunity to emerge from Atlanta’s 4-man committee as soon as later this season.