FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Atlanta Falcons general Thomas Dimitroff didn't rule out the possibility of keeping running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman together into the future, although the financial ramifications would seem to indicate otherwise.
The Falcons rewarded two-time Pro Bowler and 2014 fourth-round pick Freeman in August with a five-year, $41.25 million extension that included a little ore than $22 million guaranteed. Coleman, a 2015 third-round pick, is going into the final year of his rookie deal and is to make $791,268 in 2018.
Although Freeman and Coleman talk publicly about their "brotherhood" and willingness to share carries, it only makes sense for the backup Coleman to desire a lead role and lucrative deal, particularly with his big-play ability.