Devonta Freeman (RB, ATL) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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ANALYSIS:  Starting Atlanta Falcons starting RB Tevin Coleman sustained a broken rib and will miss a 'couple of weeks'. Devonta Freeman will be given the lead back duties for the dirty birds.

This season, in a backup role, Freeman has been mediocre totaling 43 yards (2.o YPC), one TD & seven catches for 63 yards. But last season Freeman showed signs of being an offensive weapon for Atlanta. In limited time, he totaled 248 yards (3.8 YPC) and 225 yards receiving on 30 catches. During the off-season, Freeman created a lot of buzz with beat writers stating that he would have a 'big year' due to his skill set fitting well with new offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's scheme. In fact, head coach Dan Quinn stated that "he is a guy who has juice...he’s tough...he’s got great quickness. He’s a factor for sure."

Unfortunately, during the preseason he sustained a hamstring injury and hasn't really gotten going yet this season. Freeman's real value lies in his receiving ability, which makes him an appealing FLEX play in PPR leagues. In standard leagues, I'm reluctant to recommend Freeman as a priority waiver target given his lack of upside, and the limited amount of time Coleman is out. But he will get touches, and can be considered in the 2nd tier of this week's waiver wire adds for running backs.