After dropping another home game to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the Falcons could use a boost on offense, and could very well get one this week with the possible return of Devonta Freeman and Devin Hester.
Freeman was diagnosed with a concussion following Atlanta's Week 11 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The running back was unable to practice in any capacity last week, but his return to the field this week looks promising.
"We are heading into the week anticipating full action with Devonta," Quinn said.
Hester, known for his blazing speed in the return game, was put on injured reserve/designated for return on Oct. 6 due to a severe toe injury. The veteran kick returner began participating in practice two weeks ago.
Once a player is placed on short-term IR, they are not eligible to be active for eight weeks. If Hester is healthy enough to go, he will be able to play Sunday against Tampa Bay.
Quinn expects Hester to be a full participant in practice on Wednesday and the decision to whether or not he comes off short-term IR will be made at the end of the week. "As it goes through the week, at the end of this week, that's when the window closes so we want to really take a look at him at practice and then we'll make a decision towards the end of the week," Quinn said of Hester.
Known for his explosive style of play, it's imperative that Hester be at full strength before returning.
"He's such a unique player and has the speed but he's got to make that transition to see if it can happen fully," Quinn said.
Getting two playmakers like Freeman and Hester back in the lineup before a crucial NFC South matchup could help get this Falcons team back in the win column.
