Falcons to open extension talks with Freeman during offseason
Having emerged as one of the game's most well-rounded running backs in helping the Atlanta Falcons to a Super Bowl appearance, it's only a matter of time before Devonta Freeman is paid accordingly.
General manager Thomas Dimitroff addressed the looming issue of Freeman's contract situation Monday, indicating that extension talks would begin in the coming months.
"Devonta obviously is a very good football player," Dimitroff said, according to Vaughn McClure of ESPN. "We want him to be here with us, and we are going to address that in the offseason, which is what we should. I think we're in a really good spot with a number of players on this team that we're going to look to continue to re-up here. Devonta's one we're going to have that discussion with. We're confident that we're going to have him here for years to come."
The offseason is a sensible time for the two sides to come together and kick-start negotiations, as Freeman is tentatively scheduled to hit free agency after the 2017 campaign.
On the books for just over $810,000 in the fourth and final year of his rookie deal, it's safe to assume that Freeman has positioned himself for a sizable raise.
The Florida State product, selected in the fourth round of the 2014 draft, did well to build upon his breakout sophomore year, racking up 1,079 rushing yards, 462 receiving yards, and 13 total touchdowns across 16 starts this season.
