Falcons' Freeman ruled out of Sunday's game vs. Panthers

The Atlanta Falcons will be without starting running back Devonta Freeman for Sunday's home opener against the Carolina Panthers.

Head coach Dan Quinn announced Friday that Freeman's been ruled out due to a knee injury, per The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's D. Orlando Ledbetter. However, Quinn doesn't believe Freeman's injury will keep him out long term.

Freeman suffered the injury late in the Falcons' season-opening loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The 26-year-old had six carries for 36 yards and three receptions for 14 yards in the contest.

No. 2 back Tevin Coleman is expected to carry most of the load out of the backfield against the Panthers. He rushed for 19 yards on nine carries, scoring the Falcons' lone touchdown last week. His night also included a 26-yard reception.

Fourth-round rookie Ito Smith is expected to serve as Coleman's backup.