Falcons sit Freeman with concussion

FLOWERY BRANCH, Georgia — The Atlanta Falcons’ Devonta Freeman has concussion symptoms and the team is taking no chances with the league’s highest-paid running back.

He has been ruled out this week’s preseason game at Pittsburgh in what coach Dan Quinn described as a precaution.

Freeman left Sunday’s practice with what was announced as heatrelated issues. Quinn said Monday that Freeman reported the symptoms after leaving the field and has been placed in the concussion protocol.

“He may start practising as we go but we’ll rule him out for now for the game as more of a precautionary note,” Quinn said.

The Falcons agreed to terms last Wednesday on a five-year, $41.25-million US extension with Freeman. The deal makes Freeman the league’s highestpaid running back in terms of the overall package.

Freeman had only one carry for three yards and caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from Matt Ryan on Atlanta’s opening drive of their 23-20 preseason loss at Miami on Thursday night. Freeman did not play after the opening drive and likely was in store for a similarly limited role in Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh.

Freeman has rushed for more than 1,000 yards with 11 touchdowns in back-to-back seasons. That consistent production, combined with 200 catches in his first three seasons, earned him the big contract extension.

Quinn said he didn’t need to see much more from Freeman in the preseason. The emphasis will be making sure the running back is healthy for the regular season.

“In those situations it’s always better to play it safe and go through the whole protocol with him to make sure he’s at his best,”