Falcons running back Tevin Coleman is set to return to practice, but remains in the concussion protocol, coach Dan Quinn said on Wednesday.
Coleman has been out since getting hit in the 20-17 win over the Saints on Dec. 7 by defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins.
The protocol is a five-step return-to-play process that starts once a player has been diagnosed with a concussion or symptoms. The player is immediately removed from the team setting with steps in place to work his way back to the team. A player can leave the protocol once all steps are cleared.
The five steps are rest and recovery, light aerobic exercise, light aerobic exercise and strength training, football specific drills and finally, football activity and clearance.
The recovery timetable varies with brain injuries. Some players make it back in a week, others with more severe concussion issues, take much longer.
