Falcons running back Devonta Freeman discussed his recovery from a knee injury that slowed him last season on Wednesday.
Here are five things that we learned from Freeman:
1. Breaking down his game: Freeman didn't rush for 1,000 yards last season after two consecutive seasons over that mark. He was slowed by the knee injury and two concussions.
“Just a lot of time, when it comes to football and re-evaluating myself,” Freeman said. “Taking on the responsibility of trying to get better. Breaking down film. I’m looking at things I did last year that I can do way better.”
2. The run plays: He wants to make sure he's working on his craft.
“If it’s a run play, outside zone, looking at how my tracks (were),” Freeman said. “Did I help the offensive linemen? Did I press long enough? Did I do all of those things. Some plays I did. Some plays I didn’t. My goal is just to be 100 percent consistent every time. A 100 percent perfect, but I know I’ll never be perfect. That will never happen, but as long as I strive for it.”
3. Spending time with his family: Outside of football, he's spending time with his family. With his new contract, he's been able to buy his mother "some cars" and some family members are now attending "private school."
4. New position coach: Freeman likes new running backs coach Bernie Parmalee and noted that he played nine years in the league.
“I call him Coach B,” Freeman said. “He knows his stuff.”
5. On the knee injury: "I'm able to do a lot of things that I couldn't do back in January and February. Running, cutting, sprinting and getting little stronger. Now, I'm making harder cuts. Sprinting a little faster. The progress is getting better and better each day. I'm just going along with the program."
He didn’t sound like he’s going to be participate much in OTAs nor mini-camp. He’s already pointing toward the season opener against the Eagles on Sept. 6.
“I have be able to be ready for Game One,” Freeman said. “I have to continue to get better each day while I’m here.”
