Ladies and gentleman, meet the newest elite fantasy football running back. Coming into the season, Freeman was drafted as a mid-to-late round pick with upside, but Tevin Coleman was projected to be the workhorse RB for the team. Coleman's injury opened up a door for Freeman to assume full-time running back responsibilities, and he has since flourished into one of the best RBs in football.
In both Week 3 and Week 4, Devonta was the highest scoring running back in fantasy - and it really wasn't even close. The Falcons are playing great football, and the offense is soaring. So is Freeman officially the best running back in fantasy football now? The simple answer is yes. Coleman won't be getting his job back when he's healthy, and the Falcons offense is going to continue to put up big points.
His volumes are huge - 35 touches in Week 3, and 19 touches in Week 4 (in only half a game because of the blowout). And in PPR leagues, he's even more valuable. He's a true three down back, racking up both rushing attempts and catches as well. The only other players who are being utilized this way, with this level of talent, are Le'Veon Bell and Jamaal Charles - but the Falcons are just a more potent offense.
Every year there are surprises, especially at running back, as players emerge into the elite tier. This year, that player is Devonta Freeman - so if you own him, enjoy the show and hope that he doesn't get injured.