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Devonta Freeman
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Devonta Cornellius Freeman (/dəˈvɒnteɪ/ de-VON-tay; born March 15, 1992) is an American former professional football player who was a running back in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Florida State Seminoles and was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL draft. Freeman was also a member of the New York Giants, Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, and Baltimore Ravens.
Key Information
Early life
[edit]Freeman attended Miami Central High School in West Little River, Florida.[1] He helped lead the Rockets football team to the 2010 Class 6A state championship and was named the MVP after gaining 308 yards on 38 carries, falling just 20 yards shy of a state championship game record.[2] As a senior, Freeman ran for a Miami-Dade County leading 2,208 yards and 26 touchdowns and also recorded 663 rushing yards and six touchdowns in the final two games of the state playoffs.[3]
Considered a four-star recruit by Rivals.com, Freeman was rated the best running back in the nation. He committed to Florida State on June 24, 2010.[4]
College career
[edit]Freeman attended and played college football for Florida State from 2011 to 2013.[5]
2011 season
[edit]As a freshman at Florida State, Freeman immediately became a major contributor to the Seminoles' running game in their 9–4 season.[6] He had two games with over 100 rushing yards and had a stretch of four games of scoring at least one rushing touchdown through the end of October and the start of November. Freeman had 120 carries for 579 yards and eight touchdowns as a freshman.[7] He finished the season as the Seminoles' leading rusher in major categories.[8]
2012 season
[edit]As a sophomore, Freeman shared the backfield primarily with James Wilder Jr. and Chris Thompson.[9] Freeman recorded two 100+-yard rushing games and three games with two rushing touchdowns. Florida State finished with a 10–2 regular season record and qualified for the ACC Championship.[10] In the ACC Championship against Georgia Tech, he had 59 rushing yards and a touchdown during the 21–15 victory.[11] Freeman finished the season with 111 carries for 660 yards and eight touchdowns.[12]
2013 season
[edit]As a junior, Freeman provided strong and consistent production for the Seminoles. In the second game of the season against Nevada and the third game against Bethune-Cookman, Freeman went over 100 rushing yards and scored a rushing touchdown.[13][14] On October 5 against Maryland, he started a streak of 10 straight games with a rushing touchdown.[15] In that stretch was a game against Miami, where Freeman rushed for 78 yards and two touchdowns to go along with six receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown.[16] As a junior, he was a first-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) selection and helped the Florida State Seminoles win the 2014 BCS National Championship Game over Auburn by a score of 34–31.[17] Freeman rushed for over 1,000 yards, the first Seminole to do so since Warrick Dunn in 1996.[18] Freeman finished the season with career highs in rushing yards (1,016), receiving yards (278), and touchdowns (15) despite splitting carries with James Wilder, Jr. and Karlos Williams in Florida State's backfield.[19] Freeman led the Seminoles in rushing in each of his three seasons in Tallahassee.[20]
On January 11, 2014, Freeman announced that he would forgo his senior season and enter the 2014 NFL draft.[21]
Professional career
[edit]| Height | Weight | Arm length | Hand span | 40-yard dash | 10-yard split | 20-yard split | 20-yard shuttle | Three-cone drill | Vertical jump | Broad jump | Bench press | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 ft 8+1⁄4 in (1.73 m) |
206 lb (93 kg) |
29+3⁄8 in (0.75 m) |
9+5⁄8 in (0.24 m) |
4.58 s | 1.66 s | 2.69 s | 4.26 s | 7.11 s | 32.0 in (0.81 m) |
9 ft 10 in (3.00 m) |
14 reps | |
| All values from NFL Combine/Pro Day[22][23] | ||||||||||||
Atlanta Falcons
[edit]2014 season
[edit]Freeman was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round (103rd overall) of the 2014 NFL draft.[24] He was the eighth running back selected in the draft.[25]
As a rookie, Freeman shared touches with fellow running backs Steven Jackson, Jacquizz Rodgers, and Antone Smith. He made his NFL debut in the season-opener at Georgia Dome against the New Orleans Saints and finished the 37–34 overtime victory with two carries for 15 yards and two receptions for 18 yards.[26] During Week 8 against the Detroit Lions, he scored his first career touchdown on a seven-yard reception from Matt Ryan in the first quarter of the narrow 22–21 loss.[27] During a Week 16 30–14 road victory over the Saints, Freeman scored his first career rushing touchdown on a 31-yard rush in the third quarter.[28]
Freeman finished his rookie year with 65 carries for 248 yards and a touchdown to go along with 30 receptions for 225 yards and two touchdowns in 16 games and no starts.[29]
2015 season
[edit]During Week 2 against the New York Giants, Freeman recorded 12 carries for 25 yards and his first touchdown of the season to go along with four receptions for 34 yards in the 24–20 road loss.[30] In the next game against the Dallas Cowboys, he received his first career start and had a breakout performance by rushing 30 times for a then career-high 141 yards and three touchdowns while also catching five passes for 52 yards during the 39–28 victory.[31] The following week against the Houston Texans, Freeman had 14 carries for 68 yards and three touchdowns to go along with five receptions for 81 yards during the 48–21 victory.[32]
During a Week 5 25–19 overtime victory over the Washington Redskins, Freeman rushed 27 times for a career-high 153 yards.[33] In the next game against the Saints on Thursday Night Football, he recorded 13 carries for 100 yards and a touchdown to go along with eight receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown during the 31–21 road loss.[34] The following week against the Tennessee Titans, Freeman had 25 carries for 116 yards in the 10–7 road victory.[35]
During Week 9 against the San Francisco 49ers, Freeman had 12 rushing yards and eight receptions for 67 yards and a touchdown in the narrow 17–16 road loss.[36] Two weeks later against the Indianapolis Colts, he rushed thrice for 43 yards before leaving the eventual 24–21 loss in the first quarter with a concussion.[37] Freeman missed the next game against the Minnesota Vikings as a result.[38]
During a Week 15 23–17 road victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Freeman recorded 25 carries for 56 yards and a touchdown to go along with seven receptions for 45 yards.[39] In the next game against the Carolina Panthers, he rushed 22 times for 73 yards and a touchdown while also catching three passes for 17 yards during the 20–13 victory.[40] During the regular season finale against the Saints, Freeman had 24 carries for 81 yards to go along with two receptions for 18 yards and a touchdown in the 20–17 loss.[41]
Freeman finished his second professional season with 1,634 yards-from-scrimmage (fifth in the NFL), 14 all-purpose touchdowns (first) with 1,056 rushing yards (seventh), and a league-leading 11 rushing touchdowns.[42][43] He also ranked third among NFL running backs in both receptions (73) and receiving yards (578) while also recording three receiving touchdowns.[44][45] Freeman was selected to the Pro Bowl, the first of his career, and was named a Second-team All-Pro.[46][47] Freeman was named one of the captains, along with Geno Atkins of the Cincinnati Bengals, for Team Irvin in the 2016 Pro Bowl.[48] Freeman was ranked as the 50th best player in the NFL and the fifth best running back by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.[49]
2016 season
[edit]
Freeman and Tevin Coleman provided the Falcons with a solid running back combination to help pace a historic offense in 2016.[50]
During Week 3 against the Saints on Monday Night Football, Freeman had 14 carries for 155 yards to go along with five receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown in the 45–32 road victory.[51] In the next game against the Panthers, he rushed 13 times for 57 yards and his touchdown of the season during the 48–33 victory.[52] The following week against the Denver Broncos, Freeman recorded 23 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown to go along with three receptions for 35 yards in the 23–16 road victory.[53] Three weeks later against the Green Bay Packers, he had 11 carries for 35 yards and a touchdown to go along with four receptions for 23 yards and a touchdown during the narrow 33–32 victory.[54]
During a Week 12 38–19 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, Freeman recorded 16 carries for 60 yards and two touchdowns to go along with two receptions for 17 yards.[55] In the next game against the Kansas City Chiefs, he rushed 15 times for 56 yards and two touchdowns while also catching four passes for 49 yards during the narrow 29–28 loss.[56] Two weeks later against the 49ers, Freeman had 20 carries for 139 yards for three touchdowns to go along with two receptions for 16 yards in the 41–13 victory.[57] He was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance.[58] In the regular season finale against the Saints, Freeman recorded 12 carries for 96 yards and a touchdown to go along with five receptions for 81 yards during the 38–32 victory.[59]
Freeman was named to his second consecutive Pro Bowl as an original selection behind Ezekiel Elliott and David Johnson,[60] and played a significant role in the Falcons finishing atop the NFC South with an 11–5 record and earning the #2 seed in the NFC.[61] In the Divisional Round against the Seattle Seahawks, Freeman had 14 carries for 45 yards and his first career postseason touchdown to go along with four receptions for 80 yards during the 36–20 victory.[62] During the NFC Championship Game against the Packers, Freeman recorded 14 carries for 42 yards and four receptions for 42 yards and his first career postseason receiving touchdown in the 44–21 victory as the Falcons advanced to Super Bowl LI.[63] In the Super Bowl against the New England Patriots, Freeman had 11 carries for 75 yards and two receptions for 46 yards while scoring the first points for either team with a rushing touchdown in the second quarter of the 34–28 overtime loss.[64][65] Freeman was ranked as the 41st best player in the NFL and the sixth best running back by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.[66]
2017 season
[edit]On August 9, 2017, Freeman signed a five-year, $41.25 million contract extension with the Falcons to become the highest paid running back in the NFL.[67]
During the season opener against the Chicago Bears, Freeman rushed 12 times for 37 yards and a touchdown in the 23–17 road victory.[68] In the next game against the Packers, he recorded 19 carries for 84 yards and two touchdowns to go along with two receptions for 16 yards during the 34–23 victory.[69] Freeman's first touchdown was the first ever touchdown in the history of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The following week against the Lions, he recorded 21 carries for 106 yards and a touchdown to go along with three receptions for 32 yards in the 30–26 road victory.[70]
During a Week 4 23–17 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Freeman recorded 18 carries for 58 yards and a touchdown to go along with two receptions for 20 yards.[71] Despite splitting carries with Tevin Coleman, he scored five rushing touchdowns in the first four games to lead the NFL.[72] During Week 10 against the Cowboys, Freeman rushed twice for three yards before leaving the eventual 27–7 victory with a concussion and missed the next two games as a result.[73][74][75]
During Week 14 against the Saints on Thursday Night Football, Freeman rushed 24 times for 91 yards and a touchdown in the 20–17 victory.[76] In the next game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football, he had 22 carries for 126 yards and a touchdown during the 24–21 road victory.[77] During the regular season finale against the Panthers, he recorded 11 carries for 23 yards to go along with nine receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown in the 22–10 victory.[78]
Freeman finished the 2017 season with 196 carries for 865 yards and seven touchdowns to go along with 36 receptions for 317 yards and a touchdown in 14 games and starts.[79] The Falcons finished third in the NFC South with a 10–6 record and qualified for the playoffs as the #6-seed.[80] During the Wild Card Roundagainst the Los Angeles Rams, Freeman recorded 18 carries for 66 yards and a touchdown in the 26–13 road victory.[81] In the Divisional Round against the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, he had seven rushing yards and five receptions for 26 yards and a touchdown during the 15–10 road loss,[82] marking his fifth consecutive postseason game with a touchdown.[83] Freeman was ranked 70th by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2018.[84]
2018 season
[edit]During the season opener against the Eagles, Freeman had six carries for 36 yards and three receptions for 14 yards before leaving the eventual 18–12 road loss in the fourth quarter with a knee injury.[85] He missed the next three games as a result.[86]
Freeman returned in Week 5 against the Pittsburgh Steelers before injuring his foot and experiencing soreness in his groin. Freeman missed the next game against the Buccaneers, and it was later revealed that he required groin surgery. Freeman was placed on injured reserve on October 16, 2018.[87][88] He finished the 2018 season with 14 carries for 68 yards and five receptions for 23 yards in two games and starts.[89]
2019 season
[edit]During Week 5 against the Texans, Freeman recorded 11 carries for 30 yards to go along with five receptions for 40 yards and a touchdown in the 53–32 road loss.[90] In the next game against the Arizona Cardinals, he had 19 carries for 88 yards to go along with three receptions for 30 yards and two touchdowns during the narrow 34–33 road loss.[91] The following week against the Rams, Freeman rushed seven times for 19 yards before being ejected in the third quarter of the 37–10 loss after punching Aaron Donald.[92]
During a Week 14 40–20 victory over the Panthers, Freeman had 17 carries for 84 yards and a touchdown.[93] Two weeks later against the Jaguars, he recorded 13 carries for 53 yards and a touchdown to go along with nine receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown in the 24–12 victory.[94]
Freeman finished the 2019 season with 184 carries for 656 yards and two touchdowns to go along with 59 receptions for 410 yards and four touchdowns 14 games and starts.[95] He was released on March 16, 2020.[96][97]
New York Giants
[edit]
On September 23, 2020, Freeman signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the New York Giants.[98][99]
During Week 5 against the Cowboys, Freeman recorded 17 carries for 60 yards and a touchdown to go along with two receptions for 27 yards in the 37–34 road loss.[100] In the next game against the Washington Football Team, he rushed 18 times for 61 yards during the narrow 20–19 victory.[101]
On November 13, Freeman was placed on injured reserve with an ankle injury.[102] He was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list on December 5,[103] and was moved back to injured reserve 12 days later.[104] Freeman was designated to return from injured reserve on December 18 and began practicing with the team again.[105] However, he did not return before the end of the regular season and was waived on January 7, 2021.[106]
Freeman finished the 2020 season with 54 carries for 172 yards and a touchdown to go along with seven receptions for 58 yards in five games and four starts.[107]
Buffalo Bills
[edit]On January 12, 2021, Freeman was signed to the Buffalo Bills' practice squad.[108] His practice squad contract with the team expired after the season on February 1.[109]
New Orleans Saints
[edit]On August 1, 2021, Freeman signed with the New Orleans Saints.[110] He was released on August 31.[111]
Baltimore Ravens
[edit]On September 9, 2021, the Baltimore Ravens signed Freeman on their practice squad following injuries to J. K. Dobbins, Justice Hill, and Gus Edwards.[112][113] Exactly a week later, the Ravens signed Freeman to their active roster after Trenton Cannon was released.[114]
Freeman made his Ravens debut in Week 2 against the Chiefs and rushed twice for 29 yards during the narrow 36–35 victory.[115] During Week 6 against the Los Angeles Chargers, Freeman had nine carries for 53 yards and a touchdown.[116] In the next game against the Bengals, he recorded four carries for 14 yards and a touchdown to go along with three receptions for 25 yards during the 41–17 loss.[117] Two weeks later against the Vikings, Freeman had 13 carries for 79 yards to go along with two receptions for four yards and a touchdown in the 34–31 overtime victory.[118]
During a Week 11 16–13 road victory over the Bears, Freeman recorded 16 carries for 49 yards and a touchdown to go along with six receptions for 31 yards.[119] Two weeks later against the Steelers, he had 14 carries for 52 yards and a touchdown to go along with 45 yards in the narrow 20–19 road loss.[120] During Week 16 against the Bengals, Freeman rushed six times for 17 yards and a touchdown in the 41–21 road loss.[121]
Freeman finished the 2021 season with 133 carries for 576 yards and five touchdowns to go along with 34 receptions for 190 yards and a touchdown in 16 games and eight starts.[122]
Career statistics
[edit]NFL
[edit]| Legend | |
|---|---|
| Led the league | |
| Bold | Career high |
Regular season
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Rushing | Receiving | Fumbles | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Att | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Rec | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Fum | Lost | ||
| 2014 | ATL | 16 | 0 | 65 | 248 | 3.8 | 31T | 1 | 30 | 225 | 7.5 | 36 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2015 | ATL | 15 | 13 | 265 | 1,056 | 4.0 | 39 | 11 | 73 | 578 | 7.9 | 44 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| 2016 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 227 | 1,079 | 4.8 | 75T | 11 | 54 | 462 | 8.6 | 35 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 2017 | ATL | 14 | 14 | 196 | 865 | 4.4 | 44 | 7 | 36 | 317 | 8.8 | 29 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
| 2018 | ATL | 2 | 2 | 14 | 68 | 4.9 | 20 | 0 | 5 | 23 | 4.6 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | ATL | 14 | 14 | 184 | 656 | 3.6 | 28 | 2 | 59 | 410 | 6.9 | 28 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| 2020 | NYG | 5 | 4 | 54 | 172 | 3.2 | 14 | 1 | 7 | 58 | 8.3 | 18 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | BAL | 16 | 8 | 133 | 576 | 4.3 | 32 | 5 | 34 | 190 | 5.6 | 15 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Career | 98 | 71 | 1,138 | 4,720 | 4.1 | 75T | 38 | 298 | 2,263 | 7.6 | 44 | 12 | 12 | 7 | |
Postseason
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Rushing | Receiving | Fumbles | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Att | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Rec | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Fum | Lost | ||
| 2016 | ATL | 3 | 3 | 39 | 162 | 4.2 | 37 | 2 | 10 | 168 | 16.8 | 53 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | ATL | 2 | 2 | 28 | 73 | 2.6 | 22 | 1 | 6 | 29 | 4.8 | 13 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Career | 5 | 5 | 67 | 235 | 3.5 | 37 | 3 | 16 | 197 | 12.3 | 53 | 2 | 0 | 0 | |
College
[edit]| Season | Team | Rushing | Receiving | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Att | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Rec | Yds | TD | ||
| 2011 | Florida State | 120 | 579 | 4.8 | 41 | 8 | 15 | 111 | 0 |
| 2012 | Florida State | 111 | 660 | 5.9 | 47 | 8 | 10 | 86 | 0 |
| 2013 | Florida State | 173 | 1,016 | 5.9 | 60 | 14 | 22 | 278 | 1 |
| Career | 404 | 2,255 | 5.6 | 60 | 30 | 47 | 475 | 1 | |
Personal life
[edit]Freeman's jersey number with the Falcons was 24 in honor of an aunt who died at age 24 from a heart attack when Freeman was a teenager.[123]
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- ^ "Wild Card – Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams – January 6th, 2018". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on January 10, 2018. Retrieved February 13, 2018.
- ^ "Divisional Round – Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles – January 13th, 2018". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on January 18, 2018. Retrieved February 13, 2018.
- ^ "Devonta Freeman Playoffs Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on February 13, 2018. Retrieved February 13, 2018.
- ^ "2018 NFL Top 100". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on April 8, 2022. Retrieved September 1, 2022.
- ^ "Devonta Freeman says he's fine after injury scare". NFL.com. September 6, 2018. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ Wells, Adam (September 15, 2018). "Devonta Freeman Reportedly Could Miss 2–3 Weeks Because of Knee Injury". Bleacher Report. Archived from the original on November 11, 2021. Retrieved May 8, 2020.
- ^ Patra, Kevin (October 16, 2018). "Falcons' Devonta Freeman to undergo groin surgery". NFL.com. Archived from the original on January 2, 2020. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- ^ McFadden, Will (October 16, 2018). "Falcons place Devonta Freeman on IR, 'hopeful' he can return later this season". AtlantaFalcons.com. Archived from the original on March 1, 2019. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- ^ "Devonta Freeman 2018 Game Log". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Atlanta Falcons at Houston Texans - October 6th, 2019". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Cardinals beat Falcons 34–33 after Bryant's extra point miss". ESPN.com. Associated Press. October 13, 2019. Archived from the original on October 15, 2019. Retrieved October 13, 2019.
- ^ Patra, Kevin (October 20, 2019). "Devonta Freeman ejected for punching Aaron Donald". NFL.com. Archived from the original on October 20, 2019. Retrieved October 20, 2019.
- ^ "Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons - December 8th, 2019". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Jacksonville Jaguars at Atlanta Falcons – December 22nd, 2019". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on December 24, 2019. Retrieved July 4, 2022.
- ^ "Devonta Freeman 2019 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on May 13, 2020. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
- ^ McClure, Vaughn (March 16, 2020). "Falcons releasing Devonta Freeman with three years left on contract". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on March 17, 2020. Retrieved March 17, 2020.
- ^ "NFL League Transactions March 2020". NFL.com. Archived from the original on March 14, 2020. Retrieved March 17, 2020.
- ^ Raanan, Jordan (September 23, 2020). "Giants sign RB Freeman after losing Barkley". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on September 23, 2020. Retrieved September 23, 2020.
- ^ Eisen, Michael (September 23, 2020). "Giants sign veteran RB Devonta Freeman; Sterling Shepard to IR". www.giants.com. Archived from the original on September 24, 2020. Retrieved September 23, 2020.
- ^ "New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys – October 11th, 2020". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on October 12, 2020. Retrieved October 18, 2020.
- ^ "Washington Football Team at New York Giants - October 18th, 2020". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ Eisen, Michael (November 13, 2020). "Giants place Devonta Freeman on IR; Alfred Morris, Montre Hartage signed off practice squad". Giants.com. Archived from the original on January 26, 2021. Retrieved January 10, 2021.
- ^ Eisen, Michael (December 5, 2020). "Giants elevate DE Niko Lalos, QB Clayton Thorson; sign QB Alex Tanney to practice squad". Giants.com. Archived from the original on January 14, 2021. Retrieved January 10, 2021.
- ^ "Giants' Devonta Freeman: Comes off COVID-19 list". CBSSports.com. December 17, 2020. Archived from the original on February 27, 2021. Retrieved January 10, 2021.
- ^ "Giants' Devonta Freeman: Returning to practice". CBSSports.com. December 18, 2020. Archived from the original on February 27, 2021. Retrieved February 16, 2021.
- ^ Williams, Charean (January 7, 2021). "Giants waive Devonta Freeman from injured reserve". NBCSports.com. Archived from the original on January 18, 2021. Retrieved February 16, 2021.
- ^ "Devonta Freeman 2020 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on January 13, 2021. Retrieved January 11, 2021.
- ^ Wojton, Nick (January 12, 2021). "Bills sign RB Devonta Freeman to practice squad". BuffaloBills.com. Archived from the original on January 12, 2021. Retrieved January 12, 2021.
- ^ "Buffalo parts with four players". FantasyGuru.com. February 1, 2021. Archived from the original on March 6, 2021. Retrieved February 19, 2021.
- ^ "New Orleans Saints sign running back Devonta Freeman". NewOrleansSaints.com. August 1, 2021. Archived from the original on August 1, 2021. Retrieved August 2, 2021.
- ^ "New Orleans Saints make roster reductions to 53". NewOrleansSaints.com. August 31, 2021. Archived from the original on September 6, 2021. Retrieved July 3, 2022.
- ^ Robinson, Sam (September 9, 2021). "Ravens To Sign RB Devonta Freeman". profootballrumors.com. Archived from the original on September 9, 2021. Retrieved September 9, 2021.
- ^ Patra, Kevin (September 9, 2021). "Ravens CB Marcus Peters, RB Gus Edwards suffer potentially serious knee injuries at practice". NFL.com. Archived from the original on September 9, 2021. Retrieved September 9, 2021.
- ^ Brown, Clifton (September 16, 2021). "Devonta Freeman Promoted to 53-Man Roster". BaltimoreRavens.com. Archived from the original on September 16, 2021. Retrieved July 3, 2022.
- ^ "Kansas City Chiefs at Baltimore Ravens - September 19th, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Los Angeles Chargers at Baltimore Ravens - October 17th, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens - October 24th, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Minnesota Vikings at Baltimore Ravens - November 7th, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Baltimore Ravens at Chicago Bears - November 21st, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers - December 5th, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals - December 26th, 2021". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved March 1, 2026.
- ^ "Devonta Freeman 2021 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Archived from the original on July 4, 2022. Retrieved July 4, 2022.
- ^ McClure, Vaughn (September 5, 2014). "New number meaningful to Freeman". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on October 3, 2015. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
External links
[edit]
- Career statistics from NFL.com · ESPN · Yahoo Sports · Pro Football Reference
- Devonta Freeman on X
- Florida State Seminoles bio
Devonta Freeman
View on GrokipediaEarly years
Early life
Devonta Freeman was born on March 15, 1992, in Miami, Florida.[5] As the eldest of seven children, Freeman grew up in the Liberty City neighborhood's Pork 'N Beans housing projects, a notoriously tough area marked by poverty and violence.[6] His family faced severe financial hardships, often struggling with food insecurity and relying on minimal resources, as his mother, Lorraine Freeman, supported them through low-wage warehouse work.[6][7] Freeman's father was largely absent from his life due to repeated incarcerations, leaving his mother to raise the large family single-handedly and instilling in him a strong sense of responsibility from a young age.[8] He developed a close bond with his mother and siblings, helping to care for them by taking on odd jobs like pumping gas and washing cars starting at age 12, amid an environment where daily gunshots and crime were commonplace.[7][6] Freeman's passion for football emerged early, beginning with informal pickup games on the project fields, often played in socks or barefoot. Around age 7 or 8, he joined the Liberty City Optimist Club youth league, where he played quarterback under coach Luther Campbell, marking the start of his structured involvement in the sport that would become central to his life.[7] Freeman remained in the Miami area through his high school years, continuing to build his athletic foundation there.[5]High school career
Freeman attended Miami Central High School in Miami, Florida, where he distinguished himself as a standout running back.[9] In his senior year of 2010, Freeman led Miami Central to the Florida Class 6A state championship, amassing 2,208 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns while topping Miami-Dade County in rushing production.[10][11] In the championship game against Dr. Phillips, he rushed for 308 yards on 36 carries and scored three touchdowns, earning MVP honors for his performance.[12][13][10] Freeman's high school success drew recruitment interest from multiple programs, including an on-site scholarship offer from Florida State University following his participation in their summer football camp prior to his senior season; he ultimately signed with the Seminoles on December 22, 2010.[14][15][9]College career
2011 season
As a true freshman in 2011, Devonta Freeman joined the Florida State Seminoles after signing with the program out of Miami Central High School in Florida, where he had been a highly touted recruit.[16] He entered a backfield led by established running back Chris Thompson, initially serving primarily in a backup role while learning the Seminoles' offensive system under head coach Jimbo Fisher.[17] Freeman appeared in 12 of Florida State's 13 games during their 9–4 season, which culminated in a 23–13 victory over Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl.[18] Despite his limited starting experience, he quickly contributed to the ground game, leading the team with 120 rushing attempts for 579 yards and 8 touchdowns, averaging 4.8 yards per carry.[19] He also added value in the passing game with 15 receptions for 111 yards.[19] In his collegiate debut against Louisiana–Monroe on September 3, Freeman recorded 7 carries for 24 yards and scored his first touchdown on a 1-yard run in the third quarter of a 34–0 shutout win.[20] His performance helped establish him as a versatile option in a committee approach, complementing Thompson's 664 rushing yards while providing explosive plays, including multiple games over 100 rushing yards.[16]2012 season
In his sophomore season, Devonta Freeman transitioned into a more prominent role in the Florida State Seminoles' backfield, sharing starting duties with Chris Thompson before the latter suffered a season-ending injury in October against Miami.[16] Building on his freshman year experience as a backup who led the team in rushing, Freeman emerged as a key contributor to the Seminoles' ground attack.[19] Freeman appeared in all 14 games for Florida State, starting five, and helped anchor an offense that supported the team's 12-2 overall record.[21] He recorded 111 rushing attempts for 660 yards, averaging 5.9 yards per carry, and scored 8 rushing touchdowns, with notable performances including a career-high 148 yards and 2 touchdowns on 16 carries against Maryland.[19] Additionally, Freeman contributed through the air with 10 receptions for 86 yards.[19] Freeman's efforts were integral to Florida State's success in the Atlantic Coast Conference, where the Seminoles finished 7-1 and captured the ACC Championship with a 21-15 victory over Georgia Tech on December 1.[22] His versatility and production helped propel the team to a berth in the Orange Bowl, though they fell 31-14 to Northern Illinois.[21]2013 season
In 2013, Devonta Freeman served as the primary starting running back for the Florida State Seminoles during his junior season, starting all 14 games and emerging as a leader in the backfield following his increased role from the prior year.[19] He demonstrated versatility as a dual-threat back, rushing for 1,016 yards on 173 carries with an average of 5.9 yards per attempt and scoring 14 rushing touchdowns, which led the team.[19] Additionally, Freeman contributed through the passing game with 22 receptions for 278 yards and one receiving touchdown, providing crucial support in short-yardage and screen situations.[19] Freeman's performance was instrumental in Florida State's undefeated 14-0 campaign, where the Seminoles captured the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championship with a 31-13 victory over Duke and advanced to the 2014 BCS National Championship Game.[23] In the title game against Auburn, he rushed for 73 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, helping secure a 34-31 win that clinched the national championship and marked Florida State's third in program history.[24] His consistent production and first-team All-ACC honors underscored his pivotal role in the offense's explosive output under quarterback Jameis Winston. Following the championship, Freeman announced his decision to forgo his senior year and enter the 2014 NFL Draft, citing his readiness for professional football after earning a third-round projection from the NFL Draft Advisory Board.[25]College statistics
Over his three-year career at Florida State University from 2011 to 2013, Devonta Freeman amassed 404 rushing attempts for 2,255 yards and 30 rushing touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry, while also recording 47 receptions for 475 yards and 1 receiving touchdown, with no fumbles lost.[19] These totals established him as a productive dual-threat back in an offense that evolved significantly during his tenure, contributing to the Seminoles' undefeated 2013 national championship season. The following table provides a year-by-year breakdown of Freeman's college statistics:| Year | Games Played | Rushing Attempts | Rushing Yards | Yards per Carry | Rushing TDs | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Receiving TDs | Fumbles Lost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 12 | 120 | 579 | 4.8 | 8 | 15 | 111 | 0 | 0 |
| 2012 | 14 | 111 | 660 | 5.9 | 8 | 10 | 86 | 0 | 0 |
| 2013 | 14 | 173 | 1,016 | 5.9 | 14 | 22 | 278 | 1 | 0 |
| Career | 40 | 404 | 2,255 | 5.6 | 30 | 47 | 475 | 1 | 0 |
Professional career
2014 season
Freeman was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round (103rd overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft out of Florida State.[1] He signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $2.7 million, including a signing bonus of $595,952.[31] As a rookie, Freeman served primarily as the backup to veteran running back Steven Jackson, appearing in all 16 games but not starting any.[32] In his NFL debut during Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints, he recorded two rushes for 15 yards and two receptions for 18 yards in a 37–34 overtime loss.[32] Throughout the season, Freeman adjusted to the increased speed and physicality of professional defenses, drawing on his experience from Florida State's 2013 national championship run to aid his transition.[33] Freeman finished the 2014 season with 65 rushing attempts for 248 yards and one touchdown, averaging 3.8 yards per carry, while adding 30 receptions for 225 yards and another touchdown through the air.[1] His receiving contributions highlighted his versatility out of the backfield, though his role remained limited behind Jackson and occasional shares with other backs like Antone Smith.[34]2015 season
Following the release of veteran running back Steven Jackson in February 2015, Devonta Freeman entered the season as the Atlanta Falcons' primary backfield option, marking a significant expansion of his role from his rookie year as a rotational player.[35] The Falcons supplemented the position by drafting Tevin Coleman in the third round, creating a dynamic committee approach that allowed Freeman to focus on his versatile skill set while sharing carries.[36] This shift positioned Freeman for his breakout campaign under offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, emphasizing both rushing and receiving opportunities.[33] Freeman appeared in 15 games, starting 13, and led the team in rushing with 265 carries for 1,056 yards and a career-high 11 rushing touchdowns, averaging 4.0 yards per attempt.[1] He also excelled as a receiver out of the backfield, recording 73 receptions for 578 yards and three receiving touchdowns, which ranked him third among NFL running backs in both categories.[1] These dual-threat contributions highlighted his agility and vision, with notable performances including a 153-yard, two-touchdown outing against the Washington Redskins in Week 5.[37] Freeman's production earned him his first Pro Bowl selection as well as Second-Team All-Pro honors, recognizing him as one of the league's top running backs despite the Falcons' middling 8-8 record.[1] He finished seventh in the NFL in rushing yards and first in rushing touchdowns, providing a consistent ground attack that complemented quarterback Matt Ryan's passing game and helped stabilize the offense amid a transitional year.[38][39]2016 season
In the 2016 season, Devonta Freeman solidified his status as a cornerstone of the Atlanta Falcons' offense, building on his momentum from the previous year's Pro Bowl selection. He appeared in all 16 games, starting each one, and led the team with 1,541 yards from scrimmage, showcasing his versatility as both a rusher and receiver. Freeman's performance was instrumental in the Falcons' 11-5 regular-season record, which earned them the NFC's top seed and a first-round playoff bye.[1][40] Freeman rushed for 1,079 yards on 227 carries, averaging 4.8 yards per attempt, and scored 11 rushing touchdowns, while adding 54 receptions for 462 yards and two receiving touchdowns. These totals marked his second straight 1,000-yard rushing campaign and highlighted his dual-threat capability, as he topped 100 scrimmage yards in seven games. His contributions helped power the Falcons' league-leading offense, which averaged over 33 points per game.[41][42][43] Freeman earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod as an original selection, finishing behind only Ezekiel Elliott and David Johnson among running backs. In the playoffs, he played a pivotal role in the Falcons' run to Super Bowl LI, including strong outings in the NFC Championship Game victory over the Green Bay Packers, though the team ultimately fell to the New England Patriots in a 34-28 overtime defeat.[44]2017 season
Coming off the physical demands of the Atlanta Falcons' overtime loss in Super Bowl LI following the 2016 season, Devonta Freeman entered 2017 aiming to build on his Pro Bowl form, but injuries hampered his output. He started all 14 games he played, missing the final two regular-season contests due to a concussion suffered against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 10.[1][45] Freeman's rushing totals reflected the injury interruptions and a more committee-based backfield approach, as he recorded 196 carries for 865 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging 4.4 yards per attempt— a dip from his 2016 efficiency.[1] In the passing game, he added 36 receptions for 317 yards and one touchdown, providing reliable check-down options for quarterback Matt Ryan amid a season where Freeman's versatility remained a staple of the Falcons' offense.[1] Despite the reduced production, his efforts contributed to key wins, including a standout 153-yard, two-touchdown performance in a Week 15 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that helped secure a playoff spot.[46] The Falcons finished the regular season with a 10–6 record, earning the NFC's No. 5 seed and home-field advantage in the wild-card round unnecessary due to seeding.[47] Freeman played both playoff games, rushing for 73 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries while catching three passes for 29 yards, though the team fell 26–13 at the Los Angeles Rams in the wild-card round before a 15–10 divisional-round defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles.[48] His postseason contributions highlighted resilience, but the season marked a step back without Pro Bowl recognition, overshadowed by lingering effects from the prior year's Super Bowl exertion and midseason ailments.[49]2018 season
In 2018, Devonta Freeman sought to rebound from a 2017 season impacted by injuries, including a knee sprain during the playoffs, but his campaign was derailed by a new knee issue in the same leg.[50] He suffered a knee contusion in the season-opening loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on September 6, recording six carries for 36 yards before exiting.[51] The injury, which sidelined him for Weeks 2 through 4, was initially expected to cost him two to three weeks.[51] Freeman returned in Week 5 against the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 7, managing nine carries for 36 yards in a 41-17 defeat, but he aggravated the knee problem during the game.[52] He played one more contest, Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 14, with five carries for 32 yards in a 34-29 victory, before the Falcons placed him on injured reserve on October 16.[53] This ended his season after just two appearances, both starts, limiting him to 14 rushing attempts for 68 yards and no rushing touchdowns, plus five receptions for 23 receiving yards and no receiving scores.[1] Freeman's absence thrust the backfield responsibilities onto Tevin Coleman and rookie Ito Smith, who combined for much of Atlanta's ground production over the final 11 games.[54] The Falcons finished with a 7-9 record, placing second in the NFC South but missing the playoffs for the first time since 2015.[55]2019 season
In 2019, Devonta Freeman returned as the lead running back for the Atlanta Falcons following injury-plagued seasons, starting 12 of the 14 games he played in a backfield rotation that featured backups Ito Smith and Brian Hill.[1] [56] Freeman's statistical output included 184 rushing attempts for 656 yards and 2 rushing touchdowns, complemented by 59 receptions for 410 receiving yards and 4 receiving touchdowns, showcasing his continued versatility in the passing game.[1] [34] The Falcons concluded the year with a 7-9 record, failing to qualify for the playoffs amid offensive inconsistencies.[57] Freeman voiced frustration with his evolving role on the team, particularly as head coach Dan Quinn refrained from confirming him as the unquestioned primary back in postseason remarks, amid a shared workload that diluted his carry volume compared to peak years.[58] This tension was evident in moments like his ejection from a Week 7 loss to the Los Angeles Rams after punching defensive tackle Aaron Donald, reflecting broader on-field aggravations.[59] On March 17, 2020, the Falcons released Freeman after six seasons with the organization, a decision that cleared $3.5 million in salary cap space while designating a post-June 1 cut to spread the financial impact.[60] [31]2020 season
Following his release from the Atlanta Falcons in March 2020, Freeman signed a one-year contract with the New York Giants worth up to $3 million on September 23, 2020, to provide depth at running back after Saquon Barkley's season-ending knee injury.[61][62] Freeman appeared in five games for the Giants, starting four, but had a limited role behind Wayne Gallman, who emerged as the primary back amid the team's depth at the position.[1] In those contests, he recorded 54 rushing attempts for 172 yards and one touchdown, averaging 3.2 yards per carry, along with seven receptions for 58 yards.[1] His most notable contribution came in Week 7 against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he rushed for 77 yards on 16 carries, including a 14-yard touchdown run that helped secure a 22-21 victory.[63] Freeman's season was cut short by injuries, including a high ankle sprain and hamstring issue sustained in late October, causing him to miss three games before the Giants placed him on injured reserve on November 13, 2020.[64][65] After the regular season, Freeman was waived from injured reserve on January 8, 2021, and briefly joined the Buffalo Bills' practice squad on January 12, 2021, but was released four days later without appearing in a game.[66]2021 season
Freeman signed with the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad on September 9, 2021, amid a rash of injuries to the team's running backs, including season-ending knee issues for J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards.[67] He was promoted to the active 53-man roster just one week later on September 16, providing depth to Baltimore's backfield.[68] In his only season with the Ravens, Freeman served as a backup running back behind Dobbins and Edwards, appearing in all 16 games without recording a start.[69] He carried the ball 133 times for 576 yards and five rushing touchdowns, while also contributing through the air with 34 receptions for 190 yards and one receiving touchdown.[2] These efforts marked a resurgence in production for Freeman after limited opportunities in 2020, though his role remained situational within Baltimore's run-heavy offense.[70] The Ravens concluded the 2021 regular season with an 8-9 record, finishing fourth in the AFC North and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2017.[71] Freeman became a free agent after the campaign but has not signed with any NFL team since, with no official retirement announcement and no reported league activity as of 2025.[1]Career statistics and records
Regular season
Over his eight-season NFL career, Devonta Freeman recorded 1,138 rushing attempts for 4,720 yards at an average of 4.1 yards per carry and 38 rushing touchdowns, complemented by 298 receptions for 2,263 receiving yards and 12 receiving touchdowns during the regular season.[1] These totals reflect his role as a versatile dual-threat running back, with career scrimmage statistics totaling 6,983 yards from scrimmage and 50 touchdowns.[1] The following table summarizes Freeman's regular-season performance year by year, including games played, rushing attempts (carries), yards per carry, fumbles lost, and scrimmage totals (rushing yards plus receiving yards, and rushing plus receiving touchdowns).| Year | Team | G | Car | Yds/Carry | Fmb | Scrimmage Yards | Scrimmage TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | ATL | 16 | 65 | 3.8 | 1 | 473 | 2 |
| 2015 | ATL | 15 | 265 | 4.0 | 3 | 1,634 | 14 |
| 2016 | ATL | 16 | 227 | 4.8 | 1 | 1,541 | 13 |
| 2017 | ATL | 14 | 196 | 4.4 | 4 | 1,182 | 8 |
| 2018 | ATL | 2 | 14 | 4.9 | 0 | 91 | 0 |
| 2019 | ATL | 14 | 184 | 3.6 | 3 | 1,066 | 6 |
| 2020 | NYG | 5 | 54 | 3.2 | 0 | 230 | 1 |
| 2021 | BAL | 16 | 133 | 4.3 | 0 | 766 | 6 |
| Career | 3TM | 98 | 1,138 | 4.1 | 12 | 6,983 | 50 |
Postseason
Freeman appeared in five postseason games during his tenure with the Atlanta Falcons, all between 2016 and 2017.[1] Over these contests, he recorded career postseason totals of 67 rushing attempts for 235 yards and three rushing touchdowns, along with 16 receptions for 197 yards and two receiving touchdowns.[73] These figures reflect his dual-threat role in the Falcons' backfield, though his production was more limited compared to his regular-season output, where he often exceeded 1,000 rushing yards in peak years.[1]| Year | Games | Rushing Att | Rushing Yds | Rushing TD | Receiving Rec | Receiving Yds | Receiving TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 3 | 39 | 162 | 2 | 10 | 168 | 1 |
| 2017 | 2 | 28 | 73 | 1 | 6 | 29 | 1 |
| Career | 5 | 67 | 235 | 3 | 16 | 197 | 2 |