FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – Antone Smith, best known for his special teams play in his first five seasons with the Falcons, finally has a chance to show he deserves playing time at running back.
As starter Steven Jackson continues to miss time with a left hamstring injury, Smith showed impressive big-play potential in the Falcons’ 16-10 win over Miami on Friday night.
Smith’s 35-yard gain after a short catch and 76-yard touchdown run were negated by penalties, but the big plays will be remembered by coach Mike Smith.
The opportunity at running back may continue to grow. Rookie fourth-round pick Devonta Freeman left Monday’s practice with an injury.
If Jackson and Freeman can’t play in Saturday’s preseason game at Houston, Antone Smith and Jacquizz Rodgers could be featured.
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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL
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