FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman has cleared the concussion protocol and is set to return for Sunday's game at New Orleans.
Coleman missed Monday night's win over Tampa Bay after suffering a concussion during the first meeting between the Falcons and Saints two games ago.
The Falcons will again have their two-headed attack out of the backfield with Devonta Freeman and Coleman. Each has seven touchdowns for the season, with Freeman known more for his shifty, rugged style and Coleman the big-play threat with his speed. The duo has a combined 1,865 yards despite missing three games total -- two by Freeman, one by Coleman.
"He's been fully cleared to participate," Falcons coach Dan Quinn said of Coleman on Thursday. "We really trust the process that the league goes through, not just with our own docs but with the independent. I think that part has improved over the last few years through the league. And we're pumped to have Tev back."
Quinn also said wide receiver Julio Jones won't practice for the second consecutive day while recovering from an ankle injury. He is set to participate in a walk-through and said his ankle and bandaged left thumb are both fine.
Left guard Andy Levitre, who returned to practice off a triceps injury, suffered no setbacks Wednesday, Quinn said. Levitre's playing status remains uncertain, with Ben Garland starting in his place.
The Falcons (9-5) have a chance to clinch a playoff berth with a win over the Saints (10-4). A win over a New Orleans, coupled with a win over Carolina in the season finale, would earn the Falcons their second consecutive division title.