Devonta Freeman is expected to miss more than one game.

The Falcons believe their 26-year-old running back will be sidelined for two to three weeks with a knee contusion, according to a report from ESPN. Freeman had already been ruled out for Atlanta's matchup with the Panthers on Sunday.

Falcons’ RB Devonta Freeman, ruled out for Sunday’s game against Carolina, is expected to be sidelined two to three weeks with a knee contusion, per source. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 15, 2018

Tevin Coleman is set to have an increased workload in Freeman's absence, while rookie fourth-round pick Ito Smith could also receive more carries.

Falcons coach Dan Quinn said earlier this week he believes in Coleman.

“We highly regard (Coleman),” Quinn said Thursday. “We’ve been down this road before ... Tevin can certainly handle (the load). We’ve done that the other way where Free’s had to (play) when Tevin (couldn’t play). Obviously, we like them both together.”

Freeman originally suffered the injury when he was hit late during Atlanta's Week 1 loss to the Eagles. He tallied six carries for 36 rushing yards while adding 14 receiving yards on three catches in the game.

Freeman has rushed for 30 career touchdowns in 62 games with the Falcons.