WATCH: Injuries put slight damper on Falcons victory against Saints
The Atlanta Falcons snapped their six-game losing streak Sunday against the Saints, but it came at a cost.
Both tight end Austin Hooper and running back Devonta Freeman exited against the Saints with injuries and were sent to receive MRIs upon returning to Atlanta on Monday. Neither player's results have come forward, but Dan Quinn hasn't ruled them out to play in Week 11 against the Carolina Panthers.
According to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport, Freeman could miss about two weeks because of a foot sprain. There's still no word about how serious Hooper's ailment is.
If that report comes true, Freeman would be a significant loss. So would Hooper, and it will be a major issue should both not be able to play.
Hooper has emerged as one of the best tight ends in the league this season. He leads all tight ends with 56 catches along with 608 yards and six touchdowns. On Sunday, he only had 17 yards but again caught a red-zone touchdown.
Without Hooper, opposing secondaries can hone in on Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley in the passing game.
On the ground, Freeman has struggled this season, but Atlanta is already without backup running back Ito Smith. That means without Freeman, the Falcons are down to No. 3 back Brian Hill and return specialist Kenjon Barner. More than likely, Freeman's absence would mean rookie Qadree Ollison making his NFL debut. Ollison has spent the entire season on the roster but inactive on gamedays.
The Falcons will hold their breath for better news in regards to Hooper and Freeman which is expected to come later this week.
