Running back Michael Turner to have a reduced role in Atlanta Falcons’ pass-heavy offence – NFL News
After having an astounding four seasons in the league with Atlanta Falcons, it looks like running back Michael Turner will be having a limited role in the upcoming season.
The pass-first system put in place by the new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter is focusing on passing capabilities of quarterback Matt Ryan.
Turner flourished under the run-first offensive scheme. He has carried more passes than any other player in the National Football League (NFL) during the last four seasons.
Last season, Turner was unable to give the performance like he did in his early years with the Falcons. He was particularly unimpressive during the latter part of the season.
Moreover, the offseason has not been much of a help as he has been able to carry just eight passes for 14 yards in the first two preseason games of Falcons.
Turner remains optimistic that he will return to his form as the regular season starts. According to the Associated Press, Turner said:
"No, not worried about it. It's preseason. This stuff doesn't matter right now. Just get a little work in and get out there."
Turner reiterated that the game against Miami Dolphins on Friday will be crucial for the team as well as for himself.
"This is the game where everyone wants to look the sharpest. So we go out there this week and game plan like it's a real game. It's like a little dress rehearsal going into the game and make sure we clean some things up before we going into Kansas City."
Turner and other first team starters are likely to play at least the first half of the game.
Turner has rushed for a total of 5,281 yards in his four-season career. He has been an integral part of the Falcons’ offence.
Although there are many doubts about Turner’s output this season, Head Coach Mike Smith remains optimistic that Turner will still remain a powerhouse on the field. Smith said:
"Michael, he's our No. 1 back. He's going to get his touches just like the other guys, and it's going to be based on how people try to defend us."
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