In the last few days, Atlanta Falcons star running back Devonta Freeman has been trending forward in his recovery from a knee injury that occurred late in the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.

According to  D. Orlando Ledbetter of  The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Freeman was able to do enough in Thursday's practice to be labeled as limited for the session. 

Freeman didn’t do much during the open portion of practice, but he did enough to be officially listed as limited on the injury report.

“I think it’s big,” offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said on Thursday. “We’ve got some stuff out of him today. Free is a great spirit on our team. He’s very alive. He brings the energy. He brings the juice. Not to mention the talent he brings.

“The process of him getting back on the field for us is definitely underway. It was great having him back out there today.”

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This is a notable step forward for Devonta Freeman in his recovery as he was able to take the practice field. He will have to continue to be able to participate in practice over the next few days to have a chance to play in Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Freeman hasn't played since the season opener where he recorded 36 rushing yards on six attempts along with 14 receiving yards on three receptions. In his place, the Falcons have depended heavily on backup Tevin Coleman. Over the last two games, Coleman rushed for 140 yards to go along with six catches for 42 receiving yards and a touchdown. This includes a 100-yard rushing performance against the Carolina Panthers in Week 2.

The Falcons don't appear to be rushing to bring back Freeman to the fold given that Coleman has proven over the years to be a reliable fill-in starter in his spot in the backfield.