Falcons Offensive Stars Austin Hooper and Devonta Freeman to Undergo MRIs Monday

The Atlanta Falcons earned a surprising victory in Week 10 against the New Orleans Saints, but the win came with a cost.

Two of Atlanta's most vital offensive weapons picked up injuries on Sunday. Tight end Austin Hooper and running back Devonta Freeman both exited the game and did not return, and the pair are set to undergo MRIs on Monday.

#Falcons TE Austin Hooper, the NFL’s leader at his position with 56 catches, is getting an MRI on a knee injury suffered Sunday source said. Hooper is expected to miss some time, but the MRI will determine how much. Atlanta could be without Devonta Freeman & Hooper this week.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 11, 2019

Hooper is expected to miss at least a week with his knee injury, though a clearer timetable for his return should be provided once the MRI is completed.

The Falcons tight end is enjoying his best season in the league, so his loss is a big blow to an already struggling Atlanta squad. In nine games this season, Hooper has recorded 56 receptions on 67 targets for 608 yards and a career high six touchdowns.

As for Freeman, the former Pro Bowler is dealing with a foot sprain.

#Falcons RB Devonta Freeman was initially diagnosed with a foot sprain, source said, and he’ll have an MRI today to determine the extent of it. Coming off a dominating win over the rival #Saints, this will be watched closely.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 11, 2019

The loss of Freeman would be an exceptional hit to Atlanta's offense considering the team placed backup RB Ito Smith on injured reserve. Brian Hill would be the team's likely starter in the backfield should Freeman be unable to go.

Despite picking up a win over the Saints, the Falcons are not postseason-bound, and perhaps preserving the health of their top offensive weapons would be in their best interest.