As the Falcons prepare for their preseason opener against Denver in Thursday night's Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio, there is no leader in the competition to be Devonta Freeman's backup. Several contenders have flashed different strengths in training camp, creating the possibility of a deeper rotation than in recent years.

"Today I would say it would be a different kind of shared role," Quinn said after Monday's practice.

"I'm not discouraged by any of them at all. I'm more encouraged," Quinn said, adding: "There hasn't been a separation" in the competition.

Related players: Ito Smith, Brian Hill, Kenjon Barner, Qadree Ollison, Tony Brooks-James.

Second-year back Ito Smith ran for 315 yards and four touchdowns before a season-ending knee injury last year. He would seem to be the favorite. Quinn mentioned Hill's improvement and said Barner's versatility is suited for "third-down stuff."