The Falcons are used to playing somewhat short of full strength, and they'll need to do so in a do-or-die Week 17 game against the Panthers, as well.
Think this was obvious with Mike Smith saying Jerome Smith would be active, but Steven Jackson (quad) now not expected to play Sunday.
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) December 24, 2014
Jackson is no longer an effective every-down back, but he has had his moments in 2014, and he's been the primary ball carrier in every game he's been healthy for. Without him, the Falcons will be rolling with Devonta Freeman, Jacquizz Rodgers and Jerome Smith on Sunday. Freeman should be the early-down back and has an opportunity to showcase his skills in a big game, while Rodgers will be primarily called upon to block. Smith could be used in short-yardage.
Julio Jones and Roddy White also missed practice yesterday, but I'm not overly worried about either one at the moment. Stay tuned for further injury updates.
Hopefully Jackson is back and healthy for the playoffs, if we get that far.