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Typically, I'd be hesitant to pass along something like this without more confirmation, but Jay Glazer is absolutely the most reliable NFL reporter working today. When I read this about the latest Julio Jones injury, my heart dropped into my left heel.
Breaking: Falcons fear Julio Jones likely OUT for the rest of the year w a foot injury. He's getting a second opinion tomorrow to determine
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) October 8, 2013
The latest:
Coach Smith said the injury occurred before Jones made the one-handed catch.
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) October 8, 2013
Mike Smith says it's "premature" to assume Julio Jones will be out for the season. But doesn't sound thrilled either obvs
— Will Brinson (@WillBrinson) October 8, 2013
I don't have to tell you that this is a hammer blow to the Falcons, who have already been suffering from a spate of injuries thus far this season. If Jones misses the season, the Falcons lose their best receiver, a guy who had put up a 41/580/14.2/2 line while basically serving as one of the team's two reliable targets through the first five weeks. He's been a stud, playing through a leg injury, and his loss cripples the offense.
The Falcons will have to build their passing attack around Tony Gonzalez until Roddy White is back at full strength in this scenario, and they may sign a receiver. Ultimately, they'd have to get Steven Jackson involved, get more out of Harry Douglas and finally bring Drew Davis, Levine Toilolo and Kevin Cone into the fold, but none of this is going to make up for the fact that the passing attack would take a major hit without Jones. Matt Ryan is in for the roughest season of his career, no question.
Stay tuned. Let's hope Glazer's wrong.