Report: hamstring injury unlikely to keep Julio Jones out of Sunday's matchup against NY Giants

Julio Jones is a pretty essential part of the Atlanta Falcons offense. Sure, they can take the field without him. But Jones' absence, however brief, is palpable. So when he walks gingerly or is slow to get up after he's tackled, the stomachs of Falcons fans everywhere collectively drop.

We now know that Jones injured his hamstring in Monday night's game against the Eagles. Judging by Dan Quinn's comments, the Falcons are either in complete denial or the injury just isn't that serious. Either way, per ESPN's Vaughn McClure, Jones is expected to play Sunday against the Giants.

There's a good chance Jones could rest the remainder of the week but the expectation is for him to be ready for Sunday's matchup with the New York Giants. Two of Jones' teammates -- running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman -- suffered hamstring injuries during the first week of training camp and missed significant time. Freeman did not play in any of the four preseason games, while Coleman played in just two.

Jones wasn't only the best Falcon to take the field Monday night. He was the best offensive skill player in the league in week 1. You can't help but feel his absence. But Quinn doesn't seem too worried, so for the moment, let's all bury our heads in the sand and hope for the best. Your thoughts?