The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for their first matchup of the season with their hated divisional rivals, Sean Payton and his merry band of cheating cheaters the New Orleans Saints. They’ll go into the game at less than 100 percent, still struggling to regain their composure after a series of unfortunate injuries have sidelined three starters, two for the season. Let’s break down today’s injury news, shall we?
Julio Jones didn’t practice because of a calf injury and his status is questionable. The team frequently takes a cautious approach with Julio, so I wouldn’t worry about his availability for Sunday’s game. Like the Black Knight in Monty Python, Julio is going to find a way onto the football field.
Corey Nelson got hurt during today’s practice and needed help from trainers to leave the field. He apparently suffered a calf injury. His status is questionable, which is less than ideal, given the state of the linebacker corps. Meanwhile Takk McKinley and Derrick Shelby are still trying to get over their groin injuries; Dan Quinn called them “day to day” today, whatever the heck that means. They’re still in the mix for Sunday’s game ... we think.
Devonta Freeman is officially questionable with a knee injury. Apparently he was nowhere to be found at practice today. (As in no one even saw him.) I’d expect Quinn’s timeline of 2-3 weeks to hold true and we can essentially rule him out for Sunday’s game at this point.
Finally Ben Garland (calf) and Russell Gage (calf) were limited in practice today. Isaiah Oliver’s ankle is apparently feeling better and he was back at practice today.