Flowery Branch — Rookie cornerback William Middleton, a fifth-round draft pick from Furman, suffered a hamstring injury in practice on Wednesday.
"He pulled a hammy in a pass coverage drill," Falcons coach Mike Smith said after the organized team activity two-hour session.
Middleton, 5-foot-11, 186 pounds, played high school football at Marist. He was the 125th pick overall in the NFL draft.
Some of the veterans not in attendance at the optional workouts were defensive end John Abraham, kicker Jason Elam, tackle Quinn Ojinnaka and defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux.
"I know where every one of them is," Smith said. "I'm not taking attendance, but the principal is aware of it. We've talked to every one of them. Again, these are organized team activities that are optional."
Tight end Tony Gonzalez did take part in this week's session open to the media.
"Tony had a good day," Smith said. "He made some tough catches. Like all of our guys, he's worked very hard in setting the foundation as we move forward to training camp."
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