It appears the bye week paid off for the Falcons in terms of their health. Falcons coach Dan Quinn no players would be limited by injury during Wednesday’s practice in preparation for Saturday’s NFC divisional playoff game against the Seahawks.
The Falcons closed the season with four consecutive victories. Whatever momentum, if any, the Falcons lost by not playing during the wild-card round last weekend likely is more than offset by getting key players healthy.
“We had a lot of nicks and bruises around here,” Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones said. “Getting guys full speed, everybody is up and running—(the bye) didn’t’ hurt us by any means. We took advantage of it. We came in, we worked out, we ran around. Practice was basically working on us to get better.”
Jones, a two-time All-Pro, may be the biggest beneficiary from the time off.
Credit: ccompton@ajc.com
Credit: ccompton@ajc.com
Jones said he “feels great” now after a sprained toe forced him to sit out against the Rams and 49ers. .Jones played the final two games but offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said Jones was obviously limited by the injury. Falcons coach Dan Quinn said Jones definitely is more mobile now.
Other key players who were hobbled by injuries late in the season include tight end Austin Hooper (knee), defensive end Adrian Clayborn (knee) and wide receiver Taylor Gabriel (foot).
