Report: Julio Jones may not play against Saints

The Atlanta Falcons may have to protect their undefeated record on Thursday night without their most dangerous offensive weapon.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the Falcons are “uncertain” if wide receiver Julio Jones will be able to play against the New Orleans Saints. Jones, who has been battling a hamstring injury, did not practice on Monday.

Jones played 73 of 80 snaps in a win over the Washington Redskins on Sunday, and it appeared he left the game without suffering any setbacks. It’s possible that he was simply given a maintenance day on Monday, but we also can’t rule out the possibility of the Falcons sitting him on a short week.

With a record of 5-0, Atlanta can afford to try to grind out a win without Jones. However, Matt Ryan would obviously rather have his favorite receiver in the game. Jones ranks first in the NFL with 43 receptions and second with 545 yards receiving. He has been virtually impossible to cover.