Falcons starting linebacker Sean Weatherspoon returned to practice on Thursday at full participation one day after sitting out with what was listed as a head injury.
The Falcons already appear ready to start one third-string player at linebacker, Spencer Adkins, with it looking like starting strong side linebacker Stephen Nicholas will miss Sunday's NFC Wildcard playoff game with the New York Giants. Nicholas, who missed the regular season finale with a toe injury, has not practiced the first two days of the week and on Monday head coach Mike Smith said it was doubtful that Nicholas would play. (Former starter and top back-up Mike Peterson was placed on season-ending injured reserve on Dec. 27.)
Smith did not answer directly on Wednesday when asked if Weatherspoon was in the league's concussion protocol, only saying he anticipated Weatherspoon, the team's first-round pick in 2010, to be back on Thursday, which he was.
Of other possible concern, starting left cornerback Brent Grimes, a Pro-Bowler last season, did not practice for the second straight day. Grimes, who underwent a procedure on his knee in November, has missed four of the last five games, including last Sunday's against Tampa Bay. Grimes said on Wednesday that he would play against the Giants.
Smith was asked if Grimes were being held out as a precaution.
"Yes, right now we want to try to get him feeling as good as he can," Smith said. "We anticipate he'll get out here and practice tomorrow."
Running back Michael Turner and safety William Moore, both of whom have groin injuries, were limited in their participation. Moore has missed four games this season because of injury but has played in the last four.
For the Giants, running back Ahmad Bradshaw, the team's leading rusher, did not practice for the second straight day with a foot injury. Defensive end Osi Umenyiora, who played in only nine games but who totaled nine sacks, was limited in practice with what was listed as an ankle/knee injury for the second straight day.
