FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Falcons running back Steven Jackson, who has played a little more than one full game this season, since suffering a hamstring injury on Sept. 15, is expected to return to practice on Wednesday, according to Atlanta head coach Mike Smith.
"Again, this is all based on what the doctor will say in terms of how much he'll participate in practice as we go through the week," said Smith, just one day after the 2-4 Falcons trumped the Buccaneers at home.
"When we left out of here on Friday, everything was very good in terms of his testing and the opportunity to return to play; and we are anticipating we'll get him and see how he handles it. You've got to go in and take it one day at a time when you’re coming back from an injury.
"Obviously, you're not going to go out there and he won’t participate fully in the first day back in practice."
With their offseason decision to cut Michael Turner after five years, the Falcons signed Jackson as their feature running back, figuring he'd be a versatile, dynamic presence with the running and passing games.
However, in Jackson's absence, the Falcons have had to go with reserves Jason Snelling and Jacquizz Rodgers.
For their Sunday win, the Falcons rushed for only 18 net yards, although they lost 12 on the final three plays — the result of three Matt Ryan 'victory formation' kneel-downs.
On the season, Jackson has 14 carries for 77 yards and six receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown.
On Monday, Smith also acknowledged his almost-daily conversations with wide receiver Julio Jones (season-ending foot injury).
"I did speak with him, and he’s doing well. There's not a whole lot that can be done right now (except) immobilizing the foot.
"Don't want him out, running around, standing on the practice field, standing on the sideline. He’s doing well."
