The Atlanta Falcons are coming off a much-needed bye week, but their injured players aren't recovering as fast as they were hoping. Running back Steven Jackson, wide receiver Roddy White and left tackle Sam Baker were all held out of practice on Tuesday, and head coach Mike Smith did not give an update on their status for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jackson suffered a hamstring injury in Week 2 and missed three games in a row. The Falcons were hopeful he would be ready to play after the bye, but it sounds like he will be out for at least another week. Dave Choate of The Falcholic believes that he will be back in Week 8. Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling will continue to split carries in his place.
White, already battling a high ankle sprain, is also sitting out after pulling his hamstring in the Week 5 loss to the New York Jets. White has tried to gut out the ankle sprain, but it's sapped his production this season. His 133 consecutive games streak may be in jeopardy this week. If White isn't able to play, the Falcons are down to Harry Douglas, Kevin Cone, Drew Davis and Brian Robiskie at receiver.
Baker missed two games with a knee injury this year and could be out on Sunday again. The Falcons will start Lamar Holmes at left tackle if he can't go.
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