Report: Falcons optimistic Jones will play vs. Saints

The Atlanta Falcons are optimistic that wide receiver Julio Jones will suit up Thursday night against the New Orleans Saints in Week 13, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Jones is battling an AC joint sprain that limited him during last week's loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Falcons head coach Dan Quinn previously stated that Jones would be a game-time decision for Thursday's divisional matchup and that his availability would depend on whether his ailing shoulder can take contact.

Jones will likely test his shoulder prior to the game to make sure it's strong enough, Rapoport added.

The star wideout caught three passes for 79 yards in his first matchup with the Saints this season during Week 10.

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