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Atlanta Falcons' Deion Jones (foot) put on IR, might be eligible for Week 9 return

There's a supposed silver lining with Jones' IR inclusion, since it might only cover the next six weeks.
Credit: Kevin C. Cox

ATLANTA–For the second time this week, the Falcons have placed a prominent defensive starter on injured reserve.

But unlike the case of safety Keanu Neal (season-ending ACL tear), there's a supposed silver lining with linebacker Deion Jones' inclusion on IR, since it might only cover the next six weeks of the regular season.

According to club officials, Jones (sore foot) will be out for a minimum of six weeks; but Falcons head coach Dan Quinn has left the door open for a possible Jones return–perhaps as early as Week 9 (Nov. 4 at the Redskins).

Jones, one of the NFL's fastest linebackers, has been a consistent force with the Falcons, since entering the NFL in 2016.

All told, the LSU product has notched one sack, 170 tackles and seven interceptions–including a crucial pick in last week's loss to the defending champion Eagles.

In preparation for Jones' sustained absence, the Falcons signed linebacker Corey Nelson earlier in the week.

Atlanta has a crucial home opener Sunday versus Carolina. A Week 2 loss would mean an 0-2 start for the Falcons ... and a 2-0 start for the rival Panthers.

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