High ankle sprains are so prevalent and frustrating in the NFL that the phrase “dreaded high ankle sprain” is practically a medical term by now.
The injury usually keeps players out for weeks, but Falcons running back Michael Turner may miss only one game after suffering the injury. Turner returned to practice Wednesday as the 5-5 Falcons endeavored to turn around their midseason slide.
“Michael was limited today and took some reps,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said. “Hopefully, we’ll get a good read on him after practice and tomorrow.”
The Falcons are hopeful Turner can play against the Buccaneers Sunday, but will have to see how the ankle responds to practice. The team’s backfield should already be bolstered by Jerious Norwood, who returned to a full practice Wednesday.
Norwood is expected to play in his first game since Week Five, and Jason Snelling was a more than capable replacement for Turner last week.
Running the ball isn’t Atlanta’s problem whether Turner plays or not. It’s finding some defenders that can stop the run. And the pass.
