Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones returned to practice on Friday, per ESPN's Vaughn McClure.
Julio Jones returns to practice, a must-start in fantasy if active
The Falcons got a welcome return to the practice field on Friday in the form of stud receiver Julio Jones. We break down the fantasy implications.
Jones missed practice on both Wednesday and Thursday after being listed with a hamstring injury and a toe injury, but got in the ever-important Friday session. Doing so should cement his status for Sunday, although it will likely be with a “questionable” designation. Jones is on pace for a record 181 catches, a record 2,346 yards and 21 touchdowns over the course of a 16-game season.
Fantasy impact: Jones has been the best wide receiver in the NFL for the first three weeks, but it didn’t come without his body paying for the wear and tear. Practicing on Friday is a fantastic indication that Jones will get into the lineup for a fourth straight week, although it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons will spread the ball around to take some of the weight off Jones’ shoulders.
If Jones sees the field, fantasy owners have no choice but to start him, as he is always a solid bet to be the top fantasy receiver in any given week regardless of matchup. Leonard Hankerson would get the start if Jones sits, but that doesn't appear as likely on Friday as it did on Thursday.
