Report: RB Steven Jackson Could Be Out Until Week 7
By Brad Rowland
Sep 15, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Steven Jackson (39) runs out on the field prior to the game against the St. Louis Rams at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
In a sea of conflicting reports surrounding the health of Falcons running back Steven Jackson, this “gem” from Adam Schefter certainly captured the ire of the Atlanta sports community.
ESPN's Falcons writer Vaughn McClure reports Steven Jackson is dealing with a hamstring injury and is expected to be sidelined until Week 7.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 24, 2013
The initial timetable for Jackson’s return from the hamstring ailment was 2-to-4 weeks, so this new estimate isn’t entirely out of left field. However, it would certainly present the worst case scenario for where we thought Jackson would be at this stage.
It’s important to note that this is simple one report of many (FOX Sports had one referencing a potential Jackson return in Week 5 just moments later), but it doesn’t inspire confidence from any corner of the fan base. On the bright side, the duo of Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling excelled in a major way in week 3, averaging nearly 5 yards per carry and exceeding 200 total yards between them.
Banking on that level of production from Rodgers and Snelling is probably irresponsible moving forward, and the absence of Jackson will eventually be felt in a significant way, as he is a unique talent. We will keep you updated with any news on the situation, but now, the entire city will re-cross its fingers about the health of Jackson’s hamstring.