The Washington Redskins are entering a critical game against the Atlanta Falcons as the team is hopeful they can capitalize off the momentum made with the win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kirk Cousins looked like an improved quarterback as he made the most of his connection with Pierre Garcon. The quarterback could be getting another weapon into the mix as DeSean Jackson is looking closer to a return.
According to John Keim of ESPN.com, Jackson was active in practice on Thursday and is optimistic about playing against Atlanta after he injured his hamstring in the season opener. Jackson has been dealing with injuries all season. He missed the preseason due to a shoulder injury and then was hit with the hamstring issues. The receiver said he is hopeful he can return as he feels good about his progress made since getting hurt. While his status remains unclear for Week 5, there is a good chance Jackson plays.
"Tomorrow is a good day to find that out and Friday is another good day," Jackson said, via ESPN.com. "As long as I can gradually get better, it's possible. I don't really have that pain anymore. Just getting acclimated, getting that flow, getting that blood moving back in that area."
Getting Jackson back would be big for the Redskins as they could be without Jordan Reed who is still going through concussion protocol. The Redskins are limited with offensive weapons at the moment and need Jackson back. If he cannot play, Jamison Crowder, Ryan Grant and Andre Roberts are expected to make a big impact in the passing game for Washington.
Cousins is expected to lean heavily on the run game which will feature Alfred Morris more than Matt Jones right now. Jones has been struggling with the fumbles at the wrong time and saw his role reduced against the Eagles. That has opened the door for Morris to get more carries. Head coach Jay Gruden stressed that he wants Morris to be the workhorse, but that Jones is not in his 'doghouse' because of the fumbles.
"He's never lost my trust," the coach said, via RealRedskins.com. "A couple of weeks ago it was Alfred (Morris) who was in my doghouse and he's not. It's just the way to works out with the handoffs and the carries. I like both of those guys."
The Redskins would love to string together two wins and upset the undefeated Falcons. Getting Jackson back will certainly help the effort while Reed is out.