If Roddy White wants more involvement in the Atlanta Falcons offense, Week 6 might be the moment he gets it. With Julio Jones dealing with a sore hamstring that has been a factor all season, White could be the main target against the New Orleans Saints. This comes as trade talk swirls around the receiver who is making it clear he is very committed to the Falcons and ready for him moment.
White has been surrounded by drama ever since he made comments regarding his unhappiness with his role in the new offense under Kyle Shanahan. White's numbers are certainly not impressive this season as Jones leads the group and Leonard Hankerson continues to make the tough the catches. That caused Ian Rapoport of NFL.com to report that three teams were looking to make a trade for White with the understanding that he might be available. White is making it clear that is not the case.
"I haven't heard any of that," White said, via D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "I'm a Falcon. I'll be a Falcon for life. I've dedicated everything I've got to this team and this organization. I'm going to continue to do that. I'm going to continue each and every week to get better, be a better football player and try to win."
White made a few key catches against the Washington Redskins and he could see plenty more thrown his way if Jones is out for Thursday. The Falcons play the Saints on a short week as they get their first taste of division play and their best asset might not be on the field. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Jones is "uncertain" for Week 6 as he deals with a hamstring issue. The receiver was on the field during a team walkthrough on Monday while all eyes will be on his attendance in Tuesday's practice. Jones is hopeful he is able to get onto the field for the Saints game.
"I know you can't play this game 100 percent," Jones said, via ESPN.com. "It's very rare that you can be able to play this game at 100 percent. You can do one thing; you can't do both: You can't pray and then worry at the same time. I pray, and that's it. And then I just go play. Whatever happens, happens."
If Jones is out, expect Hankerson, White and Nick Williams to play big roles on Thursday. Justin Hardy could also see his first taste of NFL action as the rookie has been inactive since the year began. Of course, if Jones is out the offense will run through the legs of Devonta Freeman who continues to lead the league in touchdowns.
