News: In an interview with CBSSports.com, Falcons receiver Roddy White said teammate Julio Jones has the chance to be great. "I just want him to be the best player he can be for as long as possible. That’s my goal for him," White said. "What he’s done so far, we expected him to do that. When you draft a guy that high and he’s 6-3 and runs a 4.3 and is 225 pounds, you have to go out there and dominate. We want him to dominate. Every week I tell him that’s not enough. Whatever he does, I tell him it’s not enough. You can do more. As long as we can keep him like that and keep him hungry, we’ll be fine."
Analysis: Jones is coming off a breakout campaign in 2012 when he had 79 catches for 1,198 yards and 10 touchdowns, but this is a big year for him. This will be his third season in the NFL, which is typically the year when receivers have a breakout. And Jones could really take a nice jump in production. He's worth drafting as a Top 5 receiver in all leagues, and we expect him to be selected toward the end of Round 2 or beginning of Round 3 in all formats.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones posted 11 catches for a team-high 182 yards and two touchdowns during Atlanta's 28-24 loss to San Francisco in the NFC Championship Game on Sunday. Jones hauled in all but one of the 12 passes thrown in his direction by quarterback Matt Ryan as he established a single-game franchise playoff record with his sterling yardage total. He registered touchdown receptions of 46 yards (first quarter) and 20 yards (second quarter) to give him multiple scores in a game for the third time this season.
Analysis: After a relatively quiet showing last Sunday against Seattle in the Divisional round, Jones burned the 49ers secondary and averaged a sizzling 16.5 yards per catch, boosted by his first touchdown grab since Week 16 of the regular season. His performance marked the fifth time he surpassed 100 yards receiving on the year as he cemented his status as one of the top receivers in the league. Jones may have finished with fewer targets than White (15) against San Francisco, but it's evident which player is the leading threat heading into the 2013 campaign. Jones, who will be entering his third NFL season, should be the Falcons receiver to target first and is worthy of a selection beginning in Round 2 of all Fantasy drafts.
News: Falcons receiver Julio Jones is ready for his first NFC Championship Game on Sunday against the 49ers. In the Divisional round against the Seahawks, Jones had six catches for 59 yards on 10 targets. This week, he faces a San Francisco defense that has allowed at least one receiver to reach double digits in Fantasy points in each of the past four games.
Analysis: We like the matchup for Jones, but he has to do a better job of playing at home. Jones has reached double digits in Fantasy points at home in just two games, including the playoffs. Still, he's too talented to be kept quiet for long, and we consider Jones a quality option in all Playoff Challenge formats.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones totaled six catches for 59 yards during a 30-28 Divisional Playoff win Sunday vs. Seattle. He was targeted 10 times, but he didn't catch one of Matt Ryan's three touchdown passes.
Analysis: If Jones scores a touchdown, then he has a pretty decent Fantasy performance. Unfortunately, he did not and had a pretty modest outing. Still, Jones is one of the best receivers left in Fantasy playoff formats, so he remains a viable option heading into the NFC Championship game vs. San Francisco. Jones had his first 1,000-yard season in 2012 and will once again be an elite Fantasy receiver heading into 2013.
News:Julio Jones' best games have come away from the Georgia Dome, but that's where he'll take on the Seahawks this weekend. Over the course of the season including last week the Seahawks have given up just 10 touchdowns to wide receivers and only five have had 100 yards receiving. Only two of Jones' 10 touchdowns have come at home this year with one 100-yard game.
Analysis: Perhaps there's more hype than anything else with Jones, though 10 touchdowns and nearly 1,200 yards receiving is tough to argue with. Jones is simply too important to the Falcons offense to consider a poor Fantasy option for Playoff Fantasy games. Though he's not as appealing as, say, the Broncos receivers, he should still make a solid impact. Consider him for lineups.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who had scored at least one touchdown in each of his last three games and a total of five in his last five, went without a score Week 17 against the Buccaneers. He did lead the team with 56 receiving yards, though. He was targeted six times, catching three passes.
Analysis: If you didn't watch the game, you'd think Jones' lackluster numbers were the result of the Falcons sitting him for a meaningless game at the end of the regular season, but he actually played all four quarters. The Buccaneers defense, which entered the game ranked 32nd against the pass, simply did a good job of containing him. Fortunately, this isn't the last we'll see of Jones; he'll get a chance to improve his stock in the playoffs. Based on the progress he made during his sophomore season, he already figures to be one of the top 10 wide receivers drafted in 2013.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones showed some fancy footwork during Saturday's contest against the Lions in Week 16. On the night where Calvin Johnson broke the NFL's single-season receiving record, Jones made arguably the best catch of the night. He made an incredible 16-yard touchdown catch as he tapped his toes near the back corner of the end zone before falling down for his 10th touchdown of the season. He finished with seven catches for 71 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets in a 31-18 victory.
Analysis: Jones showed Saturday why he is one of the more talented receivers in the league with that remarkable grab. He has already topped the 1,000-yard mark this season and has 1,142 yards with 10 touchdowns this season, which is all a career-high for the second-year pro out of Alabama. He'll try to get back in the end zone heading into the final week of the season at home against Tampa Bay. Jones posted a career-high 147 yards on six catches, including an 80-yard touchdown in his last meeting against the Buccaneers in Week 12. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a must-start option in all formats heading into Week 16.
News: The last time Atlanta wide receiver Julio Jones faced the Lions in 2011, he was inactive with a strained hamstring. Jones is now healthy and ready to keep his recent success going heading into his Week 16 matchup at Detroit. He finished with six catches for 74 yards on six targets in Week 15 against the Giants. Jones will face a Detroit defense that has not allowed a touchdown to a wide receiver in three of their last four games.
Analysis: Jones has done most of his damage on the road this season and has averaged 97.1 yards receiving on the road with a total of seven touchdowns, compared to 55.9 yards with a total of two touchdowns at home this season. He eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark last week and has 1,071 yards with a team-high nine receiving touchdowns this season -- all a career-high for the 23-year-old out of Alabama. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 20.9 Fantasy points per game against the Lions this season. Fantasy owners should continue to keep him active in all formats heading into Saturday's contest.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones accomplished a football feat Week 15 vs. N.Y. Giants he hasn't done all season -- score at home. Not only did Jones end his home scoring slump, he scored twice Sunday, which was the first time he had a two-touchdown performance since Week 1 at Kansas City. Jones was having a pretty quiet afternoon until hauling in a 40-yard touchdown on the Falcons' opening drive in the second half. Jones managed just one catch for 4 yards in the first half. Jones' second touchdown came late in a fourth quarter on a 3-yard reception. It was the fifth time in his career he scored twice in a game. Jones finished with six catches for 74 yards on six targets. He had one carry for 18 yards.
Analysis: Fantasy owners came into Week 15 with some concern about starting Jones because of his poor outings at home this season. After one half, it appeared Jones was headed for another disappointing outing. Luckily, the game is four quarters long and Jones stepped up in the second half for the Falcons and Fantasy owners. He now has his first 1,000-yard season and also has a career-high nine receiving touchdowns. Sunday is the reason why you never bench a star player like Jones. Keep him active in all formats heading into Week 16 at Detroit.
News: The Falcons are home Week 15 with a huge matchup against the Giants looming. Most players do their best work at home because of the familiar setting, but it's been quite the opposite in 2012 for Falcons' second-year receiver Julio Jones. The 2011 first-round pick has managed 22 catches for 317 yards and no touchdowns in six home games, as opposed to 41 catches for 680 yards for seven touchdowns on the road. Will Week 15 finally be the week Jones scores at home? The matchup is surely favorable enough. Wide receivers average 174.8 receiving yards and 23.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for the seventh-highest average in the league. Receivers have also totaled 17 touchdowns against New York.
Analysis: It's been amazing the discrepancy in Jones' home/road splits in 2012. It's definitely been frustrating for Fantasy owners because it's hard to take Jones out of active lineups in fear of missing out on a big performance. But Jones has managed more than 10 Fantasy points just once in six home games this season. He is averaging 4.8 Fantasy points in six home games, as opposed to 15.1 Fantasy points in seven road games. As a Fantasy owner you just have to hope Jones shows up this week and finally puts together a stellar home performance.
News: Though Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones didn't outperform Roddy White like he normally does on the road, he did score his seventh touchdown of the season Week 14 at Carolina, taking a wide receiver screen 11 yards for the score in the fourth quarter. He finished with five catches for 66 yards. His 11 targets tied him with White for the team lead, but White did more with his targets, finishing with nine catches for 117 yards.
Analysis: Jones got overshadowed by White in this one, but he did make a couple of impressive-looking grabs that will only help build quarterback Matt Ryan's trust in him. Plus, Jones has a certain amount of predictability going for him. All seven of his touchdown grabs have come on the road this season. The only time he went without one on the road was Week 10 at New Orleans. For that reason, you might have some hesitation to start him with the Falcons at home Week 15 against the Giants, but his potential in the Falcons' passing game is too high for you to consider sitting him, regardless of his home-away splits.
News: Though Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones outperformed teammate Roddy White in a home game against the Saints last week, he still had only 48 yards on five catches. It marked the fifth time in six home games that he had less than 65 receiving yards. He's been a monster on the road, though, with 614 receiving yards and six touchdowns in six games. If the pattern holds, he figures to be quarterback Matt Ryan's preferred receiving target Week 14 at the Panthers, the same team that held him to just one catch for 30 yards when he faced them at home in Week 4.
Analysis: Jones won't necessarily have an easy go of it this week. The Panthers rank eighth against the pass, allowing 218.9 yards per game, and have surrendered the fifth-fewest Fantasy points to wide receivers this season. But White managed a big performance against them back in Week 4, and the Falcons tend to get their yards through the air, one way or another. Provided they do again this week, Jones seems likely to be the prime beneficiary. He's a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was held under 50 yards receiving for just the fourth time this season during Thursday's contest against the Saints in Week 13. Jones was targeted a team-high eight times and hauled in five catches for 48 yards in a 23-13 victory. He was the second-leading receiver behind Tony Gonzalez, who had 58 yards and a touchdown on the night.
Analysis: After racking up 147 yards his last time out, Jones was held in check for most of the night due to Matt Ryan's dreadful performance. He has collected 228 yards and a touchdown in his previous three games, despite his 100-yard game in Week 12. Jones has taken a backseat to Roddy White as of late and has just 93 yards with a team-high six touchdowns this season. He needs 29 yards receiving to surpass his rookie totals of last season. He should be able to set that mark in Week 14 on the road against the Panthers. The Panthers have allowed two touchdowns to a wide receiver in the last three games. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with him in all formats heading into Week 14 at Carolina.
News: Atlanta wide receiver Julio Jones heads into the Week 13 Thursday night game against New Orleans on the heels of his best performance of the season last week at Tampa Bay. Jones went for a career-high 147 yards and a touchdown in that game and scored for the first time since Week 8. Jones could do more damage against the Saints, a team allowing the third-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the year.
Analysis: Jones and the Falcons faced the Saints in New Orleans back in Week 10 and the second-year receiver managed just four catches in that game, though he did go for 75 yards. In three career games against the division rivals, Jones has 14 catches for 212 yards and a score. Jones has topped 100 yards receiving four times already this season and has six touchdowns under his belt. He could be in line for both Week 13 on Thursday night against a porous pass defense. Jones is completely healthy now and should be active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Coming off an ankle injury, the Falcons did not know what to expect they would get out of wide receiver Julio Jones in the Week 12 game at Tampa Bay. Whatever they expected, Jones out-performed the expectations. Jones was clearly the best receiver on the field for quarterback Matt Ryan, who targeted him a team-high nine times in the game. Jones finished with a career-high 147 receiving yards on six catches, including an 80-yard touchdown over-the-shoulder catch early in the second half. That TD tied for the longest of his career.
Analysis: Jones scored his sixth touchdown of the season but first since Week 8 at Philadelphia on Sunday. He topped 100 yards for the first time since Week 9 against Dallas. Jones had been dealing with the ankle issue and that was expected to be the reason for his recent struggles. He must be over it now after his massive performance against the Buccaneers. Jones and the Falcons play against New Orleans in Week 13 and the Saints have a terrible pass defense. Consider Jones a must-start Fantasy option for the Week 13 game.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones is active and expected to play in the Week 12 game at Tampa Bay Sunday. Jones was listed as questionable on the injury report due to an ankle injury that forced him out of the Week 11 game. NFL.com reported Saturday that Jones is, indeed, expected to play, though the pace of play could dictate exactly how much time he sees on the field. Jones will square off against the NFL's worst pass defense as the Buccaneers have surrendered 312.6 yards per game through the air to opponents this season.
Analysis: The fact that Jones is active at all is good news, certainly. That said, Fantasy owners may not be able to count on Jones for a full game's worth of action. He's not 100 percent healthy and may be limited in snap count and upside for the game against the Buccaneers. Jones, who needs just 264 yards to top 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his brief career, has shined in his first two games against Tampa Bay. In his two games last season, he posted a 100-yard outing and a two-touchdown performance. However, he's struggled due to the ankle the last two games with just seven grabs for 108 yards in that span. We advise Fantasy owners to keep him active against a struggling Bucs defense, however.
News: Atlanta wide receiver Julio Jones (ankle) practiced again on a limited basis Friday and was listed as questionable for Week 12 at Tampa Bay. Jones, who was unable to practice Wednesday after leaving his last game with an ankle issue, is expected to play Sunday, coach Mike Smith said. He was active for Week 11 despite the ankle issue that prevented him from practicing last week. Jones will square off against the NFL's worst pass defense as the Buccaneers have surrendered 312.6 yards per game through the air to opponents this season.
Analysis: Jones, who needs just 264 yards to top 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his brief career, has shined in his first two games against Tampa Bay. In his two games last season, he posted a 100-yard outing and a two-touchdown performance. However, it seems the ankle issue has cut into his production in the last two games as he has caught just seven passes for 108 yards in that span. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 28 Fantasy points per game against the Bucs this season so keep Jones active in Week 12 as long as he's healthy.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones hit the practice field for the first time this week on Thursday leading up to Sunday's contest against the Buccaneers in Week 12. Head coach Mike Smith told reporters that he's "very optimistic" about Jones' status moving forward. Jones left Sunday's game against the Cardinals after aggravating an ankle injury. If active, he'll face a Tampa Bay defense that has allowed seven touchdowns to wide receivers in the last five games.
Analysis: The fact that Jones is back in practice, even as a limited participant, is an encouraging sign for Fantasy owners leading up to Sunday's game. Jones has yet to miss a game this season and has racked up 736 yards and five touchdowns through his first 10 games this season. However, it seems as if the ankle injury has cut into his production in the last two games, as he has caught just seven passes for 108 yards during that span. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 28 Fantasy points per game against the Bucs. While Smith sounds optimistic, there could be some risk in starting Jones in Fantasy Week 12 because of his lingering injury. Although, he certainly could be worth the risk given his ability to produce big games.
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith said he's "very optimistic" about wide receiver Julio Jones moving forward, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Jones left Sunday's game against the Cardinals after aggravating an ankle injury. Smith officially listed Jones as "did not practice" Wednesday, but said he participated in the walk-through and expects more participation from Jones Thursday. Atlanta is at Tampa Bay Week 12.
Analysis: The practice week is going to be key for Jones, who didn't practice at all last week. Obviously, the ankle injury has cut into Jones' production the last two games. While Smith sounds optimistic, there could be some risk in starting Jones in Fantasy Week 12 because of his lingering injury. Although, he certainly could be worth the risk given his ability to produce big games.
News: Though he was in and out of the lineup for the first two quarters, Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones limped off the field for good in the third quarter Week 11 against the Cardinals with the same ankle injury that made him questionable coming into the game. He had three catches for 33 yards before leaving.
Analysis: Jones, who suffered the injury last week at New Orleans, came back and made a couple of big catches in that game but didn't seem to be moving around as well in this one. He seemed frustrated on the sidelines after limping off in the third quarter, but he didn't go to the locker room. With another week of rest, he has a chance of returning in Week 12 for what would be a favorable matchup at Tampa Bay, but he'll likely miss some practice time leading up to that game. Keep an eye on his status in the days ahead.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who was unable to practice leading up to the game because of an ankle injury, is active for Week 11 against the Cardinals. According to ESPN, the Falcons don't know how much he'll play. He was able to run some routes on the field Sunday morning.
Analysis: With his workload in question, Jones is less than an automatic start in Fantasy, particularly since his worst games have all been at home. Still, given his upside, he deserves the benefit of the doubt in most Fantasy leagues now that we know he's active.
News: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora said on Fantasy Football Today Sunday that Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who was unable to practice all week with an ankle injury, will play Week 11 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Jones was running routes on the field Sunday morning and apparently feels good enough that the Falcons coaching staff is willing to give him a shot. We'll have official word on his status when the team releases its inactives about 90 minutes before game time, but for now, you should expect him to play. It'll be at less than 100 percent, but for a player of his caliber, you'll probably want him active anyway.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (ankle) was listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 11 against Arizona after not being able to participate in practice throughout the past week, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. Jones tweaked his ankle during last Sunday's game at New Orleans before returning to finish the game. However, he has experienced swelling in his ankle since then and will be a game-time decision against the Cardinals, who rank second in the NFL against the pass (194.6 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: Jones could be one of those few players that doesn't need to practice in order to suit up on gameday, a la Calvin Johnson or his teammate Roddy White. But he will attempt to get loose prior to kickoff in an effort to extend his recent strong stretch. Jones has racked up 14 receptions for 327 yards (109 per game) and a touchdown over his past three games -- and that's as a secondary receiver to White. The Cardinals are permitting an average of 21.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this year so Jones could be poised for a solid outing if active. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports Network (check local listings).
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was held out of practice again Thursday because of an ankle injury. Coach Mike Smith said Jones is moving in the right direction, but he said a decision about his status for Week 11 vs. Arizona could come very late in the week, indicating Smith might be a game-time decision Sunday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The Falcons are hosting a Cardinals team in Week 11 that ranks second against the pass, allowing 194.6 yards per game. Arizona has had a harder time containing wide receivers, though, giving up the sixth-fewest Fantasy points per game to them this season.
Analysis: If you recall, Jones injured his ankle Week 10, but he finished out the game after sitting out for a bit. Well, it seems he might not be completely past the injury and might have to sit out Week 11. It seems the Falcons will continue to keep tabs on his progress, so Fantasy owners need to do the same. If Jones is active, then he remains too valuable to sit in Fantasy.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who missed some game action Sunday against the Saints because of an ankle injury, did not practice Wednesday, coach Mike Smith said. Smith said he just wanted to keep Jones off his feet Wednesday. “Julio will be evaluated tomorrow and we will determine how much work he’ll do," Smith said. The Falcons are hosting a Cardinals team in Week 11 that ranks second against the pass, allowing 194.6 yards per game. Arizona has had a harder time containing wide receivers, though, giving up the sixth-fewest Fantasy points per game to them this season.
Analysis: Smith said sitting Jones Wednesday was related to Sunday's injury, but he doesn't sound overly concerned about Jones' Week 11 status. Remember, Jones returned to the game Sunday and made a couple of big catches, including a 52-yarder. This injury may cause Jones to play second fiddle to Roddy White this week, as is typically the case when the Falcons are home, but he remains too valuable to sit in Fantasy as long as he takes the field.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones suffered what appeared to be an ankle injury in the first quarter Week 10 at New Orleans. After a brief stint in the locker room, he stood on the sidelines for the remainder of the first half before returning to the field midway through the third quarter. Though his ankle and leg were heavily taped, he made a couple big grabs after his return, including a leaping 52-yarder early in the fourth quarter. Overall, he had four catches for 75 yards. He was targeted five times.
Analysis: Between him and Roddy White, Jones has typically been the bigger performer on the road this season. He took a back seat to White in this one, but given that he missed about two quarters of play with the ankle injury, you can understand why. Though he clearly wasn't 100 percent, his athleticism was enough to carry him in the fourth quarter. He'll likely show up on the injury report leading up to Week 11 against the Cardinals, but as long as he's active for the game, you want him active in Fantasy.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones suffered what appeared to be an ankle injury in the first quarter Week 10 at New Orleans. He limped off the field and to the locker room for further evaluation. His return is questionable. He had two catches for 14 yards before leaving.
Analysis: Jones is capable of putting up big numbers any given week, but because he's been so productive on the road this season, now is an especially bad time to lose him in Fantasy. He hasn't been ruled out for the rest of the game, so all is not lost. Still, you'll have to temper your expectations for him if you started him this week.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who finally got over the hump at home with five catches for 129 yards against the Cowboys last week, will be shooting for his third straight game with 120-plus receiving yards Week 10 at New Orleans. By all indications, he has a pretty good shot at it. The Saints rank 29th against the pass, allowing 294.8 yards per game, and have surrendered the most Fantasy points per game to wide receivers this season. Jones has typically been quarterback Matt Ryan's preferred target on the road, catching 26 passes for 392 yards and five touchdowns there compared to 14 for 236 yards and no touchdowns at home.
Analysis: Of course, Jones is always at risk of taking a back seat to fellow wide receiver Roddy White, but this matchup is so favorable that Ryan has a good chance of sustaining both. Though Jones has been up and down at home, he has yet to have a bad road game, and the last time he faced the Saints -- which also happened to be on the road -- he had eight catches for 128 yards and a touchdown. You should start him in Fantasy, obviously.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones registered his third 100-yard receiving game of the season in Week 9 against the Cowboys. Jones hauled in five receptions for a team-high 129 yards receiving in the 19-13 win, but was unable to get into the end zone. However, two of his receptions went for over 35 yards and Sunday night marked the first time in his career Jones has finished with 100-plus receiving yards in the Georgia Dome. His previous career-high in receiving yards at home was 85, which he posted last year against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Jones was finally able to deliver a productive performance at home Sunday night as he blew past Dallas' secondary one more than one occasion. Sure it would have been nice to see him get into the end zone, but it is hard to complain about a 129-yard receiving performance. The good news for Fantasy owners is Jones and the Falcons will be back on the road in Week 10 as the Saints will welcome Atlanta to town next week. Not only has Jones done his best work on the road this season (26 receptions for 392 yards and five TDs), but he will get to face the Saints. New Orleans has been dreadful on defense this season and the 23-year-old hauled in eight catches for 128 yards and a score in his lone visit to the Superdome last year. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Jones as a must-start option in all formats next week.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones will be looking to haul in his first touchdown reception in the Georgia Dome this season in Week 9 against the Cowboys. All five of Jones' TD receptions have come on the road this season and he is averaging just 35.7 receiving yards (nine catches for 107 yards) per game in his three home tilts thus far. Dallas enters the contest ranked third in pass defense, allowing an average of 189 passing yards per game. The Cowboys have surrendered seven scores through the air while yielding an average of 17.1 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the year.
Analysis: Jones was also far more productive on road last season rather than at home, so this is a bit of a disturbing trend here. Still, the 23-year-old is in the midst of another outstanding season as that has him well on pace to surprise his totals in receptions and TDs as a rookie. He does look to have a tough matchup on tap this week as the Cowboys have a very talented secondary and have surrendered just four TDs to opposing wideouts thus far. However, Jones has proved to be one of Matt Ryan's favorite options in the passing game (59 targets) and should see plenty of passes thrown in his direction Sunday night. Consider Jones a solid start in most formats this week.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was the go-to guy over Roddy White Week 8 at Philadelphia, as has been the case every time the Falcons have played on the road (or on grass or outdoors) this season. He tied for the team lead with five targets and five catches but dominated the yardage column with a season-high 123. The big blow came in the second quarter on a 63-yard bomb down the sideline that Jones took the last few yards for a touchdown. In four games on the road, he now has 26 catches for 392 yards and five touchdowns. In three games at home, he has nine catches for 107 yards and no touchdowns.
Analysis: The home-away thing is getting downright spooky for Jones. Whether it has to do with the crowd, the playing surface or the open air, it's become too consistent to ignore. Of equal interest is that even though Jones tends to excel on the road, White quite often struggles. He had only three catches for 38 yards in this one. The Falcons are at home against the Cowboys in Week 9, which you'd think would be bad news for Jones. Maybe it is. But given his big-play potential in a passing attack that seems to thrive regardless of the competition, you should probably keep him active anyway.
News: The Falcons' trip to Philadelphia in Week 8 doesn't look like a particularly favorable matchup for its receiving corps. The Eagles rank in the middle of the pack in Fantasy points allowed to wide receivers and have given up only seven touchdown passes all season. But their home stadium might actually work to wide receiver Julio Jones' advantage. Unlike the enclosed Georgia Dome, Lincoln Financial Stadium is open to the elements, and in such venues, Jones has 21 catches for 269 yards and four touchdowns in three games. In the same number of games indoors, he has nine catches for 107 yards and no touchdowns. Jones had just two catches for 29 yards when these two teams met last season, but it's worth noting that the game was in the Georgia Dome.
Analysis: The indoor-outdoor split isn't the most scientific gauge ever, but it's interesting nonetheless. As often as the Falcons pass, Jones is capable of putting up big numbers regardless of his opponent. You'd hate to sit him for the week he puts up 100 yards and two touchdowns. That's not to say he'll do that this week, but if you own Jones in Fantasy, you shouldn't let this matchup scare you away. If nothing else, he should benefit from the Eagles' use of man coverage. His week-to-week upside makes him more or less a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones couldn't follow up his 10-catch, 94-yard performance of a week ago with the Raiders in town Week 6. He looked like he might when he connected with quarterback Matt Ryan for a 25-yard gain on the team's first play from scrimmage, but he finished with four catches for 63 yards. His eight targets tied him with Roddy White for the team lead, though.
Analysis: The Falcons' passing game looked like it was in for a big day against a Raiders defense that entered the game ranked 28th against the pass, but Ryan struggled with interceptions, leading to disappointing numbers from his receiving corps. Still, if a 63-yard performance is one of Jones' worst of the season, you have it pretty good with him. His size and athleticism should make him one of Ryan's favorite targets every week, even with White also on the field, so you only risk missing out on a big game by sitting him. The Falcons have a bye in Week 7, but Jones will remain a must-start for Week 8 at Philadelphia.
News: After a few weeks of being short on catches, Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones had a season-high 10 last week at Washington. But he picked up only 94 yards, getting targed mostly targeted on wide receiver screens and underneath routes. Week 6 against Oakland could be a different story. Not only do the Raiders rank 28th against the pass, allowing 283.0 yards per game, but they'll likely be without starting cornerbacks Ron Bartell (shoulder) and Shawntae Spencer (foot). One way the Falcons could take advantage of their opponent's depleted secondary is to target Jones deep.
Analysis: Of course, the Raiders have also had a hard time tackling this season, so the Falcons might prefer to pick up yards after the catch rather than during it. Plus, Jones still has to contend with Roddy White, who's always a candidate to steal his looks. Whatever direction the Falcons decide to go, though, this matchup is too favorable for you to consider benching Jones. His big-game potential is simply too high.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who had only one catch for 30 yards last week against the Panthers, couldn't have turned in a more different line Week 5 at Washington. He had 10 catches -- putting him in double digits for just the second time in his career -- for 94 yards and led the team with 15 targets. Part of the reason his production was so different was because the Falcons gave him a different role. Instead of stretching the field with him, they made him the primary target on several wide receiver screens and underneath routes in the first half. He had eight of his receptions then, but for only 47 yards. His other 47 yards came on his two catches in the second half, including an 18-yard touchdown strike from quarterback Matt Ryan in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: The Jones we all know and love was the one that showed up in the second half, when the Falcons were forced to play catchup of their conservative play-calling. That version may not be as beneficial in points-per-reception leagues, but it's the one that scores the touchdowns. As (normally) the big-play threat in the Falcons offense, Jones can be a bit hit-or-miss in Fantasy, but those weeks when he hits are worth riding out those weeks when he misses. With another favorable matchup Week 6 against the Raiders, he remains an obvious must-start in Fantasy.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who was listed as probable on the injury report because of a lingering hand injury, is active for Week 5 at Washington. He was able to practice in full all week. He originally lacerated the hand in Week 3.
Analysis: Jones was active last week as well, but offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter thinks the injury limited his productivity. Jones said he's feeling better now, though, and he's facing the 31st-ranked pass defense in this game. He's in a perfect situation to put up monster numbers, so keep him active in all leagues.
News: Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter has already said Julio Jones' right hand laceration was the reason why the second-year wide receiver had only one catch for 30 yards Week 4 against the Panthers. Now, after another week of rest, Jones will have a chance to prove it Week 5 at Washington. The matchup couldn't be any more in his favor. The Redskins rank 31st against the pass, allowing 362.2 yards per game. They've also given up the most Fantasy points to wide receivers this season, allowing 100 yards to both Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams at Tampa Bay just last week. Jones was a full participant in practice all week and is officially probable despite the injury. He told the Falcons' official website that he doesn't foresee his hand holding him back. Oh, yeah. I’m fine,” Jones said. “I’m ready to go.”
Analysis: Jones had eight targets against the Panthers, so it's not like the hand injury kept him off the field. It's not like he was dropping passes left and right either. How much the injury actually impacted Jones' performances is difficult to quantify, despite Koetter's claims. What's difficult to imagine, though, is Jones getting shut down that way two weeks in a row, especially with this favorable matchup. Not only do the Redskins struggle against the pass, but they score a ton of points -- fourth-most in the NFL, in fact -- which means the Falcons will be motivated to throw it from start to finish. Though Jones may not be at 100 percent, this scenario is perfect for him to have a big game.
News: Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter has already said Julio Jones' right hand laceration was the reason why the second-year wide receiver had only one catch for 30 yards Week 4 against the Panthers. Now, after another week of rest, Jones will have a chance to prove it Week 5 at Washington. The matchup couldn't be any more in his favor. The Redskins rank 31st against the pass, allowing 362.2 yards per game. They've also given up the most Fantasy points to wide receivers this season, allowing 100 yards to both Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams at Tampa Bay just last week. Jones was a full participant in practice Wednesday despite the injury. He told the Falcons' official website that he doesn't foresee his hand holding him back. Oh, yeah. I’m fine,” Jones said. “I’m ready to go.”
Analysis: Jones had eight targets against the Panthers, so it's not like the hand injury kept him off the field. It's not like he was dropping passes left and right either. How much the injury actually impacted Jones' performances is difficult to quantify, despite Koetter's claims. What's difficult to imagine, though, is Jones getting shut down that way two weeks in a row, especially with this favorable matchup. Not only do the Redskins struggle against the pass, but they score a ton of points -- fourth-most in the NFL, in fact -- which means the Falcons will be motivated to throw it from start to finish. Though Jones may not be at 100 percent, this scenario is perfect for him to have a big game.
News: Upon further review, Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones is still being hindered by a hand injury. Jones, who was held to a season-low one reception last Sunday against Carolina, was affected by the right hand laceration he sustained in Week 3, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. "Absolutely," offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter said Tuesday. "He still had eight targets. That’s a fair number; it just didn’t work out. Eight targets and one catch is not a good percentage. Julio’s hand is not 100 percent. Credit him for playing and running his routes hard. But there’s no doubt, [as] we’ve seen him in some earlier games this year, when he’s 100 percent he will be even more effective."
Analysis: It didn't seem to add up that Jones only recorded one catch while being targeted seven other times by quarterback Matt Ryan, who piled up 369 passing yards in the win over the Panthers. But now there is a reason for his lackluster performance. The silver lining in the latest report is that Koetter expects Jones to be more involved in the offense as his hand continues to heal. For now, Jones will likely take a backseat to Roddy White while he works back up to full strength. The 23-year-old is still too valuable to bench and should remain active in all Fantasy formats for Week 5 against Washington. The Redskins are permitting an average of 36.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts -- the most in the NFL.
News: Just when Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones seemed like he had gotten back on track, catching five passes for 67 yards and a touchdown Week 3 at San Diego, he went and put up another stinker Week 4 against the Panthers, catching one measly pass for 30 yards. Of course, he was targeted eight times -- second-most on the team -- but the wide receiver making the big plays in this one was Roddy White, who finished with eight catches (on 12 targets) for 169 yards and two touchdowns. It was the second time in four games that White has dwarfed Jones. Back in Week 2 against the Broncos, White had eight catches for 102 yards compared to Jones' four for 14.
Analysis: Of course, Jones technically outperformed White in Weeks 1 and 3, but not by nearly as much. Games like this one reveal that even though Jones has elite talent that the Falcons aim to make better use of this year, he's still second fiddle to White. Fortunately, the Falcons' pass-heavy attack under new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter gives them plenty of yards to go around, which means Jones will have his share of big games no matter what happens to White. He's just the more likely of the two to disappear any given week. The Falcons' matchup at Washington in Week 5 has the makings of a shootout, so you'll certainly want to keep Jones active then.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, whose hand injury briefly forced him out Week 3 at San Diego, is active for Week 4 against the Panthers. He was able to practice in full Friday and was listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Jones' status for this game was never really in doubt, so surely you have him active already. Even though the Panthers have had success against wide receivers, their secondary isn't considered a strength. Jones is capable of putting up monster numbers any week, regardless of the opponent, so he remains a must-start in Fantasy.
News: Atlanta wide receiver Julio Jones was listed as probable on the team's injury for Week 4 against Carolina because of a minor hand issue. Jones was limited by the issue during the first two days of practice this past week before returning to full status on Friday. He could primed for a bounce-back contest against the Panthers after totaling a combined 81 receiving yards the last two weeks after putting up 108 at Kansas City in Week 1. Jones faced the division foe just once as a rookie last year, but his big-play potential was on full display in the contest. He finished with three catches for 104 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Given the change at offensive coordinator in the offseason, the Falcons rely more on the pass now than they did during that second meeting with the Panthers last season, when both Jones and Roddy White excelled. If those two could do it then, what's stopping them from doing it now? Granted, the Panthers have actually been pretty successful against wide receivers this season (13.0 points per game) -- only the Cowboys have allowed fewer Fantasy points to that position so far -- but the secondary isn't considered a strength. As always, you should expect big numbers from Jones this week.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who has a combined 81 receiving yards the last two weeks after putting up 108 at Kansas City in Week 1, could be primed for a bounce-back performance Week 4 against the Panthers. He faced the division foe just once as a rookie last year, but his big-play potential was on full display in the contest. He finished with three catches for 104 yards and two touchdowns. By the sound of it, Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott isn't particularly optimistic about the Panthers' chances of stopping Jones or Roddy White because of the tandem's ability to prevent double teams. "Before they had Julio, you used to be able to roll the coverage to Roddy. Now with Julio on the other side, you can't do that," McDermott said, according to The Sports Xchange. For the record, White had seven catches for 84 yards and a touchdown in that same meeting against the Panthers last season.
Analysis: Jones has been limited in practice because of the hand injury he suffered at San Diego last week, but he's expected to play in Sunday's contest. Given the change at offensive coordinator in the offseason, the Falcons rely more on the pass now than they did during that second meeting with the Panthers last season, when both Jones and White went off. If those two could do it then, what's stopping them from doing it now? Granted, the Panthers have actually been pretty successful against wide receivers this season -- only the Cowboys have allowed fewer Fantasy points to that position so far -- but the secondary isn't considered a strength. As always, you should expect big numbers from Jones this week.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was able to shake off a hand injury in Week 3 against the Chargers. Jones, who was listed as probable entering the contest with a thigh issue, was forced to leave in the first quarter of the 27-3 win after injuring his hand. He sustained the injury on Atlanta's first offensive series of the game and remained out until the second period. However, Jones made his presence felt once he returned as he hauled in four catches in the second quarter, including a 9 yard touchdown strike from Matt Ryan. Jones finished with five receptions for 67 yards and a score in the victory and averaged a team-best 13.4 yards per reception.
Analysis: Jones appeared to hit on the hand by Eric Weddle in the first quarter Sunday, but was quickly able to shake off the injury. However, there is a chance he could wind up on the injury report with his latest ailment this week, so owners will have to monitor his status heading into Week 4 against the Panthers. Jones was able to find the end zone for the third time this year Sunday, which helped get the taste of his poor Week 2 performance out of his mouth. The 23-year-old continues to prove he can be trusted as a reliable Fantasy option and is on pace to crush the eight receiving TDs he posted a season ago. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Jones as a must-start Fantasy option in all formats as long as he is healthy. Carolina is allowing an average of 244 passing yards per game and Jones hauled in three receptions for 104 yards and a pair of scores in his lone career meeting against Carolina last year.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was able to get back on the field in Week 3 against the Chargers. Jones briefly left in the first quarter with a hand injury but was able to return in the second quarter. He has one catch for 19 yards thus far.
Analysis: Jones appears to be OK and hopefully can stay on the field for the remainder of the game. The 23-year-old has just one catch thus far but should see more looks moving forward. Fantasy owners can consider Jones a high-end option in all formats when healthy.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones left Week 2 against the Chargers with an apparent hand injury. Jones sustained the injury on Atlanta's first offensive series of the game and his return is listed as questionable.
Analysis: Hopefully Jones's injury is nothing more than a minor ailment and he will quickly be able to get back on the field. Fantasy owners should continue to check back form more updates as they become available. Jones had one reception for 19 yards prior to leaving the contest.
News: As expected, Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was ruled active for Week 3 against the Chargers. Jones was limited in practice earlier in the week due to a thigh injury, but was able to practice without restriction Friday. San Diego is ranked 12th in pass defense, allowing 225 yards per game. The Chargers have surrendered two touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 16 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the year.
Analysis: Jones is not expected to be limited Sunday and there were several reports that surfaced earlier in the week suggesting the the 23-year-old was limited for rest purposes. Jones will now be looking to build off a disappointing Week 2 performances where he dropped three passes, including what would have been a TD. However, he continues to be favorite target for Matt Ryan and we aren't expecting many poor outings from Jones in 2012. Fantasy owners should leave him active in all formats heading into Week 3.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was able to practice in full Friday and is officially being listed as probable for Week 3 at San Diego. Jones was limited in practice earlier this week due to a thigh injury, albeit he is not expected to be limited on Sunday. San Diego is ranked 12th in pass defense, allowing 225 yards per game. The Chargers have surrendered two touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 16 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the year.
Analysis: While Jones was limited in practice earlier in the week, several reports surfaced suggesting the 23-year-old was limited for rest purposes. He is not expected to be limited in any fashion this week and will be looking to build off his disappointing Week 2 performance. Jones was double-teamed several times during that matchup, but dropped three passes, including what what have been a TD pass. However, he continues to be a favorite target of Matt Ryan's and we aren't expecting many poor outings from Jones in 2012. Fantasy owners should leave him active in all formats heading into Week 3.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was a limited participant in practice yet again Thursday, as he continues to rest a lingering thigh injury. All indications are that the injury is not serious, and that the Falcons are just trying to limit his reps in practice leading up to Week 3 against the Chargers.
Analysis: Jones is looking to build off a very rough Week 2 performance, in which he brought in just four passes for 14 yards, so getting 100 percent healthy is obviously of the utmost importance. As long as he does not suffer any sort of setback through the week, Fantasy owners should continue to consider Jones a must-start option in all formats.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones was limited in practice Wednesday because of a thigh injury. However, multiple sources report Jones was limited for rest purposes. Jones is expected to play Week 3 at San Diego.
Analysis: After a stellar Week 1 performance, Jones was arguably one of the biggest disappointments of Week 2. However, we aren't expecting many poor outings from Jones in 2012, so he remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 3.
News: After a solid performance in the season opener, Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones did not do much against the Broncos in Week 2. He could not hold onto a sure touchdown in the first quarter and went into halftime with just one catch for minus-2 yards. Jones was able to haul in a few more passes in the second half but finished with just four grabs for 14 yards and also had a 1-yard run in the 27-21 win. Jones was targeted seven times by quarterback Matt Ryan in the contest and finished fourth on Atlanta in receiving behind Roddy White (102 yards), Tony Gonzalez (70 yards) and Harry Douglas (27 yards).
Analysis: Jones appeared to be on pace for a monster campaign after Week 1 but his performance on Monday night showed that he still has a lot of growing to do as a receiver. Owners have to be disappointed after he could not maintain possession of what would have been his third touchdown of the season in the first half but based on his potential, teams won't be able to hold him down for long. Hopefully the 23-year-old will be able to get back on track when he takes on the Chargers in Week 3. Despite his slow performance against the Broncos, Jones remains a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats. San Diego ranks 12th in the league in pass defense, giving up 225 yards per game.
News: Falcon wide receiver Julio Jones had a breakout performance in the season opener and will be looking for continued success in Week 2 against the Broncos. Denver allowed 209 passing to Pittsburgh in Week 1 and surrendered 22 Fantasy points to their wideouts. In one career appearance on Monday Night Football, which came against the Saints last season, Jones caught eight passes for 128 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Jones shined in Week 1 with 108 yards receiving and two touchdowns and will now aim his sights on the Broncos. The Falcons look as though they plan on airing it out more this season and Monday's meeting in the Georgia Dome has all the makings of a shootout. The 23-year-old provides a perfect deep threat for quarterback Matt Ryan in Atlanta and is proving to be an elite option in Fantasy so keep Jones active in all formats heading into Week 2.
News: Second-year wide receiver Julio Jones continued to look at home in new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter's offense Week 1 at Kansas City, picking up where he left off this preseason by catching six passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns. Several of his catches, the second touchdown included, were short passes that he turned into long gains. By comparison, Roddy White's catches relied on more traditional routes. He finished with six of them for 87 yards. The two had almost the same number of targets, with Jones finishing with nine and White finishing with eight.
Analysis: Quarterback Matt Ryan has a high level of trust in both Jones and White, and the Falcons' passing game figures to accommodate both. But Koettner's play calling seems to be more geared to maximizing Jones' play-making ability. If that means he'll be on the other end of higher-percentage passes, it also means he'll probably get most of the looks in the red zone, as happened in Week 1. Of course, it's just one game, so we should probably wait to see a little more before we draw any conclusions on the distribution of passes between Jones and White. The bottom line is both will be must-start options in an offense that depends more than ever on the pass, especially against a potentially high-scoring Broncos team at home in Week 2.
News: Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, who is coming off an eye-opening preseason in which he averaged 18.5 yards on 13 catches, will look for more of the same Week 1 at Kansas City. The Chiefs ranked sixth against the pass and allowed the sixth-fewest Fantasy points to wide receivers last season, but they're nursing a banged-up secondary this week, with defensive backs Kendrick Lewis (shoulder) and Brandon Flowers (groin) both on the injury report. Jones fought through injuries during his rookie season last year, but when he did play, he was outstanding, putting together five 100-yard games and scoring eight touchdowns in his last eight.
Analysis: The Falcons hired offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter in part to make the most of Jones' downfield ability. It looked like a good fit this preseason and figures to continue here. Granted, Jones will lose some looks to Roddy White, but the Falcons have enough passing yards to go around. Jones' combination of size and speed makes him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. A popular pick for a breakout season, he's a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Atlanta wide receiver Julio Jones is not expected to play in the preseason finale Thursday against Jacksonville, reports the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Jones saw action in each of the first three preseason tilts as he caught 13 passes for 240 yards and a touchdown. The touchdown came in the first game against the Ravens. The Falcons are expected to rest most of the team's starters against the Jaguars as they prepare for Week 1 at Kansas City Sept. 9.
Analysis: Jones is ready for his second season in the NFL to begin after catching 54 passes for 959 yards with eight touchdowns as a rookie last year. Many are expecting him to outperform teammate Roddy White this season as the 6-foot-3 receiver draws comparisons to some of the game's best historically. In fact, Fantasy owners have consistently been taking Jones as the No. 2 overall wideout selected in drafts behind only Calvin Johnson. He should be considered a must-start for the Week 1 game against the Chiefs.
News: Falcons receiver Julio Jones continued to develop some chemistry with Matt Ryan during Friday's third preseason game against the Dolphins. Jones showed his big-play ability as Ryan connected with him deep for a 49-yards reception for the longest play of the game. Jones was Ryan's top target as he caught four out of nine targets for 90 yards, averaging 22.5 yards per catch.
Analysis: Jones has 240 yards on 13 receptions through his first three preseason games as he has been torching secondaries throughout preseason. He has been drawing rave reviews and could make the leap over Roddy White as Ryan's primary target, especially if he has a breakout season. Hopefully he can stay healthy, as he was limited to 13 games during his rookie season. Expect Jones to be selected between late Round 2 and early Round 4 come Draft Day as he has the potential of being a Top 10 Fantasy receiver.
News: Falcons receiver Julio Jones had another impressive showing during Thursday's preseason game against the Bengals. Jones was involved with the first-team offense for nearly a quarter and a half before he was pulled for the remainder of the game. He caught three of his four targeted passes for 41 yards, averaging 13.7 yards per reception. He caught a 23-yard pass down the middle for his longest gain of the night during an 88-yard scoring drive in the second quarter. He was targeted three times in that drive, which led to Matt Ryan's only touchdown of the night.
Analysis: Jones didn't make as many big plays as he did in the first preseason action, but still looked impressive against the Bengals on Thursday. There's a lot to like about Jones this year, and hopefully he can stay healthy for a full season. We expect Jones to be a primary target for Ryan and a candidate to finish as a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. That makes him a No. 1 option worth a pick between late Round 2 and early Round 4.
News:Julio Jones didn't get the memo that players are supposed to take it easy in the preseason. On the Falcons' opening drive, Jones made several nice plays including a phenomenal catch around the body of a defender to score the first touchdown of the team's preseason. Jones' first grab was on a toss down the middle of the field for 29 yards, then came back on the next play and took a screen pass 19 yards, breaking tackles in the process. Jones finished the drive with 58 yards and the score on four catches and finished the game with six grabs for 109 yards and a score.
Analysis: Jones was physical, quick and instinctive in this game, reminding us why the Falcons gave up a ton to draft him in the first place. We're also reminded of this neat stat from last year: In the nine games where he caught at least three passes, he totaled 905 yards on 49 receptions with eight touchdowns. That's 100 yards and essentially five catches and a touchdown per game. That's pretty awesome. We expect Jones to be a primary target for Ryan and a candidate to finish as a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. That makes him a No. 1 option worth a pick between late Round 2 and early Round 4.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports we’re going to find out this season just how great Julio Jones is. He had a tremendous rookie season: 54 catches, 959 yards, eight touchdowns. Those are impressive numbers, even before considering this backdrop: 1) He was coming off pre-draft foot surgery that affected his offseason conditioning; 2) He was limited in work with the playbook and quarterback Matt Ryan because of the lockout; 3) He played much of the season with a hamstring injury that forced him to miss three full games and parts of others; 4) He was subjected to the play-calling of Mike Mularkey, who never utilized him in screens or designed nearly enough plays to get Jones the ball in open spaces. When asked about his rookie season, Jones said only, “I was all right.” On a scale of 1 to 10? “Maybe five or six.” And how do you feel now? “I’m a 10. I feel 100 percent. I know the playbook. Matt and I are on the same page. I have high expectations, not only for myself but for the organization.”
Analysis: Jones was awesome last season, finishing as a Top 20 Fantasy receiver despite missing three games and catching two or fewer passes in four more. That means that in the games where he caught at least three passes (nine of them), he totaled 905 yards on 49 catches with eight touchdowns. That's 100 yards and essentially five catches per game. That's pretty awesome. We expect Jones to be a primary target for Ryan and a candidate to finish as a Top 10 Fantasy receiver.
News: ESPN.com reports that Falcons coach Mike Smith is expecting a huge season out of second-year receiver Julio Jones, who caught 54 passes for 959 yards and eight touchdowns as a rookie despite sitting out three full games and missing parts of others. “In my mind, he missed five and a half games," Smith said. “If you extrapolate his numbers out, it’s a monster year. We know he’s going to impact the game." Jones knows he can only improve. “I did all right," Jones said of his rookie campaign. “I could have done so much better. I was coming off the foot surgery, and I couldn’t really work out in the offseason. My whole core was weak, and coming out here and running full speed and my hamstring kind of gave way." Quarterback Matt Ryan is also impressed. “I think he can be one of the very best in the league, for sure,’’ Ryan said. "His talent is off the charts. His speed and burst and power is as good as anybody’s. I think his understanding of defenses is continuing to improve. I think that, as he gets better with that, there’s no telling how good he can be."
Analysis: There's a lot to like about Jones this year, and hopefully he can stay healthy for a full season. We consider Jones a lock as a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. He is worth drafting as early as Round 3 in the majority of leagues.
News: Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has been impressed with receiver Julio Jones and his focus in the offseason. Ryan said Jones focused “really just to work on technique, work on route running and try to understand our offense a little bit more in-depth. He’s done a great job. He’s worked really hard. He seems really confident out there.”
Analysis: Jones was awesome last season, finishing as a Top 20 Fantasy receiver despite missing three games and catching two or fewer passes in four more. That means that in the games where he caught at least three passes (nine of them), he totaled 905 yards on 49 catches with eight touchdowns. That's 100 yards and essentially five catches per game. That's pretty awesome. We expect Jones to be a primary target for Ryan and a candidate to finish as a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. Best of all, you should be able to snag him as a No. 2 receiver with a pick starting around 30th overall in drafts.
News: Falcons wide receiver Roddy White and head coach Mike Smith both explained to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that second-year stud Julio Jones not only is expected to get better, but will have an improved role in the offense. White went so far to say that he won't be the primary receiver this season and that Jones "is going to be a big part of the offense this year." Smith is working with new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter to make the offense more explosive, and according to White will feature multiple-receiver sets. That should yield more numbers for Jones. "He's just going to continue to get better and better," Smith said. "I thought he had a great season last year, and we anticipate the maturation process to continue."
Analysis: Jones was awesome last season, finishing as a Top 20 Fantasy receiver despite missing three games and catching two or fewer passes in four more. That means that in the games where he caught at least three passes (nine of them), he totaled 905 yards on 49 catches with eight touchdowns. That's 100 yards and essentially five catches per game. That's pretty awesome. We expect Jones to be a primary target for quarterback Matt Ryan and a candidate to finish as a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. Best of all, you should be able to snag him as a No. 2 receiver with a pick starting around 30th overall in drafts.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones was held in check as he could not help lead his team to victory in Sunday's NFC Wild Card playoff loss at New York. The Giants got the better of the Falcons on Sunday and Atlanta couldn't muster more than two points scored on an early safety. Jones led the Falcons in receiving in the game, but finished with just seven catches for 64 yards from QB Matt Ryan. Jones had a long grab of 20 yards and was targeted eight times. He did not score in the game and added one rushing attempt for 13 yards as the Falcons' season came to an end.
Analysis: Jones heads into the offseason now after having a fantastic regular season as a rookie for the Falcons. He really blossomed alongside Roddy White in the Atlanta passing game. Jones, White and Ryan should all return next year to have an even better season throwing the football. Jones scored six touchdowns in the final four regular-season games and finished his rookie year with 54 catches for 959 yards and eight touchdowns. Jones will be a popular pick as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day, with the upside to be much more.
News: As expected, Falcons WR Julio Jones (thumb) is active for his team's Wild Card playoff game against the Giants. He was probable on the injury report.
Analysis: The thumb injury is a new ailment for Jones, who has been mostly hobbled by hamstring problems as a rookie. However, it proved not to be a big deal, so feel confident with using Jones a viable option for Fantasy playoff formats. As for his 2012 Fantasy value, Jones had a lot of big outings in 2011 when he was healthy and finished the year with six touchdowns in his final four regular season games. Jones will be a popular pick as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day, with the upside to be much more.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones is listed as probable on the team's injury report with a thumb issue, but is expected to play in Sunday's Wild Card matchup against the Giants. Jones was a full participant in practice the previous two days after being limited in Wednesday's session.
Analysis: Jones dealt with a troublesome ankle injury for most of the regular season, but that does not seem to be affecting him entering the playoffs. Jones established a Falcons rookie record with eight receiving touchdowns and finished with 959 receiving yards, second most on the team to WR Roddy White (1,296). Fantasy owners should consider him a strong option in upcoming playoff challenges, but White could see the most targets.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones registered four receptions for 76 yards and two touchdowns during the Falcons' 45-24 victory over Tampa Bay in Week 17. Jones connected with QB Matt Ryan in the first quarter on both touchdowns as he reached the end zone for the fourth consecutive game played. "That was my first time running that route," Jones said about his second score. "We talked about it a lot at practice, but I never had an opportunity to run it. Matt [Ryan] threw a great ball and allowed me to be an athlete to make a play on the ball."
Analysis: With the two touchdown catches, Jones established a Falcons rookie record and now has eight receiving touchdowns (the previous mark was seven). The 22-year-old has been impressive -- when healthy -- during his first NFL season and reached the 100-yard plateau five times. He is still secondary in targets to WR Roddy White, but he remains a strong No. 2 Fantasy WR for upcoming Fantasy playoff formats.
News: As anticipated, Atlanta WR Julio Jones is active for Week 17 against Tampa Bay. Jones has been bothered by a nagging ankle issue and was listed as probable on the team's injury report. He finished with six catches for 115 yards when he faced the Buccaneers in Week 3.
Analysis: Jones is currently riding a three-game scoring streak and has racked up four touchdowns in that stretch. Tampa Bay has struggled to contain the pass recently and allowed three different Dallas receivers to reach the end zone in Week 15. The Buccaneers have permitted an average of 21.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Jones should be viewed as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones was listed as probable on Friday's injury report and is expected to play in Week 17 against the Buccaneers. He was limited in practice earlier in the week due to an ankle injury. He finished with six catches for 115 yards when he faced Tampa Bay in Week 3.
Analysis: Jones is currently riding a three-game scoring streak and has racked up four touchdowns in that stretch. Atlanta has already secured a postseason berth, but needs a win to gain a higher playoff seed. Tampa Bay has struggled to contain the pass recently and allowed three different Dallas receivers to reach the end zone in Week 15. The Buccaneers have permitted an average of 21.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Jones could be in for another solid performance and should be viewed as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones was upgraded to full participation in practice on Thursday after he showed improvement with his ankle injury. Jones was limited in Wednesday's session in advance of the Falcons' matchup against Tampa Bay in Week 17. He is expected to play in Sunday's game and will be looking to duplicate his performance during his first meeting with the Buccaneers. He finished with six catches for 115 yards in Week 3.
Analysis: Jones is currently riding a three-game scoring streak and has racked up four touchdowns in that stretch. Atlanta has already secured a postseason berth, but needs a win to gain a higher playoff seed. Tampa Bay has struggled to contain the pass recently and allowed three different Dallas receivers to reach the end zone in Week 15. The Buccaneers have permitted an average of 21.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Jones could be in for another solid performance and should be viewed as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Falcons receiver Julio Jones was limited in practice on Wednesday in preparation for the Week 17 regular-season finale against Tampa Bay. Jones is dealing with an ankle injury and should be fine come Sunday. Jones caught a 21-yard TD pass from Matt Ryan on Monday night in the Week 16 game at New Orleans and now has TD grabs in three straight games.
Analysis: Jones now has four TDs in his last three games for the Falcons and is looking for a touchdown in his fourth straight game against the Buccaneers in the regular-season finale. Atlanta has locked up a playoff berth, but needs to keep winning in order to gain a higher playoff seed. Jones should start against the Buccaneers, a team that just allowed its first 100-yard game from a receiver since Week 11, as Brandon LaFell went for 103 yards and a TD against them last week. Of course, three different Dallas WRs caught a touchdown pass against the Bucs Week 15. Jones should have another solid performance and is considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones caught a 21-yard TD pass from Matt Ryan on Monday night in the Week 16 game at New Orleans. Jones, who caught a TD pass in his third straight game, got his TD in the first quarter to make it 10-7 Atlanta. Jones finished the game with eight receptions for a game-high 128 yards. He was targeted 14 times in the game by Ryan. Roddy White finished second on the team with 11 catches for 127 yards.
Analysis: Jones had another great game Monday night. He scored a touchdown and now has four TDs in his last three games for the Falcons after the Monday night TD catch. Jones has had a fantastic rookie season for Atlanta as he's become a strong weapon for Ryan alongside White. Jones will look to get into the end zone for a fourth straight game in the Week 17 regular-season finale against Tampa Bay. Atlanta has locked up a playoff berth, but needs to keep winning in order to gain a higher playoff seed. Jones should start against the Buccaneers, a team that just allowed its first 100-yard game from a receiver since Week 11, as Brandon LaFell went for 103 yards and a TD against them last week. Of course, three different Dallas WRs caught a touchdown pass against the Bucs Week 15. Jones should have another solid performance and is considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones did not have his finest game when he met the Saints earlier in the year and will be looking to avenge that performance in Week 16. He caught just two passes for 9 yards when the division foes played in Week 10, and was limited due to a hamstring injury. New Orleans ranks 28th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 256 yards per contest, and has allowed an average of 22.1 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Jones has bounced back nicely from his injury as he has caught 12 passes for 257 yards with three touchdowns over his last three games. He is averaging 21.4 yards per grab over that span and has been a solid compliment to Roddy White thus far. Monday's game will likely be a shootout between the two and based on how poor the Saints have been against the pass, the rookie should be in for another solid performance. Consider Jones a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones caught a short pass from QB Matt Ryan on the opening drive in Thursday's contest versus the Jaguars and went 29 yards for the score, beating a banged up secondary. That would be his longest catch of the day as the Falcons beat the Jaguars, 41-14. Jones caught five passes for 85 yards off six targets. He entered the contest with a back injury, but was able to play through any pain he was feeling.
Analysis: Jones and the Falcons were feeling good as they were just too much for Jacksonville to handle on Thursday. Looking ahead Atlanta will have to keep on fighting as they battle for playoff position. In Week 16, the Falcons take on the Saints. New Orleans is one of the worst teams in the league at defending the pass. The Saints have been burned for 20 receiving scores in the first 13 games of the season. Fantasy owners should consider Jones a viable WR option for next week.
News: As expected, Falcons WR Julio Jones (back) was cleared to play Week 15 vs. Jacksonville. He came into the game as probable.
Analysis: At least Jones wasn't on the injury report this week because of his lingering hamstring problems. He went off for 104 yards and two touchdowns in Week 14 against the Panthers, showing he is healthy enough to be productive. The Jags are thin at cornerback, so the matchup is favorable for Jones. Consider him a viable Fantasy start for Week 15.
News: Atlanta rookie wideout Julio Jones, who has been hindered in recent weeks by a hamstring injury, was listed as a limited participant in practice Monday and Tuesday with a back issue. By Wednesday, however, he was officially listed as probably and is fully expected to suit up and play Week 15 on Thursday night against the Jaguars. Playing Jacksonville, the Jaguars are allowing the third-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing WRs on the season. That said, they have struggled more recently and San Diego's Malcom Floyd, Vincent Jackson and Vincent Brown all recorded a touchdown against them in the Week 13 game.
Analysis: Jones had another standout performance last week at Carolina. He caught three passes for 104 yards and two touchdowns and now has four 100-yard games on the season to go with four TDs. Of course, Jones has two games with two touchdowns and eight others in which he didn't reach pay dirt. While Roddy White is the model of consistency, Jones has not been. Still, QB Matt Ryan will keep finding him if he knows what is best for the team. Jones can be considered a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 15.
News: Atlanta rookie wideout Julio Jones, who has been hindered in recent weeks by a hamstring injury, was listed as a limited participant in practice Monday and Tuesday with a back issue. That said, Jones is fully expected to suit up and play Week 15 on Thursday night against the Jaguars. Playing Jacksonville, the Jaguars are allowing the third-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing WRs on the season. That said, they have struggled more recently and San Diego's Malcom Floyd, Vincent Jackson and Vincent Brown all recorded a touchdown against them in the Week 13 game.
Analysis: Jones had another standout performance last week at Carolina. He caught three passes for 104 yards and two touchdowns and now has four 100-yard games on the season to go with four TDs. Of course, Jones has two games with two touchdowns and eight others in which he didn't reach pay dirt. While Roddy White is the model of consistency, Jones has not been. Still, QB Matt Ryan will keep finding him if he knows what is best for the team. Jones can be considered a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 15.
News: Through three quarters of play, Falcons WR Julio Jones was having another quiet afternoon Week 14 at Carolina, making just one grab for 12 yards. Coming off a game in which he struggled with drops and deflected passes, including having what could have been the game-tying score knocked out of his hands as time expired, he again had trouble securing the football Sunday, losing his grip on three potential grabs on the same series in the third quarter. But he finally put it all together with two touchdowns in the fourth. The first came on a 17-yard strike over the middle. The second came on a slant route in which he shook off a defender and sprinted the rest of the way for a 75-yard score. In all, the rookie had three catches for 104 yards, breaking the century mark for the fourth time in his brief career. He was targeted eight times.
Analysis: Jones has been limited by a hamstring injury throughout his rookie season, missing parts of five games. He wasn't especially productive in his first two games since his latest bout with the injury, catching a combined four passes for 68 yards, but he showed with his big-play ability late Sunday why you should never feel too comfortable sitting him in Fantasy. He has played only eight full games in his professional career and has gone for more than 100 yards in half of them. He can be a boom-or-bust type since most of his production comes on big plays -- he's usually behind Roddy White in terms of targets -- but now that he has now gone three full games without a flare-up of the hamstring injury, he's worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy WR when the Falcons host the Jaguars in Week 15.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones is active for Week 14 at Carolina. He was initially listed as probable for the contest because of a hamstring injury that dates back to Week 5 against the Packers. He'll be playing for the third straight game.
Analysis: Jones had a combined four catches for 68 yards in his first two games back from injury and struggled with drops last week. With the Falcons expected to go run-heavy against a poor Panthers run defense, Jones again might have to settle for so-so numbers. Treat him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones (hamstring) practiced in full Friday for the first time all week and was then listed as probable for Week 14 at Carolina. Jones didn't get a chance to contribute when the Falcons first played the Panthers in Week 6. He was inactive because of a hamstring injury that has sidelined him for the better part of five games. But that's not his primary motivation when the Falcons visit Carolina in Week 14. Instead, he's trying to forget the lapses and miscues that contributed to the team's loss at Houston in Week 13, which included an illegal touch on the team's final drive and a dropped pass on what would have been the game-tying play as time expired. "This past Sunday, I should have made that play," Jones told the team's official website. "If you put any receiver, any athlete, in that situation, they'll feel like they should have made that play. I didn't, so I've just got to keep moving forward and try to get better."
Analysis: Jones will be facing a Panthers defense that ranks 15th against the pass, allowing 230.5 yards per game, and has surrendered the 11th-fewest Fantasy points to wide receivers. His hamstring no longer seems to be an issue in games, but his multiple absences have made him a lower-priority option for QB Matt Ryan. And with the passing game in general expected to be a lower-priority option against a team that ranks 27th against the run, allowing 132.5 yards per game, you shouldn't have high hopes for Jones in Fantasy this week. Treat him as a No. 3 WR.
News: Rookie WR Julio Jones didn't get a chance to contribute when the Falcons first played the Panthers in Week 6. He was inactive because of a hamstring injury that has sidelined him for the better part of five games. But that's not his primary motivation when the Falcons visit Carolina in Week 14. Instead, he's trying to forget the lapses and miscues that contributed to the team's loss at Houston in Week 13, which included an illegal touch on the team's final drive and a dropped pass on what would have been the game-tying play as time expired. "This past Sunday, I should have made that play," Jones told the team's official website. "If you put any receiver, any athlete, in that situation, they'll feel like they should have made that play. I didn't, so I've just got to keep moving forward and try to get better."
Analysis: Jones, who is still limited by the hamstring injury in practice, will be facing a Panthers defense that ranks 15th against the pass, allowing 230.5 yards per game, and has surrendered the 11th-fewest Fantasy points to wide receivers. His hamstring no longer seems to be an issue in games, but his multiple absences have made him a lower-priority option for QB Matt Ryan. And with the passing game in general expected to be a lower-priority option against a team that ranks 27th against the run, allowing 132.5 yards per game, you shouldn't have high hopes for Jones in Fantasy this week. Treat him as a No. 3 WR.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones was limited in practice on Wednesday as he deals with a hamstring injury. Last weekend was his first contest back after missing some time with this nagging issue.
Analysis: Jones had four catches for 68 yards last weekend and was targeted 10 times, so he's definitely a big part of the offense. Unfortunately this hamstring injury could cut into some of his playing time. The Falcons play the Panthers in Week 14, a team that has been allowing 18.50 Fantasy points to opposing team's receivers. Fantasy owners should monitor Jones' status moving forward. If healthy, he should be considered a No. 3 WR option.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones went without an official target in his first game back from a hamstring injury last week, but in Week 13 at Houston, he got that out of the way on the team's third play from scrimmage, when QB Matt Ryan overthrew him on what could have potentially been an 84-yard touchdown. It was just the beginning of what was a frustrating day for the rookie wide receiver. His concentration turned out to be more of an issue than his health. He was targeted 10 times in the contest, finishing with four catches for 68 yards. Of his six misses, several deflected off his hands, including what could have been a game-tying 30-yard touchdown grab on the final play of regulation. "You put any receiver in that position, and you know you should have made that play," Jones said. "I think about stuff I could have done differently, but that's football."
Analysis: Jones has been off the field so much in recent weeks that the lapses in concentration are somewhat excusable, especially for a rookie. The good news is he looked healthy throughout the contest and was back to being an integral part of the Falcons' passing game after completely disappearing last week. Jones has huge upside and has shown it at times this season, but because he's still behind Roddy White in the pecking order, he's more like a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 14 at Carolina.
News: As expected, Falcons WR Julio Jones is active for Week 13 at Houston. Jones sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday because of a hamstring injury that has limited him off and on since Week 5. He returned from a one-game absence with the injury last week but went without an official target.
Analysis: Jones didn't seem to be limited by the injury Week 12 against the Vikings, but since he missed practice time with it leading up to Week 13, it must still be bothering him to a degree. With Roddy White upping his production in recent weeks, Jones is no guarantee to be an impact Fantasy player this week, but his upside is high enough for you to use him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones returned to the practice field Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday to rest his ailing hamstring. Jones is expected to play Week 13 at Houston barring another setback, but he is officially listed as questionable after being limited Friday. Jones, who didn't record an official target in his return from a strained hamstring Week 12 against the Vikings, wasn't limited by the injury in the contest and wasn't a forgotten man in the Falcons offense. He just wasn't the open man on a lot of the team's passing plays, reports The Sports Xchange. "We were emphasizing 'take what the defense is giving you' and that's been important. Matt [Ryan] did that," offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey said. "But there were opportunities there for Julio. He'll have his numbers and his day." Unfortunately, that day might not come Week 13 at Houston. The Texans rank second against the pass, allowing 175.8 yards per game, and allow 17.3 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, seventh-fewest in the NFL.
Analysis: Not only does Jones have to contend with a tough pass defense, but WR Roddy White has 17 catches for 267 yards over the last two games, reemerging as the team's clear No. 1 target. White was always getting the majority of the targets, but Jones was the more productive of the two yardage-wise earlier this season. Jones remains the better deep-ball threat, but in a game like this one, the Falcons might not be able to go deep particularly often. Jones' upside ensures that he will indeed "have his day," but for now, he's a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who didn't record an official target in his return from a strained hamstring Week 12 against the Vikings, wasn't limited by the injury in the contest and wasn't a forgotten man in the Falcons offense. He just wasn't the open man on a lot of the team's passing plays, reports The Sports Xchange. "We were emphasizing 'take what the defense is giving you' and that's been important. Matt [Ryan] did that," offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey said. "But there were opportunities there for Julio. He'll have his numbers and his day." Unfortunately, that day might not come Week 13 at Houston. The Texans rank second against the pass, allowing 175.8 yards per game, and allow 17.3 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, seventh-fewest in the NFL.
Analysis: Jones missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, but he appears to be more or less over the hamstring injury. Coach Mike Smith expects Jones back at practice Friday. That might not make a difference this week, though. Not only does he have to contend with a tough pass defense, but WR Roddy White has 17 catches for 267 yards over the last two games, reemerging as the team's clear No. 1 target. White was always getting the majority of the targets, but Jones was the more productive of the two yardage-wise earlier this season. Jones remains the better deep-ball threat, but in a game like this one, the Falcons might not be able to go deep particularly often. Jones' upside ensures that he will indeed "have his day," but for now, he's a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones did not practice Wednesday because of a lingering hamstring injury. Atlanta plays at Houston in Week 13.
Analysis: Jones returned to the lineup in Week 12 after his latest setback, but he didn't factor on the stat sheet and frustrated Fantasy owners. The fact he can't shake this hamstring injury does make him somewhat of a risky Fantasy play. If he plays, there is a lot of risk/reward if you choose to start Jones in Week 13.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who was back in the lineup after missing three of the previous five games with a hamstring injury, didn't factor statistically Week 12 against the Vikings. He was on the field plenty, but the only time QB Matt Ryan threw him the ball was on a long incomplete pass in the first quarter that was ultimately erased because of offensive pass interference. Jones had no official targets on the day. WR Roddy White, meanwhile, had 13 targets, finishing with 10 catches for 120 yards.
Analysis: Jones was seemingly wide open in the end zone on a touchdown drive in the fourth quarter, but Ryan didn't even look his way, instead throwing the ball to backup TE Michael Palmer for a 3-yard score. The lack of attention paid to Jones is surprising considering the rookie had 131 yards and two touchdowns when he last returned from a hamstring injury in Week 9, but it might have something to do with White breaking through with seven catches for 147 yards last week. White has been Ryan's preferred option all season, and that connection seems to have grown stronger in Jones' absence. The rookie's size and ability should still make him a relevant Fantasy option down the stretch, but with a tough matchup Week 13 at Houston, he's no more than a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who missed Week 11 against the Titans after missing two games earlier in the season with the same hamstring injury, is active for Week 12 against the Vikings. Jones returned to practice Thursday and was listed as probable on Friday's injury report.
Analysis: Considering Jones had three catches for 131 yards and two touchdowns when he first returned from the injury in Week 9, you can expect he'll be full-go right out of the gate. He's still a risk in Fantasy since he could always re-aggravate the injury, but his upside is high enough that he's worth activating as a No. 2 WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones was able to practice for the second straight day on Friday and is probable for Week 12 against the Vikings. He sat out last Sunday's contest due to a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Jones initially injured his hamstring against Green Bay on Oct. 9 before re-aggravating the injury versus New Orleans in Week 10. Jones, who has has 498 yards receiving and two touchdowns this season, is expected to play on Sunday but keep an eye on his status just to be safe. Minnesota ranks 28th in the league against the pass and have allowed an average of 23.8 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts so the rookie could be in for a solid performance in Week 12. Consider Jones a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Vikings.
News: As anticipated, Atlanta WR Julio Jones returned to practice Thursday after dealing with a lingering hamstring injury. Jones sat out Wednesday's practice, but Falcons coach Mike Smith said Jones was expected to return Thursday. “It felt good to get back out there, running routes,” Jones told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “I thought I was going to be rusty, but I wasn’t. So, it just felt good to be back out there with my teammates.”
Analysis: Jones initially injured his hamstring against Green Bay on Oct. 9 before re-aggravating the injury versus New Orleans in Week 10. He did not play last week against Tennessee, but Smith expects him to be in the lineup on Sunday. Jones has 30 receptions for 498 yards and two touchdowns this season. If Jones is able to play in Week 12 against Minnesota, consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. The Vikings are permitting an average of 23.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this season.
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith said Wednesday that injured WR Julio Jones, who sat out Week 11 with a lingering hamstring injury, will return to practice Thursday. He sat out Wednesday. Atlanta hosts Minnesota in Week 12. “It will be encouraging to see him out practicing and not out working out with our athletic performance department," Smith said. "He’s done a nice job in his rehabilitation. So (Thursday) we’ll give him an opportunity and if it goes well, we’ll progress to Friday and give him back-to-back days of work.”
Analysis: This is definitely good news regarding the rookie receiver, but it's still no guarantee he plays Week 12. Jones has to practice without setback, and even then that might only be part of the decision process for Atlanta. Fantasy owners, however, want Jones back for this matchup. WRs average 23.8 Fantasy points per week against the Vikings, which is sixth-highest in the NFL. If Jones plays Week 12 and is not restricted, then Fantasy owners need to get the rookie active.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones, who missed the Week 11 game against Tennessee with a hamstring injury, reported Monday via his Twitter account that he is unsure whether or not he'll be able to return to action Week 12 against Minnesota. "I don't know if I'll be playing this weekend but I'm working everyday so keep praying for me," said Jones. Minnesota is allowing the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers on the season, so Jones would do well if he's able to play.
Analysis: Jones caught just two passes for 9 yards Week 10 against New Orleans and hasn't returned since with his hamstring injury. Fantasy owners have missed the rookie's presence as he already has two games with at least 120 yards receiving and two touchdowns on the year. The Vikings have struggled against good wide receivers this season, so Jones would be a recommended Fantasy start if he can play Week 12.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones was listed among the inactives for Week 11 against the Titans. He was unable to practice the entire week leading up to Sunday as he continues to deal with a hamstring injury. Harry Douglas got the start in his absence.
Analysis: Jones was listed as a game-time decision for Sunday's matchup but it is far from a surprise that he was unable to go against the Titans. Expect the Falcons to continue to be cautious with their rookie wideout moving forward so keep an eye on his progress to see if he will be able to return in Week 12. Keep Jones and his two touchdown grabs stashed away in all Fantasy leagues until he is able to get back on the field.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones was unable to practice for the third straight day on Friday but is listed as questionable for Week 11 against the Titans. He has been dealing with a hamstring injury over the last few weeks. Tennessee enters Sunday ranked 15th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 224 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 17 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Jones' injury flared up this past week but the Falcons think he might be able to play against the Titans despite not practicing all week. He will likely be a game-time decision for Week 11 so keep an eye on his status going forward. The rookie has shown the ability to be a solid option in Fantasy, when at full strength, but with this injury slowing him down, consider Jones as no better than a No. 3 WR against Tennessee -- if he is able to play.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones missed a second straight practice Thursday recovering from a hamstring injury sustained Week 10, hurting his chances of playing Week 11 vs. Tennessee. Tennessee enters Sunday ranked 15th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 224 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 17 Fantasy points per week to WRs.
Analysis: Falcons coach Mike Smith didn't rule out Jones on Wednesday, but he also didn't say he was going to play. He gave one of those coach-speak answers. "We have to make sure we make the right decision for putting a player back out on the field for a short-term goal and hurt us for a long-term goal," Smith said. With Jones having lingering hamstring problems, it wouldn't surprise us if he sits Week 11. If Jones is active, then consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR. But have healthier alternatives available if he status doesn't improve.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who suffered another setback with his hamstring Week 10, did not practice Wednesday in prep for Week 11 vs. Tennessee. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that Jones did work out with the athletic performance staff on Wednesday. “He is a very resilient guy,” Smith said of Jones. “He has not shown any signs of not being mentally strong and being able to deal with it. We have to make sure we make the right decision for putting a player back out on the field for a short-term goal and hurt us for a long-term goal.” Tennessee enters Sunday ranked 15th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 224 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 17 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: You wonder how the Falcons are going to treat Jones this week since he has had so many problems the last month with his hamstring. He makes a huge difference on offense, so having him out there is vital. But they can't risk long-term injury with the rookie receiver. If Jones is active, then consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR. But have healthier alternatives available if he status doesn't improve.
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith declined to comment on the health of his injured players Monday, which included rookie receiver Julio Jones, who left the game Week 10 vs. New Orleans with a hamstring injury. Smith said he will put out an injury report on Wednesday.
Analysis: Jones' hamstring problems have been his Achillies' heel in 2011. He has posted some pretty outstanding performances around missing two games with the injury and being limited in two others because of it. He tried to beg back into Sunday's game, but the Falcons held him out as a precaution. Fantasy owners will need to keep tabs on his progress leading up to Week 11 vs. Tennessee.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who was limited in practice this week by a hamstring injury after missing two games with it earlier this season, aggravated the injury in the first half Week 10 against the Saints and left just before halftime. He had two catches for 9 yards before leaving. Harry Douglas took his place in the lineup and ended up leading the way with a career-high 133 yards on eight catches.
Analysis: Jones was initially questionable to return, but he remained on the sidelines even through overtime. You'd think if he had been able to return, he would have in such a close game. Not only did he finish with disappointing numbers after a 131-yard, two-touchdown performance against the Colts last week, but his status is also in doubt for Week 11 against the Titans. Even as a rookie, he has proven he can be a big-play threat in the NFL and has a chance to surpass Roddy White as the Falcons' No. 1 wide receiver, but with the continued injury issues, he's more like a low-end No. 2 WR in Fantasy.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who remained limited in practice this week by the same hamstring injury that sidelined him for Weeks 6 and 7, is active and will start Week 10 against the Saints.
Analysis: Jones returned from the injury last week to score two long touchdowns, finishing with three catches for 131 yards, so you can trust his hamstring isn't feeling too bad. The rookie has emerged as the Falcons' primary big-play threat and has a good chance of getting back in the end zone in what could be a high-scoring game against the Saints. Get him active as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones was limited in practice for a second straight day Friday because of a hamstring injury. However, he is listed as probable for Week 10 against New Orleans. Jones returned to the lineup from a hamstring injury in Week 9 to have a big game, catching three passes for 131 yards and two touchdowns. The Falcons, of course, prefer to run the ball and seemingly have a good opportunity to do so against a team allowing an NFL-high 5.3 yards per carry, but the Saints rank a respectable 17th against the run because their high-scoring offense so often forces team into catch-up mode. They're allowing 21.0 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, 16th-most in the NFL.
Analysis: Jones wasn't targeted nearly as much as teammate Roddy White in Week 9 and hasn't been all season, but with three 100-yard games on the year, the rookie has clearly emerged as the Falcons' big-play threat. The Falcons might need some big plays to keep up with Saints' high-scoring offense in Week 10. It appears as though Jones was just rested during the practice week, so consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones -- who returned from a hamstring injury with a monster performance in Week 9, catching three passes for 131 yards and two touchdowns -- could again play a major role in the passing attack in his first game against the division rival Saints in Week 10. The Falcons, of course, prefer to run the ball and seemingly have a good opportunity to do so against a team allowing an NFL-high 5.3 yards per carry, but the Saints rank a respectable 17th against the run because their high-scoring offense so often forces team into catch-up mode. They're allowing 21.0 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, 16th-most in the NFL.
Analysis: Jones wasn't targeted nearly as much as teammate Roddy White in Week 9 and hasn't been all season, but with three 100-yard games on the year, the rookie has clearly emerged as the Falcons' big-play threat. The Falcons might need some big plays to keep up with Saints' high-scoring offense in Week 10. Jones should be active in just about all Fantasy leagues as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR, if he remains active. Jones was added to the injury report Thursday as a limited participant because of a hamstring injury. It could be just a day of rest since he missed time earlier with a hamstring injury, but it's worth keeping tabs on his situation.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, making his first start since Week 5 because of a hamstring injury that sidelined him for two games, looked as healthy as ever Week 9 at Indianapolis. His elite combination of size and speed contributed not only to his first touchdown, but his first two. The rookie made a diving catch in the end zone on a 50-yard bomb in the first quarter and took a short slant 80 yards for a score in the second quarter. "The one on the first deep ball, he made an unbelievable catch," QB Matt Ryan said. "That's what you've got to do with guys like that, you've got to give them a chance to catch the football. He made me look pretty good on that one." Jones was also a factor in the running game, picking up a combined 33 yards on two reverses. With the Falcons mostly running out the clock in the second half, Jones finished with three catches for 131 yards. He was targeted four times.
Analysis: Jones wasn't targeted as often as teammates Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez in his first game back, but boy did he make his presence known. The Falcons drafted him to be a playmaker, and he was exactly that, using his rare talents to salvage what would have otherwise been a mediocre performance for Ryan. Jones was leading the Falcons in receiving at the time of his injury, so it's not like the Falcons were unaware of his abilities. But this is the sort of breakout game that could make him the team's go-to option going forward. With a potential shootout coming up Week 10 against the Saints, Jones is a clear No. 2 Fantasy WR. If not for the Falcons' many other weapons on offense, he might be approaching No. 1 status.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who missed the team's previous two games with a strained hamstring, is active for Week 9 at Indianapolis. Jones was listed as probable for the contest after getting a chance to heal over the team's bye.
Analysis: Jones was leading the Falcons in receiving at the time of his injury and has shown plenty of big-play ability in his rookie season. He still has to contend with WR Roddy White and TE Tony Gonzalez for looks, but with a favorable matchup like this one, he's a borderline No. 2 WR.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones has missed two games with a hamstring injury, but was upgraded to probable for Week 9 against Indianapolis. Jones was very close to returning in Week7 against Detroit, so it seems the Falcons were just being cautious. Jones returns to a favorable matchup. The Colts are 31st in total defense (402.9 yards per game) and 22nd in pass defense (258.9 yards per game). They've given up an NFL-high 15 touchdown passes and allow 26.0 Fantasy per game to wide receivers, fourth-most in the league.
Analysis: The Falcons selected Jones with the sixth pick in the 2011 draft to be a big-play receivers. He hasn't disappointed as he has 358 yards in his five games. He even put together back-to-back 100-yard games before straining his hamstring against the Packers in Week 5 and actually led the team in receiving yards at the time. With Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez getting plenty of looks from Matt Ryan, Jones will have to fight for touches. Fantasy owners should consider Jones a borderline No. 2 WR option for Week 9.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who missed Weeks 6 and 7 with a hamstring issue, hasn't officially been cleared to return Week 9 at Indianapolis, but considering the Falcons almost brought him back for Week 7 at Detroit, he should be in pretty good shape for Sunday's game. "We felt that Julio was very close to returning for the Detroit game, obviously another week enhanced his chances of being ready this week," coach Mike Smith said. Jones has been limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday this week. Given the matchup, Jones has a chance to make a big splash in his first game back. The Colts are 31st in total defense (402.9 yards per game) and 22nd in pass defense (258.9 yards per game). They've given up an NFL-high 15 touchdown passes and allow 26.0 Fantasy per game to wide receivers, fourth-most in the league.
Analysis: Jones, the sixth overall pick in the 2011 draft, put together back-to-back 100-yard games before straining his hamstring against the Packers in Week 5 and actually led the team in receiving yards at the time. And apparently, he shouldn't miss a beat in his return. "Because he’s been running on the side I don’t think the conditioning is going to be too big of an issue this weekend," Smith said. Jones still has to compete with Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez for targets, but his combination of size and speed could make him QB Matt Ryan's preferred option by season's end. The Falcons might ease Jones back into the lineup, but this matchup is good enough to make him a borderline No. 2 Fantasy WR regardless.
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith called the time off for WR Julio Jones (hamstring) “a positive thing”, as much as rehabbing an injury could be. Jones said he spent a lot of the time off watching both Atlanta’s defense and opposing defenses to learn how teams hide coverage. Jones was limited in practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Jones was making great progress in his young career before getting hurt Week 5 against the Packers. He has missed the last two games, but it appears he is on track to return Week 9 barring a setback. Consider Jones a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 9.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury, returned to practice Monday. The Falcons were on a bye in Week 8 and return to action Week 9 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: This is definitely good progress for Jones, who was on a breakout run before getting hurt. If he does return Week 9, then it's definitely a favorable matchup and Fantasy owners should consider getting Jones back into active lineups.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones is inactive for the second straight game Week 7 at Detroit because of a strained hamstring. He was unable to practice leading up to the game and was officially listed as doubtful on Friday. Harry Douglas will once again start in his place.
Analysis: The Falcons coaching staff was initially hopeful that Jones would miss only one game, but Fantasy owners had to expect otherwise after Jones missed all that time in practice. He was leading the Falcons in receiving yards at the time of his injury, so he's clearly someone who Fantasy owners should be anxious to have back. With the Falcons on bye in Week 8, Jones has a good chance of returning Week 9 at Indianapolis.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones (hamstring) is listed as doubtful for Week 7 at Detroit. Harry Douglas is expected to start again in his absence.
Analysis: Hamstring injuries can be problematic and we have seen players like Miles Austin miss multiple weeks because of the injury, so it's not shocking to see Atlanta take a cautious approach with the rookie. Continue to stash Jones until he returns to the lineup. He already is a viable Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones, who missed Week 6 against the Panthers because of a strained hamstring, missed practice for the second straight day Thursday as the team prepares for Week 7 at Detroit. Coach Mike Smith recently said the team is taking a wait-and-see approach with Jones, but the rookie wide receiver's status looks iffier with every day of practice he misses.
Analysis: Considering the Lions rank 26th against the run and sixth against the pass, the Falcons would prefer to lean on RB Michael Turner again this week, so even if Jones is able to return, he would likely play more of a decoy role. The rookie was actually leading the team in receiving at the time of his injury and is clearly a playmaker on offense, but you should be prepared to sit him again this week.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones (hamstring) did not participate in practice on Wednesday. Falcons coach Mike Smith said Monday he wasn't sure about which injured players would return Week 7 at Detroit. He added that he is taking a wait-and-see approach to whether or not Julio Jones, who sat out Sunday against the Panthers with a hamstring injury will return to practice.
Analysis: The Lions have one of the better pass defenses in the NFL, so getting Jones back on the field in Week 7 would certainly be a huge boost to the offense. But it wouldn't surprise us if he is a game-time decision. Although, last week Smith wasted no time ruling out Jones for Week 6. We just hope he is a little more patient this week and Jones has a chance to play Week 7. The rookie has already developed rapport with QB Matt Ryan and is a viable Fantasy play when healthy. Continue to monitor his progress this week.
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith said Monday he wasn't sure about which injured players would return Week 7 at Detroit. He added that he is taking a wait-and-see approach to whether or not Julio Jones, who sat out Sunday against the Panthers with a hamstring injury, will return to practice Wednesday.
Analysis: The Lions have one of the better pass defenses in the NFL, so getting Jones back on the field in Week 7 would certainly be a huge boost to the offense. But it wouldn't surprise us if he is a game-time decision. Although, last week Smith wasted no time ruling out Jones for Week 6. We just hope he is a little more patient this week and Jones has a chance to play Week 7. The rookie has already developed rapport with QB Matt Ryan and is a viable Fantasy play when healthy.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones is officially inactive for Week 6 against the Panthers. The Falcons had ruled him out for the contest earlier in the week because of a hamstring injury. Harry Douglas will start in his place.
Analysis: Jones wasn't able to finish Week 5 against the Packers because of the injury, so he could use the week off. That said, the Falcons are hopeful he'll be able to return Week 7 at Detroit. Even as a rookie, Jones has emerged as an integral part of the team's passing game, actually collecting more receiving yards through five games than Roddy White. He has the potential to perform like a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Lions in Week 7.
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith told reporters on Wednesday that WR Julio Jones was ruled out for Week 6 against Carolina due to his hamstring injury. He was hurt in Sunday night's game against Green Bay. “He’ll be out this week,” Smith said. “We hope to get him back. He worked out with our training staff today. He did some running around. He’s already back out on the field working. We are hoping that after this week, we’ll get him back the following week.” Harry Douglas is expected to start in his place.
Analysis: Jones leads the team in receiving yards with 358 on 25 receptions. Douglas will likely move up to the No. 2 receiver slot alongside Roddy White if Jones can’t play. The Falcons are slated to face the Lions in Week 7 before going on a bye in Week 8. Fantasy owners should be prepared to go without the productive rookie until possibly Week 9 if the team chooses to play this with extra caution, but it sounds as though he has a chance to miss just one game. Keep him reserved until further notice. We'll continue to update you on his situation.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that WR Julio Jones is not expected to practice on Wednesday due to the hamstring injury he suffered on Sunday against Green Bay. Jones is one of several players who were hurt in Week 5. “It’s going to be a couple of days before we really know on the guys that were banged up,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said on his weekly radio appearance on NFL Sirius radio. “We’ll definitely be resting those guys on Wednesday and then kind of see where they are on Thursday and Friday.”
Analysis: Jones leads the team in receiving yards with 358 on 25 receptions. Harry Douglas would likely move up to the No. 2 receiver slot alongside Roddy White if Jones can’t play. This remains a very fluid situation that may not be decided upon until Sunday's inactives. We'll continue to update you on his situation throughout the week. He has emerged as a viable starting option in any Fantasy format this season even as a rookie.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones left Week 5 against the Packers in the fourth quarter due to a hamstring injury. He posted one 16-yard grab and also had a 17-yard run before leaving. Jones was able to walk to the lockerroom under his own power but did not return in the 25-14 loss.
Analysis: After catching 11 passes for 127 yards a week ago, Jones did not do much against the Packers before leaving and now has to overcome an injury. No word yet on the extent of it so keep an eye on the situation going forward as he will more than likely take some tests in the coming days. While he has yet to find the end zone this season, he is showing Fantasy owners why the Falcons traded up to get the former Alabama standout. Consider Jones a viable option in most Fantasy leagues, when healthy.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones enters Week 5 against the Packers still looking for his first career touchdown. Green Bay ranks 31st in the league against the pass, giving up just under 336 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 29 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Jones has posted 100-yard performances in each of his last two games, including catching 11 passes for 127 yards in Week 4. While he has yet to find the end zone, he is showing Fantasy owners why the Falcons traded up to get the former Alabama standout. With the way the Packers have struggled against the pass this season, he should be in for another productive performance on Sunday so consider Jones a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 5.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones registered season highs in receptions (11) and receiving yards (127) during the Falcons' 30-28 victory at Seattle in Week 4 on Sunday. Jones, who managed an average of 11.5 yards per catch (his lowest mark of the season), was targeted a whopping 17 times by QB Matt Ryan. The total was easily a game high as he finished with six more looks than teammate Roddy White (11).
Analysis: Jones is rapidly stealing the show in the Falcons passing game from White despite not reaching the end zone for the fourth straight game. The rookie out of Alabama has now posted 100-yard performances in back-to-back games and is becoming another trusted option for Ryan downfield. White, who had six catches for 78 yards, will continue to receive a bulk of targets throughout the season, but Jones seems to be a rising Fantasy option. Consider him a strong No. 3 Fantasy in Week 5 against Green Bay as that game could develop into a shootout.
News: After registering career highs in receptions (six) and yards (115) during last Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Atlanta WR Julio Jones could be primed for an encore in Week 4 at Seattle. Jones, who leads all NFL rookies with 215 receiving yards, is averaging a sterling 16.5 yards per catch this season. “I wouldn’t say we have more emphasis on the pass,” said Falcons fullback Ovie Mughelli. “I would just say when we do pass we have more weapons. (Coach Mike) Smith knows to open up that pass game, you’ve got to get that run game started."
Analysis: It took a couple bumpy weeks, but Jones finally produced the type of performance Fantasy owners have been anticipating from the sixth-overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Jones could garner the same number of catches as defenses continue to focus on star WR Roddy White, who had 17 targets from QB Matt Ryan in Week 3. The Seahawks are allowing an average of 20.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Consider Jones a quality No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 4.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones racked up 115 yards on six receptions during the Falcons' 16-13 loss to Tampa Bay in Week 3 on Sunday. Jones was one of two Atlanta receivers with more than 100 yards (Roddy White) as he was targeted seven times by QB Matt Ryan. "I really didn't know I had more than 100 yards," Jones said. "They needed me to show up, and I tried my best to do what was necessary."
Analysis: Jones turned in his finest day as a pro as he showed the strong potential that made him a highly coveted first-round pick in last year's NFL Draft. The 22-year-old entered the game with just 100 total yards in his first two outings of the year, but quickly eclipsed that mark as he helped the Falcons' fourth-quarter rally. He will still compete for looks with White, but is considered a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 4 against lowly Seattle.
News: Atlanta WR Julio Jones will look to add to his conference-leading totals during the Falcons' matchup at Tampa Bay in Week 3. Jones, who was Atlanta's first-round selection in the 2011 draft, currently paces all NFC rookies with seven catches and 100 yards. He hauled in just two catches for 29 yards during last Sunday's game against Philadelphia. Jones did receive eight targets from Falcons QB Matt Ryan versus the Eagles.
Analysis: Jones has yet to reach the end zone through the first two weeks of his rookie season as he has shined while playing opposite star WR Roddy White. In fact, Jones has garnered 16 more receiving yards than the NFL's top pass catcher from a year ago. While that trend isn't expected to last, Jones' presence has forced opposing defenses to keep an eye on him also. Consider Jones a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for his upcoming outing against the Bucs, who have surrendered an average of 21.4 Fantasy points to opposing receivers this season.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones saw some passes thrown his way in Week 2 against the Eagles but he was not able to come up with many of them. He was targeted eight times by QB Matt Ryan, catching two passes for 29 yards in the 35-31 win. Jones had a long reception of 15 yards and averaged 14.5 yards per catch.
Analysis: Jones has shown his prowess for making big catches thus far but just like any other rookie, he will struggle from time to time. Good news for Fantasy owners is that he likely won't face a tougher secondary than the Eagles going forward. The Falcons have a lot invested in the 22-year-old and he compliments Roddy White extremely well so heading into Week 3 against the Buccaneers, consider Jones as more of a low-end No. 2/ high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Falcons WR Julio Jones had an impressive debut a week ago but he will be facing a much tougher pass defense when he takes on the Eagles in Week 2. Philadelphia allowed 181 passing yards in Week 1, and held opposing wideouts to 12 Fantasy points.
Analysis: Jones caught five passes for 71 yards with a long of 32 against Chicago last week but he was a little overmatched for the Bears small secondary. That won't be the case this Sunday as the Eagles have arguably the best cornerbacks in the league. The Falcons have a lot invested in the 22-year-old and he compliments Roddy White extremely well but heading into Week 2 against Philadelphia, consider Jones as more of a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: In the Falcons Week 1 game at Chicago, rookie WR Julio Jones caught five passes for 71 yards on six targets, actually outproducing teammate Roddy White despite White having three more catches. Jones started the game dreadfully, landing just 11 yards on his first three grabs.
Analysis: Fantasy owners were hopeful that Jones could land a touchdown thanks to his athleticism over the Bears' cornerbacks, but his opportunities didn't seem really strong until the second half of the game. With the Eagles flying to Atlanta in Week 2 it seems more unlikely that he'll be a factor for Fantasy owners. Consider other options before going with Jones in Week 2.
News:Julio Jones will make his long-anticipated debut on Sunday at Chicago, a team that was so-so against the pass last season. Chicago allowed about 225 passing yards per game last season and didn't change their secondary much, save for the addition of safety Brandon Meriweather. Falcons offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey said that Jones is a very important piece to the team's offensive puzzle. "It was evident that Julio was ahead of the curve with the offense and some of things we were doing," Mularkey told the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
Analysis: If the Bears sleep on Jones and not treat him like a seasoned veteran, he's going to stomp a hole in their secondary. Cornerback Tim Jennings might end up seeing a lot of Jones on Sunday, and that's a matchup that Jones can win even though he's playing in his first game. We'd give him a shot as a No. 3 WR or PPR flex option in Week 1.
News: Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones played well in Saturday's preseason game at Pittsburgh. Jones had five catches for 59 yards, but he also dropped a deep ball in the end zone that would have been a touchdown. He finished his third preseason game with more catches (five) than his previous two combined (four). “Everything has slowed down for me now,” he said. “Just the one deep ball [drop] is on my mind. It was a read. I just felt like I could run by [S Troy Polamalu]. I just looked too late.” Jones got a passing grade from coach Mike Smith on Saturday. “He had five catches," Smith said. "Had the opportunity for the big long ball. It’s a learning experience every time Julio gets out there. His learning curve is continuing to progress.”
Analysis: We like the way Jones has played so far in the preseason, and he should be in line for a good year in 2011. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR coming into the season, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
News: In his preseason NFL debut Friday against the Dolphins, Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones made his presence known on the team's second drive. He received a ball from Matt Ryan on a short crossing-route, and he stretched it into a 21-yard gain. Jones took an end-around later on for 12 more yards before hauling in a 22-yard pass to end his day. "Julio got indoctrinated into what the NFL is about," coach Mike Smith told reporters after the game. "In terms of the plays that he made, they were outstanding. I think all three touches were for first downs. He showed some skills that we saw when he was playing at the University of Alabama. . . I really thought Julio did some good things."
Analysis: Jones was featured early and often in his limited time on the field. He was targeted deep on the first two plays of the game by Ryan, and he was looked to five times overall in three drives. Jones will undoubtedly get his share of chances to make plays with Roddy White drawing the bulk of the secondary's attention, but Fantasy owners should consider him to be a No. 4 WR on Draft Day considering how RB Micheal Turner and TE Tony Gonzalez remain a big part of the offense.
News: The Falcons released their first depth chart of training camp Monday, showing which players were winning position battles. Rookie WR Julio Jones is already listed as a starter opposite WR Roddy White.
Analysis: This shouldn't come as a big surprise, but it's still encouraging to see the Falcons ready to lean on the rookie from Alabama. They gave up a lot to get him in this year's draft and it appears they want him to hit the ground running. Jones has the potential to be an impact rookie in 2011. We consider Jones a solid No. 4 Fantasy WR in all standard leagues, and he's worth drafting with a mid- to late-round pick. Jones is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones received some outstanding praise from veteran TE Tony Gonzalez on Twitter. "This kid Julio Jones is the real deal. He's the best incoming receiver I've ever played with. Come to think of it, it's not even close," Gonzalez posted on his Twitter account.
Analysis: The Falcons paid a hefty price to move up in the draft to get Jones, so it's encouraging to hear a veteran like Gonzalez throw around this kind of praise. The Falcons have been looking for a receiver to step up opposite Roddy White and it seems Jones could be that guy as soon as this season. We consider Jones a solid No. 4 Fantasy WR in all standard leagues, and he's worth drafting with a mid- to late-round pick. Jones is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: The NFL lockout hasn't affected an emerging friendship between Falcons QB Matt Ryan and rookie WR Julio Jones. Over the past two months, the new teammates have met at Ryan's suburban Atlanta home to study formations and discuss how Jones, the NFL's No. 6 overall draft pick, will fit into the offense. They eat lunch. They study football. They learn each other's background. One guy mostly talks. The other guy mostly listens. "I think for him, it was extra important to do this," Ryan said. "We have veteran guys who know the offense, who know what they are doing and how to prepare. For me, it was really good just to stay in his ear every day." The Falcons held their last session of 7-on-7 drills on Thursday that Ryan first organized six weeks ago. When everyone had cleared the field, Jones stayed extra time to run lengthy sideline routes with Ryan. "I kind of recognize everything because it's the same pro set we ran at Alabama," Jones said. "It's just the terminology that's really getting to me, you? But it's a good thing I've got Matt and the other guys. They help me out because there's so much information coming in, but it's my job to learn it."
Analysis: Jones has the chance to play well in his rookie year, and it's a good sign that he's already building a rapport with Ryan. Even though Jones has to share targets with WR Roddy White and TE Tony Gonzalez, he should still see plenty of passes in his direction. We consider Jones a solid No. 4 Fantasy WR in all standard leagues, and he's worth drafting with a mid- to late-round pick. Jones is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: According to Pro Football Weekly, Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones is making a positive impression during player-organized workouts. The report says Jones "looks way ahead of the game," and that QB Matt Ryan has been in his ear often, offering instruction. Jones has been accepting of Ryan's coaching and the two appear to be building a rapport. Jones underwent foot surgery to repair a stress fracture in March, but he joined the player workouts in late May after he was cleared to resume running. Jones is expected to start opposite All-Pro WR Roddy White and could give the Falcons one of the most dynamic receiver duos in the league.
Analysis: Jones has the chance to play well in his rookie year, and it's a good sign that he's already building a rapport with Ryan. Even though Jones has to share targets with White and TE Tony Gonzalez, he should still see plenty of passes in his direction. We consider Jones a solid No. 4 Fantasy WR in all standard leagues, and he's worth drafting with late-round pick. Jones is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: Former NFL star wide receiver Cris Carter said in an interview with CBSSports.com that he feels Falcons WR Julio Jones has a better chance to succeed than fellow rookie A.J. Green, who was drafted by the Bengals. "Julio is in a much better spot," said Carter, who is also an analyst for ESPN. "He’s on a Super Bowl caliber team. He has a veteran receiver in Roddy White who said he’s going to take care of him and look after him. It’s a totally different situation than in Cincinnati with the quarterback and Chad (Ochocinco). If I was a young wide receiver I would much rather be Julio."
Analysis: Jones does have the opportunity for a better start to his career than Green based on team success. He has the better QB in Matt Ryan, and the Falcons are poised to compete right away. But that doesn't necessarily mean Jones will post better stats than Green. Jones has to share targets with White and Tony Gonzalez, while Green has little competition if Ochocinco is gone as expected. Jones also has to prove he's over his foot injury from earlier this year. We consider both rookie receivers low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 options in standard leagues, and they are only worth drafting with late-round picks. Jones is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News:Julio Jones, the Falcons' first-round pick, worked out at on a field Tuesday for the first time with quarterback Matt Ryan and other new teammates. The former Alabama standout did not run full speed, deciding it was best to jog his routes and catch some easy passes. He's still recovering from foot surgery on a stress fracture that was discovered after the NFL combine, but he's been cleared to practice and says he's going to take things slow. However, that applies only to his foot -- sitting down recently with Ryan and third-string quarterback John Parker Wilson, his teammate at Alabama, Jones got a better understanding of what his role will be in formations. "They looked over the playbook with me and told me what I needed to study as far as formations and what we use a lot," Jones said. "That's what I've been doing. That's the stuff that I've been mainly focusing on. ... The schemes are the same."
Analysis: We expect Jones to be 100 percent once training camp eventually starts, but it appears like he's almost there. The fact that the offense isn't completely foreign to him is another big plus for Jones, who might adapt to the pro game sooner than even we figured. For now, we consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR worth drafting with a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues. He is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones posted on Twitter that he returned from a checkup in Charlotte where doctors cleared him to run following a healed foot. Jones suffered a stress fracture in his left foot but still worked out and ran on it prior to the NFL draft. It is believed that Jones will soon run routes in workouts with QB Matt Ryan to get better acclimated with the Falcons offense.
Analysis: Jones should be fine in time for training camp, and his foot shouldn't be considered a big problem any more. But he'll be a big problem for opposing defenses since he'll see a good amount of single-man and zone coverage with Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez roaming the field along with him. Tack on Ryan as his quarterback and there's potential for him to be sizable contributor in 2011. Jones is worth a middle- to late-round pick in seasonal leagues as a quality reserve, a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones, who had surgery on his left foot after the combine to repair a stress fracture, was expected to have a two month recovery period and should be close to running again soon. QB Matt Ryan, who has already started working with Jones in going over plays, can’t wait for Jones to start running so that they can start working on their timing. “I’ll be interested to finally get to work with him and seeing the skills sets he has in terms of route running,” Ryan said. “Once we kind of find out about that I think we’ll know more about how we are going to use him.” Ryan was not exactly sure how offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey plans to integrate Jones into the offense. “It will be interesting to see,” Ryan said. “He’s a big physical guy. I think he can do a lot of things for us. I think he’ll play a big part. ... I think he can bring some unique things.”
Analysis: We expect Jones to be fine once training camp eventually starts, but it appears like his foot remains a slight concern heading into the season. Still, with the investment the Falcons made -- five draft picks, including next year’s first and fourth round picks -- they must feel confident his foot will recover at 100 percent, and there's no reason to push him now with informal player workouts. We consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues. He is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Tuesday that Falcons rookie WR Julio Jones has already been working out with QB Matt Ryan and other Atlanta wide receivers.
Analysis: The Falcons moved up in the NFL Draft to take Jones, and it appears like their investment is already beginning to pay off. It's also a good sign that Jones appears over the foot problem that plagued him prior to the draft. Jones is expected to start opposite Roddy White, and he has the opportunity to help Fantasy owners as a rookie. We consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues. He is also worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff invested much of his 2011 and 2012 drafts in a bold trade that brought Alabama receiver Julio Jones to Atlanta. In exchange for Jones the Falcons gave up five picks including Atlanta's first- and second-round picks this year and the team's first-round pick in 2012. The Falcons will pair the physical, 6-foot-4 Jones with their Pro Bowl receiver Roddy White much like the Colts did with Reggie Wayne and Marvin Harrison in the early 2000s and Jeremy Maclin with DeSean Jackson a few years back. Jones, who led Alabama with 78 catches for 1,133 yards and seven touchdowns as a junior and 179 receptions for 2,653 yards and 15 touchdowns in three seasons (40 starts), visited Atlanta at least once. The coaching staff showed Jones clips of safeties rolling coverage Roddy White's way. "I want to come in and take some pressure off (White) and make them play us one on one," Jones said.
Analysis: The Falcons paid a pretty penny for Jones, so they likely have big plans to use him right away. We suspect he'll start opposite White and see a lot of single coverage with two deep safeties. Based on how he played in school, we think he's the most NFL-ready receiver in this draft and could have a seamless transition into the league. That said, the Falcons already have good targets in White and Tony Gonzalez, so expecting a huge first year from Jones is probably a reach. But that doesn't mean he won't give Fantasy owners some good weeks and eventually become a major player. Jones is worth a late-round pick in seasonal leagues, a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
