Atlanta Falcons' health improving with return of Michael Turner

Michael Turner (#33) (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

The Atlanta Falcons returned to practice Wednesday to begin preparations for Sunday's matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and they welcomed back some key players who'd been missing time, notably wide receiver Roddy White and running back Jerious Norwood who has missed five straight games.

"It was good to see the majority of our guys back out on a Wednesday," Atlanta Head Coach Mike Smith said. "We had Jerious Norwood able to participate fully and Roddy White which over the past couple of weeks we hadn't been able to do. It was good to see those guys out practicing."

The highest profile return was that of Pro Bowl running back Michael Turner whose high ankle sprain caused him to miss last week's game against the New York Giants. Turner was on the field and officially listed as limited participation.

"Michael was limited today," said Smith. "He took some reps. Hopefully we'll get a good read on him after practice and tomorrow."

It's the first practice he's participated in since injuring his ankle on November 15 against the Carolina Panthers. After rushing for 111 yards in the first half, the tailback missed the remainder of the game. Smith would not speculate on how well Turner responded on Wednesday or whether he'd be ready Sunday against Tampa Bay.

"It's the first time he's come out and practiced in conditions and gotten some reps," Smith said. "It'll be evaluated very closely this afternoon and tomorrow. We'll see where he is tomorrow when he comes in."

Safety Erik Coleman and offensive tackle Tyson Clabo were both listed on the injury report for Wednesday, but were in full participation in practice.

In addition to Turner, middle linebacker Curtis Lofton was listed as limited with knee and groin issues; however he's not expected to miss any game time.

Wide receiver Brian Finneran did not practice due to continued issues with his knee. He's entering his third week of inactivity at practice.

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