Falcons Vs. Saints injury report: Sean Weatherspoon ruled out against New Orleans

Falcons linebacker Sean Weatherspoon missed practice for the second straight day and has been ruled out of Sunday's matchup against the New Orleans Saints by head coach Mike Smith. Weatherspoon injured the ankle in Week 8 against the Philadelphia Eagles and missed last week's home win over the Cowboys.

Atlanta had originally hoped that Weatherspoon would be able to return to practice late this week and possibly be able to give it a go on Sunday. However, they once again decided that it was best to play things safe.

"We felt like Sean would be a real, real stretch these first two weeks and feel like he's making progress," Smith said. "He'll be looking to get back out here the first part of next week. We'll keep him in the training room the rest of this week."

Joining Weatherspoon on the sideline of the Falcons' practice on Thursday were wide receiver Kevin Cone and safety Charles Mitchell. Cone has also been ruled out of Sunday's game with a groin injury.

Jonathan Babineaux, Peria Jerry and Harry Douglas were all limited in Thursday's practice but all are expected to play on Sunday. Asante Samuel, Sam Baker and Jason Snelling returned to full practice on Thursday while John Abraham also participated fully for the second straight day despite appearing on the team's injury report.