Starting left tackle Sam Baker was inactive Sunday for the Falcons. While Atlanta was able to eek out a 23-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, the ability to protect franchise quarterback Matt Ryan and plow holes for Pro Bowl running back Michael Turner hasn't been as easy in recent weeks.
Mike Smith spoke about Baker at length in his weekly press conference, including an update on Sam's progress:
"Sam was worked with this morning. The guys that didn't play in the game have already all worked with our athletic performance staff this morning, have gotten a workout. Sam practiced on a limited basis and we'll continue to see how he progresses. We think, because he's been able to increase his workload each and every day that he will continue to increase that workload and get back to full speed." -- Mike Smith
On the left tackle position and whether there has been a decision on the starter with Baker healthy:
"Again, we're not going to make that determination until we get Sam back out there on the field." -- Mike Smith
The Falcons will do their best to prepare Will Svitek or Sam Baker for their next battle, a date with the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday in Minneapolis.
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