William Moore injury: Falcons' S to sit out 4th straight game

Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore hasn't played since perhaps the best game of his career, Nov. 29 against the Saints. He's missed the past three games with a hamstring injury, and head coach Mike Smith said Wednesday he doesn't expect Moore to play in the team's regular season finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.

The news, as reported by Michael Cunningham of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, is less surprising given the fact that Atlanta will likely rest many of their starters with home-field advantage wrapped up. But Smith also indicated that Moore has yet to be cleared by doctors, so it could me more than just precautionary.

The Falcons hope to have him back by the time they open the playoffs either Jan. 12 or 13. Moore will have an extra week to rest between this Sunday and then, as the Falcons have a bye to open the postseason.

Also sitting out of practice Wednesday were wide receiver Roddy White, cornerback Christopher Owens and defensive end Cliff Matthews.