Julio Jones isn't pushing to get into training camp practices after undergoing offseason foot surgery.
The Atlanta Falcons' receiver has been getting more reps, but sat out most of Friday's team drills. Jones isn't fretting missing practice snaps.
"I feel great about it," Jones said of taking things slow, via the team's official website. "We all know what I can do. There's no need to go out there and just be like: OK, we're going to go full practice, full speed every route, every rep. (I'm) just easing myself back into it. I know my teammates got me, and they know I've got them. I'm going to be ready when it's time to go."
Getting Jones fully healthy is priority No. 1 in Atlanta, and there is little doubt he'll be ready when the regular season opens next month. The All-Pro receiver said he's not sure how much action he'll see during the preseason.
"Whenever I'm ready, I'm ready," Jones said. "You know, I can't really say when I'm going to go -- like in the preseason -- but whenever I'm ready, I'm going to go. Like I said, I'm a professional; I don't want to hurt myself nor the team. When I'm ready, I'll go."
The only question with Jones missing practice and preseason reps is whether that will hinder the Falcons' transition to new coordinator Steve Sarkisian's offense.
"Right now, it's kind of hard, because we haven't been in games," Jones said when asked how much can be learned about the new offense. "We do in-game situations here and there, but it's different when you're in a game. So I'll definitely see Thursday, but, for now, he's been doing a phenomenal job for us calling the plays, the personnel, getting (the ball) to the playmakers. I mean, he's been doing a great job for us out here."
We have no doubt that Jones will enjoy another prolific season regardless of how much time he takes "easing" into the new offense.
