Falcons’ Jones, Jackson questionable

Julio Jones is a gamechanging wide receiver for the Falcons — even when he’s less than full speed.

That’s why it was so important for the team’s playoff hopes that Jones, recovering from a hip injury, returned to practice Friday. The Falcons will need their top offensive threat when the NFC South title is on the line Sunday in Atlanta against the Panthers.

Despite missing one game with the injury two weeks ago, Jones leads the NFC with 100 catches and 1,535 yards receiving. He had seven catches for 107 yards in last week’s win at New Orleans, even though he continues to battle the injury.

“I’m not there yet, I can tell you that,” Jones said Friday when asked if he was close to 100 percent.

The Falcons may be without starting running back Steven Jackson, who is listed as questionable with a quadriceps injury. Jackson’s injury makes Jones’ status especially important for Atlanta.

“Julio is an integral part to our offense and our football team,” coach Mike Smith said Friday. “He’s very explosive.”

Jones said he plans to play Sunday, though he was designated as questionable instead of probable on Friday’s injury report.

CHARGERS: Running back Ryan Mathews has been ruled out of San Diego’s game at Kansas City, which the Chargers must win to clinch a wildcard berth.

Mathews will miss his third straight game with what’s believed to be a high ankle sprain. He was hurt during a home loss to New England on Dec. 7.

COLTS: Indianapolis held a meeting this week to ensure the team was headed in the same direction. Players only. No coaches. “It was a chance for a player, if he wanted to leave, it was a chance to leave and not be crucified,” said receiver Reggie

Wayne, who called the meeting along with other veterans. “It was a chance for us as a team to really figure out if everybody was on the same page going forward and what we need to do.”

Indianapolis is locked into the No. 4 seed in the playoffs set to being next week. The Colts have no chance of moving up or down in the seeding process unless the Bengals and Steelers happen to tie this Sunday. REDSKINS: Quarter

back Robert Griffin III is listed as probable for Washington’s season finale after taking part in a full practice.

Coach Jay Gruden said Griffin “looked good” and “made all the throws” Friday as the Redskins prepared for Sunday’s game against the Cowboys at FedEx Field. SAINTS: Running back

Pierre Thomas and defensive lineman Akiem

Hicks were placed on injured reserve, ending their season ahead of Sunday’s finale.

Thomas left New Orleans’ game against Atlanta early last Sunday with an injury to his ribs.

BEARS: Chicago agreed to a oneyear contract extension with veteran center Roberto Garza.