Falcons head coach Mike Smith hinted at the notion that Asante Samuel may not end up playing against the Panthers on Sunday, per the Atlanta Journal Constitution. “He was only able to play three plays, so we are going to definitely be very cautious and make sure he’s ready to go,†said Smith. “He wants to be out there playing, I know that, but we want to make sure he gets cleared by the doctors before we get him out there.†Samuel is suffering from a shoulder injury and reports indicate that he’s had trouble lifting his right arm above his head due to the injury. The Falcons need Samuel on the field if they hope to slow down Steve Smith and the Panthers’ passing attack. Source: NFL Trade Rumors
