Falcons | Jasper Still a Ways Off

[Gunzlingr]

Falcons | Jasper Still a Ways Off - posted at KFFL (http://nfl.kffl.com)
5:26 PT: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports Atlanta Falcons DT Ed Jasper (back) is still a ways off from being back to full strength after surgery two weeks ago. Jasper said he won’t be able to resume running for another four weeks, and probably won’t be able to start lifting weights until another four-to-six weeks after that.

[The_Philster]

The chances of a change in the Falcons' starting lineup increased recently when nose guard Ed Jasper underwent surgery two weeks ago to remove excess bone growth from the base of his back.

The problem, which flared up late last season, was for a long time believed to be a herniated disk. But when three epidural injections to Jasper's spine did not lessen the pain, he saw a specialist who located the problem. Worse, the excess growth had become entangled with nerves.

Jasper said he felt better instantly after the surgery, but he can't begin running for another four weeks, and probably won't be able to resume lifting weights for another four to six weeks after that. That would seem to increase the chances that Ellis Johnson, who played well as a reserve last season, could move into the starting lineup.

Meanwhile, free safety Keion Carpenter, who recently signed a one-year deal to return to the Falcons, also has some catching up to do....more (http://www.accessatlanta.com/ajc/sports/falcons/0403/21falcons.html)