FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Falcons strong safety William Moore, who missed last week's game against the Steelers with a foot injury, returned to practice on Thursday, while star receiver Julio Jones remained sidelined with a hip injury.

Moore's injury is believed to be related to a plantar fascia tear. His status for Sunday's game against the Saints remains unknown, although seeing him on the field with a helmet was a promising sign.

As for Jones, there's still a strong belief that he'll be ready to go Sunday despite the missed practice time. The Falcons rested him last week against the Steelers, no doubt realizing the importance of the final two games in the big picture. The 5-9 Falcons have a chance to win the NFC South and make the postseason with wins over the Saints and Panthers to close the regular season.

Receivers Roddy White (knee) and Harry Douglas (foot), like Moore, also returned to practice Thursday.

Right guard Jon Asamoah remained sidelined with a back injury. If Asamoah is unable to go Sunday, Gabe Carimi would start in his place.