Russell Shepard, William Gholston return, Falcons without Coleman

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers got a little bit of good news on the injury front today: both wide receiver Russell Shepard and defensive end William Gholston returned to practice after missing yesterday’s sessions.

Shepard and Gholston were both limited in practice, though, and it’s not clear whether they’ll be ready in time for Thursday night’s game against the Atlanta Falcons. Defensive tackle Clinton McDonald was also limited, and his participation in the game is also in doubt.

The Bucs continue to miss running backs Doug Martin and Jacquizz Rodgers, and both are almost sure to sit out the game against the Falcons.

As for the Falcons, running back Tevin Coleman, defensive end Dwight Freeney and tight end Jacob Tamme all missed today’s practice and yesterday’s, and are extremely unlikely to play on Thursday. Julio Jones was limited in practice but should play, and the same goes for guard Andy Levitre, cornerback Brian Poole and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett.