Atlanta coach Mike Smith says QB Matt Ryan will be ‘game-time decision’ against New Orleans

Matt Ryan listed as questionable on injury report

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Matt Ryan missed his sixth straight practice with the Atlanta Falcons, but coach Mike Smith listed the second-year quarterback as questionable on the team’s injury report Friday.

The 2008 NFL offensive rookie of the year, sidelined since the first quarter of Atlanta’s 20-17 win over Tampa Bay two weeks ago, is nursing an injured toe.

“Matt worked again this morning in our walk-through,” Smith said. “He continued to progress and we’re going to make a decision as we get closer to game time.”

Pro Bowl running back Michael Turner, who missed last week’s 34-7 home loss to Philadelphia with an injured ankle, was limited in practice and is listed as questionable.

The Falcons (6-6) host New Orleans (12-0) on Sunday.

Four other offensive starters — Pro Bowl receiver Roddy White (knee) left tackle Sam Baker (elbow), center Todd McClure (knee) and right guard Harvey Dahl (ankle) — are also questionable.

Rookie cornerback Christopher Owens (shoulder) was listed as probable. The Falcons expect Owens will start on the left side opposite right cornerback Brent Grimes, who is filling in for starter Chris Houston. Smith has ruled out Houston (hamstring) and tight end Justin Peelle (concussion).

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux, who was arrested Thursday night in Gwinnett County and charged with felony possession of marijuana, is listed as questionable because of a shoulder injury.

Babineaux was limited in practice, and Smith said he has yet to decide if the fifth-year veteran will be allowed to play against the Saints.