FLOWERY BRANCH — Falcons coach Mike Smith says while Dunta Robinson is "much better" after suffering a concussion, the cornerback still has not been cleared to play.

Robinson watched practice on Wednesday as he stood on the sideline and talked with staff members. He did not speak with reporters.

Smith says Robinson may be able to "run around" as early as Thursday. Robinson must be cleared by an independent doctor.

Robinson is appealing his $50,000 NFL fine after his hit on Philadelphia receiver DeSean Jackson on Sunday left both players with concussions.

Meanwhile, Smith says backup tight end Justin Peelle will miss four to six weeks following surgery to repair a sports hernia. Michael Palmer moves up as the backup to Tony Gonzalez.