NFC South: New Orleans Saints
Links: New Falcons stadium design OK'd
June, 19, 2013
Jun 19
10:26
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Atlanta Falcons
The design concept for the new Falcons stadium was approved by the Georgia World Congress Center Board of Governors, Jay Adams of AtlantaFalcons.com reports. "Our discussions and decisions have focused on creating an iconic asset for the city and state, a great game-day experience for our fans and attendees of other events that will be held in the new stadium, and a connection with the surrounding communities," Falcons President/CEO Rich McKay said. The new design concepts can be seen here.
Tight end Tony Gonzalez was chosen to be the 2013 Good Guy Award winner by the Professional Football Writers of America. The award is given annually to a player for his professionalism in helping pro football writers do their jobs.
The Falcons signed veteran tight end Colin Clohery and released tight end Anthony Miller, reports D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Carolina Panthers
The News & Observer's Joseph Person lists five "pleasant surprises" from last week's minicamp.
Defensive tackle Linden Gaydosh -- a native of Peace River, Alberta, Canada -- was the No. 1 overall pick in the CFL draft. He dreamed of playing in the NFL, but teams showed little interest until the Panthers came calling, writes Bryan Strickland for the team's website. "I had nothing, nothing up until the Panthers contacted me. I was stunned, realizing that it was a reality. Then I realized quickly that I had to show them what I could do," Gaydosh said. "If this doesn't work out, I have a job playing professional football in Canada. Not many people get that opportunity to begin with, so I'm blessed in both worlds."
New Orleans Saints
The Times-Picayune is counting down the top 25 players on the Saints. Next up at No. 24: tight end Benjamin Watson.
Jason Smith, the former Rams offensive tackle who was selected No. 2 overall in the 2009 draft, is hoping to resurrect his career with the Saints, writes the Times-Picayune's Mike Triplett. Offensive line coach Bret Ingalls: "As far as the character and want-to, it has been tremendous. He's dying to learn. He's going to fix whatever isn't right. He's showing improvement every day, so we're excited. ... But we'll know more once we get the pads on in training camp."
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs are hoping to reap the rewards of stability on offense, writes Ira Kaufman of the Tampa Tribune. “We know this offense," receiver Mike Williams said. "We know when to break off routes and what zone to read. It’s a knowing instead of reacting to something. Josh Freeman's got this offense down pat. The big problem last year was we couldn’t get on the same page, knowing when to break our routes off."
New Bucs cornerback Darrelle Revis paid $50,000 to safety Mark Barron for his No. 24, the jersey number he has worn throughout his career, reports David Satriano of the New York Post.
The design concept for the new Falcons stadium was approved by the Georgia World Congress Center Board of Governors, Jay Adams of AtlantaFalcons.com reports. "Our discussions and decisions have focused on creating an iconic asset for the city and state, a great game-day experience for our fans and attendees of other events that will be held in the new stadium, and a connection with the surrounding communities," Falcons President/CEO Rich McKay said. The new design concepts can be seen here.
Tight end Tony Gonzalez was chosen to be the 2013 Good Guy Award winner by the Professional Football Writers of America. The award is given annually to a player for his professionalism in helping pro football writers do their jobs.
The Falcons signed veteran tight end Colin Clohery and released tight end Anthony Miller, reports D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Carolina Panthers
The News & Observer's Joseph Person lists five "pleasant surprises" from last week's minicamp.
Defensive tackle Linden Gaydosh -- a native of Peace River, Alberta, Canada -- was the No. 1 overall pick in the CFL draft. He dreamed of playing in the NFL, but teams showed little interest until the Panthers came calling, writes Bryan Strickland for the team's website. "I had nothing, nothing up until the Panthers contacted me. I was stunned, realizing that it was a reality. Then I realized quickly that I had to show them what I could do," Gaydosh said. "If this doesn't work out, I have a job playing professional football in Canada. Not many people get that opportunity to begin with, so I'm blessed in both worlds."
New Orleans Saints
The Times-Picayune is counting down the top 25 players on the Saints. Next up at No. 24: tight end Benjamin Watson.
Jason Smith, the former Rams offensive tackle who was selected No. 2 overall in the 2009 draft, is hoping to resurrect his career with the Saints, writes the Times-Picayune's Mike Triplett. Offensive line coach Bret Ingalls: "As far as the character and want-to, it has been tremendous. He's dying to learn. He's going to fix whatever isn't right. He's showing improvement every day, so we're excited. ... But we'll know more once we get the pads on in training camp."
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs are hoping to reap the rewards of stability on offense, writes Ira Kaufman of the Tampa Tribune. “We know this offense," receiver Mike Williams said. "We know when to break off routes and what zone to read. It’s a knowing instead of reacting to something. Josh Freeman's got this offense down pat. The big problem last year was we couldn’t get on the same page, knowing when to break our routes off."
New Bucs cornerback Darrelle Revis paid $50,000 to safety Mark Barron for his No. 24, the jersey number he has worn throughout his career, reports David Satriano of the New York Post.
Links: Radio hosts fired for Gleason piece
June, 18, 2013
Jun 18
10:00
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons' offensive line is developing leadership as it prepares to replace two longtime starters, writes Daniel Cox of the team's website.
Quarterback Matt Ryan is helping with the development of his young backups, writes Jay Adams of the team's website.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution says once Ryan’s contract extension is done and his salary-cap number drops from $12 million into the $6 million to $7 million range, that would free up more space to pursue free agent defensive lineman Richard Seymour, a seven-time Pro Bowler, if they so desired.
Carolina Panthers
Free safety Charles Godfrey has impressed Panthers coach Ron Rivera this offseason, writes Max Henson of the team's website.
New Orleans Saints
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
In this story about the best remaining free agents, Nate Davis of USA TODAY Sports says veteran defensive end Israel Idonije would make sense for the Bucs.
The Falcons' offensive line is developing leadership as it prepares to replace two longtime starters, writes Daniel Cox of the team's website.
Quarterback Matt Ryan is helping with the development of his young backups, writes Jay Adams of the team's website.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution says once Ryan’s contract extension is done and his salary-cap number drops from $12 million into the $6 million to $7 million range, that would free up more space to pursue free agent defensive lineman Richard Seymour, a seven-time Pro Bowler, if they so desired.
Carolina Panthers
Free safety Charles Godfrey has impressed Panthers coach Ron Rivera this offseason, writes Max Henson of the team's website.
New Orleans Saints
Three Atlanta radio hosts associated with "Mayhem in the AM," a sports talk show on WQXI-AM, "790 The Zone," have been fired after running a segment poking fun at former Saints player Steve Gleason, who is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. 790 AM is the Atlanta Falcons' flagship station. The Falcons weren't involved with the segment, but issued a statement condemning the actions of hosts Nick Cellini, Steak Shapiro and Chris Dimino. The segment came on the heels of Gleason guest writing Peter King's Monday Morning Quarterback column. Gleason, who is paralyzed, described his battle with the disease in a column written entirely by a computer that tracked his eye movement.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
In this story about the best remaining free agents, Nate Davis of USA TODAY Sports says veteran defensive end Israel Idonije would make sense for the Bucs.
We continue my NFC South Top 25 with No. 24:
Marques Colston, wide receiver, New Orleans Saints
What he did in 2012: He caught 83 passes for 1,154 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Why he’s No. 24 in 2013: Colston often gets overlooked and there are two reasons for that. First, he’s a team player and doesn’t have the diva personality so many receivers do. Second, his numbers probably are deflated a bit because he shares a passing game with a bunch of good receivers, tight ends and running backs. But there’s no way I’m leaving Colston off this list. Despite the fact the Saints spread the ball around so much, Colston is the guy that quarterback Drew Brees looks to when it matters most.
For previous entries in the NFC South top 25, click here.
Marques Colston, wide receiver, New Orleans Saints
What he did in 2012: He caught 83 passes for 1,154 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Why he’s No. 24 in 2013: Colston often gets overlooked and there are two reasons for that. First, he’s a team player and doesn’t have the diva personality so many receivers do. Second, his numbers probably are deflated a bit because he shares a passing game with a bunch of good receivers, tight ends and running backs. But there’s no way I’m leaving Colston off this list. Despite the fact the Saints spread the ball around so much, Colston is the guy that quarterback Drew Brees looks to when it matters most.
For previous entries in the NFC South top 25, click here.
Links: Panthers' Smith dishes on retirement
June, 17, 2013
Jun 17
10:46
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Atlanta Falcons
Free-agent defensive tackle Richard Seymour told NFL.com's Steve Wyche that negotiations with the Falcons might be visited again closer to training camp.
A woman who falsely accused Falcons rookie linebacker Brian Banks of rape has been ordered to pay The Long Beach Unified School District $2.6 million.
Robert Alford, Atlanta's second-round pick, has signed a four-year contract with the team. The Atlanta Journal Constitution's D. Orlando Ledbetter reports the Falcons have now signed six of their eight draft picks.
No surprise here, as some of the biggest offseason questions surrounding the Falcons involve the defensive side of the ball.
Carolina Panthers
When will Steve Smith hang up the cleats? The Pro Bowl wide receiver fills in some dates with the Charlotte Observer's Tom Sorensen, and discusses his post-NFL career plans.
Domenik Hixon and Chase Blackburn went to rival high schools in Ohio, played and lived together at Akron and won two Super Bowls with the New York Giants. Now, the pair is reunited on a Panthers squad that could use a little championship experience, says Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer.
Carolina has scheduled its annual Fan Fest at Bank of America Stadium for Aug. 3.
New Orleans Saints
Former New Orleans Saints special teams star Steve Gleason guest-writes for Peter King and his MMQB column. With humor and wit, Gleason writes on topics including the connection between football and brain disease, and the technology that enables him to write a 4,500-word column. Also, Alex Restrepo of NewOrleansSaints.com writes a column on Gleason and his family. “Every day is an adventure of discovery,” said Steve through email.
It’s 40 days and counting till the Saints take the field again for training camp. The Advocate's Brian Allee-Walsh takes a look at questions including Victor Butler's injury impact, Rob Ryan's 3-4 defense and Drew Brees' backup.
Former Saints defensive end Joe Owens passed away last week at the age of 68.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Quarterbacks coach John McNulty tells the Tampa Bay Times that quarterback Josh Freeman is demonstrating "his urgency, his inflection, his demeanor. Everything has been high energy and positive and going at a fast pace. Guys don't have a choice but to go along with him."
Will the Bucs make the playoffs this season? NFL.com's Marc Sessler gives five reasons Tampa Bay will be playing in January.
The aftermath of losing two Pro Bowl guards to injury last fall helped create what appears to be very good offensive line depth and flexibility heading into 2013, according to the team's website.
Free-agent defensive tackle Richard Seymour told NFL.com's Steve Wyche that negotiations with the Falcons might be visited again closer to training camp.
A woman who falsely accused Falcons rookie linebacker Brian Banks of rape has been ordered to pay The Long Beach Unified School District $2.6 million.
Robert Alford, Atlanta's second-round pick, has signed a four-year contract with the team. The Atlanta Journal Constitution's D. Orlando Ledbetter reports the Falcons have now signed six of their eight draft picks.
No surprise here, as some of the biggest offseason questions surrounding the Falcons involve the defensive side of the ball.
Carolina Panthers
When will Steve Smith hang up the cleats? The Pro Bowl wide receiver fills in some dates with the Charlotte Observer's Tom Sorensen, and discusses his post-NFL career plans.
Domenik Hixon and Chase Blackburn went to rival high schools in Ohio, played and lived together at Akron and won two Super Bowls with the New York Giants. Now, the pair is reunited on a Panthers squad that could use a little championship experience, says Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer.
Carolina has scheduled its annual Fan Fest at Bank of America Stadium for Aug. 3.
New Orleans Saints
Former New Orleans Saints special teams star Steve Gleason guest-writes for Peter King and his MMQB column. With humor and wit, Gleason writes on topics including the connection between football and brain disease, and the technology that enables him to write a 4,500-word column. Also, Alex Restrepo of NewOrleansSaints.com writes a column on Gleason and his family. “Every day is an adventure of discovery,” said Steve through email.
It’s 40 days and counting till the Saints take the field again for training camp. The Advocate's Brian Allee-Walsh takes a look at questions including Victor Butler's injury impact, Rob Ryan's 3-4 defense and Drew Brees' backup.
Former Saints defensive end Joe Owens passed away last week at the age of 68.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Quarterbacks coach John McNulty tells the Tampa Bay Times that quarterback Josh Freeman is demonstrating "his urgency, his inflection, his demeanor. Everything has been high energy and positive and going at a fast pace. Guys don't have a choice but to go along with him."
Will the Bucs make the playoffs this season? NFL.com's Marc Sessler gives five reasons Tampa Bay will be playing in January.
The aftermath of losing two Pro Bowl guards to injury last fall helped create what appears to be very good offensive line depth and flexibility heading into 2013, according to the team's website.
Later today, I’m going to start rolling out my NFC South Top 25 for the 2013 season.
Hopefully, this will help keep you occupied while I take some time off before training camps get going. Our editors also will be posting links and videos and anything that’s relative to the NFC South.
But each weekday while I’m off, we’ll count down the top 25 players in the division and we’ll finish the countdown after I return July 8.
A few words on the NFC South Top 25. I based it on what I expect players to do this year. There are no lifetime achievement awards. If there were, Carolina tackle Jordan Gross would have a spot in the top 25 (he doesn’t). If there were, Atlanta tight end Tony Gonzalez surely would be in the top five (he’s not in the top five, but he did make the list).
I also decided to follow the same policy I used last year and I’m not including any rookies, kickers or punters.
Enjoy the list and I’ll see you in a few weeks.
Hopefully, this will help keep you occupied while I take some time off before training camps get going. Our editors also will be posting links and videos and anything that’s relative to the NFC South.
But each weekday while I’m off, we’ll count down the top 25 players in the division and we’ll finish the countdown after I return July 8.
A few words on the NFC South Top 25. I based it on what I expect players to do this year. There are no lifetime achievement awards. If there were, Carolina tackle Jordan Gross would have a spot in the top 25 (he doesn’t). If there were, Atlanta tight end Tony Gonzalez surely would be in the top five (he’s not in the top five, but he did make the list).
I also decided to follow the same policy I used last year and I’m not including any rookies, kickers or punters.
Enjoy the list and I’ll see you in a few weeks.
Time for a look at some team-by-team highlights from Friday’s NFC South chat:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Bobby G (Agawam, Mass): I expected after Clabo's official June 1st exit that Atlanta would have made one last move, has Ryan's contract moved to a higher priority from three weesk ago ?
Pat Yasinskas: Still think you could see something with Richard Seymour.
big blue (smynra, ga) [via mobile]: While not being politically correct who would you take first roddy or Julio?
PY: Probably Julio, especially if your parameters are for a few years down the road. But Roddy is still a very good receiver.
Patrick (Charlotte): Even though Jackson is younger than Turner shouldn't there be some concern that in terms of carries Jackson has a lot less tread on the tires (Jackson 2395 to Turners 1639).
PY: Just look back to last season. Turner obviously ran out of gas. Jackson looked like he still had something left.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Ayodele Alakija (Manchester, England): Pat, so much talk of Armanti Edwards doing well at OTA's has me interested about our WR's. Do you see the Panthers taking 5 or 6 WR's into the season? Who do you honestly think gets cut??
PY: Can easily see them keeping six. They're going to have some tough choices. Ginn and Edwards looked good in minicamp. But they also have Adams, Gettis and Pilares besides the two starters.
Marcus (Asheville, NC): What is your assessment of Armanti Edwards' mini camp performance? It seems like each year we hear rumblings of how good of a camp he is having.
PY: Not to over-hype it, but I was there and it was very noticeable that he was having a very good minicamp.
Brad (Fayetteville): Recently there has been additional talk about Steve Smith going into the Hall of Fame. Reality or does he still have a lot to prove?
PY: Probably needs to put up big numbers for a few more years. With Marvin Harrison coming eligible for HOF next year, that's going to raise the bar for WR numbers.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Sean (Vegas): Can we just get this out of the way and agree Graham is certainly a top 100 player and due to Gronk's current injury, the clear cut best TE in the NFL?
PY: I think he's easily a top 100 player. He'll be ranked highly in my NFC South top 25, which will kick off Monday.
Saints Fan Up North (new jersey): Will the Saints try to get someone in F.A. to take Butlers place or go with what they have?
PY: I think they'll give Martez Wilson a long look in the preseason. If he's ready, they'll go with him. If not, you could see them pick somebody up.
RockKnuteney (Slidell, LA): Do you know if Benjamin Watson has one of these no practice clauses, like Tony Gonzalez? Did not see him all of the OTAs or minicamp? Would like him to be part of a two-headed monster at TE for the Saints.
PY: He was there, but not participating in workouts. Was working with trainers on the side. Think he's recovering from some sort of injury, but can't remember right now what it was. Didn't seem like they were too worried about it though.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Clayton (Atlanta): How much of an impact do you think Revis will have in the early season?
PY: I think he'll be ready for start of season and will be highly motivated for opener against the Jets.
Josh (the burg): Do you really think that Luke Stocker will step up this season for the Bucs?
PY: I think he'll be a role player. Crabtree might catch more passes.
Scott (Northglenn, CO): TB possibly kick the tires on Willis McGahee?
PY: Have not heard anything definitive on that. But I started to wonder about that the moment he was released.
Here’s the complete transcript of Friday’s NFC South chat.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Bobby G (Agawam, Mass): I expected after Clabo's official June 1st exit that Atlanta would have made one last move, has Ryan's contract moved to a higher priority from three weesk ago ?
Pat Yasinskas: Still think you could see something with Richard Seymour.
big blue (smynra, ga) [via mobile]: While not being politically correct who would you take first roddy or Julio?
PY: Probably Julio, especially if your parameters are for a few years down the road. But Roddy is still a very good receiver.
Patrick (Charlotte): Even though Jackson is younger than Turner shouldn't there be some concern that in terms of carries Jackson has a lot less tread on the tires (Jackson 2395 to Turners 1639).
PY: Just look back to last season. Turner obviously ran out of gas. Jackson looked like he still had something left.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Ayodele Alakija (Manchester, England): Pat, so much talk of Armanti Edwards doing well at OTA's has me interested about our WR's. Do you see the Panthers taking 5 or 6 WR's into the season? Who do you honestly think gets cut??
PY: Can easily see them keeping six. They're going to have some tough choices. Ginn and Edwards looked good in minicamp. But they also have Adams, Gettis and Pilares besides the two starters.
Marcus (Asheville, NC): What is your assessment of Armanti Edwards' mini camp performance? It seems like each year we hear rumblings of how good of a camp he is having.
PY: Not to over-hype it, but I was there and it was very noticeable that he was having a very good minicamp.
Brad (Fayetteville): Recently there has been additional talk about Steve Smith going into the Hall of Fame. Reality or does he still have a lot to prove?
PY: Probably needs to put up big numbers for a few more years. With Marvin Harrison coming eligible for HOF next year, that's going to raise the bar for WR numbers.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Sean (Vegas): Can we just get this out of the way and agree Graham is certainly a top 100 player and due to Gronk's current injury, the clear cut best TE in the NFL?
PY: I think he's easily a top 100 player. He'll be ranked highly in my NFC South top 25, which will kick off Monday.
Saints Fan Up North (new jersey): Will the Saints try to get someone in F.A. to take Butlers place or go with what they have?
PY: I think they'll give Martez Wilson a long look in the preseason. If he's ready, they'll go with him. If not, you could see them pick somebody up.
RockKnuteney (Slidell, LA): Do you know if Benjamin Watson has one of these no practice clauses, like Tony Gonzalez? Did not see him all of the OTAs or minicamp? Would like him to be part of a two-headed monster at TE for the Saints.
PY: He was there, but not participating in workouts. Was working with trainers on the side. Think he's recovering from some sort of injury, but can't remember right now what it was. Didn't seem like they were too worried about it though.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Clayton (Atlanta): How much of an impact do you think Revis will have in the early season?
PY: I think he'll be ready for start of season and will be highly motivated for opener against the Jets.
Josh (the burg): Do you really think that Luke Stocker will step up this season for the Bucs?
PY: I think he'll be a role player. Crabtree might catch more passes.
Scott (Northglenn, CO): TB possibly kick the tires on Willis McGahee?
PY: Have not heard anything definitive on that. But I started to wonder about that the moment he was released.
Here’s the complete transcript of Friday’s NFC South chat.
» NFC Eight in the Box: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
The major question facing each team in the NFC South as summer break looms.
Atlanta Falcons. Is the pass rush good enough? The Falcons replaced John Abraham with Osi Umenyiora. That might end up being something close to an even trade. But, just like when the Falcons had Abraham, you have to wonder who else might be able to generate a pass rush. Kroy Biermann is versatile and could bring some pressure from either defensive end or outside linebacker. But the Falcons really need one of their young defensive ends to step up. Second-year pro Jonathan Massaquoi appears to be the leading candidate for that.
Carolina Panthers. Who will be the starters in the defensive backfield? Aside from Charles Godfrey at one safety spot, that question remains wide open. The Panthers don’t have a clear starter at the other safety spot or at either cornerback spot. Veteran Mike Mitchell is one option at safety, but the team has been very impressed by rookie Robert Lester. The cornerback situation is even less clear. Captain Munnerlyn is a lock to be among the top three corners, but Drayton Florence, Josh Thomas, Josh Norman and D.J. Campbell appear to be competing for the other spots. The winners will have to distinguish themselves in training camp and the preseason.
New Orleans Saints. Where’s the pass rush going to come from? Just when it seemed like we were getting some clarity on this, it’s become a bigger question than ever before. Outside linebacker Victor Butler, who had a strong minicamp and played for defensive coordinator Rob Ryan in Dallas, went down with a torn ACL this week. The Saints firmly believed Butler was going to be a force. Now, they have to look at alternatives. Martez Wilson, Junior Galette and rookie Rufus Johnson all have some potential. But none of them are a sure thing. The Saints could end up bringing in a veteran that’s released somewhere else in the preseason if they don’t like what they’re seeing from the young linebackers.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Are they really set at tight end? All indications are the Bucs are planning on going with Luke Stocker and Tom Crabtree as their top two tight ends. That sounds a little dicey because Stocker hasn’t distinguished himself to this point of his career and Crabtree was used sparingly in Green Bay. But the Bucs appear to believe Stocker might be ready to elevate his game and they seem to think Crabtree has upside as a pass-catcher. It still is possible the Bucs could bring in a tight end, but that position doesn’t appear to be all that important in their passing game.
The major question facing each team in the NFC South as summer break looms.
Atlanta Falcons. Is the pass rush good enough? The Falcons replaced John Abraham with Osi Umenyiora. That might end up being something close to an even trade. But, just like when the Falcons had Abraham, you have to wonder who else might be able to generate a pass rush. Kroy Biermann is versatile and could bring some pressure from either defensive end or outside linebacker. But the Falcons really need one of their young defensive ends to step up. Second-year pro Jonathan Massaquoi appears to be the leading candidate for that.
Carolina Panthers. Who will be the starters in the defensive backfield? Aside from Charles Godfrey at one safety spot, that question remains wide open. The Panthers don’t have a clear starter at the other safety spot or at either cornerback spot. Veteran Mike Mitchell is one option at safety, but the team has been very impressed by rookie Robert Lester. The cornerback situation is even less clear. Captain Munnerlyn is a lock to be among the top three corners, but Drayton Florence, Josh Thomas, Josh Norman and D.J. Campbell appear to be competing for the other spots. The winners will have to distinguish themselves in training camp and the preseason.
New Orleans Saints. Where’s the pass rush going to come from? Just when it seemed like we were getting some clarity on this, it’s become a bigger question than ever before. Outside linebacker Victor Butler, who had a strong minicamp and played for defensive coordinator Rob Ryan in Dallas, went down with a torn ACL this week. The Saints firmly believed Butler was going to be a force. Now, they have to look at alternatives. Martez Wilson, Junior Galette and rookie Rufus Johnson all have some potential. But none of them are a sure thing. The Saints could end up bringing in a veteran that’s released somewhere else in the preseason if they don’t like what they’re seeing from the young linebackers.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Are they really set at tight end? All indications are the Bucs are planning on going with Luke Stocker and Tom Crabtree as their top two tight ends. That sounds a little dicey because Stocker hasn’t distinguished himself to this point of his career and Crabtree was used sparingly in Green Bay. But the Bucs appear to believe Stocker might be ready to elevate his game and they seem to think Crabtree has upside as a pass-catcher. It still is possible the Bucs could bring in a tight end, but that position doesn’t appear to be all that important in their passing game.
Let's take a morning run through some news and notes from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Pete Prisco writes that running back Steven Jackson has turned to a gluten-free diet as he approaches his 30th birthday. Jackson is well aware that many running backs start slowing down around that age. He believes the new diet will help him recover quickly from the hits he takes on game days.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
New general manager Dave Gettleman hasn’t done a lot of interviews since taking the job. But he met with the media Thursday and said he’s happy with what the Panthers accomplished in the offseason. He should be. Gettleman inherited a salary-cap nightmare and got the Panthers out of it. The cap situation prevented him from making any big splashes, but Gettleman was able to sign several mid-level free agents and had what appears to be a good draft class.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
A second opinion confirmed that outside linebacker Victor Butler has a torn ACL and he reportedly will have surgery Tuesday. It’s almost certain Butler will sit out this season. Martez Wilson likely will get the first shot at the starting spot Butler was ticketed for.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Maybe coach Greg Schiano really is softening a bit as he prepares for his second season. Instead of having his team work on the field on the final day of mandatory minicamp, the Bucs went to see a movie. That was Schiano’s way of throwing his team a bone for working hard. That’s something Schiano rarely did last year when he worked his team especially hard while trying to establish a new culture.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Pete Prisco writes that running back Steven Jackson has turned to a gluten-free diet as he approaches his 30th birthday. Jackson is well aware that many running backs start slowing down around that age. He believes the new diet will help him recover quickly from the hits he takes on game days.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
New general manager Dave Gettleman hasn’t done a lot of interviews since taking the job. But he met with the media Thursday and said he’s happy with what the Panthers accomplished in the offseason. He should be. Gettleman inherited a salary-cap nightmare and got the Panthers out of it. The cap situation prevented him from making any big splashes, but Gettleman was able to sign several mid-level free agents and had what appears to be a good draft class.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
A second opinion confirmed that outside linebacker Victor Butler has a torn ACL and he reportedly will have surgery Tuesday. It’s almost certain Butler will sit out this season. Martez Wilson likely will get the first shot at the starting spot Butler was ticketed for.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Maybe coach Greg Schiano really is softening a bit as he prepares for his second season. Instead of having his team work on the field on the final day of mandatory minicamp, the Bucs went to see a movie. That was Schiano’s way of throwing his team a bone for working hard. That’s something Schiano rarely did last year when he worked his team especially hard while trying to establish a new culture.
Just a reminder that our weekly NFC South chat will be held Friday at 1 p.m. ET.
This will be our last chat for a few weeks because I’ll be taking a little time off before gearing up for training camps. Bring your questions on the Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers and Saints and join us if you can.
Here’s the link to get you into the chat.
This will be our last chat for a few weeks because I’ll be taking a little time off before gearing up for training camps. Bring your questions on the Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers and Saints and join us if you can.
Here’s the link to get you into the chat.
Let’s catch up on some odds and ends from around the division:
Former Atlanta running back Michael Turner was sentenced to probation and fined $1,000 for reckless driving. That stems from an incident that happened in September. The Falcons released Turner after last season. He remains unsigned, but probably will go to training camp with some team that’s looking for veteran help.
Coach Ron Rivera said he saw significant improvement from Armanti Edwards during minicamp. I saw plenty of good things from Edwards as I watched the Panthers the past couple of days. But Edwards still could have trouble making the roster, because the Panthers have a lot of receivers and return men.
Nakia Hogan writes that Martez Wilson appears to be the likely replacement at outside linebacker after Victor Butler suffered a knee injury that will sideline him for the season. Wilson has said his goal for this season is to produce 10 sacks. That’s pretty ambitious for a guy that hasn’t had a lot of playing time. But it looks like Wilson will get his shot this season.
Tampa Bay receiver Mike Williams told the media that he and the team are very close to working out a contract extension. I’d expect things will get wrapped up quickly, and Williams will have his new deal well before training camp.
The Bucs signed veteran receiver Derek Hagan. Tiquan Underwood and Kevin Ogletree appear destined to be the top two backup receivers. Hagan will be battling for a roster spot, and could solidify it if he can help on special teams.
Former Atlanta running back Michael Turner was sentenced to probation and fined $1,000 for reckless driving. That stems from an incident that happened in September. The Falcons released Turner after last season. He remains unsigned, but probably will go to training camp with some team that’s looking for veteran help.
Coach Ron Rivera said he saw significant improvement from Armanti Edwards during minicamp. I saw plenty of good things from Edwards as I watched the Panthers the past couple of days. But Edwards still could have trouble making the roster, because the Panthers have a lot of receivers and return men.
Nakia Hogan writes that Martez Wilson appears to be the likely replacement at outside linebacker after Victor Butler suffered a knee injury that will sideline him for the season. Wilson has said his goal for this season is to produce 10 sacks. That’s pretty ambitious for a guy that hasn’t had a lot of playing time. But it looks like Wilson will get his shot this season.
Tampa Bay receiver Mike Williams told the media that he and the team are very close to working out a contract extension. I’d expect things will get wrapped up quickly, and Williams will have his new deal well before training camp.
The Bucs signed veteran receiver Derek Hagan. Tiquan Underwood and Kevin Ogletree appear destined to be the top two backup receivers. Hagan will be battling for a roster spot, and could solidify it if he can help on special teams.
Saints will have to shuffle LBs after injury
June, 12, 2013
Jun 12
12:05
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
There’s some devastating news Wednesday involving the New Orleans Saints.
It turns out that outside linebacker Victor Butler reportedly has a torn ACL and likely will spend the season on injured reserve. Butler suffered the injury in a Tuesday workout when he banged knees with running back Mark Ingram.
That’s a huge blow because the Saints were counting on Butler to be a cornerstone as they try to recover from having the league’s worst defense last season. Butler had been handpicked by defensive coordinator Rob Ryan when he signed as a free agent in March. Butler and Ryan worked together in Dallas last season, and the Saints had big plans for him.
With Butler out, the Saints will have to juggle things at linebacker. Curtis Lofton and Jonathan Vilma are set as the inside linebackers and Will Smith seems the likely starter at the “Jack’’ linebacker spot.
Martez Wilson, Junior Galette and rookie Rufus Johnson now become the candidates to take Butler’s spot. All three of those guys have some potential, but they don’t have the same familiarity with Ryan’s defense as Butler did.
It turns out that outside linebacker Victor Butler reportedly has a torn ACL and likely will spend the season on injured reserve. Butler suffered the injury in a Tuesday workout when he banged knees with running back Mark Ingram.
That’s a huge blow because the Saints were counting on Butler to be a cornerstone as they try to recover from having the league’s worst defense last season. Butler had been handpicked by defensive coordinator Rob Ryan when he signed as a free agent in March. Butler and Ryan worked together in Dallas last season, and the Saints had big plans for him.
With Butler out, the Saints will have to juggle things at linebacker. Curtis Lofton and Jonathan Vilma are set as the inside linebackers and Will Smith seems the likely starter at the “Jack’’ linebacker spot.
Martez Wilson, Junior Galette and rookie Rufus Johnson now become the candidates to take Butler’s spot. All three of those guys have some potential, but they don’t have the same familiarity with Ryan’s defense as Butler did.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- I’m about to head out to watch the second day of Carolina’s minicamp and will be back with more on the Panthers this afternoon.
But, for now, let’s take a look at some news and notes from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Coach Mike Smith said linebackers Stephen Nicholas and Sean Weatherspoon, who have been held out of OTAs as they recover from injuries, have a good chance to return to action during next week’s minicamp.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Receiver Domenik Hixon (hamstring) and running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle) are sitting out minicamp. Coach Ron Rivera said Stewart, who had offseason surgery on both ankles, is progressing, but stopped short of definitively saying the running back will be ready for the start of training camp. DeAngelo Williams has been getting all the first-team work in minicamp.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
The team signed veteran cornerback Chris Carr. This move is all about adding depth. Carr isn’t a strong candidate to start, but he has a chance to make the roster because the Saints could use an experienced backup cornerback and special-teams player.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Quarterback Josh Freeman said the comfort level is much higher for the offense as it gets ready for the second season in coordinator Mike Sullivan’s system. That may be very significant. Freeman has had three different coordinators and four different quarterback coaches in his short career. Maybe a little continuity will lead to more consistent play from Freeman.
But, for now, let’s take a look at some news and notes from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Coach Mike Smith said linebackers Stephen Nicholas and Sean Weatherspoon, who have been held out of OTAs as they recover from injuries, have a good chance to return to action during next week’s minicamp.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Receiver Domenik Hixon (hamstring) and running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle) are sitting out minicamp. Coach Ron Rivera said Stewart, who had offseason surgery on both ankles, is progressing, but stopped short of definitively saying the running back will be ready for the start of training camp. DeAngelo Williams has been getting all the first-team work in minicamp.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
The team signed veteran cornerback Chris Carr. This move is all about adding depth. Carr isn’t a strong candidate to start, but he has a chance to make the roster because the Saints could use an experienced backup cornerback and special-teams player.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Quarterback Josh Freeman said the comfort level is much higher for the offense as it gets ready for the second season in coordinator Mike Sullivan’s system. That may be very significant. Freeman has had three different coordinators and four different quarterback coaches in his short career. Maybe a little continuity will lead to more consistent play from Freeman.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – I’ve spent most of the day gathering information from the Carolina Panthers’ minicamp that will be used in posts over the next few days.
But let’s take a few minutes to check out what’s going on all around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
First-round draft pick Desmond Trufant hadn’t been able to participate in the early stages of OTAs (organized team activities) because his class at the University of Washington hadn’t graduated. But Trufant took part in Tuesday’s session. He’ll have some work to do to catch up to fellow rookie cornerback Robert Alford, who has been getting a lot of first-team reps.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
The new football facility at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte will be called Jerry Richardson Stadium after the owner of the Panthers donated $10 million and endowed a scholarship fund.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
There was a scary moment during Tuesday’s workout session. Outside linebacker Victor Butler banged knees with running back Mark Ingram and had to be helped off the field. Coach Sean Payton said that early indications were that Butler’s injury wasn’t serious.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Tackle Gabe Carimi, who recently was acquired in a trade with Chicago, said a knee injury in 2011 still hampered his performance with the Bears last season. Carimi said he’s optimistic the knee will be healthy and that he can make an impact for the Buccaneers.
But let’s take a few minutes to check out what’s going on all around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
First-round draft pick Desmond Trufant hadn’t been able to participate in the early stages of OTAs (organized team activities) because his class at the University of Washington hadn’t graduated. But Trufant took part in Tuesday’s session. He’ll have some work to do to catch up to fellow rookie cornerback Robert Alford, who has been getting a lot of first-team reps.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
The new football facility at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte will be called Jerry Richardson Stadium after the owner of the Panthers donated $10 million and endowed a scholarship fund.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
There was a scary moment during Tuesday’s workout session. Outside linebacker Victor Butler banged knees with running back Mark Ingram and had to be helped off the field. Coach Sean Payton said that early indications were that Butler’s injury wasn’t serious.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Tackle Gabe Carimi, who recently was acquired in a trade with Chicago, said a knee injury in 2011 still hampered his performance with the Bears last season. Carimi said he’s optimistic the knee will be healthy and that he can make an impact for the Buccaneers.
It’s time for our morning run through some news and notes from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Daniel Cox writes about how Atlanta’s Mike Johnson has cross trained at several spots along the offensive line. That could come in handy this year. Although a lot of people are assuming that second-year pro Lamar Holmes will be the starter at right tackle, Johnson is getting a chance to compete with him and could emerge as the starter.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Joseph Person has a breakdown of the key members of Carolina’s secondary. This will come in handy as the Panthers begin minicamp later today because their secondary isn’t loaded with big names.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Quarterback Drew Brees reportedly is suing former teammate Kevin Houser. Brees claims Houser advised him to invest $160,000 in non-existent tax credits.
New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan pledged to fix a run defense that he said was fundamentally unsound in 2012.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
New quarterbacks coach John McNulty had a lot of nice things to say about Josh Freeman. But keep in mind McNulty was part of a Rutgers staff that tried to recruit Mike Glennon, who the Bucs drafted in the third round.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Daniel Cox writes about how Atlanta’s Mike Johnson has cross trained at several spots along the offensive line. That could come in handy this year. Although a lot of people are assuming that second-year pro Lamar Holmes will be the starter at right tackle, Johnson is getting a chance to compete with him and could emerge as the starter.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Joseph Person has a breakdown of the key members of Carolina’s secondary. This will come in handy as the Panthers begin minicamp later today because their secondary isn’t loaded with big names.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Quarterback Drew Brees reportedly is suing former teammate Kevin Houser. Brees claims Houser advised him to invest $160,000 in non-existent tax credits.
New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan pledged to fix a run defense that he said was fundamentally unsound in 2012.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
New quarterbacks coach John McNulty had a lot of nice things to say about Josh Freeman. But keep in mind McNulty was part of a Rutgers staff that tried to recruit Mike Glennon, who the Bucs drafted in the third round.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- I just got settled into temporary NFC South Blog headquarters where I’ll be covering the minicamp for the Carolina Panthers that starts Tuesday.
Let’s catch up on what’s going on around the division:
Let’s catch up on what’s going on around the division:
- There already is one preseason All-Rookie team out and it has three NFC South players on it. Carolina defensive tackle Star Lotulelei, Atlanta cornerback Desmond Trufant and New Orleans safety Kenny Vaccaro are all on it. I wouldn’t be surprised if any or all three of them are on All-Rookie teams once the season actually is played. All three should be impact players right from the start.
- Former New Orleans defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, now a member of the staff of the Tennessee Titans, said he never had a doubt he’d be back in the NFL after the bounty scandal. I did have some doubts. I thought if anyone was going to face permanent banishment it would be Williams. But I think he helped his situation by staying quiet, which must have been tough for him, during last season’s suspension.
- The Falcons have settled on a partnership between an Arizona-based contracting firm and an Atlanta firm to build the new stadium, pending contract approval.
- Stephen Holder has the breakdown of the financial impact of the trade the Bucs made for Gabe Carimi. The Bucs are only on the hook for Carimi’s base salary of a little over $1 million this year. If they’re happy with him, they can bring him back in 2014 for a total amount of around $1.3 million. That’s reasonable money for a backup tackle and could be a great bargain for the Bucs if Carimi ends up being a starter.
NFC SOUTH SCOREBOARD
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Pat Yasinskas
Yasinskas joined ESPN.com in January 2008 after covering the Carolina Panthers for The Charlotte Observer for nine seasons. He began his journalism career with The Tampa Tribune in 1990.
