NFC South: Captain Munnerlyn
Let's take a look at the top Tuesday morning headlines from around the division.
This one sounds a little strange at first. Carolina coach Ron Rivera said Brandon LaFell “encapsulates who we are’’. Think about that for a minute. LaFell is a young player that has shown some flashes of promise. But, overall, LaFell hasn’t done all that much. He hasn’t even been able to permanently lock up the No. 2 receiver job, but the hope is he can fill that role and start showing more consistency. So, in a way, LaFell does represent the Panthers. They’re a young team with a lot of potential, but they have yet to arrive.
Joseph Person takes a look at the top position battles for the Carolina Panthers' defense as they begin workouts on the field. The top one is for the No. 2 cornerback job. Fans might not want to hear this, but it looks as if that’s Captain Munnerlyn’s job. He remains undersized, and that makes him a target for opposing offenses. But unless Brandon Hogan, who played little as a rookie as he recovered from knee surgery, takes a huge step forward, I don’t see anyone else on the roster ready to challenge Munnerlyn.
There is one slight positive to New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees being unsigned and not participating in offseason workouts. Safety Roman Harper said that makes it easier to install the defense of new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Harper said if Brees was around, he would show no mercy on a defense that’s going through some big adjustments.
Gary Shelton writes that Kellen Winslow shouldn’t be surprised by the Buccaneers' decision to trade him. He’s right. It was pretty obvious that Winslow’s a guy who is used to doing things as he pleases. It’s also pretty obvious coach Greg Schiano runs a very tight ship. If Winslow really wanted to play for Schiano, he should have realized it was time for some changes. At the very least, he should have first talked to the new coach about his plans for the offseason. I’m not sure Schiano would have been excited at the prospect of Winslow spending some of his time working out in San Diego. But it’s at least possible the coach and player could have worked out a deal if the situation was put on the table before workouts started.
This one sounds a little strange at first. Carolina coach Ron Rivera said Brandon LaFell “encapsulates who we are’’. Think about that for a minute. LaFell is a young player that has shown some flashes of promise. But, overall, LaFell hasn’t done all that much. He hasn’t even been able to permanently lock up the No. 2 receiver job, but the hope is he can fill that role and start showing more consistency. So, in a way, LaFell does represent the Panthers. They’re a young team with a lot of potential, but they have yet to arrive.
Joseph Person takes a look at the top position battles for the Carolina Panthers' defense as they begin workouts on the field. The top one is for the No. 2 cornerback job. Fans might not want to hear this, but it looks as if that’s Captain Munnerlyn’s job. He remains undersized, and that makes him a target for opposing offenses. But unless Brandon Hogan, who played little as a rookie as he recovered from knee surgery, takes a huge step forward, I don’t see anyone else on the roster ready to challenge Munnerlyn.
There is one slight positive to New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees being unsigned and not participating in offseason workouts. Safety Roman Harper said that makes it easier to install the defense of new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Harper said if Brees was around, he would show no mercy on a defense that’s going through some big adjustments.
Gary Shelton writes that Kellen Winslow shouldn’t be surprised by the Buccaneers' decision to trade him. He’s right. It was pretty obvious that Winslow’s a guy who is used to doing things as he pleases. It’s also pretty obvious coach Greg Schiano runs a very tight ship. If Winslow really wanted to play for Schiano, he should have realized it was time for some changes. At the very least, he should have first talked to the new coach about his plans for the offseason. I’m not sure Schiano would have been excited at the prospect of Winslow spending some of his time working out in San Diego. But it’s at least possible the coach and player could have worked out a deal if the situation was put on the table before workouts started.
The NFL draft is over and the Carolina Panthers have added at least one new starter.
That’s linebacker Luke Kuechly, who was drafted with the No. 9 overall pick. It just remains to be seen if he’ll start in the middle or on the outside.
Let’s take a look at Carolina’s projected depth chart as I see it at the moment.
OFFENSE
That’s linebacker Luke Kuechly, who was drafted with the No. 9 overall pick. It just remains to be seen if he’ll start in the middle or on the outside.
Let’s take a look at Carolina’s projected depth chart as I see it at the moment.
OFFENSE
- QB Cam Newton
- RB DeAngelo Williams (Jonathan Stewart is interchangeable)
- FB Mike Tolbert
- WR Steve Smith
- WR Brandon LaFell (or David Gettis)
- TE Greg Olsen
- LT Jordan Gross
- LG Mike Pollak (or rookie Amini Silatolu)
- RT Jeff Otah (Byron Bell could end up here if Otah’s not healthy)
- DT Ron Edwards
- DT Terrell McClain (Sione Fua also will be in the rotation)
- DE Greg Hardy
- MLB Jon Beason or Kuechly (one of them will move outside)
- OLB James Anderson (or Beason or Kuechly)
- OLB Thomas Davis (or Beason or Kuechly)
- CB Chris Gamble
- P Brad Mortman (at least one rookie besides Kuechly will play a lot)
- PR Joe Adams (the rookie also could get some time as the slot receiver)
As we get ready for Tuesday afternoon’s start of free agency, let’s take a look at the top morning headlines from around the NFC South.
After staying silent while dealing with Drew Brees and the bounty program, the New Orleans Saints finally got around to offering a contract to guard Carl Nicks on Monday night. Nicks termed the offer “respectable," but hasn’t decided whether to accept it or test free agency.
D. Orlando Ledbetter writes that the Falcons might not be very active in free agency because of salary-cap constraints. It’s true the Falcons don’t have a lot of room at the moment. But they still could make some roster moves and restructure some contracts. I have a tough time seeing the Falcons sit totally still when it has been made so clear by owner Arthur Blank that they have to win big next season.
Roy Cummings takes a look at Tampa Bay’s needs in free agency and there are lots of them. But the good news is the Bucs have about $43 million in cap space and have pledged to be more active in free agency. One name Cummings includes as a possible target is Dallas tight end Martellus Bennett. I think that’s a real possibility because Bennett’s brother, Michael, plays defensive end for the Bucs and the team could use depth at tight end.
Carolina cornerback Captain Munnerlyn hit on an escalator that raised his cap figure to $1.32 million. That doesn’t help Carolina’s overall cap situation. The Panthers are at least $6.5 million over the cap and need to get under it by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Some player releases and contract restructures likely are on the way.
After staying silent while dealing with Drew Brees and the bounty program, the New Orleans Saints finally got around to offering a contract to guard Carl Nicks on Monday night. Nicks termed the offer “respectable," but hasn’t decided whether to accept it or test free agency.
D. Orlando Ledbetter writes that the Falcons might not be very active in free agency because of salary-cap constraints. It’s true the Falcons don’t have a lot of room at the moment. But they still could make some roster moves and restructure some contracts. I have a tough time seeing the Falcons sit totally still when it has been made so clear by owner Arthur Blank that they have to win big next season.
Roy Cummings takes a look at Tampa Bay’s needs in free agency and there are lots of them. But the good news is the Bucs have about $43 million in cap space and have pledged to be more active in free agency. One name Cummings includes as a possible target is Dallas tight end Martellus Bennett. I think that’s a real possibility because Bennett’s brother, Michael, plays defensive end for the Bucs and the team could use depth at tight end.
Carolina cornerback Captain Munnerlyn hit on an escalator that raised his cap figure to $1.32 million. That doesn’t help Carolina’s overall cap situation. The Panthers are at least $6.5 million over the cap and need to get under it by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Some player releases and contract restructures likely are on the way.
Robinson led NFC South CBs in play time
February, 7, 2012
Feb 7
1:29
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
As we wait for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to hire assistant coaches, get blocked from interviewing potential assistants or anything else of note to happen during a very quiet time in the NFC South, let’s look at some more playing-time figures from the 2011 season.
We showed you the numbers on linebackers earlier Tuesday and I’ve been trying to roll out one position group a day since last week. But we’re going to go ahead and go with two in a day. We’re going to show you the playing time for the NFC South cornerbacks.
Lots of people like to criticize Atlanta’s Dunta Robinson. That’s understandable to some degree because Robinson signed a huge free-agent contract prior to the 2010 season, but has produced only three interceptions since joining the Falcons.
But I haven’t seen Robinson giving up a lot of big plays. In fact, I think he’s done a nice job overall in coverage. Apparently, Atlanta’s coaching staff agrees.
Robinson was on the field for 967 of Atlanta’s 996 defensive plays (97.1 percent). That percentage ranked Robinson tops in the NFC South and No. 11 in the NFL. Tennessee’s Cortland Finnegan was the NFL’s only cornerback to play 100 percent of his team’s defensive snaps.
New Orleans’ Jabari Greer, who I think is easily the division’s best cornerback, was next on the list. Greer was on the field for 93.3 percent of New Orleans’ defensive plays and ranked No. 19 in the NFL.
The other NFC South cornerback of note high on the list was Tampa Bay’s Ronde Barber. His durability never has been a question. Even at age 36, Barber took part in 92.3 percent of Tampa Bay’s defensive snaps to rank No. 21 in the league.
Carolina’s Chris Gamble (89.3 percent) was the only other NFC South cornerback to play more than 80 percent of his team’s defensive snaps.
Here’s a look at how much playing time some other NFC South cornerbacks had in 2011:
We showed you the numbers on linebackers earlier Tuesday and I’ve been trying to roll out one position group a day since last week. But we’re going to go ahead and go with two in a day. We’re going to show you the playing time for the NFC South cornerbacks.
Lots of people like to criticize Atlanta’s Dunta Robinson. That’s understandable to some degree because Robinson signed a huge free-agent contract prior to the 2010 season, but has produced only three interceptions since joining the Falcons.
But I haven’t seen Robinson giving up a lot of big plays. In fact, I think he’s done a nice job overall in coverage. Apparently, Atlanta’s coaching staff agrees.
Robinson was on the field for 967 of Atlanta’s 996 defensive plays (97.1 percent). That percentage ranked Robinson tops in the NFC South and No. 11 in the NFL. Tennessee’s Cortland Finnegan was the NFL’s only cornerback to play 100 percent of his team’s defensive snaps.
New Orleans’ Jabari Greer, who I think is easily the division’s best cornerback, was next on the list. Greer was on the field for 93.3 percent of New Orleans’ defensive plays and ranked No. 19 in the NFL.
The other NFC South cornerback of note high on the list was Tampa Bay’s Ronde Barber. His durability never has been a question. Even at age 36, Barber took part in 92.3 percent of Tampa Bay’s defensive snaps to rank No. 21 in the league.
Carolina’s Chris Gamble (89.3 percent) was the only other NFC South cornerback to play more than 80 percent of his team’s defensive snaps.
Here’s a look at how much playing time some other NFC South cornerbacks had in 2011:
- Captain Munnerlyn, Panthers, 79.8
- Brent Grimes, Falcons, 69.5
- Patrick Robinson, Saints, 69.4
- Aqib Talib, Buccaneers, 65.1
- Tracy Porter, Saints, 64.6
- E.J. Biggers, Buccaneers, 62.9
- Darius Butler, Panthers, 40.1
- Dominique Franks, Falcons, 33.7
- Christopher Owens, Falcons, 30.3
- Elbert Mack, Buccaneers, 27.2
Time for a look at Tuesday's top headlines from around the NFC South.
There’s been a lot of speculation that the Panthers will use an early draft pick on a cornerback this year. It could happen, but there was one guy that showed up at the Senior Bowl that doesn’t think that’s a great idea. That’s starting cornerback Captain Munnerlyn, who lives in Alabama in the offseason. Munnerlyn pledged to beat out any cornerback the Panthers draft. Munnerlyn is one of those undersized guys that plays with a chip on his shoulder. Nothing wrong with that. You want all your players to be competitive and that’s a trait that comes in especially handy at cornerback.
This is just speculation, but Charlie Campbell suggests the Bucs might want to consider New York Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride for their open coaching spot. That’s actually not a bad idea. Although he’s best known for taking a sideline punch from Buddy Ryan, that was a long time ago and Gilbride has a reputation as a solid offensive coach. He might be better than some of the guys the Bucs have talked to.
There’s no agreement yet, but the executive director of the Georgia World Congress Center said negotiations are continuing with the Falcons about a proposed open-air stadium.
Alabama coach Nick Saban, who coached Julio Jones at Alabama, praised the Falcons for trading up to get the receiver in last year’s draft.
Former Carolina defensive backs coach Ron Meek has landed the same position with San Diego. Ironically, Meeks’ replacement with the Panthers, Steve Wilks, had been the secondary coach for the Chargers.
Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin has interviewed with the Falcons and Panthers at the Senior Bowl. As I do every year at this time, don’t put too much stock into which teams interview which players in the pre-draft events and what coaches are supposedly watching certain position groups during practices and games. All teams do their homework on every player eligible for the draft. Heck, sometimes a bad interview gets a prospect pulled of a team’s draft board.
This Insider piece says the Carolina Panthers were one of the top five underachieving teams in 2011. Let’s just say I respectfully disagree with that. The Panthers won two games in 2010. They tripled their win total in 2011 and they did that in a year with no offseason, while they hurriedly installed a new offense and turned things over to rookie quarterback Cam Newton, who had a record-setting season. Yeah, the Panthers had some big problems on defense, but I think injuries to linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis and defensive tackle Ron Edwards played a big roles in the defensive issues.
There’s been a lot of speculation that the Panthers will use an early draft pick on a cornerback this year. It could happen, but there was one guy that showed up at the Senior Bowl that doesn’t think that’s a great idea. That’s starting cornerback Captain Munnerlyn, who lives in Alabama in the offseason. Munnerlyn pledged to beat out any cornerback the Panthers draft. Munnerlyn is one of those undersized guys that plays with a chip on his shoulder. Nothing wrong with that. You want all your players to be competitive and that’s a trait that comes in especially handy at cornerback.
This is just speculation, but Charlie Campbell suggests the Bucs might want to consider New York Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride for their open coaching spot. That’s actually not a bad idea. Although he’s best known for taking a sideline punch from Buddy Ryan, that was a long time ago and Gilbride has a reputation as a solid offensive coach. He might be better than some of the guys the Bucs have talked to.
There’s no agreement yet, but the executive director of the Georgia World Congress Center said negotiations are continuing with the Falcons about a proposed open-air stadium.
Alabama coach Nick Saban, who coached Julio Jones at Alabama, praised the Falcons for trading up to get the receiver in last year’s draft.
Former Carolina defensive backs coach Ron Meek has landed the same position with San Diego. Ironically, Meeks’ replacement with the Panthers, Steve Wilks, had been the secondary coach for the Chargers.
Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin has interviewed with the Falcons and Panthers at the Senior Bowl. As I do every year at this time, don’t put too much stock into which teams interview which players in the pre-draft events and what coaches are supposedly watching certain position groups during practices and games. All teams do their homework on every player eligible for the draft. Heck, sometimes a bad interview gets a prospect pulled of a team’s draft board.
This Insider piece says the Carolina Panthers were one of the top five underachieving teams in 2011. Let’s just say I respectfully disagree with that. The Panthers won two games in 2010. They tripled their win total in 2011 and they did that in a year with no offseason, while they hurriedly installed a new offense and turned things over to rookie quarterback Cam Newton, who had a record-setting season. Yeah, the Panthers had some big problems on defense, but I think injuries to linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis and defensive tackle Ron Edwards played a big roles in the defensive issues.
Lots of ground to cover in the NFC South on this Thursday. We’ll start it off with one that’s close to my heart.
Carolina cornerback Captain Munnerlyn has been selected as the winner of the Tom Berry Good Guy Award by the Carolinas chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America. For those who didn’t know him, Tom Berry was the long-time Panthers beat writer for the High-Point (N.C.) Enterprise. I had the pleasure of being around Tom frequently in my days on the Panthers beat and he was a true pro’s pro and a good friend. When we decided to start this award soon after Tom passed away at the start of the 2009 season, we wanted it to reflect what Tom stood for. That’s why this award goes to the Carolina player who is most helpful to the media in doing its job. Munnerlyn was a unanimous choice this year. Jordan Gross was the 2010 winner and Brad Hoover won the inaugural award in 2009.
New Orleans guard Jahri Evans sat out Thursday’s practice with a knee injury. Defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis (hamstring), linebacker Jonathan Vilma (knee) and running back Mark Ingram (toe) also were held out.
Carolina coach Ron Rivera said he believes Jordan Senn has a chance to be a full-time starter at outside linebacker next season. Senn has done a nice job since getting a chance to play after the Panthers went through a slew of injuries at linebacker.
Tampa Bay cornerback Ronde Barber will play in his 224th career game Saturday at Carolina. That will tie the franchise record set by Derrick Brooks. Barber could break the record when the Bucs play the Falcons the following week.
Here’s a bit of a strange one. Atlanta offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey said New Orleans fans caused the Falcons to have communications problems in the previous meeting between the teams. But that game was in Atlanta. If the Falcons had issues with noise from Saints fans in the Georgia Dome, they better have some new ways to communicate in place before they get to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Monday night.
Although there's still hope veteran cornerback Kelvin Hayden (toe) might be ready for Monday, he wasn’t cleared to practice Thursday. Starting cornerback Brent Grimes, who is coming back from knee surgery, did practice. If Hayden isn’t ready to go against the Saints, the Falcons likely will use Dominique Franks as the nickelback. Running back Michael Turner (groin) and linebacker Stephen Nicholas (toe) missed practice.
Martin Fennelly writes that it’s time for the Glazer family, which owns the Buccaneers, to make some noise on what the future holds for Raheem Morris. I know a lot of Tampa Bay fans feel that way. But I think you’re going to have to wait just a bit. If the Glazers are going to make a move, and I think they have no other choice, I don’t see it coming until after the season is over.
Carolina cornerback Captain Munnerlyn has been selected as the winner of the Tom Berry Good Guy Award by the Carolinas chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America. For those who didn’t know him, Tom Berry was the long-time Panthers beat writer for the High-Point (N.C.) Enterprise. I had the pleasure of being around Tom frequently in my days on the Panthers beat and he was a true pro’s pro and a good friend. When we decided to start this award soon after Tom passed away at the start of the 2009 season, we wanted it to reflect what Tom stood for. That’s why this award goes to the Carolina player who is most helpful to the media in doing its job. Munnerlyn was a unanimous choice this year. Jordan Gross was the 2010 winner and Brad Hoover won the inaugural award in 2009.
New Orleans guard Jahri Evans sat out Thursday’s practice with a knee injury. Defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis (hamstring), linebacker Jonathan Vilma (knee) and running back Mark Ingram (toe) also were held out.
Carolina coach Ron Rivera said he believes Jordan Senn has a chance to be a full-time starter at outside linebacker next season. Senn has done a nice job since getting a chance to play after the Panthers went through a slew of injuries at linebacker.
Tampa Bay cornerback Ronde Barber will play in his 224th career game Saturday at Carolina. That will tie the franchise record set by Derrick Brooks. Barber could break the record when the Bucs play the Falcons the following week.
Here’s a bit of a strange one. Atlanta offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey said New Orleans fans caused the Falcons to have communications problems in the previous meeting between the teams. But that game was in Atlanta. If the Falcons had issues with noise from Saints fans in the Georgia Dome, they better have some new ways to communicate in place before they get to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Monday night.
Although there's still hope veteran cornerback Kelvin Hayden (toe) might be ready for Monday, he wasn’t cleared to practice Thursday. Starting cornerback Brent Grimes, who is coming back from knee surgery, did practice. If Hayden isn’t ready to go against the Saints, the Falcons likely will use Dominique Franks as the nickelback. Running back Michael Turner (groin) and linebacker Stephen Nicholas (toe) missed practice.
Martin Fennelly writes that it’s time for the Glazer family, which owns the Buccaneers, to make some noise on what the future holds for Raheem Morris. I know a lot of Tampa Bay fans feel that way. But I think you’re going to have to wait just a bit. If the Glazers are going to make a move, and I think they have no other choice, I don’t see it coming until after the season is over.
Checking injuries on Panthers, Bucs
December, 22, 2011
12/22/11
3:34
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
It looks like the Buccaneers are getting relatively healthy for Saturday’s game with the Carolina Panthers.
Only linebacker Adam Hayward (foot) and defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (knee) were held out of Thursday’s practice. The Bucs frequently rest the veteran Haynesworth during the week. Defensive tackle Brian Price (ankle) participated on a limited basis after sitting out Wednesday’s practice.
The Panthers got a bit of good news as left tackle Jordan Gross (ankle) participated fully after sitting out Wednesday. Defensive end Charles Johnson (back) practiced on a limited basis after being held out Wednesday. But cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (ankle) and safety Charles Godfrey (shoulder) each missed their second straight day of practice.
Only linebacker Adam Hayward (foot) and defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (knee) were held out of Thursday’s practice. The Bucs frequently rest the veteran Haynesworth during the week. Defensive tackle Brian Price (ankle) participated on a limited basis after sitting out Wednesday’s practice.
The Panthers got a bit of good news as left tackle Jordan Gross (ankle) participated fully after sitting out Wednesday. Defensive end Charles Johnson (back) practiced on a limited basis after being held out Wednesday. But cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (ankle) and safety Charles Godfrey (shoulder) each missed their second straight day of practice.
Checking injuries for Bucs, Panthers
December, 21, 2011
12/21/11
5:16
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers have issued injury reports for Saturday’s game. The New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons don’t play until Monday night, so they don’t have to file reports with the league yet.
Let’s take a look at the injuries of note for the Buccaneers and Panthers. Tampa Bay receiver Arrelious Benn, who missed the last game with a concussion, practiced on a full basis Wednesday. Defensive end Michael Bennett (toe), defensive tackle Brian Price (ankle) and linebacker Geno Hayes (knee) were held out of practice. Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (knee) also sat out, but the Bucs frequently give the veteran a day or two of rest during the week.
For Carolina, defensive back Darius Butler, who also is coming back from a concussion, participated fully in practice. But several big names were held out of practice. Left tackle Jordan Gross (ankle) and defensive end Charles Johnson (knee) did not practice. Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (ankle) and safety Charles Godfrey (shoulder) also were held out of practice.
Let’s take a look at the injuries of note for the Buccaneers and Panthers. Tampa Bay receiver Arrelious Benn, who missed the last game with a concussion, practiced on a full basis Wednesday. Defensive end Michael Bennett (toe), defensive tackle Brian Price (ankle) and linebacker Geno Hayes (knee) were held out of practice. Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (knee) also sat out, but the Bucs frequently give the veteran a day or two of rest during the week.
For Carolina, defensive back Darius Butler, who also is coming back from a concussion, participated fully in practice. But several big names were held out of practice. Left tackle Jordan Gross (ankle) and defensive end Charles Johnson (knee) did not practice. Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (ankle) and safety Charles Godfrey (shoulder) also were held out of practice.
Time for a look at the top headlines from around the NFC South.
Mike Triplett notes that each of the last four games between the Saints and Falcons has been decided by three points. That’s why this has become the NFC South’s best rivalry. In fact, I think you could make a case that this has become one of the league’s best rivalries.
Carolina coach Ron Rivera said the Panthers are out to win their final two games and aren’t playing for draft position. That’s exactly the way the Panthers should be approaching this. They’ve got a chance to finish this season with some positive momentum that can carry over to next year. Just think back to John Fox’s first season (2002). That Carolina team finished strong and the Panthers were in the Super Bowl the next season.
Carolina’s defensive backfield is very banged-up. There is some hope that Charles Godfrey and Darius Butler can play Sunday against Tampa Bay, but the outlook isn’t as bright on starting cornerback Captain Munnerlyn.
Roy Cummings explores the future of Tampa Bay cornerback Aqib Talib, who will finish the season on injured reserve. Talib remains under contract to the Buccaneers through 2012, but he’s facing trial on an assault charge in March. That could lead to jail time or a suspension by the NFL. Even if Talib is cleared of the charge, there’s no guarantee he’ll be back with the Bucs. Coach Raheem Morris has been a big supporter of Talib. But Morris is on the hot seat with the Bucs on a losing streak. If a new coach comes in, he might not want Talib.
Although Atlanta defensive end Ray Edwards has come on lately, he told Jeff Schultz he’s still not at full strength after offseason knee surgery.
Lots of fans were curious about why general manager Mark Dominik was seen wearing a headset during Saturday night’s game with Dallas. Stephen Holder has the answer. The Bucs say Dominik wears the headset to keep in contact with Morris about injuries and replay challenges.
Mike Triplett notes that each of the last four games between the Saints and Falcons has been decided by three points. That’s why this has become the NFC South’s best rivalry. In fact, I think you could make a case that this has become one of the league’s best rivalries.
Carolina coach Ron Rivera said the Panthers are out to win their final two games and aren’t playing for draft position. That’s exactly the way the Panthers should be approaching this. They’ve got a chance to finish this season with some positive momentum that can carry over to next year. Just think back to John Fox’s first season (2002). That Carolina team finished strong and the Panthers were in the Super Bowl the next season.
Carolina’s defensive backfield is very banged-up. There is some hope that Charles Godfrey and Darius Butler can play Sunday against Tampa Bay, but the outlook isn’t as bright on starting cornerback Captain Munnerlyn.
Roy Cummings explores the future of Tampa Bay cornerback Aqib Talib, who will finish the season on injured reserve. Talib remains under contract to the Buccaneers through 2012, but he’s facing trial on an assault charge in March. That could lead to jail time or a suspension by the NFL. Even if Talib is cleared of the charge, there’s no guarantee he’ll be back with the Bucs. Coach Raheem Morris has been a big supporter of Talib. But Morris is on the hot seat with the Bucs on a losing streak. If a new coach comes in, he might not want Talib.
Although Atlanta defensive end Ray Edwards has come on lately, he told Jeff Schultz he’s still not at full strength after offseason knee surgery.
Lots of fans were curious about why general manager Mark Dominik was seen wearing a headset during Saturday night’s game with Dallas. Stephen Holder has the answer. The Bucs say Dominik wears the headset to keep in contact with Morris about injuries and replay challenges.
Checking the injuries that matter most
December, 16, 2011
12/16/11
4:28
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
The Friday injury reports are out for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers, so let’s take a look at the most significant injuries around the division.
Tampa Bay cornerback Aqib Talib (hamstring) is listed as probable and coach Raheem Morris has said he expects Talib to be matched up with Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant. Receiver Arrelious Benn (concussion) has been ruled out and fellow receiver Sammie Stroughter (knee) is questionable. That probably means more playing time for Preston Parker and Dezmon Briscoe. Defensive tackle Brian Price (ankle) is questionable, but Price was able to practice on a limited basis Thursday and Friday.
Carolina has a potentially difficult situation at cornerback. Darius Butler (concussion) has been declared out. Starting cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (ankle) is questionable. Left tackle Jordan Gross (ankle) is questionable, but was able to practice on a limited basis Friday.
The Saints have declared running back Mark Ingram (turf toe) out for Sunday’s game at the Minnesota Vikings. That means Chris Ivory likely will be active and used in rotation with Darren Sproles and Pierre Thomas. Linebacker Jonathan Casillas (knee) also has been ruled out.
Tampa Bay cornerback Aqib Talib (hamstring) is listed as probable and coach Raheem Morris has said he expects Talib to be matched up with Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant. Receiver Arrelious Benn (concussion) has been ruled out and fellow receiver Sammie Stroughter (knee) is questionable. That probably means more playing time for Preston Parker and Dezmon Briscoe. Defensive tackle Brian Price (ankle) is questionable, but Price was able to practice on a limited basis Thursday and Friday.
Carolina has a potentially difficult situation at cornerback. Darius Butler (concussion) has been declared out. Starting cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (ankle) is questionable. Left tackle Jordan Gross (ankle) is questionable, but was able to practice on a limited basis Friday.
The Saints have declared running back Mark Ingram (turf toe) out for Sunday’s game at the Minnesota Vikings. That means Chris Ivory likely will be active and used in rotation with Darren Sproles and Pierre Thomas. Linebacker Jonathan Casillas (knee) also has been ruled out.
Time for a look at the top headlines from around the NFC South.
After spending big money to add defensive end Ray Edwards via free agency, the Falcons still haven’t had much of a pass rush. The Falcons are tied for 24th in the league with 25 sacks.
Good column by Gary Shelton. He says it wouldn’t make much, if any sense, for the Buccaneers to finish the season with an interim head coach and points to the ugly history of interim coaches. I agree totally that the Bucs should not go this route. Even if a decision has been made to fire Raheem Morris, the Bucs should wait until the season ends. An interim coach wouldn’t make things any different. In fact, there isn’t an assistant on Tampa Bay’s staff that would even qualify to serve as interim head coach. There’s no defensive coordinator because Morris handles that role. Offensive coordinator Greg Olson also is on the hot seat and he’s not the guy you want to put in front of the media every day during a crisis situation. Once upon a time, Morris had Jim Bates, who perfectly fit the profile (experienced and calm) of interim head coach, as the defensive coordinator. But Bates was fired midway through the 2009 season.
The Panthers have a chance to have the most penalized season in franchise history. Receiver Steve Smith and cornerback Captain Munnerlyn are leading the way in major penalties.
The 4-9 Panthers are at the top of the league in one category. Pro Football Weekly ranks Carolina as one of the teams that has been impacted most by injuries.
The Buccaneers are optimistic cornerback Aqib Talib, who had been sidelined by a hamstring injury, will be able to play Saturday night against Dallas.
In his weekly film study on the Saints, Jeff Duncan points out New Orleans hasn’t turned the ball over in the last four games. If you can do that, you’re going to win a lot of games. He also points out rookie linebacker Martez Wilson, a talented but raw prospect, got perhaps his most extensive playing time of the season.
After spending big money to add defensive end Ray Edwards via free agency, the Falcons still haven’t had much of a pass rush. The Falcons are tied for 24th in the league with 25 sacks.
Good column by Gary Shelton. He says it wouldn’t make much, if any sense, for the Buccaneers to finish the season with an interim head coach and points to the ugly history of interim coaches. I agree totally that the Bucs should not go this route. Even if a decision has been made to fire Raheem Morris, the Bucs should wait until the season ends. An interim coach wouldn’t make things any different. In fact, there isn’t an assistant on Tampa Bay’s staff that would even qualify to serve as interim head coach. There’s no defensive coordinator because Morris handles that role. Offensive coordinator Greg Olson also is on the hot seat and he’s not the guy you want to put in front of the media every day during a crisis situation. Once upon a time, Morris had Jim Bates, who perfectly fit the profile (experienced and calm) of interim head coach, as the defensive coordinator. But Bates was fired midway through the 2009 season.
The Panthers have a chance to have the most penalized season in franchise history. Receiver Steve Smith and cornerback Captain Munnerlyn are leading the way in major penalties.
The 4-9 Panthers are at the top of the league in one category. Pro Football Weekly ranks Carolina as one of the teams that has been impacted most by injuries.
The Buccaneers are optimistic cornerback Aqib Talib, who had been sidelined by a hamstring injury, will be able to play Saturday night against Dallas.
In his weekly film study on the Saints, Jeff Duncan points out New Orleans hasn’t turned the ball over in the last four games. If you can do that, you’re going to win a lot of games. He also points out rookie linebacker Martez Wilson, a talented but raw prospect, got perhaps his most extensive playing time of the season.
Lots of Carolina fans have been asking in recent weeks what the Panthers would do with rookie cornerback Brandon Hogan, who has been on the physically unable to perform list since the start of the season.
Well, we got the answer Tuesday. The Panthers activated Hogan to the 53-man roster. He could be active as soon as Sunday.
But I wouldn’t get too carried away and think Hogan is going to step in and immediately solve all of Carolina’s defensive problems. He’s a fourth-round draft pick coming off a major injury.
The Panthers have decent starters in Chris Gamble and Captain Munnerlyn. Nickelback is a bit of a question, and I think Hogan has a chance to gradually work himself into that spot as the season goes on.
The Panthers made several other roster moves. They also activated defensive end Thomas Keiser from their practice squad to the 53-man roster. The Panthers placed linebacker Thomas Williams on injured reserve and released defensive tackle Ron Fields.
Carolina also signed defensive tackle Jason Shirley and linebacker Phillip Dillard to the practice squad. Linebacker Lawrence Wilson, who was charged with marijuana possession during the bye week, was released from the practice squad.
Well, we got the answer Tuesday. The Panthers activated Hogan to the 53-man roster. He could be active as soon as Sunday.
But I wouldn’t get too carried away and think Hogan is going to step in and immediately solve all of Carolina’s defensive problems. He’s a fourth-round draft pick coming off a major injury.
The Panthers have decent starters in Chris Gamble and Captain Munnerlyn. Nickelback is a bit of a question, and I think Hogan has a chance to gradually work himself into that spot as the season goes on.
The Panthers made several other roster moves. They also activated defensive end Thomas Keiser from their practice squad to the 53-man roster. The Panthers placed linebacker Thomas Williams on injured reserve and released defensive tackle Ron Fields.
Carolina also signed defensive tackle Jason Shirley and linebacker Phillip Dillard to the practice squad. Linebacker Lawrence Wilson, who was charged with marijuana possession during the bye week, was released from the practice squad.
Panthers sticking with young returners
October, 20, 2011
10/20/11
1:11
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
Part of the reason Ron Rivera was hired to coach the Carolina Panthers was his willingness to embrace the team’s youth movement.
That wasn’t just a ruse to get the job. Rivera’s sticking by his plans. More accurately, as Joseph Person notes, Rivera’s sticking by the plans laid out by the front office in his decision to stick with Armanti Edwards and Kealoha Pilares as his punt and kickoff returners.
You can lump the wishes of owner Jerry Richardson in with the wishes of the front office. Edwards and Pilares haven’t done much in the return game and the Panthers have a pair of experienced returners in Mike Goodson and Captain Munnerlyn.
But Rivera isn’t going to turn to the past. Unlike predecessor John Fox, he wants to give the young guys a chance. Makes sense because the Panthers invested draft picks in Edwards and Pilares and the front office believes both can be explosive players.
They’re going to keep getting chances.
"The thing you would hope is somewhere along the lines they're going to pop it," Rivera said.
That wasn’t just a ruse to get the job. Rivera’s sticking by his plans. More accurately, as Joseph Person notes, Rivera’s sticking by the plans laid out by the front office in his decision to stick with Armanti Edwards and Kealoha Pilares as his punt and kickoff returners.
You can lump the wishes of owner Jerry Richardson in with the wishes of the front office. Edwards and Pilares haven’t done much in the return game and the Panthers have a pair of experienced returners in Mike Goodson and Captain Munnerlyn.
But Rivera isn’t going to turn to the past. Unlike predecessor John Fox, he wants to give the young guys a chance. Makes sense because the Panthers invested draft picks in Edwards and Pilares and the front office believes both can be explosive players.
They’re going to keep getting chances.
"The thing you would hope is somewhere along the lines they're going to pop it," Rivera said.
Ron Rivera: Jabari Greer underrated
October, 5, 2011
10/05/11
4:11
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
I’ve said many times in the last year or so that I think New Orleans’ Jabari Greer is the best cornerback in the NFC South. I’ve also said I think he’s one of the more underrated players in the NFL.
Well, I’ve got some backing on that now. In a conference call with the New Orleans media Wednesday, Carolina coach Ron Rivera said that Greer is one of the most underrated cornerbacks in the league. Rivera then threw one of his own guys into the same category.
“Guys like (Greer) who just silently do their job, people are going to take notice and say that he’s a heck of a player and we have to make sure people know that,’’ Rivera said. “We’re in the same boat. We have a young cornerback that’s been doing a good job for us in Captain Munnerlyn. A lot of people say he’s undersized but for what he’s done for us, he’s been solid.’’
Once upon a time, I think you could have said the same thing about Atlanta's Brent Grimes. But he went to the Pro Bowl last season, so I don't think you can say Grimes is underrated these days.
Well, I’ve got some backing on that now. In a conference call with the New Orleans media Wednesday, Carolina coach Ron Rivera said that Greer is one of the most underrated cornerbacks in the league. Rivera then threw one of his own guys into the same category.
“Guys like (Greer) who just silently do their job, people are going to take notice and say that he’s a heck of a player and we have to make sure people know that,’’ Rivera said. “We’re in the same boat. We have a young cornerback that’s been doing a good job for us in Captain Munnerlyn. A lot of people say he’s undersized but for what he’s done for us, he’s been solid.’’
Once upon a time, I think you could have said the same thing about Atlanta's Brent Grimes. But he went to the Pro Bowl last season, so I don't think you can say Grimes is underrated these days.
APPLETON, Wisc. – We’ll have lots more on the New Orleans Saints throughout the day as they get ready for their game with the Green Bay Packers. But, first, let’s take a look at what’s going on across the rest of the NFC South.
Carolina cornerback Captain Munnerlyn, one of the NFC South’s more confident players, said he’s not ready to relinquish his starting spot to newcomer Darius Butler. The plan is for Munnerlyn to start the opener and Butler will be used in nickel packages. But the signing of Butler could be an indication the Panthers are seeking an upgrade on Munnerlyn, who is limited by the fact he’s 5-foot-8. Butler was a second-round pick by the Patriots and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.3 seconds. But don’t automatically assume Butler’s going to take over the starting job. Munnerlyn’s a competitor and he’s not going to give up the job without a fight.
Carolina rookie quarterback Cam Newton recently got a surprise phone call. It came from Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick, who offered Newton some advice on adapting to life in the NFL.
Indianapolis owner Jim Irsay tweeted that quarterback Peyton Manning is out for “awhile’’. You can bet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are keeping a close eye on this one. The Bucs host the Colts in Week 4 in a Monday Night Football game. Not having Manning on the field might help the Tampa Bay defense, but it wouldn’t help at the box office, where the Bucs are struggling to sell out games.
Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan said he believes second-year center Joe Hawley is ready to step in for injured veteran Todd McClure.
Carolina cornerback Captain Munnerlyn, one of the NFC South’s more confident players, said he’s not ready to relinquish his starting spot to newcomer Darius Butler. The plan is for Munnerlyn to start the opener and Butler will be used in nickel packages. But the signing of Butler could be an indication the Panthers are seeking an upgrade on Munnerlyn, who is limited by the fact he’s 5-foot-8. Butler was a second-round pick by the Patriots and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.3 seconds. But don’t automatically assume Butler’s going to take over the starting job. Munnerlyn’s a competitor and he’s not going to give up the job without a fight.
Carolina rookie quarterback Cam Newton recently got a surprise phone call. It came from Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick, who offered Newton some advice on adapting to life in the NFL.
Indianapolis owner Jim Irsay tweeted that quarterback Peyton Manning is out for “awhile’’. You can bet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are keeping a close eye on this one. The Bucs host the Colts in Week 4 in a Monday Night Football game. Not having Manning on the field might help the Tampa Bay defense, but it wouldn’t help at the box office, where the Bucs are struggling to sell out games.
Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan said he believes second-year center Joe Hawley is ready to step in for injured veteran Todd McClure.
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.
