NFC South: Captain Munnerlyn
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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.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Some random observations and thoughts out of the Carolina Panthers’ minicamp:
- Coach Ron Rivera was vague on this topic, but I get the sense that there’s a good chance running back Jonathan Stewart, who is recovering from surgery on both ankles, might not be ready to go at the start of training camp.
- I don’t think the Panthers will scrap the read-option completely, but I came away with a strong sense they’ll be leaning much more heavily to a traditional running game. I think that’s a wonderful thing. Let Stewart, DeAngelo Williams and Mike Tolbert truly be running backs, and let Cam Newton be a true quarterback. Let him use his mobility when receivers aren’t open and plays are breaking down. But don’t ask your quarterback to be your leading rusher.
- Speaking of running backs, rookie Kenjon Barner seems to have plenty of explosiveness and speed. The Panthers might have to figure out a way to get him into the backfield rotation.
- After starters Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell, the Panthers are going to have some very intriguing competition for the other receiver spots. Free-agent pickup Ted Ginn Jr. stood out during minicamp. Ginn has great speed, and I saw him catch several deep passes from Newton. I also thought Armanti Edwards, a former college quarterback, finally looked comfortable at receiver. But Ginn and Edwards will be competing with Kealoha Pilares, Joe Adams and David Gettis in training camp for playing time and roster spots.
- Speaking of Ginn, the Panthers have plenty of options in the return game. But I get the sense that what they ideally would like to do is have Ginn handle both punt and kickoff returns.
- I’m getting a vibe that rookie Edmund Kugbila will have a shot to beat out veteran Geoff Hangartner at right guard.
- Safety Robert Lester was signed as an undrafted free agent, but it’s obvious the Panthers are very high on what he has shown so far. There have been times when Lester has gotten some work with the first team.
- I wish I could give you a clear picture of the situation at cornerback. But I can’t, and that’s mainly because the Panthers still don’t have a clear picture. Captain Munnerlyn hasn’t participated in minicamp as he recovers from an injury. The Panthers were giving a bunch of different cornerbacks work with the first team. I didn’t see any of them really stand out, and that means the competition will continue into training camp.
We continue our NFC South look at each team’s weakest link with the Carolina Panthers and their defensive secondary.
When I look at Carolina’s defensive front seven on paper, I think it might be the best in the NFC South. That better hold true and the pass rush better be phenomenal because I don’t see a whole lot of talent in the secondary.
The Panthers did make some moves in free agency by adding safety Mike Mitchell and cornerbacks Drayton Florence and D.J. Moore. The Panthers are hoping Mitchell can beat out Haruki Nakamura for the starting spot opposite Charles Godfrey.
If that happens, the Panthers likely will be slightly better off than they were at safety last season. But the cornerback situation remains very muddled.
Florence and Moore can be decent as No. 2 or 3 cornerbacks. The same can be said for Captain Munnerlyn, Josh Norman, Josh Thomas and James Dockery. But there is no clear-cut No. 1 cornerback on this roster.
Where do you find a No. 1 cornerback this time of year? There aren’t any sitting out there. I know there are some Carolina fans yelling for the Panthers to sign veteran Charles Woodson, but I'm not sure he'd solve all that much at this point in his career.
The way I see this playing out is that the Panthers will go to training camp and throw all those cornerbacks out there. They’ll hope the competition prompts some of the cornerbacks to step up. Maybe several of the corners step up.
But I still see this as an area where the Panthers have taken a big risk by not doing anything more dramatic. If you want to compete against the NFC South’s prolific passing games, I think you need more talent in the secondary than the Panthers have.
When I look at Carolina’s defensive front seven on paper, I think it might be the best in the NFC South. That better hold true and the pass rush better be phenomenal because I don’t see a whole lot of talent in the secondary.
The Panthers did make some moves in free agency by adding safety Mike Mitchell and cornerbacks Drayton Florence and D.J. Moore. The Panthers are hoping Mitchell can beat out Haruki Nakamura for the starting spot opposite Charles Godfrey.
If that happens, the Panthers likely will be slightly better off than they were at safety last season. But the cornerback situation remains very muddled.
Florence and Moore can be decent as No. 2 or 3 cornerbacks. The same can be said for Captain Munnerlyn, Josh Norman, Josh Thomas and James Dockery. But there is no clear-cut No. 1 cornerback on this roster.
Where do you find a No. 1 cornerback this time of year? There aren’t any sitting out there. I know there are some Carolina fans yelling for the Panthers to sign veteran Charles Woodson, but I'm not sure he'd solve all that much at this point in his career.
The way I see this playing out is that the Panthers will go to training camp and throw all those cornerbacks out there. They’ll hope the competition prompts some of the cornerbacks to step up. Maybe several of the corners step up.
But I still see this as an area where the Panthers have taken a big risk by not doing anything more dramatic. If you want to compete against the NFC South’s prolific passing games, I think you need more talent in the secondary than the Panthers have.
Time for a run through some odds and ends from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
The Tennessee Titans reportedly could sign defensive end John Abraham this week. As I keep saying, I don’t think Abraham is going to end up re-signing with the Falcons. Atlanta now has a bunch of young defensive ends and needs to start getting them on the field.
D. Orlando Ledbetter writes that rookie cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford looked good in the weekend minicamp. That’s a good thing because I don’t get the sense the Falcons used their first two draft picks on these guys to bring them along slowly. The hope is one of them can start opening day opposite Asante Samuel and the other can compete with Robert McClain for the job at nickel back.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Max Henson writes that cornerbacks D.J. Moore and Captain Munnerlyn have a friendly rivalry that goes back to their college days. That’s a good thing because the Panthers need all the competitive spirit they can get at cornerback. They don’t have any blue-chip players at that position, but the competition may help some of the cornerbacks to step up.
Former Carolina and New Orleans kicker John Kasay will be the featured speaker at Wingate University’s graduation.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Speaking of colleges and graduations, coach Sean Payton received an honorary doctorate degree from his alma mater, Eastern Illinois University.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Joe Smith has a nice feature on rookie running back Mike James and the relationship he shared with his late mother. The Bucs drafted James because he’s an all-purpose back and could end up being the top backup to Doug Martin.
ATLANTA FALCONS
The Tennessee Titans reportedly could sign defensive end John Abraham this week. As I keep saying, I don’t think Abraham is going to end up re-signing with the Falcons. Atlanta now has a bunch of young defensive ends and needs to start getting them on the field.
D. Orlando Ledbetter writes that rookie cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford looked good in the weekend minicamp. That’s a good thing because I don’t get the sense the Falcons used their first two draft picks on these guys to bring them along slowly. The hope is one of them can start opening day opposite Asante Samuel and the other can compete with Robert McClain for the job at nickel back.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Max Henson writes that cornerbacks D.J. Moore and Captain Munnerlyn have a friendly rivalry that goes back to their college days. That’s a good thing because the Panthers need all the competitive spirit they can get at cornerback. They don’t have any blue-chip players at that position, but the competition may help some of the cornerbacks to step up.
Former Carolina and New Orleans kicker John Kasay will be the featured speaker at Wingate University’s graduation.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Speaking of colleges and graduations, coach Sean Payton received an honorary doctorate degree from his alma mater, Eastern Illinois University.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Joe Smith has a nice feature on rookie running back Mike James and the relationship he shared with his late mother. The Bucs drafted James because he’s an all-purpose back and could end up being the top backup to Doug Martin.
Let’s run through some news and notes from around the division:
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Roy Cummings throws out a unique scenario for the Buccaneers. He writes that there have been rumblings that the Minnesota Vikings are looking to trade up to get receiver Tavon Austin, and Minnesota has picks at Nos. 23 and 25. In theory, the Bucs could trade down with the Vikings and a pick in the mid-20s might still be something the New York Jets would take as part of a trade package for cornerback Darrelle Revis.
Scott Reynolds points out that Luke Stocker might be Tampa Bay’s best bet at tight end because the Bucs are unlikely to draft one early. Stocker’s production hasn’t been great so far, but he has some potential. I still think the Bucs need to address this position, but there really isn’t much left in free agency.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Restricted free agent Chris Ivory signed his offer sheet with the Saints. But the New York Jets reportedly still are interested in trading for Ivory. I think there’s a good chance the Saints would accept a fourth- or fifth-round pick because they have such a logjam at running back and needs elsewhere.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
General manager Dave Gettleman sang the praises of his cornerbacks, singling out Drayton Florence, Captain Munnerlyn and D.J. Moore. I think the Panthers have improved their depth at the position, but I still think they need to use an early draft pick to get a starting-caliber cornerback.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Amid discussing a potential contract extension for quarterback Matt Ryan and his philosophy on making draft trades, general manager Thomas Dimitroff was asked about the situation at right tackle, where veteran starter Tyson Clabo was released. Dimitroff pointed to young guys like Mike Johnson and Lamar Holmes and said they’ll have a chance to compete. But Dimitroff also said the Falcons could address the position in the draft.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Roy Cummings throws out a unique scenario for the Buccaneers. He writes that there have been rumblings that the Minnesota Vikings are looking to trade up to get receiver Tavon Austin, and Minnesota has picks at Nos. 23 and 25. In theory, the Bucs could trade down with the Vikings and a pick in the mid-20s might still be something the New York Jets would take as part of a trade package for cornerback Darrelle Revis.
Scott Reynolds points out that Luke Stocker might be Tampa Bay’s best bet at tight end because the Bucs are unlikely to draft one early. Stocker’s production hasn’t been great so far, but he has some potential. I still think the Bucs need to address this position, but there really isn’t much left in free agency.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Restricted free agent Chris Ivory signed his offer sheet with the Saints. But the New York Jets reportedly still are interested in trading for Ivory. I think there’s a good chance the Saints would accept a fourth- or fifth-round pick because they have such a logjam at running back and needs elsewhere.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
General manager Dave Gettleman sang the praises of his cornerbacks, singling out Drayton Florence, Captain Munnerlyn and D.J. Moore. I think the Panthers have improved their depth at the position, but I still think they need to use an early draft pick to get a starting-caliber cornerback.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Amid discussing a potential contract extension for quarterback Matt Ryan and his philosophy on making draft trades, general manager Thomas Dimitroff was asked about the situation at right tackle, where veteran starter Tyson Clabo was released. Dimitroff pointed to young guys like Mike Johnson and Lamar Holmes and said they’ll have a chance to compete. But Dimitroff also said the Falcons could address the position in the draft.
If you want to make serious money, you probably don’t want to be a cornerback in the NFC South right now.
With the departures of Dunta Robinson and Chris Gamble, there just aren’t many highly-paid cornerbacks left in the division.
I just did a quick sampling of NFC South cornerback salaries (including bonuses) for this year and only Atlanta’s Asante Samuel ($4.95 million), New Orleans’ Keenan Lewis ($7 million), Jabari Greer ($4.15 million) and Patrick Robinson ($800,000), Carolina’s Captain Munnerlyn ($1.1 million) and Tampa Bay’s Eric Wright ($7.75 million) are scheduled to make more than the minimum salary, which varies depending on the number of accrued seasons a player has. And it’s important to note that Wright is likely to either take a cut in pay or get released before long.
This is all shocking for a division that’s full of high-powered offenses. Right now, there’s no clear-cut best cornerback in the division.
That leads me to believe that all four teams might not be done making moves at cornerback. Carolina doesn’t have a No. 1 corner on its roster. Neither does Atlanta. Greer and Lewis might be all right in New Orleans, but the Saints need some insurance in case Robinson has a repeat of last year. Outside of Wright, Tampa Bay has a bunch of young, no-name corners.
That’s got to change. We’re going to see some corners taken early by NFC South teams in the upcoming draft and that could bump up the pay scale.
Of course, there’s one other scenario hanging out there that could change the cornerback pay scale. If Tampa Bay ever gets around to trading for Darrelle Revis (and I think there still is a decent chance of that), the Bucs will have to work a long-term deal to pay him more than any other cornerback.
With the departures of Dunta Robinson and Chris Gamble, there just aren’t many highly-paid cornerbacks left in the division.
I just did a quick sampling of NFC South cornerback salaries (including bonuses) for this year and only Atlanta’s Asante Samuel ($4.95 million), New Orleans’ Keenan Lewis ($7 million), Jabari Greer ($4.15 million) and Patrick Robinson ($800,000), Carolina’s Captain Munnerlyn ($1.1 million) and Tampa Bay’s Eric Wright ($7.75 million) are scheduled to make more than the minimum salary, which varies depending on the number of accrued seasons a player has. And it’s important to note that Wright is likely to either take a cut in pay or get released before long.
This is all shocking for a division that’s full of high-powered offenses. Right now, there’s no clear-cut best cornerback in the division.
That leads me to believe that all four teams might not be done making moves at cornerback. Carolina doesn’t have a No. 1 corner on its roster. Neither does Atlanta. Greer and Lewis might be all right in New Orleans, but the Saints need some insurance in case Robinson has a repeat of last year. Outside of Wright, Tampa Bay has a bunch of young, no-name corners.
That’s got to change. We’re going to see some corners taken early by NFC South teams in the upcoming draft and that could bump up the pay scale.
Of course, there’s one other scenario hanging out there that could change the cornerback pay scale. If Tampa Bay ever gets around to trading for Darrelle Revis (and I think there still is a decent chance of that), the Bucs will have to work a long-term deal to pay him more than any other cornerback.
Time for a run through the headlines from all corners of the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Defensive end Osi Umenyiora and the Falcons appear to be closing in on a deal, according to Adam Schefter. Landing Umenyiora would give the Falcons a slightly younger replacement for John Abraham, who was released several weeks ago.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Scott Fowler writes that he likes the recent moves (signing receiver/return man Ted Ginn Jr. and re-signing cornerback Captain Munnerlyn and defensive tackle Dwan Edwards). The Panthers have done about as much as you could ask for from a team with a horrible salary-cap situation. I wouldn’t expect much more in free agency from the Panthers because they have almost no cap room. The rest of their offseason improvements will have to come through the draft.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
In their latest mock drafts, Larry Holder has the Saints taking Missouri defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson while Nakia Hogan has them going with LSU outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo. I don’t think the Saints could go wrong with either one. They have big needs at both positions.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Although he might not technically be a starter if he decides to return for another season, Ronde Barber still could play a big role for the Bucs, according to Stephen Holder. Barber could be valuable as a third safety and a nickel cornerback. But the one oddity could be on special teams. Generally, third safeties and nickel corners have to play special teams. But I don’t see Barber, who will be 38 by the time the season starts, playing special teams.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Defensive end Osi Umenyiora and the Falcons appear to be closing in on a deal, according to Adam Schefter. Landing Umenyiora would give the Falcons a slightly younger replacement for John Abraham, who was released several weeks ago.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Scott Fowler writes that he likes the recent moves (signing receiver/return man Ted Ginn Jr. and re-signing cornerback Captain Munnerlyn and defensive tackle Dwan Edwards). The Panthers have done about as much as you could ask for from a team with a horrible salary-cap situation. I wouldn’t expect much more in free agency from the Panthers because they have almost no cap room. The rest of their offseason improvements will have to come through the draft.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
In their latest mock drafts, Larry Holder has the Saints taking Missouri defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson while Nakia Hogan has them going with LSU outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo. I don’t think the Saints could go wrong with either one. They have big needs at both positions.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Although he might not technically be a starter if he decides to return for another season, Ronde Barber still could play a big role for the Bucs, according to Stephen Holder. Barber could be valuable as a third safety and a nickel cornerback. But the one oddity could be on special teams. Generally, third safeties and nickel corners have to play special teams. But I don’t see Barber, who will be 38 by the time the season starts, playing special teams.
Eight in the Box: FA winners or losers?
March, 22, 2013
Mar 22
12:00
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
» NFC Eight in the Box: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
A look at whether each NFC South team has been a winner or a loser in free agency:
Atlanta Falcons: The process is far from over, but the Falcons are winners so far. They made a significant upgrade to their running game by signing Steven Jackson to replace Michael Turner. That alone made the offense instantly better than it was last season. I also like the way the Falcons have kept their own, re-signing potential free agents Sam Baker and William Moore, and coaxing tight end Tony Gonzalez back for another season. If the Falcons can re-sign cornerback Brent Grimes at a reasonable price and add a pass-rusher, this would look like a team without any holes.
Carolina Panthers: You have to call the Panthers losers in free agency so far, unless you want to give them credit for leading the league in signing mediocre defensive backs (Mike Mitchell, Drayton Florence and D.J. Moore and re-signing Captain Munnerlyn). I didn’t expect the Panthers to be big players in free agency, because their salary-cap situation prohibits that. The Panthers had to let go of No. 1 cornerback Chris Gamble because of the salary cap. That was inevitable, but replacing him with a slew of No. 3 cornerbacks doesn’t generate much hope or excitement.
New Orleans Saints: Despite a tight salary-cap situation, the Saints have been winners so far. Yes, they have a major hole to fill after losing left tackle Jermon Bushrod via free agency. But the Saints have pulled rabbits out of hats on their offensive line in the past, and they can do it again. The upside is that the Saints made themselves a lot better at cornerback by adding Keenan Lewis, and at tight end with the addition of Benjamin Watson. Lewis is a player with lots of upside, who should provide much-needed help for the secondary. The Watson signing probably hasn’t received as much praise as it deserves because people assume he’ll be nothing more than a backup to Jimmy Graham. But coach Sean Payton is crafty, and I expect Watson to play an important role in the passing game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: You have to call the Bucs winners because they got Pro Bowl safety Dashon Goldson right out of the gate. That was a great start, but the Bucs have been quiet since then. Can they afford to let every quality free-agent cornerback go elsewhere as they wait to see if the New York Jets blink in their talks about a trade for Darrelle Revis? It’s also somewhat bizarre that the Bucs were so willing to let defensive end Michael Bennett and defensive tackle Roy Miller leave as free agents even though they didn’t get big money. The Bucs will tell you that Bennett and Miller were “just guys" and they might have a point. But Bennett and Miller must have been doing something right, because the Bucs ranked first in the league in run defense last season.
A look at whether each NFC South team has been a winner or a loser in free agency:
Atlanta Falcons: The process is far from over, but the Falcons are winners so far. They made a significant upgrade to their running game by signing Steven Jackson to replace Michael Turner. That alone made the offense instantly better than it was last season. I also like the way the Falcons have kept their own, re-signing potential free agents Sam Baker and William Moore, and coaxing tight end Tony Gonzalez back for another season. If the Falcons can re-sign cornerback Brent Grimes at a reasonable price and add a pass-rusher, this would look like a team without any holes.
Carolina Panthers: You have to call the Panthers losers in free agency so far, unless you want to give them credit for leading the league in signing mediocre defensive backs (Mike Mitchell, Drayton Florence and D.J. Moore and re-signing Captain Munnerlyn). I didn’t expect the Panthers to be big players in free agency, because their salary-cap situation prohibits that. The Panthers had to let go of No. 1 cornerback Chris Gamble because of the salary cap. That was inevitable, but replacing him with a slew of No. 3 cornerbacks doesn’t generate much hope or excitement.
New Orleans Saints: Despite a tight salary-cap situation, the Saints have been winners so far. Yes, they have a major hole to fill after losing left tackle Jermon Bushrod via free agency. But the Saints have pulled rabbits out of hats on their offensive line in the past, and they can do it again. The upside is that the Saints made themselves a lot better at cornerback by adding Keenan Lewis, and at tight end with the addition of Benjamin Watson. Lewis is a player with lots of upside, who should provide much-needed help for the secondary. The Watson signing probably hasn’t received as much praise as it deserves because people assume he’ll be nothing more than a backup to Jimmy Graham. But coach Sean Payton is crafty, and I expect Watson to play an important role in the passing game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: You have to call the Bucs winners because they got Pro Bowl safety Dashon Goldson right out of the gate. That was a great start, but the Bucs have been quiet since then. Can they afford to let every quality free-agent cornerback go elsewhere as they wait to see if the New York Jets blink in their talks about a trade for Darrelle Revis? It’s also somewhat bizarre that the Bucs were so willing to let defensive end Michael Bennett and defensive tackle Roy Miller leave as free agents even though they didn’t get big money. The Bucs will tell you that Bennett and Miller were “just guys" and they might have a point. But Bennett and Miller must have been doing something right, because the Bucs ranked first in the league in run defense last season.
Time for a run through the morning headlines from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Coach Mike Smith said he believes the NFC South has the strongest quartet of starting quarterbacks of any division. He might be right. We know Drew Brees and Matt Ryan are elite. Cam Newton and Josh Freeman have shown all sorts of potential. If Newton and Freeman can be more consistent, it’s hard to imagine a division with better quarterbacks.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
The team continued to work on its secondary, signing former Oakland safety Mike Mitchell and re-signing cornerback Captain Munnerlyn. Mitchell instantly becomes a candidate to start at strong safety. Munnerlyn gives Carolina more depth at cornerback, but the Panthers still don’t have a true No. 1 cornerback. I suspect that will be addressed in the draft.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Linebacker Victor Butler reportedly will visit the Saints on Thursday. This could be a good match. Butler played for New Orleans defensive coordinator Rob Ryan in Dallas.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Coach Greg Schiano said that, as last season went on, he and his coaching staff realized quarterback Josh Freeman was very accurate when throwing on the run. I’d look for the Bucs to move the pocket more next season to take advantage of that.
ATLANTA FALCONS
Coach Mike Smith said he believes the NFC South has the strongest quartet of starting quarterbacks of any division. He might be right. We know Drew Brees and Matt Ryan are elite. Cam Newton and Josh Freeman have shown all sorts of potential. If Newton and Freeman can be more consistent, it’s hard to imagine a division with better quarterbacks.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
The team continued to work on its secondary, signing former Oakland safety Mike Mitchell and re-signing cornerback Captain Munnerlyn. Mitchell instantly becomes a candidate to start at strong safety. Munnerlyn gives Carolina more depth at cornerback, but the Panthers still don’t have a true No. 1 cornerback. I suspect that will be addressed in the draft.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Linebacker Victor Butler reportedly will visit the Saints on Thursday. This could be a good match. Butler played for New Orleans defensive coordinator Rob Ryan in Dallas.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Coach Greg Schiano said that, as last season went on, he and his coaching staff realized quarterback Josh Freeman was very accurate when throwing on the run. I’d look for the Bucs to move the pocket more next season to take advantage of that.
D.J. Moore wasn’t quite the magnitude of player I had in mind when I wrote earlier Tuesday that a run on big-name cornerbacks is coming in the NFC South.
But Moore, who played nickel back for Chicago last season, has been signed by the Carolina Panthers.
Along with Josh Thomas and Josh Norman, the Panthers should have some good young talent at cornerback. Moore can be the nickel back or maybe even contend for a starting job. He also should be a fan favorite because he went to high school in Spartanburg, S.C., where the Panthers hold training camp.
Moore’s signing may be an indication the Panthers aren’t expecting to re-sign Captain Munnerlyn, who has similar size and skills. The Panthers also previously signed veteran Drayton Florence, who can compete to be the second or third cornerback.
The Panthers now have some depth at cornerback and the competition among Moore, Florence, Thomas and Norman could prompt one or more of them to step up. But the Panthers, who previously released veteran Chris Gamble, don’t have a true No. 1 cornerback.
More and more, I’m thinking Carolina will use its first-round draft pick on a cornerback.
But Moore, who played nickel back for Chicago last season, has been signed by the Carolina Panthers.
Along with Josh Thomas and Josh Norman, the Panthers should have some good young talent at cornerback. Moore can be the nickel back or maybe even contend for a starting job. He also should be a fan favorite because he went to high school in Spartanburg, S.C., where the Panthers hold training camp.
Moore’s signing may be an indication the Panthers aren’t expecting to re-sign Captain Munnerlyn, who has similar size and skills. The Panthers also previously signed veteran Drayton Florence, who can compete to be the second or third cornerback.
The Panthers now have some depth at cornerback and the competition among Moore, Florence, Thomas and Norman could prompt one or more of them to step up. But the Panthers, who previously released veteran Chris Gamble, don’t have a true No. 1 cornerback.
More and more, I’m thinking Carolina will use its first-round draft pick on a cornerback.
We’re a week into free agency and it appears as if all four NFC South teams still are looking for a starting cornerback.
In the case of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they might even be looking for two. The New Orleans Saints already signed Keenan Lewis, but they also are pursuing Nnamdi Asomugha. The Bucs have shown some interest in trading for Darrelle Revis.
A Revis deal might take some time, but I’ve got a hunch we’re about to see a run on cornerbacks in the NFC South. Asomugha is expected to make a decision soon and, if he lands in New Orleans, the Saints’ defense suddenly gets a lot better.
But the market is shrinking fast and NFC South teams could be running out of time to fill some big needs. Let’s turn to our Insider Free-Agency Tracker
and look at the remaining cornerbacks.
As I see it, there are five strong cornerbacks left in free agency – Brent Grimes, DeAngelo Hall, Quentin Jammer, Asomugha and Antoine Winfield. After that, you get into a group of guys that come with questions.
Aside from Asomugha and Revis, I think the key to how cornerbacks in the NFC South shake out could be Grimes. The Falcons want to re-sign him. But the Bucs also are interested and there could be other teams involved.
If Atlanta can’t keep Grimes, the Falcons have to go out and get another No. 1 cornerback because Asante Samuel and Robert McClain are nice as No. 2 and No. 3 guys, but nothing more. The Bucs could score a major coup if they somehow could land both Revis and Grimes.
The Saints would be set at cornerback if they can get Asomugha. If they can’t, I suspect they’ll quickly try to land one of the other top cornerbacks.
That leaves Carolina. The Panthers have shown some interest in re-signing Captain Munnerlyn and that may happen. But Munnerlyn isn’t a No. 1 cornerback. Carolina could roll the dice and try to get a No. 1 cornerback in the draft. But, even though the Panthers have salary-cap issues, I could see them getting creative and signing one of the better free-agent cornerbacks because they have to keep up with the rest of the NFC South.
In the case of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they might even be looking for two. The New Orleans Saints already signed Keenan Lewis, but they also are pursuing Nnamdi Asomugha. The Bucs have shown some interest in trading for Darrelle Revis.
A Revis deal might take some time, but I’ve got a hunch we’re about to see a run on cornerbacks in the NFC South. Asomugha is expected to make a decision soon and, if he lands in New Orleans, the Saints’ defense suddenly gets a lot better.
But the market is shrinking fast and NFC South teams could be running out of time to fill some big needs. Let’s turn to our Insider Free-Agency Tracker
and look at the remaining cornerbacks.
As I see it, there are five strong cornerbacks left in free agency – Brent Grimes, DeAngelo Hall, Quentin Jammer, Asomugha and Antoine Winfield. After that, you get into a group of guys that come with questions.
Aside from Asomugha and Revis, I think the key to how cornerbacks in the NFC South shake out could be Grimes. The Falcons want to re-sign him. But the Bucs also are interested and there could be other teams involved.
If Atlanta can’t keep Grimes, the Falcons have to go out and get another No. 1 cornerback because Asante Samuel and Robert McClain are nice as No. 2 and No. 3 guys, but nothing more. The Bucs could score a major coup if they somehow could land both Revis and Grimes.
The Saints would be set at cornerback if they can get Asomugha. If they can’t, I suspect they’ll quickly try to land one of the other top cornerbacks.
That leaves Carolina. The Panthers have shown some interest in re-signing Captain Munnerlyn and that may happen. But Munnerlyn isn’t a No. 1 cornerback. Carolina could roll the dice and try to get a No. 1 cornerback in the draft. But, even though the Panthers have salary-cap issues, I could see them getting creative and signing one of the better free-agent cornerbacks because they have to keep up with the rest of the NFC South.
The Carolina Panthers just parted ways with their best cornerback.
They released veteran Chris Gamble. The move was necessary to get the Panthers under the salary cap. Gamble had been scheduled to count $10.9 million against this year’s cap. The move frees up $7.9 million and puts the Panthers about $3.7 million under the limit.
“I appreciate the contributions of Chris during my first two years as head coach and to the organization for many years,” coach Ron Rivera said. “He always handled things the right way and we wish him the best.”
The move is no surprise from a team that had to do some serious scrambling to get under the salary cap before the start of the league year Tuesday. But, at the moment, it leaves the Panthers very thin at cornerback. Captain Munnerlyn is scheduled to become a free agent. Young cornerbacks Josh Morgan and Josh Thomas each have some potential, but neither is ready to be a No. 1 cornerback.
That means the Panthers will have to find a cornerback in free agency or early in the draft.
They released veteran Chris Gamble. The move was necessary to get the Panthers under the salary cap. Gamble had been scheduled to count $10.9 million against this year’s cap. The move frees up $7.9 million and puts the Panthers about $3.7 million under the limit.
“I appreciate the contributions of Chris during my first two years as head coach and to the organization for many years,” coach Ron Rivera said. “He always handled things the right way and we wish him the best.”
The move is no surprise from a team that had to do some serious scrambling to get under the salary cap before the start of the league year Tuesday. But, at the moment, it leaves the Panthers very thin at cornerback. Captain Munnerlyn is scheduled to become a free agent. Young cornerbacks Josh Morgan and Josh Thomas each have some potential, but neither is ready to be a No. 1 cornerback.
That means the Panthers will have to find a cornerback in free agency or early in the draft.
We’ve shown you the lists of potential NFC South free agents before. But let’s do it again because there have been some minor moves and the free-agency period is getting ready to start Tuesday.
Here’s the list of potential free agents for all four NFC South teams:
Atlanta Falcons. Tony Gonzalez, Brent Grimes, Sam Baker, William Moore, Will Svitek, Mike Cox, Todd McClure, Luke McCown, Christopher Owens, Mike Peterson, Garrett Reynolds, Lawrence Sidbury and Vance Walker all can become unrestricted free agents. Michael Palmer can become a restricted free agent.
Carolina Panthers. The potential unrestricted free agents are Derek Anderson, Antwan Applewhite, Gary Barnidge, Dwan Edwards, Ben Hartsock, Sherrod Martin, Captain Munnerlyn, Louis Murphy and Mike Pollak. Richie Brockel can become an exclusive-rights free agent. Andre Neblett, Nate Ness and Jason Phillips are scheduled to become restricted free agents.
New Orleans Saints. Jermon Bushrod, Jonathan Casillas, Chase Daniel, Sedrick Ellis, Devery Henderson, Ramon Humber, Elbert Mack, Turk McBride, Will Robinson, Courtney Roby and Scott Shanle can become unrestricted free agents. Brian De La Puente, Justin Drescher, Junior Galette and Chris Ivory are scheduled to become restricted free agents. Eric Olsen and Michael Higgins can become exclusive-rights free agents.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Ronde Barber, Dallas Clark, Michael Bennett, E.J. Biggers, Andrew Economos, Roy Miller, Roscoe Parrish, Sammie Stroughter and Jeremy Trueblood can become unrestricted free agents. LeGarrette Blount, Jacob Cutrera, Corvey Irvin and Daniel Te’o-Nesheim are scheduled to become restricted free agents.
Here’s the list of potential free agents for all four NFC South teams:
Atlanta Falcons. Tony Gonzalez, Brent Grimes, Sam Baker, William Moore, Will Svitek, Mike Cox, Todd McClure, Luke McCown, Christopher Owens, Mike Peterson, Garrett Reynolds, Lawrence Sidbury and Vance Walker all can become unrestricted free agents. Michael Palmer can become a restricted free agent.
Carolina Panthers. The potential unrestricted free agents are Derek Anderson, Antwan Applewhite, Gary Barnidge, Dwan Edwards, Ben Hartsock, Sherrod Martin, Captain Munnerlyn, Louis Murphy and Mike Pollak. Richie Brockel can become an exclusive-rights free agent. Andre Neblett, Nate Ness and Jason Phillips are scheduled to become restricted free agents.
New Orleans Saints. Jermon Bushrod, Jonathan Casillas, Chase Daniel, Sedrick Ellis, Devery Henderson, Ramon Humber, Elbert Mack, Turk McBride, Will Robinson, Courtney Roby and Scott Shanle can become unrestricted free agents. Brian De La Puente, Justin Drescher, Junior Galette and Chris Ivory are scheduled to become restricted free agents. Eric Olsen and Michael Higgins can become exclusive-rights free agents.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Ronde Barber, Dallas Clark, Michael Bennett, E.J. Biggers, Andrew Economos, Roy Miller, Roscoe Parrish, Sammie Stroughter and Jeremy Trueblood can become unrestricted free agents. LeGarrette Blount, Jacob Cutrera, Corvey Irvin and Daniel Te’o-Nesheim are scheduled to become restricted free agents.
We’re a week away from the start of free agency, so let’s rank the division’s top 10 free agents.
We’re talking only true unrestricted free agents with expiring contracts and not guys that already have been released (like Michael Turner last week).
1. Brent Grimes, cornerback, Falcons. Grimes’ No. 1 ranking comes partly because he’s good and partly because cornerback is a premium position. Even though he’s coming off a major injury, he’s going to get paid big money by Atlanta or some other team.
2. Michael Bennett, defensive end, Buccaneers. He’s an all-around defensive end who has just hit his prime. I’m somewhat surprised the Bucs haven’t already locked him up.
3. William Moore, safety, Falcons. He’s coming off a Pro Bowl appearance and he and Thomas DeCoud have emerged as a nice safety tandem. The Falcons need to keep Moore.
4. Sam Baker, left tackle, Falcons. He had a solid 2012 season. He may not be great, but I don’t see where the Falcons are going to find anyone better.
5. Dwan Edwards, defensive tackle, Panthers. He was a bright spot last season and the Panthers need to keep him.
6. Tony Gonzalez, tight end, Falcons. I’m ranking him low because it’s unclear if he wants to retire. If Gonzalez decides to play, he jumps toward the top of the list.
7. Captain Munnerlyn, cornerback, Panthers. He’s undersized, but plays with a chip on his shoulder. At best, he could be a starter in the right situation. At worst, he can be a quality third corner.
8. Jermon Bushrod, left tackle, Saints. He’s been a solid player, but the Saints have cap limitations. They also prefer to pay their interior linemen big money and get by with bargains on the outside.
9. Ronde Barber, safety, Buccaneers. It remains to be seen if the Bucs want Barber back. It also remains to be seen if Barber wants to play another year. If he does, someone will sign him.
10. Roy Miller, defensive tackle, Buccaneers. The final spot came down to a choice between Miller and New Orleans defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis. A former first-round pick, Ellis has been a disappointment. Someone will sign him because there is talent there. But I’d sign Miller first because you know the effort will be there.
We’re talking only true unrestricted free agents with expiring contracts and not guys that already have been released (like Michael Turner last week).
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Scott BoehmBrent Grimes missed most of last season with an Achilles injury but he's still expected to be a hot free agent.
2. Michael Bennett, defensive end, Buccaneers. He’s an all-around defensive end who has just hit his prime. I’m somewhat surprised the Bucs haven’t already locked him up.
3. William Moore, safety, Falcons. He’s coming off a Pro Bowl appearance and he and Thomas DeCoud have emerged as a nice safety tandem. The Falcons need to keep Moore.
4. Sam Baker, left tackle, Falcons. He had a solid 2012 season. He may not be great, but I don’t see where the Falcons are going to find anyone better.
5. Dwan Edwards, defensive tackle, Panthers. He was a bright spot last season and the Panthers need to keep him.
6. Tony Gonzalez, tight end, Falcons. I’m ranking him low because it’s unclear if he wants to retire. If Gonzalez decides to play, he jumps toward the top of the list.
7. Captain Munnerlyn, cornerback, Panthers. He’s undersized, but plays with a chip on his shoulder. At best, he could be a starter in the right situation. At worst, he can be a quality third corner.
8. Jermon Bushrod, left tackle, Saints. He’s been a solid player, but the Saints have cap limitations. They also prefer to pay their interior linemen big money and get by with bargains on the outside.
9. Ronde Barber, safety, Buccaneers. It remains to be seen if the Bucs want Barber back. It also remains to be seen if Barber wants to play another year. If he does, someone will sign him.
10. Roy Miller, defensive tackle, Buccaneers. The final spot came down to a choice between Miller and New Orleans defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis. A former first-round pick, Ellis has been a disappointment. Someone will sign him because there is talent there. But I’d sign Miller first because you know the effort will be there.
Looking at Panthers' defensive snaps
February, 12, 2013
Feb 12
12:07
PM ET
By
Pat Yasinskas | ESPN.com
As I’ve been running through playing-time numbers for the 2012 season, I’ve been highlighting the guys who played huge amounts. But, in this post about Carolina’s defense, we’re going to go in the opposite direction.
Injuries were a big story for Carolina, which had 1,051 defensive snaps. But the Panthers were without some key components for most of those snaps. Due to injuries, linebacker Jon Beason was limited to 24.93 percent of the snaps, cornerback Chris Gamble participated in only 26.64 percent of the snaps and defensive tackle Ron Edwards was limited to 29.97 percent.
Here’s the complete breakdown of playing-time percentage for Carolina’s defense:
Injuries were a big story for Carolina, which had 1,051 defensive snaps. But the Panthers were without some key components for most of those snaps. Due to injuries, linebacker Jon Beason was limited to 24.93 percent of the snaps, cornerback Chris Gamble participated in only 26.64 percent of the snaps and defensive tackle Ron Edwards was limited to 29.97 percent.
Here’s the complete breakdown of playing-time percentage for Carolina’s defense:
- Safety Charles Godfrey 93.72
- Linebacker Luke Kuechly 87.63
- Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn 86.96
- Defensive end Charles Johnson 79.26
- Linebacker Thomas Davis 74.02
- Cornerback Josh Norman 73.36
- Defensive end Greg Hardy 71.27
- Defensive tackle Dwan Edwards 66.98
- Safety Haruki Nakamura 56.23
- Defensive end Frank Alexander 52.52
- Linebacker James Anderson 49.48
- Cornerback Josh Thomas 49.1
- Defensive tackle Ron Edwards 29.97
- Cornerback Chris Gamble 26.64
- Safety Sherrod Martin 25.88
- Linebacker Jon Beason 24.93
- Defensive tackle Sione Fua 23.88
- Safety D.J. Campbell 23.31
- Defensive tackle Andre Neblett 23.31
- Cornerback James Dockery 15.03
- Defensive tackle Frank Kearse 14.94
- Defensive tackle Nate Chandler 12.56
- Defensive end Mario Addison 11.4
- Linebacker Jason Phillips 10.47
- Linebacker Thomas Keiser 10.09
- Defensive end/linebacker Antwan Applewhite 9.51
- Safety Colin Jones 2.09
- Linebacker Jason Williams 1.01
- Linebacker Jordan Senn 0.38
- Defensive back Anderson Russell 0.09
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.
