Time for a run through the morning headlines from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
In this radio interview, Asante Samuel defends his claim he’s the best cornerback in the league. You have to admire his confidence. Samuel might be nearing the end of his career, but he’s going to have to play very well this season as rookie Desmond Trufant makes the transition to the NFL.
Daniel Cox points out that, at 6-foot-8, rookie Levine Toilolo currently is the tallest tight end on an NFL roster. The Falcons already have one power forward at the position in Tony Gonzalez. It can’t hurt to have another big target.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Steve Smith came in at No. 84 on the NFL Network’s list of the top 100 players. That’s not a bad accomplishment for an aging wide receiver. But, knowing the way Smith thinks, I think he’ll use the fact that 83 players are rated ahead of him as motivation.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Mike Triplett writes that several analysts are high on third-round picks Terron Armstead and John Jenkins. Armstead is going to get a chance to compete with Charles Brown and Jason Smith for the starting spot at left tackle. Jenkins is likely to get some immediate playing time at defensive tackle.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Kicker Nate Kaeding decided to retire due to a chronic groin injury. Kaeding had been signed to provide competition for Connor Barth in training camp. But Barth was the odds-on favorite to keep the job. With Kaeding out of the picture, the Bucs still may bring in another kicker to share the work in training camp.
