Time for a run through the top headlines from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
D. Orlando Ledbetter continues his list of the top 25 Falcons with defensive end Kroy Biermann at No. 17. The Falcons have invested a lot of recent draft picks in defensive ends and they want to get them on the field. That could lead to Biermann getting time in a hybrid role because he can play both end and linebacker.
Offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter hinted that running back Steven Jackson probably won’t get a lot of carries in the preseason games. That makes a lot of sense because the Falcons need the veteran healthy and ready for the regular season. Backup Jacquizz Rodgers still is proving himself and could benefit from additional carries in the preseason.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Max Henson has an overview of the situation at quarterback. Cam Newton is set as the starter with Derek Anderson as the top backup. The most intriguing thing here could be the competition for the No. 3 spot. Jimmy Clausen was the starter in 2010, but hasn’t appeared in a game since. He’ll be competing with undrafted rookie Colby Cameron for the final roster spot.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
A former NFL player is suing the Washington Redskins and former assistant coach Gregg Williams, saying they used a bounty program that resulted in his career-ending injury. Williams later came to the Saints and the NFL has said he ran a three-year bounty program that resulted in the suspension of Williams and others last year. The Saints’ bounty scandal appears to be over, but this news makes you wonder if the team could face some legal issues in the future.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Running back Doug Martin sounded unimpressed after meeting NBA legend LeBron James.
