Time for an afternoon run through some news and notes from around the division:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Although he’s having a sensational preseason, undrafted rookie linebacker Paul Worrilow still is listed with the third team on the latest depth chart. Let’s keep in mind that depth charts are unofficial in the preseason. I think Worrilow has opened a lot of eyes and has a very good chance to make the roster as a backup and special-teams player.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Bryan Strickland takes a look at some of the areas in which the Panthers will have to make tough decisions when it comes time to trim the roster. I think the most compelling spot is at wide receiver. Starters Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell are locks. After that, there’s a logjam of receivers that includes Armanti Edwards, Ted Ginn Jr., Domenik Hixon, Kealoha Pilares, David Gettis and Joe Adams. Ginn almost certainly sticks around due to his return ability. Edwards seems to have worked his way into the good graces of the coaching staff and is likely to stay. Gettis, who has dealt with major injuries the past two years, has had a very good preseason and could end up as the fifth receiver.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
The Saints are looking thin at linebacker with Will Herring missing practice Tuesday. Jonathan Vilma, Junior Galette and Chris Chamberlain already have missed a lot of practice time.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy takes exception to the criticism Josh Freeman has been getting recently and said the quarterback is a team leader. Some media and fans are down on Freeman, but I think he still has the confidence of his teammates, which is hugely important.
