Time for a morning run through the headlines from around the NFC South:
ATLANTA FALCONS
Coach Mike Smith said that receiver Roddy White, cornerback Asante Samuel, defensive tackle Peria Jerry and kicker Matt Bryant, who all have been sidelined with injuries, are expected to be ready for the regular-season opener.
Undrafted rookie linebacker Paul Worrilow, who has been having a sensational preseason, moved up a spot on the depth chart. He now is listed with the second team.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Running back Jonathan Stewart is scheduled to meet with a doctor Tuesday. Stewart has been sidelined with an ankle injury the entire preseason. He might end up opening the season on the physically unable to perform list.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
After losing outside linebackers Will Smith and Victor Butler to season-ending injuries, the Saints reportedly have made a trade with San Francisco for linebacker Parys Haralson. He’ll get a chance at immediate playing time, but the Saints still need Martez Wilson and Junior Galette to step up as pass rushers.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Mark Cook writes that, despite a shaky preseason, quarterback Josh Freeman still gives the Buccaneers the best chance of winning. I agree. Freeman’s performance in preseason games has been dismal, but preseason results often are misleading. The alternative is rookie Mike Glennon, who hasn’t looked great in the preseason. The Bucs need to open the season with Freeman. If his struggles continue, then you start think about making a switch.
