Time for an evening look at Wednesday's headlines from around the NFC South.
John Manasso writes about some changes that could be coming for Atlanta’s defense now that Mike Nolan is the coordinator. It remains to be seen what the Falcons will do about potential free agents in cornerback Brent Grimes, linebacker Curtis Lofton and defensive end John Abraham. But I think it’s fair to suggest that no matter what happens with those three, the Falcons will be looking to improve their pass rush and play in the defensive backfield.
Here’s a list of highlights from the Saints’ 2011 season. No surprise that Drew Brees breaking Dan Marino’s record for passing yards in a season is No. 1. Even as a jaded journalist, I’m always going to remember I was in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome for that game and got to witness history.
Here’s some potentially interesting news. The NFL, which forbids players from tweeting during regular-season games, will make an exception during the Pro Bowl. Since Atlanta receiver Roddy White will be there, his Twitter account could be more interesting than the all-star game.
With Indianapolis hiring Chuck Pagano as head coach, New Orleans offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael and offensive line coach Aaron Kromer, who had been candidates, apparently will be staying with the Saints. Of course, Carmichael and Kromer could suddenly appear on Tampa Bay’s list, if they’re not already there.
Speaking of Tampa Bay’s search, the Bucs reportedly had a second interview with Mike Sherman Wednesday. Does that mean the Bucs are getting closer to finally making a hire? Not necessarily, the Bucs have been so deliberately slow in this search and pulled a total surprise when they unsuccessfully attempted to hire Chip Kelly. They could be closing in on Sherman, but they could be secretly meeting with someone else.
The Panthers interviewed Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson at the Senior Bowl. Again, I urge caution into reading too much into pre-draft interviews. But, Wilson to the Panthers with a late-round draft pick, carries some logic. The Panthers could be looking for a backup for Cam Newton. Derek Anderson is scheduled to be a free agent and the Panthers may cut Jimmy Clausen loose.
Richard Rodgers has been added as Carolina’s assistant special teams coach. He played with coach Ron Rivera in college at California.