NFC Notes: 49ers, Buccaneers, Panthers

49ers

Former 49ers first-round DL Solomon Thomas admits he’s not playing as well as many, including himself, expect but he thinks he’ll eventually get to that level.

“I have my own expectations,” Thomas said, via NBC Bay Area. “And I’m definitely the hardest person on myself, and I want to make myself the best player and person I can be for this team. So I really set my expectations high, and I have go to follow them and chase them and work my butt off to go get it done.

“I’m not at my expectations right now. I’m not where I should be. I’m not playing like I want to. There’s a long way for me to go. It’s going to be a long journey, but I can definitely get there, and I can definitely prove to everyone who I am and why I was drafted where I was drafted. It’s going to be a journey, but I’m going to get there.”

• Regarding 49ers QB Nick Mullens‘ poor performance in Week 12, Matt Barrows of The Athletic writes that his “leash was shortened” moving forward.
• As for what the 49ers may target with their first-round pick, Barrows expects the team to draft a pass rusher even if they trade down.
• Barrows could see the 49ers selecting Ohio State DE Nick Bosa if they have the No. 1 overall pick.

Buccaneers

• Rick Stroud says that Buccaneers WR DeSean Jackson may not have decided to visit a hand specialist in New York on Tuesday as expected.
• According to Stroud, the Buccaneers believe he will try to play Sunday vs. Carolina.
• Buccaneers promoted CB David Rivers to their active roster. (NFLTR)
• Buccaneers signed TE Donnie Ernsberger to their practice squad.

Panthers

• Panthers S Eric Reid said Wednesday that he’s dealing with an AC joint injury in his shoulder, but he thinks it’s something he can play through. (David Newton)
• Panthers designated S Da’Norris Searcy to return from injured reserve. (NFLTR)
• Panthers signed DB Josh Thornton to their practice squad.