NFL Notes: 49ers, Browns, Dolphins, Giants, & Lions

49ers

• Alex Marvez reports that the 49ers hired have hired LBs coach Hardy Nickerson for the same position.

Browns

• Browns announced that Al Saunders has been named senior offensive assistant/wide receivers coach.

Dolphins

• Adam Caplan reports that the Dolphins have hired Chris Kuper as offensive quality control coach.

Giants

• Adam Caplan reports the Giants have hired former Eagles OLB coach Bill McGovern as their new linebackers coach.

Lions

• Kyle Meinke of MLive Media Group believes Lions HC Jim Caldwell will be released after the 2016 season if the team does not reach the playoffs.
• Meinke expects the Lions to target an offensive tackle through free agency and lists the Bills’ Cordy Glenn, Seahawks’ Russell Okung, Bengals’ Andre Smith and the Steelers’ Kelvin Beachum as the best options, should they reach the open market.
• Meinke notes that TE Brandon Pettigrew is a candidate to be released this offseason, which would give Eric Ebron the opportunity to receive more snaps.