NFL Notes: Laremy Tunsil, Eagles, Packers, Panthers, & Redskins

Laremy Tunsil

According to James Walker of ESPN, Dolphins rookie Laremy Tunsil is not expected to begin his professional career in Stage One of the league’s substance-abuse program.

Walker’s source did note that the league will closely monitor and support Tunsil in the event intervention is needed.

“I do not have a drug problem,” Tunsil said to the Miami media after getting drafted. “You can check all my college tests. I never failed one.”

Tunsil added, “Don’t question my character. You can’t judge a book by its cover. I’m a good person. I’m a laid-back guy. I don’t do much.”

There is a “behavior” clause in the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement that would have made it possible for Tunsil to enter Stage 1 of the program should the league have felt it necessary:

“Behavior (including but not limited to an arrest or conduct related to an alleged misuse of substances of abuse occurring up to two football seasons prior to the player’s applicable scouting combine) which, in the judgment of the medical director, exhibits physical, behavioral, or psychological signs or symptoms of misuse of substances of abuse.”

Eagles

• Eagles EVP Howie Roseman told SiriusXM NFL Radio that QB Sam Bradford is their starting quarterback, but says they “will listen” to trade offers about anybody on their team.

Packers

• According to Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, there was a “strong suspicion” that Ohio State LB Darron Lee was the Packers’ target in the first round. However, he was drafted by the Jets seven picks ahead of the Packers.

Panthers

• The Panthers are inviting former Buccaneers and Dolphins QB Seth Lobato to their rookie minicamp. (Aaron Wilson)

Redskins

Redskins QB Kirk Cousins, in an interview with Grant and Danny on 106.7, spoke about the likelihood that he gets a long-term deal done prior to the leagues deadline for multi-year deals, July 15th.

“If they feel like they have enough information and want to make that call right now, then great, too,” Cousins said, via Pro Football Talk. “But I think the ball’s in their court and I will react accordingly to whatever decision they make. But I am totally comfortable playing more football, and frankly if I don’t play well next season, I don’t deserve to be back. I don’t deserve a long-term deal. So I want to go out and earn it, and prove myself, and if I need to prove myself again, that’s fine. I’ll go see if I can do that.”

Redskins GM Scot McCloughlan had previously told Cousins that the organization would “take care” of him if he plays well in the 2016 season.

McCloughlan also noted that he’s aware that waiting to do a deal under these circumstances could make for a bigger hit to the team’s finances.