NFL Notes: Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, & Steelers

Dolphins

Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald has a ton of nuggets regarding the Dolphins’ plans for the offseason in his latest article. Here’s a look at some of them.

• According Jackson the Dolphins realize they will need to do what it takes to upgrade at one, if not both, guard spots.
• Jackson reports that the like Ravens OL Kelechi Osemele, but the bidding could end up pricing them out. Other speculative options, according to Jackson, include: Evan Mathis, Alex Boone, Brandon Brooks, Ben Jones, and/or Tim Barnes.
• Should they look to the draft, Jackson suggests Mississippi OT Laremy Tunsil.
• Jackson mentions that the Dolphins want to re-sign RB Lamar Miller, but it will ultimately come down to the economics.
• The Dolphins are expected to at least consider keeping TE Jordan Cameron, but new HC Adam Gase will have input on the idea.
• Jackson would be surprised if WR Rishard Matthews returns to Miami in 2016.
• Despite some speculation, Jackson says the Dolphins remain committed to QB Ryan Tannehill. However, they could still move on from him in 2017, depending on how things go this season.

Lions

• Adam Caplan reports that the Lions gave new GM Bob Quinn the title of executive Vice President to go along with a five-year contract.
• Caplan adds that this is rare for a first time GM to have both titles.
• During his introductory press conference, Quinn told reporters that he’s not coming here with a plan to just cut and paste everything that New England did. (Tim Twentyman)
• Regarding analytics, Quinn said: “We will use analytics as a supplemental tool, not a primary tool in scouting.” (Dave Birkett)
• Quinn confirmed that they’ve yet to make a decision regarding HC Jim Caldwell returning for the 2016 season. (Tim Twentyman)
• Quinn is hoping to get to know Caldwell over the next few days and says there’s no timetable for a decision. (Tim Twentyman)
• Regarding Calvin Johnson‘s potential retirement, Quinn said when the time is right, he’ll reach out to Johnson. (Tim Twentyman)
• According to Quinn, the decision regarding Caldwell is his alone and he has no preconceived notions going in the situation or any mandate from ownership. (Tim Twentyman)
• Quinn said that he plans to meet with QB Matthew Stafford before making call on Caldwell. (Kyle Meinke)

Panthers

• ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart (foot) is expected to play in Sunday’s game against the Seahawks.

Steelers

• Jim Trotter of ESPN reports that Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams is visiting noted foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson in Charlotte on Monday.Vikings