NFL Rumors: 49ers, Bengals, Cowboys, Panthers, Raiders, & Vikings

49ers

• FootballScoop.com is reporting that new Illinois HC Lovie Smith is targeting 49ers inside linebackers coach Hardy Nickerson for his defensive coordinator.

Bengals

• Albert Breer gets the sense that the Bengals’ priority free agents right now are S George Iloka and WR Marvin Jones.
• Breer has been told there’s about a $15 million budget for the Bengals to use on their free agents.

Cowboys

• Todd Archer reports that Cowboys QB Tony Romo is undergoing surgery on his left collarbone Tuesday.
• Romo is still expected to be able to participate in OTAs in May and June.

Panthers

• Charles Robinson reports that the Panthers are still looking to get deal done with franchise CB Josh Norman and shed the tag.
• Robins expects the Panthers to take another shot at extending Norman at some point in April.

Raiders

• According to Scott Bair, the Raiders have “strong interest” and have reached out to free agent CB Sean Smith‘s reps. However, there is competition for Smith right now.

Vikings

• Darren Wolfson reports that the Vikings have checked in on LB Tahir Whitehead, but his sense is that talks aren’t serious right now.