NFC Notes: 49ers, Falcons, Lions

49ers

49ers GM John Lynch is happy to have K Robbie Gould in the fold as the team heads into training camp.

“Over the years, Robbie has established himself as one of the best at his position in the NFL, which is precisely why we were so committed to working out a new contract with him,” Lynch said via Pro Football Talk. “I would like to thank everyone who worked so hard to make this deal come to fruition. We are very happy to start off the year on the right foot with this agreement in place so that Robbie can get back with his teammates and focus on making the most out of the upcoming season.”

While Gould said at one point during the process that he would not negotiate or sign a long-term deal with the 49ers, the team stayed in it and made what Gould called an “aggressive push” at the franchise tag deadline. 

“Who knows what would have happened if something didn’t get done, but the 49ers stepped up big time to get this done,” Gould said via Adam Schefter. “They stepped outside the box, had an open mind and we were able to get something done today.”

• 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo says he’s on track to be fully cleared for the start of training camp on July 26: “I’m able to do pretty much everything now. It’s been a hell of a process. But you know, we’ve been moving in the right direction.” (Nick Wagoner)

Falcons

Falcons TE Austin Hooper made his first Pro Bowl last season. This year, Atlanta brought in Mike Mularkey to coach the tight ends and help take Hooper to another level in a contract season.

“Hooper, the improvement just keeps getting better,” Falcons HC Dan Quinn said via D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “Now, he’s ready to go to another level and I’m looking forward to seeing him make that growth. The addition of having Mike here, he’s done everything that Mike has asked in terms of getting him ready. That connection has been good.”

• Ledbetter says TE Eric Saubert could be on the bubble if the Falcons decide to keep only three tight ends. 

Lions

• Tim Twentyman writes that Lions OT Tyrell Crosby showed promise as the backup for both tackle spots, but could also get a shot to start at left guard this year. 
• Twentyman adds that undrafted free agent OT Ryan Pope has a good shot to make the roster as the fourth developmental tackle.
• According to the Detroit News’ Justin Rogers, Lions S Tracy Walker, C Frank Ragnow and LB Jarrad Davis are poised for breakout seasons for the team. 
• Rogers adds RB Zach Zenner could push RB C.J. Anderson for the backup role behind Kerryon Johnson. 
• Rogers mentions Lions CB Teez Tabor could take a leap in his third season as he competes for the No. 2 corner role, but if he continues to struggle he likely won’t finish his rookie contract in Detroit.