NFC Notes: Bears, Falcons, Lions, Packers, & Panthers

Bears

• Michael C. Wright believes the Bears should use their first round pick to address the safety position. However, Wright admits that new GM Ryan Pace is unlikely to target a specific position.

Falcons

• Mike Jones reports that the Falcons have requested permission to interview Redskins DBs coach Raheem Morris.

Lions

• Michael Rothstein writes that if the Lions believe free agent DT Ndamukong Suh would be one-and-done in Detroit if they used their franchise tag on him, then it’s probably best for them to move on now.
• If the Lions do, in fact, lose Suh to free agency, Rothstein suggests re-signing DT Nick Fairley and possibly pursuing Terrance Knighton.
• Interestingly enough, Rothstein writes that without Suh on their roster, the option exists for them to make the transition to a 3-4 defense.
• If Detroit where to part ways with RB Reggie Bush, they would most likely designate him as a post-June 1 release, according to Rothstein.

Packers

• Rob Demovsky writes that it’s probably not necessary for Aaron Rodgers to restructure his contract in order for them to keep WR Randall Cobb and RT Bryan Bulaga.
• According to Demovsky, re-signing Cobb is a “no-brainer” and “it will get done.”
• Demovsky mentions that the Packers are expected to part ways with ILBs A.J. Hawk and Brad Jones.

Panthers

• David Newton doesn’t see the Panthers spending big money on a left tackle given that there isn’t expected to be many quality options in free agency.
• Newton can see Carolina looking for “second-tier” options at tackle, though, and he doesn’t rule out re-signing Byron Bell next year.
• According to Newton, taking a cornerback in the first round of the draft is a viable option, depending on who’s available.