NFC Notes: Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers

Buccaneers

• The Athletic’s Greg Auman says Buccaneers RB Ronald Jones returned to practice Sunday following his left foot injury in Friday’s scrimmage. 
• However, Jones was missing again from practice on Monday. (Rick Stroud)
• Buccaneers HC Bruce Arians didn’t rule out Tampa Bay potentially adding former Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette: “We’ll wait and see. He’s been a good player. We have to see where he fits.” (Auman)
• Arians highlighted DL Pat O’Connor as the leader for the final defensive line spot due to his special teams contributions. (Auman)
• Buccaneers DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches says he bulked up to 320 pounds after playing as low as 293 last season. (Auman)

Falcons

• Falcons RB Todd Gurley will remain on a load management plan during the regular season. (Vaughn McClure)

Panthers

• The Athletic’s Joe Person says Panthers QB Will Grier has overtaken QB P.J. Walker for the No. 2 job, with his ability to push the ball downfield giving him a slight edge over Walker’s dual-threat abilities. 
• Person believes Panthers K/P Kaare Vedvik is a decent bet to make the practice squad. 
• Person lists cornerback, linebacker and wide receiver as areas he expects the Panthers to look at making a claim on waivers following roster cuts. 
• Panthers HC Matt Rhule said the competition between Grier and Walker will extend into the regular season. (Person)
• Rhule noted there are about 5-7 players battling for the final few roster spots. (Person)